The Ferguson fire that roared through the Yosemite region was scary, but was no match for the brave firefighters who defended our amazing National Park. Now that the park re-opened, we have compiled a list of must-sees and dos during your next visit. Late Summer is a great time to jump in the cool water, take a hike on a misty trail and visit the phenomenal high country.
Photo credit: bergreenphotography.com
Text credit: Christina Kantzavelos of buenqamino.com
Tuolumne Meadows (High Country)
Roam through Tuolumne Meadows
You’re in luck, as this is arguably the best time to visit the Tuolumne Meadows and the high country. It’s the area with the highest elevation (8,600 ft), and temperatures are ideal during this time of the year. The scenery through Tioga Pass is full of cascading peaks, waterfalls, rivers and grassy areas, making this ideal for hiking, picnicking, and taking your next desktop photo (watch out Apple!).
Hike Glen Aulin in Tuolumne Meadows
While in Tuolumne Meadows, why not take a cooling hike to Glen Aulin? On this hike you will see Tuolumne Falls and White Cascade. Although the trail is 13 miles round trip, it will be picturesque, regardless, of how far or little you venture in. End of the Summer is a great time to take a dip into White Cascade’s swimming hole. Don’t forget to practice water safety!
Wawona
Take a dip, lay low or walk your dog by the South Fork of The Merced River in Wawona
There isn’t anything like dipping your feet, or entire body, into the river on a warm Summer’s day or, walking your dog along the cooling waters of the South Fork of the Merced in the perfect temperatures of early morning or late evening.
Hike to the Swinging Bridge in Wawona
This easy .75 mile hike that leads to an actual swinging bridge is a great place to swim in clear waters, or simply explore. There are some hidden swimming holes near this bridge, see if you can find them!
Hike to Chilnualna Falls in Wawona
For those looking for a more intense (though cooling) hike, this one is for you. Although the waterfall is 2,200 feet in height, it is hidden between rock, so you will see fragments of it as you hike, rather than in full. For those hoping to just get a view of the fall, it’s unfortunately only available to hikers. Looks like you better pack those boots and swim trunks, because the swim holes along this trail are rewarding!
Yosemite Valley
Hike to Vernal Falls (Mist Trail)
There is a reason this is called the Mist Trail… It is misty! This 317 foot waterfall is guaranteed to cool you off, whether it’s at one of the bottom forming falls, or at the very top. Don’t forget to pack a substantial amount of water and snacks. And yes, there is water flowing as it is an all-year-round cascade!
Hike to Nevada Falls
If you are feeling up to it, and need to dry yourself off, you can continue on the same trail as Vernal Falls until it meets with Nevada Falls. Nevada Falls are sitting pretty at 594 feet high and there are steps you can take all the way to the top. Beyond Nevada Falls Trail is Half Dome, which you can admire from the top of the waterfall, or hike to with a permit. As signs mention, do not swim in the water above the waterfalls.
Enjoy our beautiful park during this amazing season and do not forget to always practice fire safety, conservation and leave no trace, so that future generations can continue to enjoy this same beauty.
Where to stay now that Yosemite National Park has re-opened and why?
All of the 120 Redwoods In Yosemite cabins are located in Wawona, near the South Entrance of Yosemite National Park, just a few miles from the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias (free shuttle access to grove when you stay with us). Relaxing and private, these fully equipped vacation homes border the wild and scenic South Fork of The Merced River, the Wawona swinging bridge and Chilnualna Falls (the second highest vertical drop waterfalls in Yosemite)! Our Event Center includes full use of the Fireside Room and adjacent deck, with audio and visual equipment and a catering kitchen. Many of our cabins are pet friendly, some feature spa tubs, and all have private decks with BBQ’s and upgraded linens for that, “Home Away from Home” experience. Come on up! Relax. Explore. Escape!
OUR CURRENT LODGING DISCOUNTS:
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Use Coupon Code SEP18 at checkout on our website and save 15% when you book your stay at The Redwoods from now through 9.30.2018 or call our office at ph. 1-877-753-8566 for more information. You can also drop us a line at info@redwoodsinyosemite.com or click here for more details.
[Offer is not valid on existing reservations or with any other discount. Not valid during holiday periods.*The lowest nightly rate will be discounted*We advise to book soon for best availability and cabin selection. Space is limited. Offer expires September 30, 2018]
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Use Coupon Code GRIZZLYGIANT at checkout on our website and save 20% when you book your stay at The Redwoods from 10.1. 2018 through 11.30.2018 or call our office at ph. 1-877-753-8566 for more information. You can also drop us a line at info@redwoodsinyosemite.com or click here for more details.
[This offer is not valid on existing reservations or with any other discount. We advise to book soon for best availability and cabin selection. Space is limited. *The lowest nightly rate will be discounted. Not valid for stays between November 22 – 26, 2018. *Offer expires November 30, 2018.]