Yodel for Yosemite

Hikes Bike Rides and Zipline in Yosemite

03.24.2015

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. Woman walking down the stairs overlooking the ocean on the Coastal Trail in San Francisco

    America's Best Urban Hike

    Long ago we dubbed it the “Grand Walk” and said it was one of the most scenic and stunning trails in the West. We were wrong. This is the most scenic urban hike in America!

    View

  2. Hike or Bike the Skyline

    A new section of the Bay Area Ridge Trail is open for biking, hiking, or horseback riding along the 12-mile (out-and-back) Skyline Watershed Ridge Trail.

    View
  3. Woman riding a bike on the the Vine Trail in Napa Valley

    Through the Grapevine

    Cycle California’s most famous wine valley on the car-free Vine Trail, an ambitious project going through the heart of Napa Valley. Park your car and ride 6 miles from Napa to Yountville for lunch.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. Outback to the Future

    Some must-see destinations are written in the stars. Deep in Oregon's remote southern high desert lies the largest certified International Dark Sky Sanctuary on the planet. With 2.5 million acres of protected dark skies, you get the best of the celestial out here in what's known as the Oregon Outback, including geothermal soaks and an incredible playa that's a hidden gem.

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Extra-Celestial Central Oregon

    Some trips promise you the moon and the stars. And this one delivers in a big way, plus throws in some extra planets for your viewing pleasure. From Bend, Sunriver, and Sisters to Antelope Basecamp in the remote high desert.

    View

  3. Hollywood Endings

    Hollywood legends may seem larger than life, but we all have to kick the bucket at some point. Still, the Hollywood Forever cemetery keeps legends’ spirits alive among 62 acres of green lawns, palm trees, landscaped gardens, and large, reflecting pools.

    View