California, USA
Yosemite
Granite cathedrals and waterfalls that thunder through spring.
About the region
Yosemite is a hiker's pilgrimage — Half Dome cables, Mist Trail spray, and high-country lakes above the granite shoulders of Tuolumne.
Why hikers love it
- Half Dome via the Mist Trail (permit required) that live up to the hype.
- Strenuous day hikes and Backcountry permits — a match for how you like to hike.
- Prime season: Apr – Oct. Fly into Fresno (FAT) or Mammoth (MMH) — ~2 hr drive to the valley.
Signature hikes
- Half Dome via the Mist Trail (permit required)
- Clouds Rest ridgewalk at sunrise
- Cathedral Lakes wildflower loop in July
Pro tip from GoTravelHiking
Start before sunrise on your headline day (Half Dome via the Mist Trail (permit required)). Trailheads empty out at dawn and light on Yosemite's ridgelines is at its best in the first two hours.
Sample 2-day itinerary
A taste of what GoTravelHiking AI builds — generate a full plan for unlimited days, maps, weather and packing in the planner.
Warm-up & signature view
Half Dome via the Mist Trail (permit required) · 5.2 mi · 1,200 ft gain
- • Sunrise start
- • Photo stop at overlook
- • Trailhead coffee plan
The bigger objective
Clouds Rest ridgewalk at sunrise · 8.4 mi · 2,400 ft gain
- • Pre-dawn start
- • Ridge traverse
- • Recovery meal in town
Where to stay & what to pack near Mariposa, CA
Trail-town hotels plus camping-gear picks we recommend. Booking or buying through these partners supports GoTravelHiking at no extra cost to you.
Hotels near Mariposa, CA
Browse optionsBackpacking tent (2-person, ultralight)
Shop on AmazonInflatable sleeping pad + 3-season bag
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From the blog
Field notes from Yosemite
11 Iconic Trails Every Hiker Should Try Once
Some trails become famous because of breathtaking scenery. Others earn legendary status through history, challenge, or the unforgettable experiences they provide along the way. The most iconic hikes manage to
GoTravelHiking · 8/28/2026
14 Jaw-Dropping Waterfall Hikes Across the USA
Water has a way of transforming an ordinary hike into an unforgettable adventure. The sound of rushing water echoing through a canyon, the cool mist drifting across a trail, and
GoTravelHiking · 6/26/2026
7 Multi-Day Backpacking Trips That Will Change Your Life
Few outdoor experiences compare to spending several days carrying everything you need on your back while moving through some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. Day hikes can be
GoTravelHiking · 6/9/2026