Exploring National Yosemite: One Day In the Park
Join us at Seat34B as we explore breathtaking Yosemite National Park in California. Discover hiking trails, travel tips, and essential gear in our travel blog. Adventure awaits!
5/8/20242 min read
Yosemite National Park is out very favorite US National Park and we have been to many! This gem is situated 4 hours east of San Francisco, in the Sierra Nevada mountains. We make it a point to go 2-3 times a year so we have had experience with each of the seasons. If you only have one day in the park, you should head straight to Yosemite Valley and consider some day hikes.
Hikes to Consider
Vernal Falls - Head up Mist Trail and consider taking the John Muir Trail down. Mist Trail is a slick trail that feels like being on an insane stair master. Be aware that the waterfall you hike beside will likely mist you (or drench you) as you make your track.
Nevada Falls - This one is an extension of Vernal Falls. It is not for the faint of heart but it is such a beautiful sight when you get to the top.
Yosemite Falls
Don't Forget to Check-Out
Tunnel View
Mirror Lake
The Awahnee Hotel for a nice dinner or lunch but be sure to book ahead and to also check the dress code.
Curry Village for some late night pizza!
If you visit during summer, rent a bike and loop around the Valley floor for a great way to stop and admire all the views along the way. Be sure to get there early! If you prefer, you can rent an intertube and float down river and take the FREE shuttle back up.
Gear
Proper hiking boots are a must!
Hiking poles are a life saver.
Sun protection (hats, sunscreen, and long sleeve tops)
If you have babies, I would highly recommend a backpack carrier.
What It's Like with a Baby
We brought our little one, and while it added a layer of strategic snack management and nap roulette, Yosemite was surprisingly baby-friendly. Paved trails like Lower Yosemite Falls and Mirror Lake worked great with our travel stroller, and Curry Village made late-night baby wake-ups feel like a communal experience. (Thanks, neighbor in Cabin #2A, for not judging.)
Final Thoughts
Yosemite makes you feel small in the best way. It’s humbling and vast and a little dramatic. Whether you’re crushing Half Dome, spotting deer outside your cabin, or just staring at El Cap like “how is that real,” it gets into your bones.
We’ll be back. With sore legs, full hearts, and a toddler who thinks pinecones are currency.
See you at the trailhead,
Megan & Marcos
Seat 34B
