Here are some quick tips to help you be safe while hiking in Yosemite:
Carry a headlamp on every hike, even short day hikes.
Carry and drink plenty of water (a minimum of 1 quart every 2 hours)
Sturdy footwear with good traction might save an ankle.
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Here are some quick tips to help you be safe while hiking in Yosemite: Carry a headlamp on every hike, even short day hikes. Carry and drink plenty of water (a minimum of 1 quart every 2 hours)
It's a big undertaking and requires a permit, but hiking to the top of Half Dome is one of the bucket list challenges in Yosemite. This hike is not for the faint hearted and we don't recommend anyone taking this on without some training.
While this national park tends to be one of the hardest to visit due to its high demand, it includes scenic beginner hiking trails for budding explorers. Don't feel pressure to become a pro at all things outdoors before planning your trip to Yosemite National Park.
A sturdy pair of hiking boots or runners will protect your feet and ensure maximum comfort while you're exploring on foot. Try to bring a pair of boots that support your ankle and have decent grip to prevent slips and trips. If you're buying new boots, make sure you break them in before you go.
Always keep your food within arm's reach and don't turn your back to your food; never leave food unattended. Bears may investigate picnic areas or backpacks for food even in your presence, so be alert.
The temperature in Yosemite can change quite quickly, especially in the mornings, evenings and at higher elevations. Bring clothing that you can layer up or down such as t-shirts, shorts, long-sleeved shirts, leggings and a sweater.
Showers are available at the Curry Village pool showerhouse for a fee. Showers are not available elsewhere in the park. Dump stations are available at Upper Pines Campground (all year), near Wawona Campground (summer only), and near Tuolumne Meadows Campground (summer only).
Planning Your Hike in Bear CountryMake sure you know before you go. In national parks where grizzlies live, such as Glacier or Grand Teton, rangers encourage you to carry bear spray. In others, such as Yosemite, where only black bears live, bear spray is not even permitted.
You are required by federal regulations to store all your food properly throughout Yosemite National Park. You must have your food stored unless it's within arm's reach (so, don't go for a swim or take a nap while leaving food out).
Yosemite Valley sits at 4,000 feet above sea level and is not an area of concern for altitude sickness. When hiking in Yosemite's higher elevations, such as Tuolumne and areas around the rim of the Valley, you will generally be above 8,000 feet and should be conscious of your body's condition.
It is important to keep in mind that no routes are suitable for beginners on El Capitan due to the quantity of technical knowledge, physical and mental endurance that these long and complicated routes require.
They are all well trodden trails, fine with regular running shoes. Your road running shoes should be fine. It will put more wear and tear on the shoe but you aren't planning to go far so no big deal.
Many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn, mainly during the summer. Be sure to use insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants or consider staying indoors during these hours.
These two mighty waterfalls form a cascade in which the Merced River flows down into the valley and create what is called the “giant staircase.” Another one of our hidden gems in Yosemite, Illilouette Fall can be glimpsed from the legendary Mist Trail, but to really get a good view of it, you need to do some hiking.
Yosemite is particularly famous for its numerous waterfalls, many of which present impressive scenery with their splashing water, surrounding trees, and stunning rocks. While many of these waterfalls can be easily seen from a distance, a little hike is usually required to get the best views of the natural attraction.