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Itinerary suggestions

Going to Yosemite second week in June. Husband and myself 60 yo, in good shape, with our 15 yo granddaughter. Enjoy hikes up to 4 miles. Plan is to arrive there 9th in evening, stay at Tenaya 2 nights. Then Curry village 2 nights. Want to combine some hiking, some driving (not a lot) and some down time to chill at river or pool or just staring at the beauty. Also want to see the cool beautiful scenery. I’ve started researching but this came up kind of last minute so I’m asking for help. Can you give a sample itinerary that fits my description based on where we’ll be staying? Also, if need be can possibly get one more night in the valley. Thx so much!

Here’s a suggested Yosemite itinerary tailored to your plan: a mix of moderate hiking, scenic drives, and relaxing downtime, with your stays at Tenaya Lodge and Curry Village. I’ve assumed your interest in seeing classic Yosemite scenery without overdoing driving.

Day 1 – Arrival (June 9th)

  • Arrive at Tenaya Lodge in the evening. Check-in and unwind after your drive.
  • Dinner at the lodge or nearby, early night to rest for the next day.

Day 2 – Tenaya Lodge Area and Tuolumne Meadows

  • Breakfast at the lodge.
  • Drive Tioga Road towards Tuolumne Meadows. Make scenic stops: Olmsted Point for sweeping views and Tenaya Lake for a relaxing riverside stroll.
  • Optional short hike: Mirror Lake Trail (about 2-3 miles round trip, mostly flat, great for kids).
  • Lunch picnic at Tenaya Lake or Tuolumne Meadows.
  • Return to lodge, relax by the pool or river, or take a short lodge trail walk.
  • Dinner at Tenaya Lodge.

Day 3 – Transition to Curry Village / Yosemite Valley

  • Check out from Tenaya Lodge and drive to Curry Village. If parking and timing allow, stop at Bridalveil Fall on the way.
  • Check-in at Curry Village, drop luggage.
  • Explore Yosemite Valley for iconic sights: El Capitan Meadow (watch rock climbers if you like), Yosemite Falls (short trail to base, easy and scenic).
  • Evening downtime: sit by the Merced River, relax, or visit Curry Village pool.

Day 4 – Full Day Yosemite Valley Hiking and Scenic Sights

  • Breakfast at Curry Village.
  • Moderate hike option: Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge (about 3 miles round trip, great waterfall views without strenuous climbing).
  • Alternative or additional hike: Lower Yosemite Fall Trail (easy, under 1 mile, very scenic).
  • Lunch at picnic area or Curry Village dining.
  • Afternoon: drive to Tunnel View for classic Yosemite Valley photo opportunity, then relax at the valley floor or Merced River.
  • Evening: optional short walk to Sentinel Bridge for sunset reflections of Half Dome.

Day 5 – Departure or Optional Extra Night

  • If you have an extra night, consider a half-day hike like Cook’s Meadow Loop (easy, 1-2 miles) or just enjoy a leisure morning in the valley.
  • Pack up and depart for your next destination.

Additional tips:

  • Arrive early at popular spots to avoid parking struggles.
  • Keep sunscreen, water, and snacks handy during hikes.
  • Check for shuttle schedules in Yosemite Valley if you want to avoid driving in the valley.
  • Evening is perfect for relaxing by water or simply enjoying the views—sometimes just staring at Half Dome and El Capitan is enough!

This itinerary balances hiking and sightseeing with plenty of downtime, while keeping driving manageable. Adding one extra night in the valley gives flexibility for more relaxed exploration or extra hikes.

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The attractions mentioned in this question

Mirror Lake
rock

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