Yosemite West Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite West is a hidden gem in the California region of the United States. This enchanting destination is beloved by adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and photographers alike. With its awe-inspiring landscapes, diverse wildlife, and numerous outdoor activities, Yosemite West offers a truly unforgettable experience.

One of the main attractions in Yosemite West is Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its spectacular granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and ancient sequoia trees. Visitors can explore the park's iconic landmarks such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls, which ranks as one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. Hiking trails of varying difficulty levels cater to both seasoned trekkers and casual walkers, offering stunning panoramic views of the park's pristine wilderness.

For those seeking a more adrenaline-fueled adventure, Yosemite West offers thrilling opportunities for rock climbing, mountain biking, and white-water rafting. The park's challenging granite walls attract climbers from around the world, while its rugged terrain provides an exhilarating playground for mountain biking enthusiasts. Rafting down the powerful Merced River allows visitors to experience the raw beauty of Yosemite West from a unique perspective.

In addition to its natural wonders, Yosemite West is also home to charming villages and towns that offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and culture. Mariposa, the gateway to Yosemite National Park, boasts a vibrant arts scene and a variety of historical landmarks, including the Mariposa Museum and History Center. Another must-visit destination is Groveland, a picturesque town with a quaint Main Street lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.

As the sun sets over Yosemite West, the magic of the region continues to unfold. Stargazers will be captivated by the dazzling display of stars in the dark skies above, as the park is renowned for its exceptional stargazing opportunities. Camping under the stars is a popular choice for visitors, allowing them to immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature and create unforgettable memories.

Alternative names: Elevation: 5879 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 37°38'57"N, 119°43'8"W

Location

CaliforniaUnited States

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Yosemite West Top Attractions

Yosemite West Attractions - What to See and Explore

Yosemite West offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Vernal Fall, Yosemite Falls, Nevada Fall, Horsetail Fall. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Cascading waterfall with valley views
Vernal Fall
Nestled within the majestic landscape of Yosemite National Park, Vernal Fall is a breathtaking waterfall that captivates the hearts of travelers from around the globe. This stunning cascade in California is a powerful testament to the natural beauty that the park has...
Famed, towering mountainside waterfalls
Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls, located in the heart of Yosemite National Park in California, stands as one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States. This towering waterfall is one of the tallest in North America and a centerpiece attraction for the millions of...
Cascading waterfall with trails and views
Nevada Fall
Nevada Fall is a breathtaking natural wonder nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, near the charming city of Yosemite West, United States. This majestic waterfall is one of California's most spectacular sights, cascading a dramatic 594 feet down into the...

Natural attraction • Waterfall
Horsetail Fall
Horsetail Fall, located in Yosemite National Park in California, is a seasonal waterfall that flows in the winter and early spring. The fall occurs on the east side of El Capitan.
Natural attraction • Waterfall
Illilouette Fall
Illilouette Fall is a 381-foot waterfall on the Illilouette Creek tributary of the Merced River in Yosemite National Park. It is located in a small canyon that cuts into the south wall of Yosemite Valley directly across from Vernal Fall. The origin and meaning of the waterfall's name has been lost to time.
Natural attraction • Waterfall
Royal Arch Cascade
Royal Arch Cascade is a waterfall located on the north wall of Yosemite Valley and the Yosemite National Park, United States, within walking distance from the Ahwahnee Hotel. The falls are 1,250 feet high and are usually dry by June.
Natural attraction • Waterfall
Ribbon Fall
Ribbon Fall, located in Yosemite National Park in California, flows off a cliff on the west side of El Capitan and is the longest single-drop waterfall in North America.
Natural attraction • Waterfall
Silver Strand Falls
Silver Strand Falls drops 574 feet along Meadow Brook, at the western end of Yosemite Valley, within Yosemite National Park. The falls are commonly thought to drop 1170 feet; this is incorrect.
Natural attraction • Waterfall
Staircase Falls
Staircase Falls is a series of waterfalls located on Gossamer Creek in Yosemite National Park, California. The falls descend a total of 1,300 feet into Yosemite Valley over a series of steps.
Natural attraction • Waterfall
Lehamite Falls
Lehamite Falls is located in Yosemite National Park. It consists of a long series of steep cascades that fall 1,180 feet into Yosemite Valley, in a manner similar to Sentinel Fall.
Natural attraction • Waterfall
Sentinel Fall
Sentinel Falls is a long series of cascades descending into Yosemite Valley, in the U.S. state of California, alongside Sentinel Rock. It is a tiered waterfall consisting of 6 major drops totaling 1,920 feet, the longest single drop being 500 feet.

Day trips

Yosemite West – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Yosemite West, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Yosemite Valley (Yosemite National Park), Glacier Point (Yosemite National Park), Bridalveil Fall (Yosemite National Park).

6.4 miNE
National park's iconic glacial valley
Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park
Nestled in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite Valley is a crown jewel of Yosemite National Park, one of the most iconic natural landscapes in the United States. With its dramatic granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and ancient giant sequoias...
9.7 miNE
Views of iconic Yosemite from up high
Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park
Perched atop the granite cliffs of Yosemite National Park, Glacier Point offers a breathtaking panorama that captivates visitors from around the globe. Situated in Mariposa County, California, this scenic spot is renowned for its unparalleled views of Yosemite Valley...
6.1 miNE
617-ft-tall plunge waterfall in Yosemite
Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite National Park
Bridalveil Fall is a breathtaking natural wonder located within the majestic Yosemite National Park in California, United States. This stunning waterfall is one of the most prominent and enchanting features of the park, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe.
10 milesNE
Hiking, John Muir, Hiking trail
John Muir Trail, Yosemite National Park
The John Muir Trail is a breathtaking trek through the Sierra Nevada mountain range, primarily within the wilderness of Yosemite National Park, United States. Named in honor of the naturalist John Muir, the trail is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
10 milesNE
Park, Rustic architecture
Curry Village, Yosemite National Park
Nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, Curry Village is a charming and historic settlement that has been welcoming visitors for over a century. Known for its picturesque canvas tent cabins and rustic wooden lodges, Curry Village offers guests a unique...