Yosemite Valley Network

The incomparable Yosemite Valley is accessed via a complex maze of mostly one-way roads. The traffic volume in this area during the busy season is almost unimaginable. There is no rational way to describe these routes by mile, due to the endless side roads and cross-overs. The best, and usually only, way to get around the valley is via the free shuttle service. These hybrid buses, shown to the left, provide access to all of the famous valley features, along with lodgings and campgrounds. Rather than break down the roads by mile, we simply list some of the valley's stops below.

One of the symbols of the park is El Capitan. This massive granite wall can be seen from several points around the valley, and is an extremely popular climbing spot. Using binoculars it is usually possible to spot climbers making their way slowly up the face of "El Cap".

The Mist Trail is accessed from the John Muir Trail, starting at Happy Isles. During peak waterfall flows in May and June, this is perhaps one of the two best hikes in the park, the other being to the top of Yosemite Fall. This route heads, very steeply at times, along the Merced River as it crashes over Nevada and Vernal Fall into the valley. The Mist Trail portion along Vernal Fall, shown to the left, is at times nearly vertical as it ascends very large steps cut out of the granite. During peak flows, mist drenches the surface (and the hikers), making footing treacherous. If you are able to make this hike though, it is a must-do.

Yosemite Fall is probably the highlight of a valley filled with highlights. This waterfall drops 2,425 feet in three stages, making it the highest waterfall in North America and the seventh highest in the world. Easy walks lead near the base of the lower section, and the entire falls can be seen from several points. A very difficult hike also leads from the valley floor to the brink of the falls. Obviously, this hike gains the 2.425 foot drop of the waterfall and is very strenuous.