5 Incredible Days in Yosemite National Park

Written By Jennifer Curnutt

The Only Itinerary & Guide You’ll Need

Yosemite National Park is perhaps California’s most awe-inspiring park. Carved by glacial erosion and decades of tectonic activity, the park features breathtaking granite cliffs with sheer walls, a valley bursting with wild flowers, lush meadows, and crystal-clear streams. It is home to a majestic old growth forest of towering giant sequoias that will make you feel small and insignificant, and some of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls including the tallest in North America.

However, visiting can be overwhelming given how much there is to see and how spread out it all is. With its massive size, multiple entrances, and countless iconic landmarks, Yosemite can be a challenge to navigate without a little guidance. That’s why I’ve put together this perfect 5-day Yosemite Itinerary, complete with a step-by-step guide to everything you need to know. Whether it's your first time visiting or a return trip, this guide takes the guesswork out of planning so you can focus on enjoying your stay!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  • Where to Stay - Rush Creek Lodge & Spa

  • Know Before You Go - Getting There, Yosemite by Season, and Tips for Visiting

  • Day 1 - Arrival, Mariposa Grove, Tunnel View

  • Day 2 - Hetch Hetchy, Rush Creek Spa

  • Day 3 - Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall, the Ahwahnee

  • Day 4 - Mist Trail (Vernal & Nevada Falls), Cook’s Meadow Boardwalk, Sentinel Bridge, Curry Village, El Capitan Meadow, Glacier Point

  • Day 5 - Departure

WHERE TO STAY

RUSH CREEK LODGE & SPA

Rush Creek Lodge & Spa is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends outdoor adventure with refined luxury to create the perfectly balanced escape.

Surrounded by towering pines, this boutique hotel is nestled in the foothills of the stunning Sierra Nevada less than a mile from Yosemite’s west entrance. It is designed with both rustic charm and luxury in mind boasting a world-class Spa and an endless list of amenities.

Rush Creek Lodge has 143 rooms, suites, and hilside villas spread out across 20 acres. There is an on-site restaurant, tavern, poolside bar, general store, guest lounge, outdoor fire pits, and an impressive indoor game room with foosball, lever hockey, a pool table, tree house jungle gym, and more. There are outdoor play areas, a full-size heated pool, and an outdoor jacuzzi not to mention its world-class Spa making it the perfect place to stay for couples, families, and girl’s trips alike. This trifecta is something that I have found to be quite rare in the hospitality world.

Rush Creek offers incredible guided tours and excursions with knowledgeable guides including national park driving and hiking tours, rafting adventures, snowshoeing, flight tours, guided fly fishing, jeep tours, and more.

They also host a long list of daily activities including arts and crafts, nightly s’mores, stargazing, beer tasting, glass blowing, paint parties, basket weaving, cross-stitch, beading, and yoga. They even have an on-site rental shop where guests can rent bicycles, paddle boards and snowshoes during their stay.

DAY 1 - KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Getting There - If you’re flying, the closest major airport to Yosemite National Park’s South Entrance is Fresno International Airport (FAT), lcoated about 2-1/2 hours away. You can also fly into Merced Regional Airport (MCE) which is a little closer (about 2 hours) but there are fewer flight options and fares are generally higher. Other options are San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Sacramento International Airport (SMF) which offer a wider range of flights but are slighly futher from the park adding to the drive time.

This itinerary assumes you will be arriving from Fresno/Southern California, but keep in mind that Yosemite has five main entrances:

  • South Entrance - Hwy 41 from Fresno/So Cal through Oakhurst.

  • Big Oak Flat Entrance - Hwy 120 West from San Francisco/Bay Area through Groveland.

  • Arch Rock Entrance - Hwy 14 from Merced/Mariposa.

  • Hetch Hetchy Entrance - Hwy 120 from Groveland (closest entrance to Rush Creek Lodge & Spa).

  • Tioga Pass - Hwy 120 East from Eastern Sierra and Tahoe (often closed in winter).

Yosemite by Season:

  • Spring is the best time to see the waterfalls and wild flower blooms at their peaks. Avg. highs: 60–70°F; lows: 35-40°F.

  • Summer brings warm weather and large crowds. Avg. highs: 85-95°F; lows: 50-60°F.

  • Fall offers fewer crowds, crisp air and stunnig fall foliage. Avg. highs: 65–80°F; lows: 35-45°F. 5

  • Winter is perhaps the most magical season as snow blankets the ground and crowds head home. However, it can also be quite cold and many roads, includingTioga Pass, will likely be closed. Chains are usually required. Avg. highs: 45-55°F; lows: 25-30°F.

