15 Yosemite National Park Summer Activities

We recommend our Scenic Wonders guests come up with an activity blueprint for their trip in advance. This can help prioritize your time amid Yosemite country's endless possibilities.

Yosemite National Park Summer Activities

Here’s a quick run-down of 15 popular Yosemite National Park summer activities. Refer to the Yosemite Guide for updates. (1) Hiking: Hit up Yosemite’s world-class trails, from the short stroll to Bridalveil Fall to long-distance high-country routes. (2) Biking: Pedal your way through jaw-dropping scenery on roads and well-paved paths in Yosemite Valley. (3) Stargazing: The night skies over the Yosemite wilderness are mighty. Check the Yosemite Guide for organized stargazing programs. (4) Waterfalls: After marveling at the world-famous Yosemite Valley cataracts, seek out lesser-known ones such as Lehamite Falls or Pywiack Cascade. (5) Picnic: Postcard-perfect picnicking spots are plentiful in Yosemite, from the Mariposa Grove to Lembert Dome. Just remember—don’t feed the wildlife, no matter how eagerly begging! (6) Bus Tour: You’ve got five different bus tours to choose from in Yosemite—survey the park’s scenery in comfort and leisure! (7) Volunteer: Roll up your sleeves and participate in the park’s conservation work! Spend a morning in the field with the Habitat Protectors of Yosemite. (8) Swimming: Cool off on a hot summer day with a dip--whether in a resort pool or natural swimming hole such as Tenaya Lake. (9) Rafting: The noble Tuolumne and Merced rivers offer a fantastic array of rafting opportunities, from the experts-only challenge of the Tuolumne’s Cherry Creek run to all-ages floats through the Yosemite Valley. (10) Fishing: Few destinations offer the kind of scenic backdrop for fly-fishing as Yosemite. Cast for trout against granite ramparts and aromatic woods. (11) Birdwatching: Every habitat and season in Yosemite harbors fine birdwatching opportunities. Seek out everything from tiny Pacific wrens to great gray owls and goshawks. (12) Climbing: With its massive exposures of solid granite, Yosemite is world-renowned for rock-climbing. Iconic El Capitan lures climbers with one of the planet’s biggest sheer walls. (13) Camping: Combine your Scenic Wonders stay with a little camping—whether in one of the park’s developed campgrounds or a dispersed site deep in the backcountry. (14) Horseback Riding: Yosemite's Western grandeur calls for a horseback ride. Guided equestrian tours range from short valley outings to multi-day High Sierra expeditions. (15) Golf: Yosemite is one of the only national parks with a golf course—the historic Wawona. Tee up in a singularly sublime setting!

Make Your Yosemite Reservations Today

If you’re planning to visit Yosemite, consider making your reservations with Yosemite’s Scenic Wonders. We offer Yosemite reservations within the gates of the park. With one of our cozy cabins, condominiums, or homes, your Yosemite accommodations will be just minutes from the 15 Yosemite National Park summer activities we listed. Give us a call at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648) to learn about our rentals and to make your Yosemite reservations today.

Yosemite National Park Blog

Scenic Wonders’ Yosemite blog provides the latest news related to Yosemite National Park. By reading our blog, you’ll stay up to date on activities, accommodations, and more.  Click for even more Yosemite National Park summer activities. Photo credit: Randy Le'Moine Photography