Yosemite is known for its beautiful waterfalls and glacial lakes. Here are our recommendations for the top five lakes and falls to see at Yosemite!
1. Merced River at the Swinging Bridge
[Wheelchair Accessible to bridge]
This is a wooden bridge spanning the crystal-clear Merced river, but prior to 1965, there was an actual swinging bridge in its place, hence the name. This is an easy 1.5-mile out-and-back hike with picturesque views of Yosemite Falls, Sentinel rock and the Merced river!
2. Yosemite Falls
[Wheelchair Accessible to base of lower Yosemite Falls]
Did you know that Yosemite Falls is North America's tallest waterfall? This trail offers stunning views of lower Yosemite Falls, and you can see both the lower and upper falls near the entrance by the bathrooms along the western trail. The Lower Yosemite Falls trail is an easy 1-mile loop on a paved path.
3. Mirror Lake
Enjoy a dip in the calm waters of mirror lake (though the lake may dry up in late summer) while admiring the majestic beauty of Half Dome up above. This is a 2-mile round-trip trail on a paved road, and you can bike along the path.
4. Bridalveil Falls
Arguably the most iconic falls at Yosemite National Park, Bridalveil Falls is a must-see!
5. Tenaya Lake
Tenaya lake is a lake basin carved by glacial action, and it is stunningly beautiful with crystal-clear alpine waters. It is easily accessible and is alongside Tioga Road at an elevation of 8,150 feet.
Tioga Road is California's highest highway pass and reaches an elevation of over 9,000 feet above sea level! The drive is beautiful with broad vistas of deep valleys and forests, but there are also many twisty turns, so be careful and pay close attention when driving!
Caution: winding mountain roads and high altitude.
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ROADTRIP CENTRALCALIFORNIA EASTERNCALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA SEQUOIA YOSEMITE EASTERNSIERRA MAMMOTHLAKES DESERT MOUNTAINS LAKES ALPINE OUTDOORS ITINERARY
