While national parks in general are not very dog-friendly, Yosemite National Park tops our list as the most dog-friendly and worthwhile park to visit.

Yosemite became a national park in 1890, and more than 125 years later it’s still wowing visitors. While it was the third instated national park, it was the first that the government protected because of how beautiful the land is.

Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, lush meadows, giant sequoias, historic granite rocks, and much more. And what makes Yosemite so accessible, is that all of this can be enjoyed throughout the park without even stepping foot on a trail. It’s so easy to just step outside your car, look up and marvel at the tall formations and cascading waterfalls (at least in the Spring and early summer).

How to get to yosemite national park

Yosemite National Park is situated in the central eastern region of California. This natural wonderland attracts visitors from all over the world with its awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse wildlife.

If you're coming from San Francisco, the drive to Yosemite takes approximately 3-4 hours. Head east on I-580, then merge onto CA-120 East. Continue through Groveland until you reach the Big Oak Flat Entrance of the park. If you're traveling from Los Angeles, prepare for a longer but equally scenic journey of around 5-6 hours. Take I-5 North until you reach CA-99 North, then transition onto CA-41 North, which will lead you to the park's southern entrance. For those flying in, Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is the closest option. Once you arrive, rent a car and head north on CA-41 to reach the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park. Whichever route you choose, the destination is nothing short of extraordinary, promising memories and moments that will stay with you forever.

Remember to plan your trip in advance and check for any road closures or travel advisories, especially during the winter months. As you make your way to Yosemite National Park, be prepared to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of this natural wonderland.

where to stay when visiting yosemite national park

Nestled amidst the stunning beauty of Yosemite National Park, AutoCamp Yosemite offers a truly unique and unforgettable lodging experience. Combining the charm of camping with the luxury of a boutique hotel, AutoCamp provides guests with stylish, custom-designed Airstream trailers and cozy cabins, creating a seamless blend of nature and modern comfort. Each accommodation is thoughtfully equipped with premium amenities, including plush bedding, private bathrooms, and a kitchenette. Not to mention dog-friendly accommodations amongst all lodging options. Whether you're seeking an intimate retreat for two or a memorable family getaway, AutoCamp Yosemite has something for everyone.

Beyond the accommodations, the campsite itself is a gem, featuring outdoor fire pits, picnic areas, and communal spaces that include a general store, pool, lounge and kitchen for drinks and takeaway food. Moreover, its prime location puts you within an hour of Yosemite’s Arch Rock entrance.

Check out our full review of our dog-friendly stay at AutoCamp.

RULES WHEN TRAVELING WITH YOUR DOG TO YOSEMITE national park

But before we get into all the dog-friendly activities, let’s go over the rules of visiting a national park with your dog.

Because the park needs to protect ecosystems and wildlife, as well as manage a lot of visitation, there are places that your dog will not be allowed. However, as long as you follow some simple rules, you and your dog can see much of what makes Yosemite famous.

Where your dog is not allowed:

On most trails, including the trail to Vernal Fall even though the first part of this trail is paved. Tip: Visit All Trails for details on trails where dogs are allowed. Several of these dog-friendly options are also outlined below.
On unplowed roads covered in snow – including Glacier Point Road beyond Badger Pass Ski Area and on the Tioga Road beyond Crane Flat in the winter.
In undeveloped and wilderness areas.
Inside public buildings, including in-park lodging. Since you should also not leave your dog unattended, make sure you plan around any shopping or dining trips.
On shuttle buses.
In all walk-in and group campgrounds and campsites, including Camp 4. Other campgrounds allow dogs.
In any other areas that have been signed as no pets allowed.

General dog rules:

Dogs need to be on a short leash – not more than 6 feet (2 m) long.
Don’t leave your dog unattended.
Clean up after them. Carry poop bags and throw your pet’s bagged waste into the trash.
Be alert for wildlife.

Now that we’ve got all the rules out of the way, let’s dive into all the dog-friendly things there are to do in Yosemite National Park.

