Valley Loop Trail

The Valley Loop Trail is the flattest way to see all of Yosemite Valley's greatest hits without fighting for space on the Mist Trail or the Half Dome cables. It circles the valley floor along the Merced River, threading meadows and talus slopes with sightlines to El Capitan, Cathedral Rocks, Sentinel Rock, Three Brothers, Bridalveil Fall, and Yosemite Falls — often with far fewer people than the paved paths near the visitor center.

Route and Distance

Hikers can do the full loop at 11.5 miles (5-7 hours) or a half loop at 7.2 miles (2.5-3.5 hours). Both are rated moderate with mostly level elevation gain, though the surface mixes dirt, sand, rock, and stretches of old pavement, with occasional short hills. The most common starting point is Lower Yosemite Fall (shuttle stop 6); the free valley shuttle also reaches the trail at El Capitan Meadow (stop 9) and the Four Mile Trailhead (stop 11), so you can start, end, or shorten the walk at several points.

Know Before You Go

• No drinking water is available anywhere along the route.
• Route-finding gets tricky in a few spots — carry a park map.
• Open year-round, but winter brings icy, snow-packed sections with poor traction, and spring runoff can flood low areas near creeks.
• Pets, bicycles, and strollers are not allowed on this trail.