Experience the magic of fall in Yosemite, where cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and vibrant bursts of color await. Witness the captivating displays of Dogwoods, Big Leaf Maples, and Black Oaks as they paint the landscape with red, orange, and gold hues. While fall colors typically grace the park throughout October, they can begin as early as September and extend into November.

The scenic drive from the South Entrance to Tunnel View takes approximately one hour, traveling safely at 35 mph. Remember to pull over at turnouts to allow other vehicles to pass and remain vigilant for wildlife crossing the roadway.

Begin your adventure at the Visitors Center in Oakhurst and follow our suggested route of stops. If your journey starts later in the day, consider reversing the order for a seamless exploration of Yosemite's fall wonders.

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is at the South Gate Entrance of Yosemite National Park

The Mariposa Grove has over 500 mature giant sequoia trees and a variety of trails, from easy to strenuous and accessible. Some of the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove are approximately 2,000 years old. This impressive natural wonder was pivotal to the creation of Yosemite National Park and has been revered by the First Native People, followed by adventurers such as Galen Clark, John Muir, and Teddy Roosevelt. 

How to Access The Grove 

Park at Welcome Plaza and take the free shuttle to the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area. Note: The shuttle bus from the Welcome Plaza parking to the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area is weather-dependent. An early fall snow can temporarily close the road access. Visitors can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or hike into the Grove via the two-mile Washburn Trail when the road is closed.

Prepare for your Adventure

Wear a hat and good hiking shoes, and carry plenty of water. Drinking fountains and water refilling stations are at the Welcome Plaza and the Arrival Area. 

Recommended Hikes 

• Big Trees Loop Trail: 0.3-mile - EASY (1-2 hours). You will see many Giant Sequoias, including the Fallen Monarch, and interpretive panels on the life and ecology of Giant Sequoias.
• Grizzly Giant Loop Trail:2-miles - MODERATE (2-3 hours) Discover many more Giant Sequoia trees, including the Bachelor and Three Graces, the Grizzly Giant, and the California Tunnel Tree.
• Mariposa Grove Trail: 7-miles - STRENUOUS (4-6 hours) Other notable trees included are the Faithful Couple and Clothespin Tree. You can also visit Wawona Point and the Mariposa Grove Cabin along this route.

Accessibility

For those with a handicap placard, you can access parking at the Arrival Area and near the Grizzly Giant Tree. Restrooms are also available in these parking areas. 

The beauty of Mariposa Grove is only the beginning of your Yosemite explorations. Buckle up. The next stop is not far away!  

Explore the rich history and activities at one of the park's historic hubs:

• Discover the charm of the Wawona Hotel, a distinguished National Historic Landmark and one of California's original mountain resort hotels. Please note: The Wawona Hotel will be closed beginning December 2, 2024, for a comprehensive condition assessment by the National Park Service. There is currently no reopening date for the hotel. 
• Indulge in a delightful dining experience at Wawona Hotel, often accompanied by live musical performances by Tom Bopp, a talented musician and Yosemite historian. The Wawona Hotel will be closed beginning December 2, 2024, for a comprehensive condition assessment by the National Park Service. There is currently no reopening date for the hotel. 
• Immerse yourself in the past at the Yosemite History Center, home to a fascinating array of historic buildings. Delve into the past as you explore the exteriors of these buildings and engage with informative interpretive signage that tells the story of the park's heritage.
• Enjoy a stroll along the Meadow Loop Trail, a dog-friendly trail spanning 3.5 miles of flat terrain.
• Experience the natural beauty of Chilnualna Falls with a moderately easy hike to the first cascade (2-mile round trip). For a more challenging adventure, trek to the upper cascades (8 miles round trip, 2,300 ft elevation gain).
• Tee off at Wawona Golf Course, offering traditional ball and disc golf options. Reservations are required.

For your next adventure:

• Embark on a scenic drive along Glacier Point Road, stretching 16 miles to the breathtaking Glacier Point. 

Embark on an adventure along Glacier Point Road, where breathtaking vistas and exhilarating hikes await. 

• McGurk Meadow Hike: Immerse yourself in the beauty of late summer wildflowers on this easy 2-mile round-trip stroll. Keep an eye out for stunning blooms near the creek crossing.
• Dewey Point Hike: Moderate in difficulty, this 8-mile round trip offers mesmerizing panoramic views.
• Sentinel Dome Hike: Trek 2.2 miles round trip to experience the best 360-degree vistas of the valley and high country. Don't miss the chance for a stunning photo opportunity!
• Extend your adventure by continuing the Sentinel Dome Hike on a 5-mile loop to include Taft Point and the Fissures.
• Washburn Point and Glacier Point: Marvel at the majestic Nevada and Vernal Falls from these vantage points, offering unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley from 3,200 feet above. Capture breathtaking photos of Mt. Hoffman, Cathedral Peak, Mt. Starr King, Mt. Clark, and other iconic landmarks of the Yosemite high country.
• Glacier Point is renowned for its captivating sunsets, full moons, and starry skies, providing an ideal setting for memorable photographs. Check out the "10 Best Stargazing Spots in Yosemite and Madera County" for more incredible stargazing locations within the park.

Please note: Glacier Point Road shuts down for the winter following the first substantial snowfall. Badger Pass Ski Area welcomes visitors once there is adequate snowfall to support winter activities.

