Yosemite National Park Itinerary 5 Days

5 Days in Yosemite National Park - Perfect Vacation Guide

The Yosemite National Park is one of America’s most loved parks. Enveloping California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, here the visitors can enjoy a great mix of nature and adventure sports. The park houses supersized Half Dome and El Capitan mountains that are today widely reproduced on calendars, posters, books, and the internet.

Here are some of the best attractions to check during your 5-day Yosemite National Park tour.

What to see in Yosemite National Park in 5 days?

El Capitan:

As the largest exposed-granite monolith in the world, El Capitan is difficult to surmount! But people climb it, nonetheless. Rising more than 350 stories above the valley, this sheer granite is a must see in Yosemite National Park.

Half Dome:

The once ‘impossible-to-climb’ Half Dome has today become one of the major attractions in the park. Hikers from all over come here but the mountain still remains a challenge that requires precise knowledge and preparation. As you climb up the strenuous trail, you will not only learn about the natural and geologic history of the Sierra Mountains but will also be treated to some thrilling panoramic views of Yosemite Valley. At the end of this 17-mile hike, you will be left with sore muscle and some stunning photographs.

Tunnel View:

Any first-timer to Yosemite National Park must stop here. As you pass through the Wawona Tunnel on your way down the State Highway 41, you will be greeted to expansive views of Yosemite Valley. From here you can see El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall with the Half Dome in the background. Stop here for a photo and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate as you immerse yourself in the glimpses of what Yosemite National Park has to offer.

Yosemite Valley:

The Yosemite Valley is an assemblage and an undisputed gem of the Yosemite National Park. The perfect juxtaposition of lush green meadows on the valley floor and the granite cliffs make up for a great landscape. Capture the astounding beauty of Yosemite as you take a stop here. Choose from many activities like hiking, birdwatching, biking, and even horseback riding.

Yosemite Falls:

The stellar attraction of the park, the Yosemite Falls are the highest measured waterfall in North America. At its peak, the three falls together drop over a cumulative height of 2,425 feet (739 meters). There are various vantage points inside the park from where you can view these falls, but it is believed that the Yosemite Village and Yosemite Lodge offer the best views.

Sentinel Dome:

Standing tall at 4,150 feet, the Sentinel Dome is the place to be if you want to take in the incredible 360-degree views of the national park. The 2.6-mile hike is not very long and is paved with signs making it is pretty east to follow.

Taft Point:

Hike up to the Taft Point to soak in some of the greatest views of the park. It is here that you will be treated to some of the best views of the park overlooking the El Capitan mountain. The roundtrip trail of 2.2 miles is best explored at a moderate pace.

Mariposa Grove:

Home to more than 500 ancient Giant Sequoia trees, Mariposa Grove has a lot of trails where you can wander around.

Mist Trail:

Travel down the Mist Trail to reach two of the most sought-after waterfalls in the park – the Vernal and Nevada Falls. This iconic trail is not very difficult and makes up for a total of 7 miles. Liberty Cap and the back side of Half Dome are some other sights that you can touch upon.