1. Go For a Hike! Duh.

With literately hundreds of miles of trails to hike no trip to the park would be complete without at least a day hike. My family’s 3 favorite hikes include the Mist Trail, the hike to the top of Sentinel Dome, and the hike to the top of Yosemite Falls. The First two were hikes that my four year old twins were able to do.

2. Stay for the Night in One of the Campgrounds in the Valley

We have camped in one of the Pines campgrounds for almost a decade and it has yet to get old. These campgrounds are beautifully maintained with large old growth pine trees all around you. I can be tricky to get a reservation in these campgrounds during peak seasons. I have some tips for you on how to get a site just CLICK HERE.

3. Watch a Climber

I could spend hours watching the climbers scale the face of El Capitan. It is truly awe inspiring to follow these athletes up the shear rock face. At night if you shine a flash light at the mountain many of the climbers resting will shine a light back at you!

4. Get your Grub on!

We LOVE the pizza place in Curry Village and Degnan’s Deli at the Yosemite Village is rarely disappointing. There are very few things in life more satisfying than sitting outside somewhere so breathtaking eating a slice of hot pizza. If you are in to a more upscale fair I would suggest the Dinning Room at the Ahwahnee Hotel. They serve gourmet food in an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Be warred though they do have a dress code.

5. Cool off in the River

In the hot summer days in the valley I would recommend a dip in the Merced River. It is snow run-off water so it takes some getting used to but it can be absolutely revitalizing after you get used to the temperature.  If you don’t want to get all the way wet you could always rent a raft and enjoy the Merced that way too.

6. Shout for Elmer Around the Campfire!!!

ELLLLLMERRRRR!!!! Since the 1930’s Yosemite campers have long been confused and amused by shouts from all directions calling the name. The inescapable exchange is often heard in the campgrounds in Yosemite Valley. My kids love calling out at night to Elmer! I am sure the child inside of you wouldn’t mind letting one loose either.

A tale that has survived for years around the campfire is now a children’s book to read around the fire by flashlight. So cuddle up in your sleeping bag and learn The Story of Elmer and a little bit about Yosemite National Park.

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