Yodel for Yosemite

Hikes Bike Rides and Zipline in Yosemite

Arizona has the Grand Canyon. Florida has the Everglades. And California? We have Yosemite. One of the world's most celebrated national parks is just a few hours away and spring is an amazing time to see all of its natural wonders on full display. Right now the Merced River Canyon makes a colorful entrance to Yosemite Valley: Brilliant orange poppies and vibrant blue lupines splash across the hills. Keep the good times rolling with one of the best bike rides in California. Rent a cushy cruiser and pedal around Yosemite Valley, taking in iconic sites from Half Dome and El Capitan to the famous waterfalls. Another great way to experience Yosemite without being in your car? Hitch a ride with a mule or a horse; guided excursions in both Wawona and Yosemite Valley add a little giddyup to your sightseeing. In late spring when things start really heating up, head to the cooling canopy of Mariposa Grove, where you'll hike among 500 giant sequoias, with highlights like Grizzly Giant and Tunnel Tree. And to really take your adventure to the next level, zip on over to the Yosemite Zipline and Adventure Ranch (pictured) where—if you can catch your breath—you'll be yodeling like Yosemite Sam as you fly over oaks and pines while enjoying views of the Sierra Nevada foothills. Yodelay Yosemite!

Best Hikes in Yosemite: Need a little inspiration? These top hikes in Yosemite will have you lacing up the boots in no time!

Where do you want to stay? Yosemite/Mariposa County makes it easy by listing the best lodging options with great spring rates, and package deals.

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Three Cheers

    Good things come in threes when you visit Sonoma. Head out on a short hike right from town, sip and stroll the historic plaza, then take in the magical holiday lights.

    View
  2. Island Tree Topper

    The light display atop Angel Island State Park’s Mount Livermore has long been a cheerful twinkle visible from many cities throughout the Bay Area on holiday season nights. Get into the festive spirit by hiking the 2-mile (one-way) trail from Ayala Cove up to the "Angel Lights."

    View
  3. Go, Tell It on the Mountain

    {NOTE: Due to atmospheric rivers that can come this time of year, always be sure to check ahead for trail closures and hazards. And of course, wait for better weather and drier con

    View
  4. Serene Las Gallinas

    A serene stroll alongside marshland, passing ponds and grasses frilled in seasonal wildflowers, with Mount Tam a beacon in the background … how nice. As part of the esteemed Bay Trail, San Rafael’s Las Gallinas Valley Birding Loop and Wildlife Ponds comprises about 3.5 miles of wide-open trail.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Woman swimming in Carson Hotsprings natural thermal pool

    Hot Springs, Naturally

    Thermal spring waters are famous for their curative, relaxing elements, and Reno Tahoe is filled with them! Sink into these amazing thermal respites for a wellness super soak.

    View
  2. Dune It Right

    Want a beach that will really get you away from it all? Monterey's Fort Ord Dunes State Park is just the ticket. And it often glows golden toward sunset.

    View
  3. Sponsored

    Redding Lights and Silent Nights

    Give your holiday events calendar a major glow up this winter in California’s sunniest city. Redding is a revelation: Surrounded by iconic scenery like Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area.

    View
  4. Hikers sitting on a large rock slab next to Three Sisters Falls in Cleveland National Forest Southern California near Julian

    Three Sisters

    Good things come in threes at this hike to a lovely trio-tiered waterfall in Cleveland National Forest. The 4.25-mile out-and-back hike rambles among rolling hills, with rocky mountain views as switchbacks take you down to a lush canyon and the falls.

    View