Tips for Visiting:

  • Day use reservations are required to enter the park during peak season (late Spring to late Summer/early Fall)

  • The park gets crowded. Take advantage of the free shuttle and arrive before 7 am. By 9-10 am, the line to enter can be unbearable and most parking lots wil be full. You can also use YARTS, the regional transportation system.

  • Download offline maps in advance using the NPS App. Cell service is very limited. If desparate, try Curry Village or the market near the Ahwahnee. Note the Ahwahnee only offers Wi-Fi for overnight guests and generally has poor cell service.

  • Yosemite is bear country. Never leave food or scented items in car, use trailhead bear lockers, stay within an arm’s reach of food at all times, and only dispose of trash in bear-proof trash cans.

  • Plan to dress in layers. Temperatures can dramatically shift without much notice and nights are often cool even in Summer.

DAY 1 - ARRIVAL, MARIPOSA GROVE, TUNNEL VIEW

If you’re road-tripping from Southern California or flying into Fresno Airport, you will be entering Yosemite through the South Entrance. This itinerary is based on that route. If you are entering the park from a different direction, consider modifying it accordingly.

VISIT THE MARIPOSA GROVE - As you enter the park through the South Entrance, one of the first turn offs will be for the Mariposa Grove, Yosemite’s largest old growth forest of over 500 towering giant sequoias. It is the perfect spot to start your trip as you fully immerse yourself in nature and giving your mind the chance to unplug as you officially ease into vacation mode.

Take a walk among the giants and stand in awe at Grizzly Giant, one of the oldest living organisms on Earth towering over 200 feet tall. You will also want to visit the California Tunnel Tree, where visitors have been walking through its carved out trunk since 1895. Other highlights include the famous Bachelor and Three Graces and the Mariposa Grove Museum where you can learn more about this remarkable forest.

Pro Tips for Visiting:

  • You must take the free shuttle from the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area to the grove as the park no longer allows cars unless handicapped. The shuttle is seasonal so check ahead.

  • Like everywhere in the park, dress in layers. Temperatures can change without notice and the shade of the grove can be cool even in Summer.

  • In the Winter, you must hike or snowshoe about 2 miles in to see the grove.

TAKE IN THE SCENERY AT TUNNEL VIEW - After leaving the Mariposa Grove head toward Yosemite Valley. Along the way, you will pass perhaps the most stunning scenic overlook of the entire park just outside the Wawona Tunnel on Hwy. 41 known as Tunnel View. It is impossible to miss this first glimpse of Yosemite’s grandeur.

You will be welcomed by panoramic, sweeping views of Yosemite Valley including some of its most iconic landmarks - El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome. It will leave you breathless as the view draws you into the quiet stillness of the park. It is one of those few places that humbles you, making you feel ever so small and insignificant in this world much like standing at the edge of the ocean for the very first time.

CHECK-IN AT RUSH CREEK LODGE & SPA - Rush Creek Spa & Lodge is about a 45-minute drive from Tunnel View and check-in begins at 4 pm. Get settled into your accomodations before dinner. There are rooms, suites, and villas, each with its own inviting blend of rustic charm and comfort. Each unit also offers its own outdoor space so you can relax and enjoy the stunning scenery and natural beauty of the property.

ENJOY THE EVENING AT RUSH CREEK LODGE & SPA - Spend the evening exploring and enjoying the property both before and after dinner. Whether that means relaxing poolside with a cocktail from the outdoor bar, roasting marshmallows over a firepit making s’mores, taking a peaceful stroll, or sharing some laughs with the kids in the incredible game room, there is something for everyone. The resort offers a blend of relaxation and fun, all set against a backdrop of star-filled skies.

There are several options for dinner. There is the Rush Creek Restaurant with indoor seating and an outside terrace as well as the Rush Creek Tavern for more casual dining with a full bar, big screen TV, and outdoor covered patio overlooking the pool. Both share the same menu which is classic mountain cuisine.

You can also enjoy dinner at the Pool Bar each night from 5:30 - 7:30 pm. Here they alternate between Southern or American BBQ and a Taco Truck. (Note: the bar itself stays open later.)

DAY 2 - HETCH HETCY AND RUSH CREEK SPA

BREAKFAST AT RUSH CREEK LODGE & SPA - Breakfast at Rush Creek Lodge & Spa is served daily in the restaruant from 7 - 11 am. They offer a full-service breakfast buffet as well as a menu options including omelets, house-made muffins, and a-la-carte items.

