Yosemite Valley Loop Trail

The Valley Loop Trail is the closest thing Yosemite has to a highlight reel you can walk. It circles the entire floor of Yosemite Valley on a mix of dirt, sand, and old pavement, staying mostly level while stringing together nearly every major view in the park — El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, Cathedral Rocks, Sentinel Rock, Three Brothers, and Yosemite Falls all appear along the way, with the Merced River rarely far off.

Full Loop or Half Loop

The complete circuit runs 11.5 miles (18.5 km) and takes 5 to 7 hours. A shorter 7.2-mile (11.6 km) half loop — roughly Yosemite Village to El Capitan and back — takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours and covers most of the same views. Both are rated moderate: elevation gain is minor, but the trail rolls through occasional hilly stretches, and mixed footing makes parts of it uneven.

Getting There and Getting Around

• Main trailhead: Lower Yosemite Fall, Valleywide Shuttle stop #6
• Alternate access: El Capitan Meadow (stop #9) and the Four Mile Trailhead (stop #11)
• Open year-round, with multiple points to join or leave the loop along the way

Know Before You Go

No drinking water is available anywhere on the trail, so carry everything you'll need. Pets, bicycles, and strollers aren't allowed. Store food within arm's reach at all times — this is black bear country. In winter, the trail turns icy in patches, especially along the south side, and route-finding gets harder once snow covers the path.