Activities & Things To Do Near Yosemite

An abundance of beautiful birds call Yosemite home.

• Stellar's Jay
• American Robin
• Brewer's Blackbird
• Acorn Woodpecker
• Raven
• Black-Headed Grosbeak
• Red-Wing Blackbird
• American Dipper
• Great Gray Owl
• Peregrine Falcon
• Pileated Woodpecker
• Northern Goshawk

Yosemite meadows and forests contain amazing plants, trees and flowers. Bring a guide book to help you identify the numerous species. Wildflowers typically begin appearing in spring at the lower elevations, becoming showy above Yosemite Valley sometime in June, and at Tuolumne Meadows in July.

This breathtaking waterfall was called "Pohono" by the Ahwahneechee Indians, which means spirit of the puffing wind. The swirling wind often shifts the veil of water and makes for a beautiful view.

Experience the history of the Gold Rush era at this museum, which features over 13,000 mining artifacts, rare specimens of crystalline gold, gems, and mineral specimens, as well as the 13.8-pound Fricot "Nugget"— the largest 19th-century specimen of crystallized gold still in existence.

At 4,000 feet tall, this is the largest single granite rock on earth, drawing rock climbers from around the world.

This turnout along the Merced River overlooks El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall. and the valley.

On the rim of Yosemite Valley, this point looks down 3,214 feet to the valley floor, delivering a breathtaking overlook of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra.

Dominating the valley view, Half Dome rises 4,733 feet, offering a challenging but rewarding hike to the top.

During the Spring and early Summer, Mirror Lake offers impressive views and reflections of Tenaya Canyon. By summer’s end, the lake becomes a meadow.