12-Day Comprehensive Yosemite National Park Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Valley Exploration

Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, USA on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge Dining Room

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring classic American fare to fuel your first day of exploration in Yosemite Valley. Open 7am-10am.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Explore Yosemite Valley Visitor Center

Get maps, learn about the park's geology, wildlife, and history through informative exhibits. Open daily 8am-5pm.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Walk to Yosemite Falls

A short and easy walk to see one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, particularly spectacular in spring due to snowmelt.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Mountain Room Restaurant

Dine with views of Yosemite Falls while enjoying locally sourced dishes. Open 11:30am-9pm.
USD30, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Ansel Adams Gallery

Explore iconic photography capturing Yosemite’s landscapes and buy unique art souvenirs. Open 9am-5:30pm.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Hike Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge

A moderate 2-mile round trip hike showcasing stunning views of Vernal Fall. Expect mist and possible slippery rocks.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Curry Village Pavilion

Casual dining with a variety of options including pizza, burgers, and salads. Open until 9pm.
USD25, 1h
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Day 2: Valley Hiking & Glacier Point

Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point, USA on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Degnan’s Kitchen

Grab a quick breakfast with fresh bakery items and coffee. Open 7am-10am.
USD15, 45m

8:00am

Hike to Mirror Lake

Enjoy an easy 2-mile hike to Mirror Lake with reflective views of Half Dome. Perfect morning stroll.
Free, 2h

11:00am

Drive to Glacier Point

Travel 1-hour drive from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point, a spectacular overlook offering panoramic views.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch Picnic at Glacier Point

Pack a picnic or pick up sandwiches at Yosemite Valley before leaving. Eat amidst breathtaking views.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Glacier Point

Spend time appreciating vistas of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the High Sierra. Great photo opportunities.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Return to Yosemite Valley

Drive back, rest or opt for an easy stroll around the Valley floor.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Yodeler Grill

Cozy mountain atmosphere serving steaks and local favorites. Open 5pm-9pm.
USD35, 1.5h
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Day 3: Tuolumne Meadows Drive & Hike

Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite National Park, USA on May 20, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Fuel up early as today involves drive and hikes. Open 7am-10am.
USD20, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Tuolumne Meadows via Tioga Road

Approx. 1.5-hour scenic drive through the high country, with stops for photos at Olmstead Point.
Free, 1.5h

10:00am

Hike the Soda Springs and Parson’s Lodge Trail

A gentle 1.5-mile hike to historic lodges and natural mineral springs in the meadows.
Free, 1.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tuolumne Meadows Grill

Casual spot with burgers, salads, and sandwiches. Open seasonally 11am-4pm.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Short Hike to Gaylor Lakes

Moderate 2-mile hike to beautiful alpine lakes with great view of the surrounding peaks.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Return to Yosemite Valley

Drive back to Yosemite Valley for rest and dinner.
Free, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at the Ahwahnee Dining Room

Elegant dining with classic American cuisine featuring seasonal ingredients. Reservations recommended. Open 5pm-9pm.
USD50, 2h
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Day 4: Mariposa Grove & Wawona

Mariposa Grove & Wawona, Yosemite National Park, USA on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Wawona Hotel Dining Room

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with valley views in a historic setting. Open 7am-10am.
USD22, 1h

8:30am

Visit Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Explore 2-4 mile trails among ancient giant sequoias including the Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree. Shuttle from Wawona available starting 9am.
Free with park admission, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Wawona Store & Deli

Grab sandwiches and snacks in a wilderness store atmosphere. Open daily 8am-6pm.
USD15, 1h

1:00pm

Explore Pioneer History Center

Discover historic cabins and learn about early settlers in Yosemite with interpretive exhibits. Open seasonally 9am-4pm.
Free, 1.5h

3:00pm

Scenic Drive to Tunnel View

Short drive to Tunnel View overlook, offering iconic panoramic views of Yosemite Valley including El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall.
Free, 1h

5:30pm

Return to Yosemite Valley

Drive back and relax after a day of nature and history.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Base Camp Eatery

Enjoy a variety of dishes from Asian noodles to American classics in a casual quick-serve setting. Open until 9pm.
USD20, 1h
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Day 5: Waterfalls & Photography

Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, USA on May 22, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at the Ahwahnee Hotel Lounge

Light breakfast with elegant ambiance to start your photography-focused day. Open 7am-10am.
USD22, 1h

8:00am

Photograph Bridalveil Fall & El Capitan

Morning light is ideal for photos at Bridalveil Fall and El Capitan from Valley viewpoints.
Free, 2h

10:30am

Visit Lower Yosemite Fall Trail

Easy 1-mile loop trail to the base of Yosemite Falls. Great spot for close-up waterfall views.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Yosemite Village Grill

Outdoor grill featuring burgers and salads near the visitor center. Open 11am-4pm.
USD20, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Cook’s Meadow Loop

Light walk around a beautiful meadow with views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, perfect for scenic photos.
Free, 1.5h

3:00pm

Relax at Swinging Bridge Picnic Area

Spend time resting by Merced River with stunning surroundings before dinner.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Mountain Room Restaurant

Return for an elegant dinner with spectacular views of Yosemite Falls and a refined menu. Open 5pm-9pm.
USD40, 2h
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Day 6: Adventure & High Country Drive

Yosemite National Park, USA on May 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Degnan’s Kitchen

Quick, casual breakfast options to start a day of exploration. Open 7am-10am.
USD15, 45m

