Sentinel Meadow & Cooks Meadow Loop at night looking at Yosemite Falls

With Winter just around the corner, I’m looking forward to the snowy wonderland season in Yosemite National Park…so this week we’re exploring some of my favorite Yosemite Valley spots that are truly beautiful year round.

1. Yosemite Valley Swinging Bridge

The Yosemite Valley Swinging Bridge doesn’t actually swing (the original swinging bridge was replaced with a more sturdy bridge in 1964 after major flooding damage). This is a wonderful spot to view Yosemite Falls reflecting off the Merced River. In the summertime you can enjoy a dip in the water with picnic tables and grills conveniently located nearby. In the Winter it becomes a beautiful white wonderland with classic valley views.

flyingdawnmarie-yosemite-summer-winter-13 — Yosemite Chapel in Winter

2. Yosemite Valley Chapel

The Yosemite Valley Chapel has been welcoming visitors for over 135 years. Surrounded by spectacular cliffs, beautiful meadows, and clear views of Yosemite Falls, the chapel makes for a picturesque stop anytime of year. The chapel is also a popular wedding spot, and I’ve seen black bears gingerly making their way across the road here more than once.

3. Bridalveil Fall

Unlike some of Yosemite’s other seasonal waterfalls, the towering 620 ft Bridalveil Fall crashes down year round…and the easy 1/2 mile walk to the viewing area makes this waterfall a wonderful spot to visit in any season. A major restoration project has been underway here since 2019 (and is expected to be completed in the Fall of 2022), so please check the NPS website before your visit for current trail status.

4. Lower Yosemite Falls

The final drop of North America’s tallest waterfall, Lower Yosemite Falls roars down 320 feet. In the Spring and early Summer months, the sound of the raging water can be deafening…but by August & September, this waterfall can almost completely dry up. The 1/2 mile round trip hike to the base of the lower falls can also be enjoyed in the snowy winter months, although I’d consider bringing my hiking pole & snow cleats as the trail can get icy or slick after a snowfall.

(See my full Lower Yosemite Falls blog post here)

5. Stoneman Meadow

Located between the Merced River and Curry Village, Stoneman Meadow highlights Yosemite’s incredible plant & animal diversity. The openness here provides great views of the surrounding area and supports the deer, bears and birds (along with countless other creatures) who thrive on the amazing variety of plants found in this meadow. Anytime of year it’s important to use existing boardwalks and trails here to protect the fragile ecosystem.

Sentinel Meadow & Cooks Meadow Loop in June

Sentinel Meadow & Cooks Meadow Loop in February

6. Sentinel Meadow & Cooks Meadow Loop

This 2.5 mile trail strolls through a pair of meadows with multiple views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome along the way. In late Spring & early Summer, the boardwalk is lush, green and lined with wildflowers. In the Winter you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled for the boardwalk outline and be careful along the slick icy terrain.

7. Sentinel Bridge

Well known for its view of Half Dome reflecting off the Merced River, Sentinel Bridge has long been a favorite with Yosemite photographers for sunrise. Whether you visit in the Summer with the lush green meadows surrounding the riverbank or in Winter when everything is blanketed in fresh snow, this is a beautiful place to view Half Dome. A parking area is conveniently located just past the bridge making it very easily accessible.

Stoneman Bridge with North Dome in the disntance

8. Stoneman Bridge

Located close to Curry Village, the historic Stoneman Bridge, built in 1933, is a great place to see North Dome surrounded by snow in the Winter or in the Spring as the water rises with the seasonal snowmelt. Once in danger of being considered for removal due to a comprehensive management plan for the Merced River, the final plan released by the National Park Service did not require the removal of any of Yosemite’s historic bridges, including the beautiful Stoneman Bridge.

9. Valley View

Yosemite’s Valley View has always been one of my personal favorite valley stops. With the sweeping views of El Capitan and the surrounding valley, both sunrise and sunset are breathtaking here. The views are located just off the parking area, meaning no hiking is required to reach this incredible lookout area. In the Winter morning, fog rolls in making this spot look like some enchanted land from a fairytale…and in the Summer you can sit quietly and watch the mule deer make their way along the shoreline.

Mule Deer crossing the Merced at Valley View

10. Tunnel View

Probably one of the most popular viewpoints in all of Yosemite National Park, Tunnel View showcases three of Yosemite’s most famous highlights in one spot. El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall are all on display from this point…and because there is no hiking required, people park and make a quick stop here year round. Summer sunsets dazzle as the light fades and reflects off the giant granite walls in the distance. My favorite time to visit is a Winter sunrise, watching the days first light start to shine on the countless snow capped evergreens below.

(See my full Tunnel View blog post here)

Know Before You Go

• Always remember to adventure within your own skill and comfort level here. Even the easiest hike can become unexpectedly challenging during flooding rains or after a heavy winter storm. It’s important to always plan ahead and come prepared when enjoying this incredible national park.

• Always check the NPS website prior to visiting Yosemite for road closures, weather information, up to date park information, and visiting guidelines.

• Please remember to respect the local plant & animal life here - take only pictures and leave only footprints. Pack out everything you pack in and stay on the designated paths. If you’re not familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles, consider familiarizing yourself with them before your trip. Please help leave this special place better than you found it, so its natural beauty can be enjoyed for years to come.

In Summary & Behind the Blog Video

Thanks so much for joining me this week in Yosemite National Park. For a virtual visit of the spots in both Summer and Winter, make sure to check out my Behind the Blog YouTube video below. Until next week I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.

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