Yosemite with teens in July

Question

Hi there, we will be driving from SF on the 26th July, staying in Midpines for 2 nights with our teenage daughters ages 13 and 16. I am a bit worried about the traffic but also wondering what we should prioritise to do and see. Would love to do a short hike but needs to not be too long unless I'll have moaning teens!! They would love if we were near rafting or swimming and happy to bike ride also. Any advice on an itinerary would be appreciated. We will drive to Carmel from Yosemite. I've wanted to visit Yosemite for so long so want to get it right! Thank you.

Answer

Visiting Yosemite in late July with teens can be a wonderful experience, but you are right to be mindful of traffic, crowds, and activities that appeal to teenagers. Staying in Midpines is a good choice as it gives you access to the south entrance (Highway 140), which is often less congested than the Big Oak Flat entrance. Expect heavy traffic in Yosemite Valley itself, especially mid-day, so plan to enter the park early or later in the afternoon for sightseeing.

Suggested Yosemite Itinerary for 2 Nights with Teens:

Day 1 – Arrival & Afternoon Exploration:
- Drive from San Francisco early to avoid worst traffic.
- Check in at your accommodation in Midpines.
- Stop at Tunnel View for the iconic photo of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome.
- Optional: Short walk to Bridalveil Fall (easy, ~0.5 miles round trip).
- Dinner near Midpines or in Mariposa if you want a small-town feel.
Day 2 – Yosemite Valley Adventure:
- Arrive early in the valley to avoid traffic and find parking.
- Short, teen-friendly hikes:
  - Lower Yosemite Fall Trail (~1 mile, easy, paved)
  - Mirror Lake Loop (~2-3 miles round trip, flat, fun for photos)
  - Cook’s Meadow Loop (~1 mile, easy, excellent views of Half Dome)
- Optional rafting/swimming: Look into Merced River areas near Happy Isles for wading or tubing (bring water shoes and life vests for safety).
- Lunch: Pack sandwiches or stop at Yosemite Village picnic areas.
- Bike rentals in Yosemite Valley are available; the valley has mostly flat bike trails perfect for teens and short distances.
- Evening: Catch sunset at Valley View or Glacier Point if time allows (Glacier Point may require early booking or check shuttle availability).
Day 3 – Departure towards Carmel:
- Consider a morning hike before leaving, such as the easy Wawona Meadow Loop (~1.5 miles) or swing by Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias (short trail options available).
- Head out early to avoid peak traffic on Highway 140/Highway 41.
- Optional stop: Oakhurst for breakfast or snacks before continuing your drive.

Additional Tips for Teens & Summer in Yosemite:

Start early to maximize sightseeing before midday crowds and heat.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, hats, and layers for cooler mornings/evenings.
Short hikes with scenic payoff are ideal; avoid long strenuous hikes unless everyone is excited.
Book any river rafting or guided activities in advance; some teen-friendly float trips are available in the Merced River.
Use the free park shuttle in Yosemite Valley if parking is limited; it helps get around easily.

This plan balances iconic sights, short hikes, and teen-friendly outdoor fun like biking and wading in the river, while minimizing complaints about long walks and heat.

Yosemite with teens in July

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