Two-Day Yosemite National Park Adventure from San Francisco

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Yosemite Valley, California, USA on July 4, 2025

3:30am

Depart from San Francisco

Start your drive early from San Francisco to avoid traffic and maximize your time in Yosemite National Park. The drive takes around 4 hours without stops.
USD0, 4h0m

8:00am

Breakfast at Degnan's Kitchen

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Degnan's Kitchen in Yosemite Village. Open from 7:00am, this spot offers a variety of breakfast sandwiches and coffee to fuel your day.
USD15-25, 1h0m

9:00am

Yosemite Valley Visitor Center

Stop at the Visitor Center to get maps and insights about trails and points of interest. Open from 8:00am to 5:00pm, it’s the perfect orientation to start your exploration.
USD0, 0h30m

9:30am

Lower Yosemite Fall Trail

Take an easy 1-mile loop trail to see Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America. This short hike is perfect for photography and appreciating Yosemite’s natural beauty.
USD0, 1h0m

11:00am

Cook's Meadow Loop

Walk the flat, scenic Cook's Meadow Loop for great views of Half Dome and Glacier Point. This 1-mile trail offers multiple iconic photo opportunities.
USD0, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at the Yosemite Valley Lodge Food Court

Have a casual lunch at the Lodge’s food court, which offers sandwiches, salads, and hot meals. Open daily from 11:00am to 5:00pm.
USD15-25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Mirror Lake Hike

Embark on the 2-mile round-trip hike to Mirror Lake, a tranquil spot famous for reflections of surrounding cliffs. The trail is mostly flat and suitable for all levels.
USD0, 2h0m

3:30pm

Check-in Airbnb

Check-in to your Airbnb accommodation inside or near Yosemite Valley and take some time to relax or freshen up after your hike.
Variable, 1h0m

5:00pm

Sunset at Tunnel View

Drive or take a shuttle to Tunnel View for one of the most breathtaking sunset panoramas of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall. It’s a must-see for photographers and nature lovers.
USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Mountain Room Restaurant

Dine at The Mountain Room Restaurant in Yosemite Valley Lodge, known for its views of Yosemite Falls and great cuisine. Open for dinner from 5:00pm to 9:00pm.
USD30-50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Hiking & Return

Yosemite Valley, California, USA on July 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Airbnb

Start your day with a relaxing breakfast at your Airbnb or pick up a quick bite at a local market.
Variable, 1h0m

8:00am

Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge

Begin an invigorating hike on the Mist Trail to the Vernal Fall footbridge, suitable as a half-day trip offering spectacular waterfall views. The trail is open early morning for cooler temperatures.
USD0, 3h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Degnan's Kitchen

Refuel with lunch at Degnan's Kitchen, offering fresh and quick meals. Open daily from 11:00am onwards.
USD15-25, 1h0m

12:30pm

Explore Yosemite Chapel and Village

Take a leisurely walk around Yosemite Village to see the Yosemite Chapel and shop at the Ansel Adams Gallery for souvenirs.
USD0, 1h0m

1:30pm

El Capitan Meadow

Drive or take shuttle to El Capitan Meadow to watch rock climbers on the massive granite face and enjoy a relaxing picnic or scenic view.
USD0, 1h0m

2:30pm

Prepare to Depart

Return to your Airbnb to collect your luggage and get ready for the drive back to San Francisco.
USD0, 0h30m

3:00pm

Start drive back to San Francisco

Leave Yosemite National Park by car heading back to San Francisco. The drive generally takes 4-5 hours depending on traffic.
USD0, 4h0m

7:00pm

Arrive in San Francisco

Arrive back in San Francisco in the evening after a fulfilling two-day adventure in Yosemite National Park.
USD0, 0h0m
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