WESTERN YOSEMITE TRIPS

The trailheads in this section are south of CA 120 within the western part of Yosemite National Park: Yosemite Valley’s Happy Isles Trailhead and, two trailheads from Glacier Point Road, Bridalveil Creek and Glacier Point. The Yosemite Falls and Wawona Tunnel Trailheads in Yosemite Valley are also included, as described trails end at these. There’s another Yosemite waiting for you in the park’s southern backcountry, and these trailheads are your gateways to it.

The Happy Isles Trailhead is probably the prettiest in Yosemite Valley, situated as it is near the cascading Merced River and near the Happy Isles—be sure to visit this pair of islets if time permits.

Beyond the Bridalveil Creek Trailhead, you’ll find not only the creekside meadows and abundant wildflowers for which the Bridalveil Creek area is rightly famous but also remote, peaceful lakes and high, rugged peaks.

Yosemite’s Glacier Point is justly famed for its incomparable views of Yosemite Valley and of the great waterfalls on the Merced River. And it’s a popular starting point for day hikes down into the valley. But had you thought of it as a trailhead for backpacks? If not, prepare to be surprised at the wonderful overnighters possible from Glacier Point, departing along the Pohono Trail, Panorama Trail, or up Illilouette Creek. But whatever you do, don’t leave this trailhead without enjoying the world-renowned views from Glacier Point proper.

Trailheads: Wawona Tunnel

Yosemite Falls

Happy Isles

Bridalveil Creek

Glacier Point