Yosemite Valley
Yosemite National Park, California
Road
16 miles | 290 ft elevation
Yosemite National Park, known for its spectacular waterfalls and granite rock formations, is one of the most popular national parks and is an extraordinary place to visit and ride. The Yosemite Valley Loop is a leisurely ride to explore the valley with a mix of bike paths and park roads, passing by many of the most popular park attractions.
Starting from Curry Village, head toward Happy Isles and ride the loop counter-clockwise (some of the roads are one-way, so you must ride that direction). You will share the road with the park shuttle buses for the next 2 miles as you pass Happy Isles (trailhead to Vernal Falls) and Mirror Lake. About half a mile after leaving Mirror Lake, hop on the paved bike trail and make your way towards Yosemite Village. Once you pass the village and the Lower Yosemite Falls trailhead, you will continue along Northside Dr. In about 3 miles, El Capitan will appear to your right; take a moment to admire this granite monolith and try to spot a rock climber on the wall.
In a mile and a half, you will come to a split in the road and take a left towards Wawona/Fresno, crossing the Merced River. Continue onto Southside Dr for the next 6 miles and make your way back to Curry Village.
For more challenging rides in Yosemite National Park, see the Glacier Point and Tioga Pass route pages. In the spring, there is an opportunity to ride those roads without cars!
Hotel Recommendation
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oakhurst-Yosemite Park Area – this hotel is located in the town of Oakhurst, about 16 miles from the Yosemite South Gate entrance (about 40 miles from Yosemite Valley). It is clean and comfortable and offers a free breakfast. You can find grocery stores and restaurant options just down the street.
There are lodging options within the park; however, it can be difficult to secure a reservation so be sure to plan months in advance if you want to stay within the park.
Notes
Reservations to enter the park may be required, so be sure to review the official website for the latest information.
Yosemite is one of the most popular National Parks, so expect crowds and aim to enter the park early in the morning to avoid long lines at the entrance gate.
You will need to pay a park entrance fee to enter the park (whether by car, bike or foot).
Refer to the Winter Road Closures page for information on road closures and plowing progress.
There are several dining options in Yosemite Valley. Be sure to check hours of operation on the park’s website.
If you plan on checking out attractions along the Yosemite Valley Loop ride, be aware that bikes may not be allowed on some trails or inside facilities.
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