HIKE HETCH HETCHY RESERVOIR - Located less than 17 miles from Rush Creek Lodge & Spa in a more remote section of northwest Yosemite is the stunning Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. The reservoir sits within a glacial-carved valley with bright blue water, stunning steep granite cliffs, and waterfalls.

Unlike Yosemite Valley, here you will find solitude away from the crowds and pristine lonely wilderness with sweeping views across the water. Depending on the time of year, hike to the stunning Wapama Falls dramaticallly cascading nearly 1,100 feet down into three distinct falls or the Tueeulala Falls with a 600-foot fall.

Trail Information:

  • Wapama Falls (5 miles round trip) - moderate hike with sweeping views of the water best done during Spring and early Summer.

  • Tueeulala Falls (4 miles round trip) - moderate hike to a seasonal waterfall that is along the way to Wapama Falls. It’s usually dry in summer.

  • Rancheria Falls (13 miles round trip) - long day hike or perfect for backpacking with river access, stunning views, and wildflowers.

  • Lookout Point (2 miles round trip) - less traveled route with beautiful views through a steep, rugged trail.

Pro Tips for Visiting:

  • The road is only open sunrise to sunset, and the gate is locked nightly.

  • To reach the best hiking, park close to the bridge then walk across it through the tunnel to the other end to get to the trail. This takes you to Wapama Falls.

  • In the Summer, most waterfalls will be dry. There is some shade on most trails but it gets very hot so bring plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen.

  • There are no services or potable water.

  • Be bear aware and store food securely.

LUNCH AT THE TAVERN AT EVERGREEN LODGE - On your way back to Rush Creek, stop at its sister property at Evergreen Lodge. You will pass it about 6-7 miles down from the reservoir. The 90-year old historic Tavern serves American-style cuisine in a cozy rustic lodge setting with a full bar and pool table. There is also a general store located on the property.

RELAX AT THE SPA AT RUSH CREEK - After hiking in the heat of the day at Hetch Hetchy, spend the afternoon pampering and replinishing your mind, body, and spirit at the world-class Spa at Rush Creek.

The Spa is a sancturary for relaxation and self-reflection offering a seamless blend of sophistication and nature designed in the essence of Yosemite’s grandeur - rushing waterfalls, warm granite rock, smooth river rocks softened with time, scents of eucalyptus and lemon grass, and mineral hot springs.

Day passes provide you with 4 full hours of access to enjoy the Spa including:

  • Sensory meditation room

  • Aromatherapy steam room

  • Warm waterfall cove

  • Himalayan salt sauna with cold neck towels

  • Cool mist room with alternating cold and warm showers

  • Granite mineral hot tub and waterfall

  • Heated zero gravity stone chaise lounges

  • Open air outdoor lounge

  • Complimentary tea bar, towels, and water

You can also book any of the following services, to name a few:

  • Signature Massage with Swedish techniques, hot stones, and chakra crystals.

  • Deep Tissue Massage - intense therapeutic massage.

  • Synergy Hot Stone Masasage

  • Hand, Foot and/or Scalp Massages or Cocoons

  • Collagen Eye Mask, Gel Face Mask with Roller, and

    Hair Mask

  • Chakra Energy Balancing Stone Treatment

DINNER AT THE TAVERN AT RUSH CREEK - Enjoy dinner sitting at the bar or in a booth in the laid-back atmosphere of the Rush Creek Tavern. Here, they serve seasonal, locally inspired favorites alongside local hand-crafted beers, craft cocktails, and an excellent selection of wines featuring some of California’s finest wineries.

ENJOY THE EVENING AT RUSH CREEK - After dinner, grab a drink at the Pool Bar which is typcially open daily until 9 pm. Relax in a lounge chair poolside while sipping cocktails staring up at the stars or find a spot around one of the fire pits. You can also partake in complimentary s’mores served nightly from 6-8 pm. There are dart boards for after dinner fun as well as an impressive game room featuring a pool table, foosball, bumper pool, shuffleboard and air hockey, and a guest lounge with all sorts of board games, playing cards, puzzles, and books for guest use.

