If you’re gearing up for a trip to Yosemite National Park, maybe even for National Park Week, get ready to be blown away by nature’s grandeur. Whether you’re going there to see Old Faithful, or you just want to experience the beauty of the open skies, Yosemite offers something for just about every traveler.
As someone who has roamed these majestic landscapes many times, there are a few tidbits of information I wish I had known before making the trip for the first time. By creating a plan before your visit and following these tips, your upcoming trip to Yosemite National Park will be even more incredible.
First, Plan Ahead
Especially during the peak season, which spans from May to September, Yosemite is a highly sought-after destination. Millions of people make there way to this park each year, and for good reason! With the crowds come difficulties making reservations, however, especially since the peak seasons requite a reservation to enter the park from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.
I highly recommend securing accommodations, camping sites, and activities well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. If you’re more of a last-minute adventurer, consider staying outside the park and hiking in during the day.
Early Bird Gets the Worm
I am notorious for sleeping in, but when it comes to Yosemite it’s rise and shine, my friend! Be the early bird to catch the worm, or in this case, the stunning sunrise views.
Head out early to beat the crowds and snag those prime spots for sunrise hikes or photography sessions. The trails can get really busy and it also gets hot in the summer, so heading out early is the best way to see the park.
Layer Up, Even in Summer
Yosemite’s weather can be incredibly unpredictable. Even in summer, temperatures can vary drastically throughout the day. So, layer up with clothing that can adapt to changing conditions.
Try to come with layers that are easy to compact in your bag as you’ll likely be carrying all your belongings on your back. Carrying too much weight can make for a pretty miserable experience if you aren’t prepared.
Stay Hydrated, Always
Hiking those jaw-dropping trails can be a lot of work. It sounds obvious, but genuinely try to remember to carry plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially during those long, sunny days. Trust me; your body will thank you later.
I’d also recommend picking up a reusable water bottle, rather than hauling loads of plastic bottles into the park. Littering is strictly prohibited in the park, as it can disrupt the local ecosystem.
Mind Your Manners with Wildlife
Yosemite is home to some incredible wildlife — think bears, deer, and even the occasional bobcat. Keep your distance, don’t feed them (even if they give you those puppy eyes), and store your food properly to avoid any unexpected encounters.
While it may look like fun to engage with some of the more friendly looking wildlife, they are still wild animals, and can be quite protective of their territories. Keeping a distance is your best bet for staying safe.
Get Off the Beaten Path
Sure, Yosemite Valley is drop-dead gorgeous, but don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path. Explore the lesser-known trails throughout the park, find the hidden waterfalls, and venture to the secluded viewpoints for a more intimate Yosemite experience.
You’ll never know what will be the highlight of your trip!
Respect Mother Nature
Yosemite is like your grandma’s antique vase — beautiful but fragile. Respect the environment, stick to designated trails, and leave no trace behind. As I mentioned earlier, littering is not permitted.
Unfortunately, it happens. I would recommend bringing reusable containers, and avoiding extra plastic at all costs. If it’s not possible to avoid bringing plastic containers with you, make sure they are disposed of properly.
Download Offline Maps
Trust me; your phone’s GPS won’t save you in Yosemite’s remote corners and many areas of the park have no service at all. Download offline maps or carry a good old-fashioned paper map to navigate the park’s vast wilderness like a pro.
This is one park I would recommend subscribing to AllTrails for if you’re planning to do some hiking, as it will come in handy. Even though it’s not a paper map, it can help wherever you have service.
Sunscreen, Sunscreen, Sunscreen
That California sun can be a sneaky devil, even when it’s hiding behind the clouds. Especially when you’re exploring the valley floor it can feel like you don’t really need it, but trust me you’ll want to have some on you as soon as the sun peaks out.
Embrace the Adventure
Yosemite is all about embracing the wild side and has an impressive history in the climbing world. Some of the hikes here are incredibly challenging so know your limits, but if you’ve been wanting to test yourself this park is the place to do it as you’ll be rewarded with some pretty remarkable sights.
Catch a Ranger Program
Rangers aren’t just there to look pretty in their snazzy uniforms. They offer tons of informative programs to learn about Yosemite’s history, wildlife, and conservation efforts.
Anyone can attend these, but they are particularly great for families with kids!
Have Patience
If you’re expecting to have the park to yourself, there is almost no time of year when you’ll find this, unfortunately. Yosemite can get crowde, just like any other tourist attraction like Times Square in New York City.
Embrace the chaos, be patient, and remember that slow and steady wins the race (or at least secures that parking spot). If you’re wanting to get away from the crowds, consider trying to enter the lottery for some of their more remote cabins that you can skin to in the winter or hike to during the summer months.
Sample the Local Fare
After a day of hiking, you’ll have worked up quite the appetite. While I prefer to cook over a fire at the campsite, there are tons of great spots to eat at in the park that are worth checking out for at least one meal!
There’s a complete dining guide for the area if you’re trying to figure out what you and your group should chow down on after your day of hiking.
Sunset at Tunnel View
If you only catch one sunset in Yosemite, make it at Tunnel View. Watch as the setting sun paints Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall in a mesmerizing palette of colors that looks straight out of a painting.
Explore Tioga Road
When Tioga Road opens for the season (typically late May to early June), it’s like unlocking a gateway to Yosemite’s high country paradise. Drive this scenic route to discover pristine alpine lakes, meandering rivers, and hiking trails galore. Even if it’s not on your route into the park, consider adventuring this way for a day and you won’t regret it.
<p>The post What I Wish I Knew Before My First Trip to Yosemite National Park first appeared on Travelbinger.</p>