This park attracts millions of tourists per year with cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias. Perhaps that is why visiting this famous park can be quite a task, especially given the fact that there is so much to see and do in the park; however, a proper Yosemite day schedule will guide you to get the best out of your time and be able to visit some of the most fascinating features available in Yosemite. Novice or experienced hiker, this guide will help you to visit Yosemites highlights in one day so that you do not lose sight of the parks main attractions.

Morning: Start Your Day with Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Falls and Lower Falls

The falls are stunning any time of the year, but in spring it is even more spectacular because of the snowmelt. On the valley floor, you will be able to have a view of the strong flow of the water at the waterfall. If you have a little more time to spare, then the Lower Falls Trail is a 1-mile circular trail that leads you straight to the base of the falls. It is an easy walking track and offers great views of the falls from close up.

For photographers, this is an excellent place in the morning when the light is better and there are fewer people around. Take a picture of the mist that arises from the bottom of the falls or take a picture of the waterfalls during the natural morning light.

Tunnel View and Bridalveil Fall

It is best viewed early in the morning when there is a fresh light on the floor of the valley and the gigantic features of the valley are more conspicuous.

The first stop just a little further ahead of Tunnel View is Bridalveil Fall, a stunning waterfall that tumbles down the cliffs of the valley. This is an easy stop with a short hike from the car park and is ideal for a morning walk through the park. Although not as strong as Yosemite Falls, the delicate flow of Bridalveil Fall is very fascinating, and the place is perfect for taking a photo.

El Capitan and Half Dome Views

While going further through the valley, it is worth looking at such elements of Yosemite as El Capitan and Half Dome. These towering granite boulders are perhaps most striking in the early morning light when the structure of the larger formations is more clearly discernible. Make sure you have a stop at one of the viewpoints for a chance to take photographs of these enormous structures before the park is filled with people.

Midday: Hike and Explore the Iconic Trails

If you have spent your morning admiring the view of Yosemite Valley, it is time to go out and hike some of the most popular trails in the park. Depending on your level of physical activity, you can find interesting things to do during the day, including the hottest time of the day.

Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls

It is famous for the two waterfalls that it passes. The trail is relatively easy at the beginning but gets slightly rigorous as one ascends to the Vernal Fall area. Do not be surprised to be wet from the mist produced by the base of the falls; this is a good hike during hot seasons.

Mirror Lake Loop or Lower Yosemite Falls Trail

If you are not up for a strenuous hike, then you should try either the Mirror Lake Loop or the Lower Yosemite Falls hike. Mirror Lake Loop is a flat 2-mile loop that offers a rich view of the surrounding granite cliffs with an excellent opportunity to take a leisurely stroll around the park. Or you can take the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail, which is an easy, short 1-mile loop that leads to the base of one of the most famous waterfalls in the park.

Picnic Lunch and Scenic Views

Finding good places to eat is another important aspect that we explore after a morning of sightseeing. Yosemite has plenty of good places to picnic, so you might want to save some room for a sandwich or two so that you can take it easy and take in the scenery. It is recommended that one take a trip to Cathedral Spires Picnic Area, where there are wonderful views of the granite cliffs encompassing the valley. Or else, set up at one of the points along the Merced River so that you can hear the sound of running water as you relax.

Afternoon: Explore Glacier Point and Mariposa Grove

You can go to Glacier Point which will take about one hour, but the views when getting to the top are worth the time. If you dont have much time, the best way to see this park is by taking the Glacier Point Tour, which is a bus tour that is guided. Glacier Point is best viewed at this time, when the light over the valley below turns a golden hue. Its an ideal place for sundown, though the scenery is breathtaking even in the middle of the day.

Evening: Relax and Capture Sunset Views

Towards the evening of the 1-day Yosemite trip, take your time to capture and enjoy the warm, beautiful sunsets. Sunset is particularly famous in Yosemite, and what better way to leave the park than by seeing this great natural spectacle?

If you want to see the sunset, the two places that you should visit are Sentinel Dome or Glacier Point. Both have great views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome, and the light at the end of the day is beautiful over the land. I recommend Sentinel Dome, as it is a small 1-mile trail from the car park area, but if you fancy an easier time, then Glacier Point is the one for you. In any case, you stand to be rewarded with a stunning view of Yosemite as you watch the sun set.

Conclusion

There is so much to do in the park in one day, it is always important to have a schedule to make sure you cover the most popular attractions. While hiking in the morning through the waterfalls and valleys, in the afternoon, you will enjoy the breathtaking view of Glacier Point. Always bear in mind to take things slow, tell yourself what you want to do, and, most importantly, admire the creation around you.