Yosemite with Kids: The Ultimate Family Adventure Guide

Why Yosemite is Perfect for Families

Yosemite is not just a place to see waterfalls and granite cliffs—it’s a place to make memories with your little ones. Kids can explore nature up close, spot wildlife, and discover the beauty of the great outdoors in a safe environment. From toddlers toddling along paved trails to older kids conquering moderate hikes, there’s something for everyone.

Personal Tip: We loved watching our kids’ faces light up when they first saw Yosemite Falls. It’s a moment that makes all the planning, packing, and driving totally worth it.

Planning Your Yosemite Trip

Timing is everything.

• Spring (May–June): Waterfalls are at their peak, wildflowers bloom, and wildlife is abundant.

• Summer (July–August): Warm weather is perfect for hiking, though the park is busy. Book early!

• Fall (September–October): Stunning foliage and smaller crowds. Great for photography.

• Winter (November–March): Snowy landscapes, skiing nearby, and fewer visitors—but some roads and trails may close.

How Many Days to Spend

• 1–2 days: Quick highlights like Yosemite Valley and a short family hike.

• 3–5 days: Allows for more trails, viewpoints, and kid-friendly activities.

• 1 week+: Explore beyond the valley—Tuolumne Meadows, Mariposa Grove, and longer day hikes.

Tip: When traveling with little ones, plan for a mix of active time and downtime to avoid over-tiring everyone. We spent 4 nights (3 in the valley and one outside). See our trip for more details.

Getting to Yosemite with Kids

Yosemite is accessible from multiple directions:

• From San Francisco: About 4 hours via CA-140 or CA-120.

• From Los Angeles: Roughly 6 hours via CA-41 or CA-140.

• From the Bay Area: CA-140 offers scenic views and less traffic.

Family Travel Tip: Stop along the way for short walks and picnic breaks. Kids (and adults!) will appreciate stretching their legs before entering the park.

Where to Stay in Yosemite

Staying inside the park makes early mornings and evening sunsets so much easier. Options include:

Inside the Park:

• The Ahwahnee Hotel – Historic luxury, perfect for families who want comfort.

• Yosemite Valley Lodge – Close to Yosemite Falls, ideal for short hikes with kids.

• Campgrounds – North Pines, Upper Pines, and Tuolumne Meadows. Book early!

Outside the Park:

• Towns like Mariposa, Oakhurst, and El Portal offer family-friendly hotels and Airbnbs.

Pro Tip: Booking months in advance is essential, especially in summer. Consider staying outside if you prefer a quieter base with easier dining options.

For more information see my "Where to Stay in Yosemite" post.

Best Family-Friendly Hikes

Yosemite has trails for all ages:

• Lower Yosemite Fall Trail – Easy, paved, less than 1 mile, perfect for toddlers.

• Bridalveil Fall Trail – A short 0.5-mile hike with a breathtaking waterfall at the end.

• Mirror Lake Loop – 2 miles flat trail; great for picnic breaks.

• Cook’s Meadow Loop – Easy walk with views of Half Dome.

• Glacier Point Hike – Moderate; older kids will enjoy the panoramic views.

Hiking Tips:

• Bring plenty of water and snacks.

• Wear sturdy shoes, even for easy trails.

• Use a child backpack carrier for toddlers—our guide on choosing the right backpack carrier for hiking with kids is a must read.

For more information see my "Child Friendly Hikes in Yosemite" post.

Must-See Yosemite Viewpoints

• Tunnel View – The classic Yosemite shot with El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. Arrive early to beat crowds.

• Glacier Point – Spectacular panoramic views. Perfect for sunset photography.

• Washburn Point – Less crowded, stunning views, great for family photos.

Pro Tip: Bring a picnic blanket for a family snack while taking in the views.

Kid-Friendly Activities

Not just hikes! Yosemite offers plenty of activities to engage little explorers:

• Junior Ranger Program – Fun educational activities where kids earn badges.

• Ranger-Led Programs – Walks, talks, and nature scavenger hunts.

• Visitor Center Exhibits – Learn about geology, wildlife, and park history.

• Seasonal Activities – Swimming in Merced River, snow play in winter, and wildflower walks in spring.

Tip: Pick up the activity schedule at the visitor center when you arrive.

For more information see my "Child Friendly Activities in Yosemite" post.