DAY 3 - YOSEMITE FALLS, BRIDALVEIL FALL, THE AHWAHNEE

SUNRISE AND BREAKFAST AT RUSH CREEK - Wake up early, grab a custom brewed coffee at the coffee bar in the General Store, and savor the first light of day as the sky comes to life in the vibrant shades of dawn. Fuel up with another delicious breakfast at Rush Creek Restaurant, served daily from 7 - 11 am. The breakfast buffet offers a wide variety of options or order directly from the menu.

HIKE THE YOSEMITE FALLS TRAIL - After breakfast, head to Yosemite Falls. It will take you about 45 minutes to get there. Yosemite Falls is divided into three sections - lower, middle and upper Yosemite Falls. You can choose to hike just part of it or all of it. If you decide to do the entire trail to the top of the falls, it’s about 7.2 miles round trip, strenuous, and climbs approximately 2,700 feet in elevation.

Trail Routes:

  • Columbia Rock (1 mile one way) - For a shorter hike, head up the switchback trail about a mile to Columbia Rock with incredible views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley then turn around.

  • Middle Yoesmite Falls (2 to 2.5 miles one way) - Past Columbia Rock, the trail becomes much steeper heading up to Middle Cascasdes with partial views of Middle Yosmite Falls.

  • Upper Yosemite Falls (3.6 miles one way) - this part of the trail is strenuous with guardrails but is worth the hike as it provides stunning dramatic views and a peek 2,400 feet down the waterfall itself.

Pro Tips for Visiting:

  • The trailhead is located at Camp 4/Shuttle Stop #7 marked “Yosemite Falls Trail to Columbia Rock.”

  • In the Summer, the falls may be near dry and somewhat disappointing. The best time to see it is in the Spring.

  • The trail gets icy in Winter especially after Columbia Rock.

  • Watch for bears and rattlesnakes.

  • Cliff edges can be slippery and deadly so stay behind railings at overlooks.

MARVEL AT BRIDALVEIL FALL - Feel the mist of the water falling 620 feet down a granite cliff at Bridalveil Fall.

Located about 10-15 minutes by car from Yosemite Falls, just off of Wawona Road (Hwy 41), is the Bridalveil Fall parking area. Here you will find a very short, easy to navigate paved trail to the base of the falls (0.5 miles round trip). If you are up fo a hike, try the Valley Loop Trail. Although the full loop takes you 11.5 miles, you can hike a much shorter distance and still enjoy the beautiful open meadows with views of the river and El Capitan that are breathtaking.

LUNCH AT THE AHWANHEE - After hiking, enjoy lunch at the historic Ahwahnee Hotel. This majestic hotel opened its doors in 1927 and is on the National Registry of Historic Landmarks. The Ahwahnee was built to attract affluent visitors to the park, showcasing its grandeur. Over the years, it has attracted its fair share of famous visitors including many U.S. presidents like J.F.K, Queen Elizabeth II, Lucille Ball, Walt Disney, Charlie Chaplin, Ginger Rogers and of course, Ansel Adams.

There is a full service dining room but I recommend enjoying a light lunch at the Ahwahnee Bar featuring a cozy atmosphere and outdoor terrace. They have a great charcuterie board as well as other classic dishes with a California flare. They also have a great list of craft cocktails and signature drinks.

After lunch, be sure to take time to explore the grounds. The Ahwahnee is nestled beneath Glacier Point, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls providing stunning views amidst its buildings’ beautiful architecture. A trail behind the hotel leads down to the water’s edge where you will often spot wildlife including birds of prey soaring above, squirrels darting across the lawn, and deer quitely grazing nearby.

ENJOY ANOTHER DINNER AND EVENING BACK AT RUSH CREEK LODGE - After a day in the park, head back to Rush Creek Lodge & Spa to unwind before dinner. You can stroll the property, take a swim, visit the Spa or game room, or simply relax on the outdoor patio of your room or suite.

Enjoy another dinner at the Tavern or Rush Creek Restaurant. After dinner, if you’re in the mood to relax, grab a drink at the Pool Bar and sit around a fire pit or the pool gazing up at the canopy of stars blanketing the night sky. If you’re looking for a little fun, roast marshmallows, play a game of darts, or visit the game room. You can also take a dip in the jacuzzi.

DAY 4 - MIST TRAIL, COOK'S MEADOW BOARDWALK, SENTINEL BRIDGE, CURRY VILLAGE, EL CAPITAN MEADOW, GLACIER POINT

ENJOY SUNRISE AT TUNNEL VIEW - If you are up for an early start, catch the sunrise at Tunnel View. As daylight breaks over the Sierra Nevada, the golden light washes over the granite cliffs of Half Dome in hues of subtle pink and gold. Shadows slowly retreat as the valley magically comes to life in the morning light.

