Things to do in Mariposa County

2026 Global 50 - Fall Viewing Attractions

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is characterized by its glacier-carved granite landscapes, with most of the area designated as wilderness, preserving its pristine natural environment. Yosemite Valley is the core area for visitors, bringing together many of the park's iconic views. El Capitan is a massive granite monolith that rises from the valley floor, with a vertical height of approx. 900 m, making it a classic challenge for rock climbers from around the world; Half Dome is the symbol of the park with its unique semi-domed shape; Yosemite Falls cascades down in three sections—upper, middle, and lower—with a total drop of approx. 740 m. Tunnel View, located near the entrance to the valley, offers a vantage point where you can see El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall all in one frame. The park also features several giant sequoia groves, including Mariposa Grove, home to giant sequoias that are hundreds to thousands of years old. Glacier Point is a high-elevation observation deck for panoramic views of the valley, while hiking up the Mist Trail allows you to experience the spray of the waterfalls up close. Hiking in the valley, taking in the views from Glacier Point, and capturing photos at Tunnel View are all classic ways to experience the park.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls is located in Yosemite National Park and is one of the tallest waterfalls in the United States. The total drop of the waterfall can reach 720 meters, which is divided into upper, middle and lower sections. The scene is very shocking. Every year in May, when the glaciers melt, the amount of water here can be very large. In summer, from August to October is the dry season. The amount of water here will be reduced or even cut off, and the waterfall will be scattered in the wind, which is another kind of style. Looking out from Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, etc., you can see a panoramic view of the waterfall and enjoy the magnificent scene of the waterfall rushing down.

No. 17 of Ski Resorts in California

Badger Pass Ski Area

Badger Run Ski Area is a historic ski resort that offers multiple ski trails suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers. In addition to snowboarding, Badger Run Ski Area also offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, cable car tours and other activities, so visitors can experience a variety of winter sports here. The ski resort is equipped with lifts, including chairlifts and multiple tow ropes to ensure the convenience and safety of skiers. The ski area has a ski school that provides professional skiing and snowboarding courses suitable for skiers of all ages and skill levels. The ski area also has equipment rentals, dining facilities and rest areas to provide convenience and comfort for visitors. In short, Badger Run Ski Area is a great place for winter sports enthusiasts with its friendly atmosphere, family-friendly environment and magnificent natural scenery, and it is also a good place to experience the winter charm of Yosemite Park.

Half Dome

Half Domeis a symbol of Yosemite National Park in California, United StatesYosemite National Park, and is also the inspiration for The North Face brand logo. It stands at an elevation of nearly 3,000 m and is one of the higher peaks in Yosemite National Park, rising nearly 1,000 m above the surrounding peaks. Therefore, when the sun sets below the horizon and the land falls into shadow, the smooth rock face shines alone in the sunset, which is truly spectacular.

El Capitan

Located in Yosemite National Park in California, United States, El Capitan is not only steeped in the climbing history of the United States but is also an influential monolith in the global climbing community. This granite monolith rises abruptly from the valley floor, towering over the landscape, with a vertical drop of over 3,000 feet. Anyone who visits Yosemite National Park cannot ignore it, nor can they help but gaze at it in awe.

Mariposa Grove

Mariposa Grove is also translated as Butterfly Valley. It is named after the giant sequoia, the world's largest book species distributed in the forest. These trees that have been standing here since the Ice Age have a history of nearly a thousand years, which makes people feel their own insignificance. The trekking route of the giant sequoia forest is about 1.5 hours, and tourists who are interested in geology, flora and fauna can visit.

Glacier Point

Glacier Point Viewpoint is located at the end of the summit road, where you can enjoy a commanding panoramic view of Yosemite. Before that, there was a large viewing platform called Washburn Point on the side of the road, where you could see Spring Falls and Winter Falls. When you finally reach the top of the mountain, you will be intoxicated by the sight, the clouds and mist lingering under your feet, and the deep imprint of the glacier on the landscape in front of you. In addition to this, it is an ideal place to watch the sunrise, which is often visited by many people when the weather is good.

Yosemite Village

Located in California's Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Village is an ideal starting point and refueling point for exploring this natural wonder. The village is set in a stunning valley, surrounded by towering granite peaks and lush forests. There is a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, cabins and campgrounds, to suit all budgets and preferences. The village is well-equipped with a visitor center, restaurant, shop and museum for your convenience. The visitor center is a great place to get park information and maps, and the staff are happy to offer advice and guidance. The Ansel Adams Gallery, showcasing the work of the famous photographer, is well worth a look. From Yosemite Village, visitors can easily reach famous attractions such as Yosemite Falls, Half Dome and El Capitan. Hiking enthusiasts can choose from a variety of trails, ranging from easy short walks to challenging long treks, to suit all levels of need.

Tunnel View

The tunnel viewing point is located in California, USA. The terrain of the viewing point is relatively high, and you can enjoy the surrounding waterfalls, jungles, rocks and other landscapes.

Lower Yosemite Falls Trailhead