Dog-friendly activities in yosemite national park and surrounding areas

Yosemite is not just a paradise for nature enthusiasts; it's also a haven for dog lovers. With plenty of dog-friendly activities in and around the park, your four-legged companion can join in on the adventure. First and foremost, exploring the numerous dog-friendly trails is a must. Some popular options include the Bridalveil Fall Trail and the Mirror Lake Loop, offering stunning views while being accessible to dogs on leashes. Additionally, you can take your pup to the Wawona Meadow for a leisurely stroll or enjoy a family picnic at one of the designated dog-friendly picnic areas. If you're looking for a bit more excitement, enjoy a scenic drive through the park's beautiful roads with your pup as your co-pilot up to Tunnel View or beyond to Glacier Point. Beyond the park, nearby dog-friendly towns like Mariposa and Groveland offer pet-friendly accommodations and dining options in addition to hikes like Tuolumne Grove, Hite Cove Trail, and Hetch Hetchy to complete your unforgettable Yosemite experience with your beloved furry companion by your side. So, pack up your pup's favorite toys and treats, and embark on a memorable journey that both you and your dog will cherish forever.

dog-friendly hikes and scenic viewpoints in Yosemite valley

When visiting Yosemite National Park with your furry friend, you’ll want to spend an entire day in Yosemite Valley for most of your visit. Yosemite Valley features much of the park's top attractions, including Tunnel View vista, a handful of Yosemite's most famous waterfalls and the granite monoliths El Capitan and Half Dome.

TUNNEL VIEW

The view that Ansel Adams made famous, Tunnel View is a must stop for any visit to Yosemite Valley. Find it just outside the Wawona Tunnel on State Highway 41. No hiking is required, you simply park at the lot and make your way over to the vista. This spot can be very popular in summer, so try to arrive early. There will most definitely be a crowd at sunrise.

From this vista you can see El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. This vista changes with each season to show something new but the best times to see Tunnel View are early spring (when Bridalveil Fall is at peak flow) and winter, when the beautiful granite domes are draped in snow and mist.

LOWER YOSEMITE FALL TRAIL

One dog-friendly trail that you do not want to miss is Lower Fall Trail. This picturesque hike offers a magnificent view of the awe-inspiring Lower Yosemite Fall and allows you and your pup to experience the power and beauty of the park's iconic waterfall up close.

Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest falls on the planet, but did you know, it’s actually made up of three separate falls? Upper Yosemite Fall, the middle cascades and Lower Yosemite Fall makeup Yosemite Falls, which can be seen from numerous places around Yosemite Valley.

The trailhead is conveniently located near Yosemite Valley Lodge, where I would recommend parking or you can park at Yosemite Village and catch the trail from there. The loop is a half mile from the trailhead and 1.5 miles from Yosemite Village. The well-maintained path is relatively flat and paved, making it suitable for dogs of all sizes and fitness levels. As you venture along the trail, you'll be greeted by the thundering sound of the waterfall and the refreshing mist that fills the air.

Remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times and bring plenty of water for both of you, as the trail can get crowded during peak seasons.

COOK’S MEADOW LOOP TRAIL

Extend the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail with a stroll around Cook’s Meadow.

A wonderful short trail that is accessible year-round and very flat that loops from Sentinel Drive parking lot and across from Yosemite Falls. The best time for waterfalls is in the early spring, but this area of the park is equally beautiful in fall when the meadow turns a golden yellow and the black oaks and elms start losing their brightly colored leaves.

Don’t miss the epic view of Yosemite Falls from the meadow and make sure you walk across Sentinel Bridge for one of the iconic views of Half Dome.

Sentinel Bridge

Spanning the tranquil Merced River, this iconic stone bridge offers visitors a postcard-perfect view of the iconic Half Dome, one of Yosemite's most recognizable landmarks. Its strategic location makes it a photographer's dream, providing the perfect vantage point to capture the majestic reflection of Half Dome in the river's calm waters during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Beyond its photogenic allure, Sentinel Bridge also serves as a gateway to numerous hiking trails, including the famous Cook's Meadow Loop, which leads to breathtaking vistas and meadows adorned with wildflowers.

