Happy Isles, Yosemite National Park

Name: Happy Isles
Address: Happy Isles Nature Center, Yosemite National Park, United States

#82 among attractions in Yosemite National Park

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Facts and practical information

Happy Isles is a group of small isles in the Merced River in Yosemite National Park, California, USA. They are located at the easternmost end of the Yosemite Valley floor. This scenic spot is the starting point for the Mist Trail, and is also the northern trailhead for the John Muir Trail. Happy Isles is also the trailhead for popular hiking destinations along the Mist Trail and Half Dome. ()

Coordinates: 37°43'57"N, 119°33'29"W

Address

Happy Isles Nature CenterYosemite National Park United States

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Yosemite National Park

Day trips

Happy Isles – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Vernal Fall, Glacier Point, John Muir Trail, Curry Village.

0.8 miSE
Cascading waterfall with valley views
Vernal Fall, Yosemite West
22 min walk • 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...
0.9 miW
Views of iconic Yosemite from up high
Glacier Point, Yosemite National Park
23 min walk • 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...
~440 ftSW
Hiking, John Muir, Hiking trail
John Muir Trail, Yosemite National Park
3 min walk • 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.
0.8 miW
Park, Rustic architecture
Curry Village, Yosemite National Park
21 min walk • 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...
1.2 miNE
Natural attraction, Lake, Body of water
Mirror Lake, Yosemite National Park
32 min walk • Nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, Mirror Lake is a serene and picturesque body of water that offers a tranquil retreat from the bustle of city life. This small, seasonal lake is known for its crystal-clear reflections of the surrounding cliffs, including...
0.9 miE
Natural attraction, Nature, Lake
Emerald Pool, Yosemite National Park
24 min walk • Emerald Pool is the name of several locations.
0.9 miSE
Hiking, Hiking trail
Mist Trail, Yosemite National Park
22 min walk • The Mist Trail is one of the most popular short hikes in Yosemite National Park, California, USA. The steep hike follows the Merced River, starting at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley, past Vernal Fall and Emerald Pool, to Nevada Fall.
1.4 miNW
Natural attraction, Waterfall
Royal Arch Cascade, Yosemite West
35 min walk • 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.
0.7 miN
Natural attraction, Nature, Canyon
Tenaya Canyon, Yosemite National Park
18 min walk • Tenaya Canyon is a dramatic and dangerous canyon in Yosemite National Park, California, USA, that runs from the outlet of Tenaya Lake 10 miles down to Yosemite Valley, carrying water in Tenaya Creek through a series of spectacular cascades and pools and thence into a deep canyon...
0.9 miW
Natural attraction, Waterfall
Staircase Falls, Yosemite West
25 min walk • 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.
1.1 miN
Rock
Washington Column, Yosemite National Park
29 min walk • Washington Column is a roughly 1800-foot high rock formation, arising from Yosemite Valley. It is east of the Royal Arches, behind the Ahwahnee Hotel. North Dome is above it. Washington Column can be viewed from many points in Yosemite Valley, including the trail to Mirror Lake.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Which popular attractions are close to Happy Isles?

Nearby attractions include John Muir Trail, Yosemite National Park (3 min walk), Sierra Point, Yosemite National Park (11 min walk), Grizzly Peak, Yosemite National Park (12 min walk), Tenaya Canyon, Yosemite National Park (18 min walk).

How to get to Happy Isles by public transport?

The nearest stations to Happy Isles:

Bus

Valley Shuttle Stop #16 • Lines: Yosemite Valley Shuttle (3 min walk)