For your next adventure, head back along Glacier Point Road from Glacier Point, then turn right onto Wawona Road at Chinquapin. Drive 7.7 miles towards Yosemite Valley, passing through the picturesque Wawona Tunnel before reaching your next destination, Tunnel View.

Tunnel View is a "must-see" stop for any new visitor to Yosemite (it is also a favorite for many return visitors). As you emerge from the tunnel, take time to marvel at the awe-inspiring panorama of Bridalveil Fall, Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and El Capitan. This breathtaking vista offers a fantastic photo opportunity to capture the essence of Yosemite's majestic beauty. Safely park your vehicle on either side of the tunnel and soak in the grandeur of the surrounding landscape.

 Whether you're an amateur photographer or a seasoned pro, Tunnel View offers the perfect backdrop for capturing stunning images of nature's splendor.

Venture along Southside Drive to uncover the historic Yosemite Chapel. Constructed in 1879, the chapel is the oldest continuously used building in Yosemite Valley. The chapel was granted National Historic Building status by the Park Service in 1965, and it is still an active, non-denominational place of worship today. Nearby, Cooks Meadow, across the street from the chapel, offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as peregrine falcons, coyotes, mule deer, and black bears. Take a moment to appreciate the serene surroundings and immerse yourself in nature's wonders.

Follow the road east from Yosemite Chapel to Sentinel Bridge. Positioned at the bridge's center, capture breathtaking photos of Half Dome towering over the tranquil Merced River, often reflecting the majestic scenery.

The Yosemite Valley Shuttle is your free ride to explore the heart of Yosemite Valley. The shuttle runs every 10 to 20 minutes from 7 am to 10 pm, with convenient stops at key destinations. Remember that shuttle service varies by season, so staying informed is essential. Prioritize planning with our "Know Before You Go" approach by checking the current routes and stops in service. 

Follow the signs to the main day-use parking area or Yosemite Lodge parking. Begin your journey at Shuttle Stop 1, Yosemite Village, and Day Use Parking. Another parking option can be found at Shuttle Stop 7, Yosemite Valley Lodge/Yosemite Falls. Once parked, leave your car behind to visit east Yosemite Valley. Hop aboard the free Yosemite Valley shuttle or explore on foot— the choice is yours!

Shuttle Stop 1: Day Parking – Leave your car parked for the day and enjoy the hassle-free exploration of Yosemite Valley with the free shuttle service, covering all major attractions.

Shuttle Stop 2: Yosemite Valley Welcome Center (located next to Village Store) – Ranger-staffed information desk and bookstore, informational and directional exhibits. At the nearby Village Store, discover groceries, gifts, camping essentials, and souvenirs.

Shuttle Stop 3: The Ahwahnee – Ideal for a delightful lunch experience. Reservations and a dress code are required for dinner. Enjoy a leisurely meal with stunning views from the 34-foot-high windows. For more information, call (209) 372-1489

Shuttle Stop 4: Degnan's Kitchen – Savor deli sandwiches, signature salads, artisan pizzas, coffee, and more at Degnan's Kitchen.

Shuttle Stop 5: Yosemite Exploration Center & Museum – Explore the Yosemite Conservancy Bookstore and Yosemite theatre, showcasing the "Spirit of Yosemite" film. Dive into the cultural history of Yosemite's native peoples at the Yosemite Museum and Indian Cultural Village.

Shuttle Stop 6: Lower Yosemite Falls – Embark on a scenic half-mile walk (one-way) to the base of Yosemite Falls, offering picturesque views.

Shuttle Stop 7: Yosemite Valley Lodge –  Dine at Base Camp eatery, The Mountain Room, or The Mountain Room Lounge. In the early fall, rent bikes to explore miles of nearby bike trails. Guided tours around Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point depart from here. For info and reservations, call (209) 372-4386.

Shuttle Stop 14: Curry Village – Enjoy bike rentals in the early fall before the winter snow arrives. Then, dine at Pizza Deck or Meadow Grill. Visit the Mountaineering School to buy equipment or meet up with hiking or climbing guides.

Shuttle Stop 16: Happy Isles – Explore the Happy Isles Nature Center and embark on the Mist Trail hike to the Vernal Falls Footbridge, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Continue your hike to Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls for more stunning views.

Shuttle Stop 17: Mirror Lake – Experience Yosemite Valley's seasonal "lake" with easy and moderate hike options, including a 2-mile round trip to the lake and back or a 5-mile loop around the lake. The "lake" dwindles to a small stream in the fall. 

Download a printable 2024 Yosemite Valley Shuttle Map.

Like Tunnel View, this spot provides a panoramic vista of Yosemite Valley with the Merced River flowing in the foreground and towering granite walls above. Look for the pullout on the left just past the Bridalveil Fall turnout before Pohono Bridge.

If you turn left over Pohono Bridge (going back to Oakhurst/Fresno) after your visit to Valley View, you will pass the smallest waterfall in Yosemite at Fern Spring.  There is a small turnout just 0.1 mile after the bridge where you can park and enjoy this nice, quiet place of respite.

If you have the time and the road is still open, don't miss the opportunity to view the Yosemite high country up-close-and-personal by traversing Tioga Road, which goes across the park to the east side of the Sierra Nevada (for many this will require an extra day to make the most of it). For some of us, this is the most beautiful, most spectacular part of the park. This road closes with the first major snowfall and remains closed through winter and early spring.

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