8:00am

Drive and Hike Sentinel Dome

Drive 45 minutes to Sentinel Dome trailhead then hike 2.2 miles round trip for 360-degree views including Half Dome.
Free, 3h

12:00pm

Picnic Lunch at Olmstead Point

Stop at Olmstead Point viewpoint and enjoy a packed lunch with panoramic views of the high country.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Tuolumne Grove

Explore a quieter grove of giant sequoias with a moderate 2.5-mile hike through these massive trees.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Return to Yosemite Valley

Head back to base to rest and prepare for dinner.
Free, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Wawona Hotel Dining Room

Historic ambiance and classic dishes ideal for a relaxing evening meal. Open 5pm-9pm.
USD40, 1.5h
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Day 7: Yosemite Museum and Art

Yosemite Valley, USA on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Base Camp Eatery

Casual breakfast with diverse options before a cultural day. Open 7am-10am.
USD15, 45m

9:00am

Yosemite Museum & Indian Village

Learn about the native Miwok culture and Yosemite history with engaging exhibits and reconstructed village buildings. Open 9am-5pm.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Explore Yosemite Valley Art Galleries

Visit galleries like Ansel Adams Gallery to see nature-inspired art reflecting the park’s beauty.
Free, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Degnan’s Deli

Enjoy sandwiches and fresh salads in outdoor seating. Open 11am-4pm.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Afternoon leisure walk along the Merced River

Gentle stroll with stunning natural scenery and reflections along calm river waters.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Rest at Hotel

Return to lodging for rest before dinner.
Free, 1.5h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Mountain Room

Savor dishes paired with beautiful waterfall views for a memorable final evening meal in the valley. Open 5pm-9pm.
USD45, 2h
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Day 8: Day Trip: Hetch Hetchy Reservoir

Hetch Hetchy, Yosemite National Park, USA on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Early meal before a full day hike and exploration. Open 7am-10am.
USD20, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Hetch Hetchy Entrance

Approx. 1.5-hour drive northwest to Hetch Hetchy area where quieter trails await.
Free, 1.5h

9:30am

Hike Wapama Falls Trail

Moderate 5-mile round trip trail featuring two tall waterfalls and beautiful reservoir views.
Free, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch Picnic by the Reservoir

Enjoy packed lunch by the shimmering waters of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.
USD20, 1h

3:00pm

Short Hike to O’Shaughnessy Dam

Enjoy scenic views of the dam and surrounding cliffs.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Yosemite Valley

Drive back to base for evening downtime.
Free, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Curry Village Pavilion

Relaxed dinner with various casual foods available. Open until 9pm.
USD25, 1h
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Day 9: Climbing and Rockfall History

Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, USA on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Degnan’s Kitchen

Effective and quick breakfast to fuel active morning plans. Open 7am-10am.
USD15, 45m

9:00am

Yosemite Rock Climbing History Tour

Guided or self-guided tour highlighting famous climbing routes like El Capitan and their stories. Check ranger program schedules. Typically 9am tours available on weekends.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Happy Isles Nature Center

Learn about Yosemite ecology with interactive exhibits. Open 9am-5pm.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Yosemite Village Deli

Quick sandwiches and snacks to keep energy up. Open 11am-4pm.
USD15, 1h

2:00pm

Easy hike to Mirror Lake or Valley Loop Trail

Relaxing afternoon walk to enjoy the valley’s natural beauty.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Rest and Freshen Up

Return to lodging and rest before final dinners.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Ahwahnee Dining Room

Enjoy an upscale farewell dinner with fine cuisine and historic ambiance. Reservations strongly recommended. Open 5pm-9pm.
USD55, 2h
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Day 10: Leisure & Shopping

Yosemite Valley, USA on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Base Camp Eatery

Casual start with diverse breakfast options. Open 7am-10am.
USD15, 45m

9:00am

Souvenir Shopping at Yosemite Village

Explore gift shops including visitor center and Ansel Adams Gallery for last-minute keepsakes.
Varies, 2h

11:30am

Light Hike or Scenic Walk

Choose a gentle walk along the valley floor or revisit favorite spots for photos.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Degnan’s Deli

Casual deli sandwiches and salads with outdoor seating. Open 11am-4pm.
USD20, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at Yosemite Lodge

Enjoy amenities or spa services if available to unwind.
Varies, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Mountain Room Restaurant

Final dinner with spectacular views and comfort food favorites. Open 5pm-9pm.
USD40, 2h
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Day 11: Outdoor Sports & Exploration

Yosemite Valley & Surrounds, USA on May 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge Dining Room

Nutritious meal before active day. Open 7am-10am.
USD20, 1h

8:30am

Rafting on Merced River

Join a guided half-day rafting trip suitable for beginners, enjoy the river’s scenic rapids and calm sections. Check availability and book in advance.
USD90, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Base Camp Eatery

Relaxed venue with multiple dining options. Open until 4pm.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Lower Falls Picnic Area

Chill by the river and waterfalls with gentle walking trails.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Rest & Pack

Prepare for departure tomorrow and relax at lodging.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Ahwahnee Dining Room

Celebrate your Yosemite adventure with a gourmet meal in historic surroundings. Open 5pm-9pm.
USD55, 2h
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Day 12: Departure Day

Yosemite Valley, USA on May 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Final breakfast in the park before check-out. Open 7am-10am.
USD20, 1h

8:30am

Final Stroll Through Yosemite Valley

One last walk around the valley floor to take in favorite views and peaceful morning nature sounds.
Free, 1h

10:00am

Check-Out and Departure

Prepare for your journey home or next destination with fond memories.
Free, 1h
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