DON’T MISS THE TRIPLE CROWN: HALF DOME, El CAPITAN, Sentinel dome

The Triple Crown at Yosemite National Park refers to three iconic granite summits that are considered the ultimate challenge for climbers and the most photographed wonders in the park. These breathtaking peaks are El Capitan, Half Dome, and Sentinel Dome. El Capitan, standing at over 3,000 feet tall, is renowned for its sheer vertical face and granite monolith. Half Dome, with its distinctive shape, stands nearly 8,800 feet above sea level, is composed of granodiorite, and is the remains of a magma chamber that cooled slowly and crystallized thousands of feet beneath the Earth's surface. Sentinel Dome, while not as tall as the other two, provides a unique panorama of Yosemite's vast wilderness, making it a favorite among hikers. Together, these three peaks form the Triple Crown, symbolizing the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of the extraordinary that define Yosemite National Park. You can spy views of these beauties from several places along Yosemite Valley floor.

El Capitan Meadow

El Capitan Meadow provides an awe-inspiring view straight up El Capitan and a great view of Cathedral Rocks, as well. Located along the one-way Northside Drive, it is best to stop here on your way out of Yosemite Valley.

Glacier Point

This iconic overlook offers an unparalleled view of some of Yosemite's most famous landmarks, including Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the High Sierra mountain range included glimpses of Vernal and Nevada Falls far below. Leashed dogs are allowed on the paved trail leading out to Glacier Point, a 7,214-foot overlook.

Whether you arrive at sunrise, witnessing the golden rays paint the valley below, or at sunset when the cliffs glow with a warm, fiery hue, the experience is simply magical. Accessible by car from late spring through fall, this viewpoint is my absolute favorite in Yosemite National Park and is worth the early wake up in my opinion to watch the sunrise.

MIRROR LAKE

Mirror Lake, a gem nestled within the breathtaking landscape of Yosemite National Park, is located at the base of Half Dome and reflects the surrounding granite cliffs and lush greenery like a flawless mirror. The hike to Mirror Lake is an easy, paved trail, making it accessible to most visitors and dog-friendly. Unfortunately, the trail continuing around the lake is not dog-friendly.

As you meander along the tranquil path, sounds of the Merced River create a serene atmosphere. Mirror Lake has little water much of the year, but in spring and early summer it can grow in size.

Parking is not available at the trailhead and can be challenging during the summer months. I’d recommend starting this hike early and look for parking near Curry Village or North Pines Campground.

BRIDALVEIL FALL

Bridalveil Fall is one of Yosemite’s most iconic waterfalls, probably second only to its big sister, Yosemite Falls. The paved, half mile trail leading to the base is dog-friendly. During peak spring run-off you and your furry friend can enjoy walking through the cool mist. The trail is typically open year-round and has a designated parking area. Unfortunately, when we visited it was under construction, so make sure you check the park website for closures.

valley view

Valley View in Yosemite National Park is a hidden gem that offers an extraordinary perspective of the park's iconic landscapes. Similar to Tunnel View, but from the Valley floor. As you drive along Northside Drive, this unassuming viewpoint emerges, so be prepared to pull over in the small pull off to the left. Here, the Merced River gracefully winds through the valley, framed by towering granite cliffs, including El Capitan and Cathedral Rocks, which stand as sentinels of Yosemite's majesty. Valley View is particularly magical during sunrise and sunset when the warm, golden light bathes the valley in an ethereal glow, creating a photographer's paradise. Whether you're a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, Valley View beckons you to pause and appreciate the timeless beauty that has captivated generations, a reminder of why Yosemite National Park remains an enduring symbol of natural splendor.

WAWONA MEADOW LOOP TRAIL

Wawona Meadow Loop Trail is a 3.6-mile loop across the road from Wawona Hotel that circles the golf course and surrounding meadow areas. There is no designated parking for this trail - some hikers park on the road and some in the hotel parking lot. Picking up the trailhead can be a little tough as it isn’t well marked. I recommend using AllTrails for guidance and either picking it up down the road from the hotel at the start of the golf course (winter) or crossing the street from the hotel entrance and starting the trail behind the golf course (spring). This is a gently rolling trail that can be a bit difficult in winter/early spring after snowfall. If these are the conditions, make sure you wear sturdy hiking boots. (When we did this hike in February we had to turnaround at one point, because the one steep hill on the trail was iced over.) Keep your eyes open for wildflowers in the spring/early summer months.

