There’s nothing quite like your first time in Yosemite National Park. With towering waterfalls, granite cliffs, giant sequoias, and sweeping valley views, it’s a place that feels both vast and intimate. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a full week, planning ahead will help you make the most of your visit. This guide covers what every first-time visitor should know—from where to go, what to bring, and how to avoid common mistakes.
When to Visit Yosemite
Yosemite is open year-round, but your experience can vary widely depending on the season. Spring (April to June) is ideal for waterfalls, while summer brings long days and easier access to higher elevations. Fall is quieter and colorful, and winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland. If it’s your first visit, aim for late spring or early summer for the best mix of accessibility and natural beauty. Just be sure to make any required reservations in advance during the busy season.
What to See: Yosemite’s Must-Visit Highlights
For first-timers, focus on Yosemite Valley. This area includes many of the park’s most iconic landmarks in a relatively small, walkable area. Don’t miss Tunnel View, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. If you have time and the road is open, Glacier Point offers a sweeping view of the valley and is a popular sunrise or sunset spot. Other popular additions include Mirror Lake, Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, and the Mist Trail.
How to Get Around Yosemite
Parking inside Yosemite can be limited, especially during peak hours. Consider arriving early, taking the free shuttle (available in Yosemite Valley), or booking a guided tour like Discover Yosemite to skip the driving altogether.
Where to Stay for Easy Access
Many first-time visitors find it easier to stay just outside the park at properties such as Yosemite View Lodge, Indian Flat Campground or Yosemite Cedar Lodge. Each property is just 2-8 miles from the entrance of the park and has YARTS public transit bus stops right out front.
What to Pack for Your First Yosemite Trip
Pack layers, even in summer. Yosemite mornings and evenings can be cool, even if it’s warm midday. Bring comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, a refillable water bottle or hydration pack, snacks, a portable charger, and a printed park map (cell service is spotty in many areas). If you’re hiking, pack basic first aid supplies and don’t forget your camera—though your phone will probably do just fine for capturing the epic views.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking
- Make park reservations if required
- Stick to marked trails and respect wildlife
- Check the weather and park alerts before you go
- Don’t try to do everything in one day—prioritize 2–3 sights or hikes per day
- Bring a card for park fees, food, and souvenirs
Enjoy Yosemite at Your Own Pace
The beauty of Yosemite goes beyond its iconic landmarks. It’s in the quiet details—the sound of the Wild & Scenic Merced River, the scent of pine, the changing light on Half Dome at dusk. Build in time to slow down, take in your surroundings, and experience the park without rushing. Chances are, your first trip won’t be your last.