Yosemite with the Family

Towering granite cliffs, ancient sequoia groves, crystal-clear rivers, star-filled skies. Yosemite National Park has a way of pulling you in, and making you pause in wonder. For families, this destination is an experience to be shared, sparking curiosity, deepening connection, and creating memories that last long after the trip ends.

Whether taking a drive from the Central Valley or flying in from across the world, Yosemite and its nearby towns offer the perfect blend of awe-inspiring nature, hands-on adventure, and cozy comfort.

Eats and Treats

Refuel with local eats that hit the spot after a day on the trails. These favorites offer delicious meals and sweet treats, perfect for everyone in the family:

• Pizza Deck – Curry Village

Hand-tossed pies served with views of Glacier Point— simple, satisfying, and right inside the park. travelyosemite.com

• South Gate Brewing Company – Oakhurst

Enjoy craft bites and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for parents and kids alike. southgatebrewco.com

• Reimer’s Candies & Gifts – Oakhurst

Old-fashioned candy, homemade chocolates, and hand-scooped ice cream make this a must-stop. reimerscandies.com

• Plazuelas Mexican Restaurant & Taqueria – Oakhurst

Flavorful, family-style Mexican food with generous portions and a friendly local vibe. plazuelasmexicanrestaurant.twupro.com

Adventurous Accommodations

The magic of Yosemite doesn’t have to end when you go back to your lodgings. Here are four great family-friendly places to stay that combine comfort with adventure:

• Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite

Just minutes from the Big Oak Flat Entrance, Rush Creek offers a true lodge experience with modern amenities. Families love the pool, zip line, game room, and nature-inspired playgrounds. rushcreeklodge.com

• AutoCamp Yosemite

Perfect for families who want to sleep under the stars without giving up creature comforts. Enjoy luxe Airstreams and canvas tents, gather around fire pits, and unplug together. autocamp.com/location/yosemite

• Tenaya at Yosemite

A full-service resort just outside the South Gate. Tenaya offers indoor and outdoor pools, a spa, multiple restaurants, and seasonal activities for kids, making this a cozy base camp with a touch of luxury. visittenaya.com

• Sierra Sky Ranch

Nestled in Oakhurst, this historic ranch-style hotel offers rustic charm and quiet serenity. Its relaxed vibe and wide-open spaces are perfect for unwinding after a day in the park. sierraskyranch.com

Trails for Every Explorer

From toddlers to teens, Yosemite has a trail for everyone:

• Carlon Falls

A rewarding hike near Big Oak Flat with a stunning waterfall.

• Lookout Point

Begin at Hetch Hetchy and take in sweeping views.

• Tuolumne Grove & Merced Grove

Gentle trails through towering sequoias.

• Sentinel Dome–Taft Point Loop

Amazing vistas with just enough challenge.

• Valley Loop Trail

Choose a shorter 3-7 mile section through Yosemite Valley.

• Mirror Lake Loop

A peaceful walk with views of Half Dome.

• Tenaya Lake Loop & Pothole Dome

High-country favorites with wide-open skies.

Core Making Memory

The real magic of Yosemite is in the experiences you share. Here are some unforgettable family-friendly activities:

• Ride the Sugar Pine Railroad

Hop aboard a vintage steam engine and glide through the forest. (Then try your hand at gold panning like a pioneer.)

• Picnic by the Merced River Cathedral and Sentinel Beach offer plenty of space to relax, snack, and skip stones.

• Scavenger Hunt on the Trails

Make a list of flowers, rocks, and animal tracks to keep little hikers engaged.

• Horseback Ride from Wawona Stable Saddle up with a real Yosemite cowboy for a scenic trail ride.

• Art Classes at Happy Isles Art & Nature Center Weekday mornings until October 24, drop in for nature-inspired art projects the whole family will enjoy.

• Fly Fishing with a Local Guide

Tailored trips for all ages and skill levels make this a peaceful, memorable way to enjoy Yosemite’s rivers.

The Kind Best of Wild

Yosemite can help you connect meaningfully with each other. Pack the snacks, load up the car, and get ready for a trip that fills your hearts (and your camera rolls) with wonder.