Our two days in Yosemite National Park were perfect for exploring California’s forest landscape. As part of our 19-day road trip, we spent two days exploring the sights and an incredible two-night stay in Coarsegold, close to Bass Lake and the National Park. We drove in after spending four days in Las Vegas. It was a long drive, but the change in landscape and pace was something we were all looking forward to.
Whether you spend two days or more in Yosemite and explore this part of California as part of your trip, you’re in for an incredible experience! We were in awe of the scenery. I remember feeling this overwhelming sense of wonder as we entered the park. The woods and views were spectacular. Yosemite is famous for its natural beauty, diverse terrain, and geological history, we certainly were left with a hunger to return and explore more.
The park’s iconic features, include Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. We managed to see more but only because of our planning. Yosemite was one of the best stops on our road trip, and we only wish we’d stayed for another day or two. I’m so excited to share what we loved about this part of the trip. Let’s get started!
How to spend two days in Yosemite National Park
We visited in August 2023 and as expected, it was hot in the Summer months — on the days we visited it was cool in the mornings and sweltering, by 11 am. You need to be prepared for the changing weather. It would help if you have layers, water, suncream, hats, and food. Don’t let Summer put you off, we had an incredible two days as it was free from crowds. The Park Rangers said this was partly due to our early start and temperatures during the Summer putting visitors off. It was a treat to be in the park before the crowds arrived. We found the heat to be manageable, unlike when we visited Joshua Tree, we found shade in Yosemite due to the landscape.
As you enter, grab a map from the payment lodges, call into the visitor center, and chat with the park rangers about any questions you might have. They were really helpful. Don’t forget to buy a souvenir—we always grab a fridge magnet! There are water stations dotted around the park so don’t forget to fill up when you see one. Remember to leave no trace, and ensure all food is hidden in your vehicle to prevent bears from ransacking your property.
WHAT TO DO IN YOSEMITE IN TWO DAYS?
Yosemite is one of the most impressive National Parks in the United States. It is set within California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains and spans 1,200 square miles. Hidden within this unspoiled natural wilderness is a whole world of wonder. We did so much in two days, but we recognise that we only scratched the surface. This was our two-day plan…
Day One – we left Coarsegold soon after sunrise, entered Yosemite via the South entrance, and arrived at Mariposa Grove around 8 am. The oldest tree in this grove is known as the Grizzly Giant, there are about 500 mature giant sequoias, some of which are among the world’s largest trees and oldest living things. Breathtaking. The grove was peaceful and quiet, especially as we arrived so early. We took on the Big Trees Loop Trail and the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail and would recommend both. These trails were an easy walk if you have limited time or don’t want to hike too far.
After some direction from the Park Rangers, we made the journey up to Glacier Point which couldn’t have been a more different way to spend our afternoon. We drove up to the viewpoint via Washburn Point which offers similar views to Glacier Point, absolutely worth the stop – the Rangers claimed it was better than Glacier Point. We then continued along the road to Glacier Point, which was unexpected and left us wondering if the rest of our time in Yosemite would compare. We marveled at the majestic Nevada and Vernal Falls from these vantage points, both offered unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley from 3,200 feet above. This was one of the most incredible views of our trip.
We ended our day at Bass Lake. Just 17 miles from the southern entrance of Yosemite. It was something very different from the rest of our day. If we had more time we would have enjoyed paddle boarding on the lake! The view was spectacular as we sat at the Marina Bar and Grill. The food and drinks were awesome, as was the vibe. Quiet and relaxed and in a beautiful village. Don’t forget to drop into the village store, their stories about Bears had George gripped!
How to spend two days in Yosemite National Park
Day two – another early start as we made our way to Yosemite Valley, stopping off at Tunnel View as the sun was rising over El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall. The view was dramatic, it was phenomenal. El Capitan is now thought to be the world’s largest rock. Its granite face rises a whopping 3,593 feet from the ground and looms high over the skyline. This view took our breath away. We met an artist who was sketching the sunrise and couldn’t resist buying one of his creations.
We then made the short drive to Yosemite Valley Loop ahead of the last part of our adventure. No matter what part of the park you’re in, you will see tall trees and waterfalls and, like us, you’ll probably find yourself pulling over regularly to photograph them even if they are not on your list. They’re just so mesmerising and like nothing else you will ever see. We parked and hopped on and off the shuttle bus which was easy to navigate. We managed to see El Capitan, Half Dome, Yosemite Lower and Upper Falls Trail, Vernal Falls and the Mist Trail, Cathedral Beach, Curry and Yosemite Village.
The Yosemite Valley Loop Trail is an excellent hike for those wanting to appreciate the beauty of Yosemite without having to hike up and out of the Valley floor. The trail can be accessed at many points in the Valley by following signs to the Valley Loop Trail. We recommend picking up a map as the route can be a little hard to find in places.
WHERE TO STAY NEAR YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK?
When we researched where to stay we fell in love with the accommodation in Yosemite, due to the proximity to all the sights. Sadly the options were limited and didn’t work around our planned dates. We chose Coarsegold as a location as it meant that we were less than 45 minutes from the entrance to the park, situated in a historic village that was peaceful and a great base for us to visit other sights. The Yellow-Fish House had incredible mountain views with the most breathtaking sunrise and sunset. The stock tank pool was a welcome treat after hiking as was the swinging seat. As an area, it was renowned for being family-friendly and a great place to unwind!
ARE TWO DAYS ENOUGH TIME TO VISIT YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK?
If that is all the time you have, yes it is. I would recommend nothing less. If you can factor in more time we feel an extra day would have enabled us to enjoy more of this incredible Park. Our time in Yosemite was filled with all kinds of amazing things! We admired the insanely tall trees, climbed up huge rocks, enjoyed the views from Glacier Point, paddled in the water at Cathedral Beach, and stood below Yosemite Falls. I would do it all again in a heartbeat and more.
One thing is for sure one trip to Yosemite National Park will never be enough. The good news is if you are restricted on time, you can pack in everything from hiking to scenic drives and more in two days. You’ll come home with a camera roll and heart full of memories, and a bucket list for your next trip! It was a magical part of our 19-day road trip.
How to spend two days in Yosemite National Park
If you only have two days in Yosemite National Park, I hope this itinerary covers the park’s best highlights and viewpoints for you to enjoy! You can read more about our road trip here. And, take a look on my Instagram where you’ll find reels and more photos from our time in Yosemite and California. Prepare for an unforgettable adventure.
I’m Kerri-Ann or KA as my friends call me, always found with a cup of coffee in one hand and my camera in the other. I have a huge passion for photography, fitness, fashion and family travel. I started this blog in 2014. It began as my creative outlet after becoming a mummy to our little boy George Archie. I started out blogging about parenting and over the years it has evolved into a blog that covers lifestyle, fashion, family and travel. Today TheKAEdit is ultimately a life and style blog. Thank you for reading x x
