The Easiest And Most Scenic Hikes In Yosemite National Park For Beginners

Yosemite National Park is pure paradise for nature lovers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Nested within the Sierra Nevada mountain range in east central California, it's remained a popular hiking destination for generations. While Yellowstone National Park claims the title of the first established national park, the first protected piece of land in the United States was actually Yosemite. In 1864 the Yosemite Grant ensured that the land was "held for public use, resort, and recreation ... inalienable for all time." John Muir, an iconic writer and mountaineer, led a movement to expand Yosemite Valley and the surrounding forests and helped lay the foundations for the national park system. As a result of these efforts, Congress designated Yosemite National Park in 1890, making it the third national park in the country.

Since then, about 4 million travelers from around the world have flocked to Yosemite each year to take in the stunning natural scenery, and test themselves on challenging hikes and climbs. Yosemite is a must-visit national park to add to your West Coast bucket list. It's home to some world-famous landmarks and some hikes and climbs that challenge even the most experienced outdoor adventurers, but there's no need to be intimated. Within the park you'll find plenty of epic and beginner friendly hikes complete with awe-inspiring views.

Yosemite National Park comprises an impressive 747,956 acres, making it impossible to explore the entire park in only one visit. There are more than 800 miles of hiking trails, and hikes range from easy walks to strenuous multi-day backpacking expeditions that require you to pack in your own gear and camp along the way. If you're new to hiking, or you just want to experience Yosemite leisurely, you may want to avoid the tougher routes and stick to these easy-moderate hikes. 

Even if you opt for the more simple routes, you won't have to sacrifice your opportunity to see some of Yosemite's most famous landmarks like Yosemite Falls. Yosemite Falls is one of the park's premier points of interest, and a must-do if you only have one day in Yosemite National Park. There are multiple gorgeous waterfalls throughout the national park, but Yosemite Falls reigns supreme. At 2,245 feet, it is the tallest waterfall in the country, and one of the tallest in the entire world. It's made up of three separate waterfalls. Upper Yosemite Fall is 1,430 feet tall, the middle fall is 675 feet, and Lower Yosemite Fall is 320 feet. Together, they make up a sight that will take your breath away. 

Getting there is super easy. The Lower Yosemite Falls Trail is accessible via a 1.2 mile loop trail that takes less than a half hour if you hike straight through, although you'll likely want to carve out some extra time to relax and appreciate the majestic waterfall. It's a popular hike, and is usually rather crowded, but still worth it. The trail is paved and well maintained. The eastern part of the trail is accessible to some visitors who require a wheelchair or walker. It is also stroller accessible and pet-friendly. There are restrooms near the trailhead.

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail is open year-round. Spring and early summer are the best time of year to embark on this easy hike if you want to see the waterfall at peak flow. Expect to feel the spray from the powerful falls when you get close to its base. Winter is also beautiful, but be aware that conditions might be icy. The waterfall tends to dry up in the late summer and fall, which can be disappointing.

If you're someone who appreciates seeing the world from a bird's eye view, but you want to avoid a strenuous climb to the tops of mountain peaks, you'll love Glacier Point Trail. This quick and easy hike is an excellent place to get acquainted with Yosemite National Park if you've just arrived, or it's your first time visiting. Even if you're a frequent visitor, Glacier Point Trail is unforgettable and will leave you longing to return time and time again.

To reach the Glacier Point Trail head you'll drive along the scenic Glacier Point Road which is open from May until November each year, as long as conditions remain favorable. It's common for the trails in this area to remain wet and even icy into the spring. Park your car at the Glacier Point Parking area. The half-mile loop trail is paved and flat, making the walk super easy. It's wheelchair and stroller accessible, but pets are not allowed. The entire hike takes only about 15 minutes to complete, but you'll want to stay a bit longer to take in the epic views from the overlook.

From Glacier Point Overlook, you'll be able to enjoy panoramic views of the entire valley below. Some of Yosemite's most famous landmarks are visible including Clouds Rest, and Half Dome — one of the steepest day-hikes in America. For something truly spectacular, consider visiting Glacier Point Overlook in the late afternoon or early evening. Pack a picnic, and stick around to watch the majestic sunset.

Mirror Lake is a dream come true for amateur photographers because it beautifully reflects the surrounding landscape. The shallow lake is fed by Tenaya Creek. Half Dome and Mount Watkins hover in the distance, and when conditions are right, they're reflected on the glass-like surface of the lake. In the spring and early summer, when Tenaya Creek has a strong flow from snowmelt, the lake is at its deepest. It dries up throughout the summer, so some refer to it as Mirror Meadow.

On warm days in early summer, the lake serves as an excellent place to cool off, and it's a popular spot for hikers to pause, dip their feet in the cool water, and enjoy the views. Splashing in the clear fresh water makes a great family-friendly activity, but keep in mind that the water may be quite cold even if the sun is shining.

The Mirror Lake Paved Trail is the shortest and easiest route and is open year-round. The out and back hike is about two miles long and takes under 45 minutes to complete. Leashed pets, strollers, and bikes are all permitted on the paved trail. You'll find vault toilets near the start of the trailhead. Curry Village is the closest place to park, but you can also take the free Yosemite shuttle which begins running in April and continues until November, as long as conditions permit. The trailhead is at shuttle stop #17. For a longer but still easy hike, continue along the 5-mile long Mirror Lake Loop trail which surrounds the lake which takes just under two hours.

One of the highlights of a trip to Yosemite National Park is viewing some of the planet's largest living organisms. Giant sequoias are also known as redwood trees for their distinctive bark color. When you wander through a grove of these majestic giants, it's hard not to feel awe-struck. They're the largest tree species on earth, and they thrive in California's Sierra Nevada mountains. The largest sequoias are ancient – they can live over 3,000 years and have adapted to be resistant to the wildfires that often plague the west coast.

Sequoia National Park, which is just under three hours away, is the most well known spot for viewing this iconic flora, but Yosemite is also one of the best destinations to see huge sequoia trees. Mariposa Grove, located on the south side of the park, is the easiest to reach. You can take the Yosemite shuttle to the Mariposa Grove Welcome Center. The easiest hike is the Big Trees Loop Trail. The loop trail is less than a half of a mile and takes a little more than 30 minutes to complete. It is mostly flat and it's wheelchair accessible. The path twists through a grove of towering sequoia trees, with plenty of informational signage along the way. One of the highlights of the hike is the Fallen Monarch, a fallen sequoia tree that allows you to see the massive root system up close.

If you're feeling up for a challenge, consider hiking the 2-mile-long Grizzly Loop Trail, which is moderately challenging due to an elevation increase. Along the way you'll get to see the Grizzly Giant, a 3,000 year old sequoia along with other massive trees including the Bachelor and the Three Graces. The hike takes about two hours to complete.

Cook's Meadow Loop Trail allows you to take in views of many of the fantastic spots that make Yosemite famous, and you probably won't even break a sweat! The easy hike through the center of Yosemite Valley is about 2 miles long and takes only 40 minutes to complete, although you'll have the best time if you take it nice and slow, pausing often to admire your surroundings.

You can begin the hike from either Yosemite Valley Visitor Center or from the Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead. From there, follow the path through the meadow. The wide open space allows you to see Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Sentinel Rock all on the same hike. It's a popular spot, so don't be surprised if it's crowded with runners, bikers, and hikers. The trail is open year-round, and it's always beautiful no matter the season. Make sure you're extra careful in the winter as the path can become slippery with ice and snow.