CATCH THE horesetail FIREFALL in february

Sunlight plays amazing tricks at Yosemite - illuminating El Capitan and Half Dome in brilliant reds and oranges. Horsetail Fall is famous for appearing to be on fire when it reflects the orange glow of sunset in mid-to late-February. It’s a spectacular sight reminiscent of Yosemite’s historic Firefall, which occurred nightly until 1968, when hotel operators would push campfire embers over Glacier Point to wow park goers.

When planning to see the Firefall, there is a lot of info available on https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm to help prepare you for your visit. Due to the influx in visitors that flock to Yosemite to see the Firefall, there are designated parking areas, and one lane of the road is closed off to allow pedestrians to safely make the 2-mile trek from the parking lot to El Capitan to find a spot to watch Horsetail Fall flow over the eastern edge and glow at sunset.

Recommended things to pack:

20-25L backpack
Plenty of water for you and your pup
A travel dog bed
Jackets for the walk back after sunset
Snacks
Packable chairs
DSLR camera with zoom lens
Comfy walking shoes

dog-friendly activities beyond yosemite valley

While Yosemite National Park offers some fantastic dog-friendly activities, there's even more to explore with your furry companion beyond the park's boundaries. Just a short drive from the park, you'll find the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias, a lesser-known gem where your pup can trot alongside you as you explore the ancient giants. The peaceful ambiance of the grove provides an excellent opportunity for a serene hike amidst towering trees and a chance to marvel at nature's timeless beauty. For a taste of history and small-town charm, Mariposa welcomes four-legged visitors to stroll its historic streets and explore its dog-friendly shops and eateries. And when it's time to cool off, the Merced River is the perfect spot for your pup to splash and play while you soak in the natural beauty. Don't miss the chance to hike to Rainbow Falls and Pools in the nearby Devils Postpile National Monument, where your furry friend can experience the thrill of discovering cascading waterfalls and clear, refreshing pools.

Tuolumne grove

Nestled on the outskirts of Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne Grove stands as a majestic testament to the ancient giants that have graced the region for centuries. This hidden gem offers a serene and less-crowded alternative to its more popular cousin, the Mariposa Grove, and is dog-friendly. As you venture along the winding trail, the cool shade of towering sequoias envelops you, transporting you to a timeless world of awe and wonder. The magnificent giant sequoias, some of which are over 2000 years old, rise towards the sky, and you wind down to the "Dead Giant," a massive fallen tree that invites explorers to walk through its hollowed trunk.

The trail is paved and considered moderate. The climb back up can be a bit challenging particularly in the heat of summer months. There is plenty of parking at the trailhead and restrooms.

Mariposa

Nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada foothills, Mariposa, California, is a charming town known as the "Gateway to Yosemite". Mariposa serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the wonders of Yosemite National Park and the nearby town of AutoCamp with good options for eateries. The town's historic downtown exudes a timeless charm, boasting well-preserved buildings, quaint shops, and restaurants.

Dog-friendly restaurants to check out: The Grove House (well-behaved dogs are allowed inside), Pizza Factory, 1850 Restaurant and Brewery, The Alley, Sticks Coffee.

rainbow falls and pools

Rainbow Pools are a delight no matter how many feet you plan to splash! This is a great place for you and your pup to go for a swim. Rainbow Pools are natural swimming holes along the south fork of the Tuolumne River, where one can dip their feet, take a plunge, or just watch the divers. Originally a Toll Stop on the Big Oak Flat Road to Yosemite, and later a resort development, the area is now a popular picnic, swimming, hiking, and fishing spot. Located just 13.7 miles out of town on Hwy 120 toward Yosemite.

Enjoy your visit to Yosemite National Park and leave us a comment if you did one of these activities and loved it or if there’s a dog-friendly activity we missed that our readers should know about!