BREAKFAST AT THE AHWAHNEE - After sunrise, enjoy breakfast in the elegant dining room at the Ahwahnee where the ambience mirrors the grandeur of this iconic historic hotel. They offer locally sourced seasonal ingredients, artisanal breads, and exceptional coffee.

HIKE MIST TRAIL TO VERNAL AND NEVADA FALLS - After breakfast, hike the Mist Trail. Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s most breathtaking hikes that takes you to two of its tallest waterfalls - Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. The trail is lined with towering pines, moss-covered rock, and wildflowers. As you approach the footbridge at Vernal Falls, you will feel the spray and hear the rushing water ahead. Here, you will find sweeping views of the river and valley below. If you keep on to Nevada Fall, you will be greeted with a stunning cascade of water plunging 600 feet down the granite cliff.

Trail and Hiking Information:

  • The trail is moderate to strenous with steep climbs, granite steps, and switchbacks.

  • Trail starts at Happy Isles Trailhead then follow the signs for Mist Trail.

  • Vernal Fall Footbridge hike is 1.6 miles round trip.

  • Vernal Fall Summit hike is 3 miles round trip, 1,000 feet.

  • Nevada Fall Summit hike is 7 miles round trip, 1,9000 feet.

Pro Tips for Visiting:

  • Don’t confuse Mist Falls in Kings Canyon with Mist Trail which takes you to Vernal and Nevada Falls within Yosemite when looking up driving directions.

  • Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes and stay behind railings as the trail is wet, slippery, and can be dangerous.

  • Start early to avoid crowds and afternoon heat.

  • Bring plenty of water. No potable water.

  • The only restroooms are at Happy Isles.

GRAB A TO-GO LUNCH AND HEAD TO EL CAPITAN MEADOW - After your hike, take some time exploring Curry Village then grab a to-go lunch for picnicing in nearby El Capitan Meadow. This wide-open grassy area is a great spot to relax and enjoy lunch with incredible views of El Capitan in the distance. It’s located along Northside Drive in Yosemite Valley just a short drive or shuttle ride from the Village.

STROLL THE BOARDWALK AT COOK’S MEADOW - After lunch, take a leisurely stroll down a wooden boardwalk to one of Yosemite’s most beautiful meadows. Here you can see Yosemite’s most iconic landmarks - Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, and Yosemite Falls. The trail is flat, paved, and only a half mile round trip. If you are up for it, I highly recommend continuing on aother half mile to Sentinel Bridge where you will find the most stunning reflections of Half Dome off the pristine water of the river below.

WATCH THE SUNSET AT GLACIER POINT - Glacier Point is an ideal spot to catch the sunset before dinner. The main overlook provides stunning panoramic views of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, Vernal Fall, and Nevada Fall. As the sun starts to dip below the horizon, the surrounding peaks will light up in striking shades of crismon, orange, pink, and purple putting on a specatular show.

Pro Tips for Visiting:

  • Glacier Point Road is usually open late May to early November.

  • It is about a 1-hour drive from Yosemite Valley.

  • Arrive at least 1 hour ahead of sunset to find parking.

  • Dress in layers. It can get quite cold once the sun sets.

  • If you decide to hike the area instead of simply staying at the main overlook, bring a headlamp.

  • The hike up to Glacier Point off Panorama Trail is far and will take about 4-6 hours each way. It’s probably not something you will want to do unless you skip the earlier hikes.

DINNER AT RUSH CREEK RESTAURANT - Enjoy a late dinner back at the Rush Creek Tavern. Grab a seat at the bar or choose a booth for a bit more privacy. If weather permits, dine al fresco on the terrace overlooking the pool area.

DAY 6 - DEPARTURE DAY

BREAKFAST AT RUSH CREEK - Savor one last breakfast at Rush Creek Restaurant and don’t forget to grab some last minute snacks and water for your journey home at the General Store.

If you have some extra time before departing, enjoy a final stroll around the property, relax by the pool, or challenge someone to one of the oversized games of chess, checkers, or Connect 4 found around the grounds.

DRIVE TO AIRPORT - If you’re heading back to Fresno Airport, there are two routes you can take. You can retrace your steps back through Yosemite Valley or take an alternate, slighly quicker route down Highway 120 West to CA-99 South. This alternate route offers incredible views and miles of winding roads with dramatic hairpin turns.

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Jennifer Curnutt
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