Here is how to spend a day in Yosemite, built from the hikes and activities the National Park Service lists and the time it says each takes. Times are for the activity itself; add time for driving, parking and shuttles between stops, and swap anything that is closed or out of season.
Day 1
About 3.5 hours of listed activity time, plus stops with no listed time.
Start at Yosemite Valley Welcome Center for maps, current trail conditions and ranger advice.
Morning
- Ride a Bike in Yosemite Valley (1 to 6 hours). Cycling is a great way to experience the park and allows you to cover more ground during your time here. (permit or reservation needed; best in spring, summer, fall)
Afternoon
- Scenic Driving in Yosemite (time not listed). All of the roads in Yosemite National Park are scenic, but the most famous scenic drive is along the Tioga Road, a 46-mile (62 km) drive from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass. (dogs OK)
- Hiking in Yosemite (time not listed). From a short walk to the base of a waterfall to a multi-day hike deep into the Yosemite Wilderness, taking a hike is one of the best ways to experience Yosemite's spectacular scenery.
Make it work
- When to go: April, May and October. See the best time to visit.
- Where to stay: 16 campgrounds and 12 lodges in the park; see camping and lodging.
- Before you go: check today’s alerts and read know before you go. More ideas: all things to do.
Today at Yosemite
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Alerts: National Park Service, checked hourly. Forecast: National Weather Service, for Yosemite Valley Welcome Center. Always confirm on the official park site before you set out.
Sources
- National Park Service: things to do in Yosemite National Park (Data API, public domain)
Last checked 1 November 2026.