Second week April

Question

We want to visit Yosemite second week of April for about 4 days.

Is that too many days? Last year we went to Grand Canyon and originally planned 4 days but were told 2 is more than enough.

We enjoy drives with scenic pullouts (mountains), Sequoia trees, and 3-4 mile hikes beginner to mid level.

thanks!

Answer

Visiting Yosemite for 4 days in the second week of April is not too many days, especially if you enjoy scenic drives, sequoia groves, and beginner-to-mid level hikes. Yosemite is a large park with a lot of variety, and 4 days allows you to explore at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.

April is a great time to visit because the waterfalls are usually at their peak from snowmelt, and the crowds are lighter than in summer. However, some higher elevation areas and passes, like Tioga Road, may still be closed due to snow, so plan around the valley and lower elevation areas.

Here’s a suggested way to structure 4 days:

Day 1 – Yosemite Valley:
- Drive through Yosemite Valley and stop at scenic pullouts like Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall, and El Capitan Meadow.
- Take an easy to moderate hike such as Lower Yosemite Fall Trail (1 mile) or Mirror Lake Loop (2–5 miles depending on route).
- Visit the valley’s iconic viewpoints and picnic spots.
Day 2 – Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias:
- Spend the morning exploring the Mariposa Grove, which has several loops ranging from 1 to 7 miles. The Big Trees Loop (0.5 mile) is very easy.
- Optional short hikes to see Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
- Enjoy scenic drives along Wawona Road and stop at Chilnualna Falls or other pullouts if time permits.
Day 3 – Scenic drives and viewpoints:
- Drive to Glacier Point if accessible (check seasonal openings), with stunning views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley.
- Short hikes like Sentinel Dome or Taft Point (~2–3 miles, moderate).
- Spend time photographing and relaxing at overlooks.
Day 4 – Optional Valley repeats or nearby hikes:
- Revisit favorite spots in the valley or take a new hike like Vernal Fall Footbridge (1.6 miles round trip).
- Optional gentle hike to Happy Isles Nature Trail (1 mile loop) or stroll along the Merced River.
- Use any remaining time for last-minute sightseeing or gift shops.

With 4 days, you won’t feel rushed, can enjoy waterfalls, sequoias, and scenic drives, and have flexibility in case of closures or weather changes. It also allows time for short hikes without pushing your pace.

Tips:

Check road and trail conditions in advance; some trails and Glacier Point Road may still be closed in April.
Bring layers – mornings and evenings can be chilly, and snow may linger in shaded areas.
Use shuttle services in the valley if available to reduce parking hassle.

Overall, 4 days is perfect for a relaxed Yosemite experience that balances scenic drives, sequoias, and beginner-friendly hikes.