Yosemite with Kids: The Ultimate Family Adventure Guide

Planning a trip to Yosemite National Park with kids? You’re in the right place! Yosemite is one of the most magical destinations for families, with towering waterfalls, giant sequoias, and scenic trails suitable for all ages. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, this guide will help you plan everything from family-friendly hikes and kid-approved activities to where to stay and what to pack, all while linking you to our other detailed Yosemite posts for extra tips.

I've also made a map which has all the main attractions, accomodation and places to eat for families.

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 – You know that postcard photo of Yosemite with El Capitan on one side, Half Dome in the distance, and Bridalveil Fall spilling down the rocks? Yep, that’s Tunnel View. It’s one of those “wow” moments that makes you forget you’re still holding your toddler’s snack cup. Go early or late in the day for fewer crowds and softer light.
• Glacier Point – Honestly, it’s hard to put this view into words. You’re looking out over the entire valley with Half Dome right there in front of you — it’s just incredible. It’s also a great spot to end the day and watch the sun dip behind the peaks while the kids nibble on snacks (or argue over who gets the binoculars).
• Washburn Point – Just a few minutes down the road from Glacier Point, but way quieter. It’s got the same jaw-dropping views with bonus angles of Yosemite’s waterfalls. Ideal for a quick stop or a relaxed family photo without twenty people behind you.

Family Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and some easy snacks — trail mix, juice boxes, maybe even cookies if you’re feeling generous. Sitting together with those views is one of those simple, perfect Yosemite moments.

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.