1 week for stargazing, August 2026 Yosemite

Question

Hello! I'm considering a stay in Yosemite next summer for stargazing during the Perseids Meteor Shower. I've been reading up a bit and browsing the NPS site. I have a list of spots that look like they might make sense for me - are any of them better than others?:

- Wawona Meadow

- Tunnel View

- Glacier Point

- Swinging Bridge

- Olmstead Point

I also like day hiking and reading a book in a meadow, maybe going for a swim, and just seeing the beauty.

Here's the draft itinerary I've drawn up. Please let me know if you have suggestions.

- 8/7, drive from home to Fresno, buy groceries stay at Hampton Inn or similar

- 8/8, stop at Tunnel View on the way in, stay at YVL

- 8/9, YVL, Yosemite Falls if it's flowing (stargazing at Swinging Bridge)

- 8/10, YVL, short hikes / swim in the river (stargazing at Tunnel View)

- 8/11, YVL, Mirror Lake if has water, otherwise wander the valley

- 8/12, YVL, Wawona area sightseeing (stargazing at Glacier Point - meteor shower peak)

- 8/13, transfer to Murpheys Motel

- 8/14, Murpheys Motel, visit Tenaya Lake & Olmstead Point, Olmstead Point for stargazing

- 8/15, Murpheys Motel, short hikes in Tuolumne Meadows

- 8/16, Drive home

I've never spent much time in Tuolumne Meadows, so I definitely want to do that. And it looks like several hotel options are off-limits (Wawona Hotel, Tuolumne Meadows Lodge).

If it matters, I'll be driving my own AWD Subaru Outback and I might bring a bicycle. Traveling solo, age 50+. Although I might drag a friend/cousin with me. I have lots of experience doing easy dayhikes, but don't really like going up and down boulders or big elevation changes. Strong swimmer.

For the dates I'm outside the park, I'll keep an eye on a possible reservation system to get in and/or plan to arrive outside peak times.

Thanks in advance!

Answer

Your draft itinerary for Yosemite in August 2026 is well thought out, particularly for stargazing during the Perseids Meteor Shower. The dates coincide nicely with the peak of the shower, and your choice of locations balances accessibility, scenery, and night-sky visibility. Here’s a detailed assessment and suggestions:

Stargazing spots:

Wawona Meadow: Excellent for wide-open skies with minimal light pollution. The meadow is flat and easy to access, ideal for lying back and watching meteors. Good choice if you enjoy reading or relaxing in a meadow.
Tunnel View: Iconic viewpoint with spectacular valley vistas. It can be busy during the day, but at night it’s generally quieter. A bit less secluded than Wawona Meadow for stargazing, but the silhouettes of El Capitan and Half Dome make for incredible night-sky photos.
Glacier Point: Outstanding panoramic views of the valley, Half Dome, and high Sierra. For the meteor shower peak, this is arguably the best spot due to clear horizons, minimal trees, and high elevation. Note: it can be crowded in the evening, so plan to arrive early and scout a quiet spot near the overlook.
Swinging Bridge: Centrally located in the valley, easy access from Yosemite Village lodging. The Merced River provides a reflective surface that can enhance night photography. It’s convenient, but there may be some light from nearby accommodations.
Olmstead Point: High-elevation viewpoint along Tioga Road. Superb for night-sky visibility due to reduced light pollution. Great for stargazing after visiting Tenaya Lake, and it’s generally quieter than Glacier Point.

Daytime activities:

Your plan to explore Yosemite Falls, Mirror Lake, and Tuolumne Meadows is ideal for someone who prefers easy day hikes and wants to enjoy the scenery without strenuous climbs.
Swimming in the Merced River is a nice touch; just ensure water levels are safe. Alternatively, Tenaya Lake is excellent for a swim on the Tuolumne side.
Biking in Yosemite Valley is very practical and allows you to cover more ground while minimizing uphill climbs.

Itinerary feedback:

8/8: Tunnel View on the way in is perfect for a first scenic stop. Consider staying until sunset for evening photography if time permits.
8/9–8/11: Your Yosemite Valley days are well planned. Swinging Bridge and Tunnel View for stargazing are convenient given your YVL lodging. Wawona Meadow could be added as a brief night visit if you want variety.
8/12: Glacier Point is an excellent choice for meteor shower peak viewing; bring a blanket and snacks, and arrive slightly before dark to secure a spot.
8/14–8/15: Murpheys Motel works well as a base for Tuolumne Meadows exploration. Olmstead Point is perfect for evening stargazing, and Tenaya Lake offers both scenic views and swimming opportunities.
Tuolumne Meadows: Easy hikes here include Soda Springs and the Tuolumne River meadows. Elevation is higher, but the trails are gentle and accessible for someone avoiding boulder-strewn terrain.

Clothing and gear:

Daytime temperatures in August: generally warm (70–85°F in the valley), but higher elevations (Tuolumne) can be cooler (50s–60s°F).
Evenings: can drop to the 50s°F in the valley and 40s°F in higher elevations. Bring layers, a warm jacket, hat, and blanket for stargazing.
Sturdy walking shoes for easy hikes; swimsuit for river or lake swimming; sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen).
Binoculars or a small telescope optional for stargazing; a headlamp or flashlight for walking at night.

Additional tips:

Arrive at stargazing spots early to secure a quiet area and avoid light from other visitors.
Check the NPS website for any Tioga Road or Glacier Point road closures, as construction or park maintenance can affect access.
Bring snacks and water, especially if planning long stargazing sessions away from amenities.
Use the park’s shuttle system when possible to reduce driving stress and parking challenges in Yosemite Valley.

Overall, your itinerary is balanced, with a mix of relaxed meadow time, short hikes, and prime stargazing opportunities. Glacier Point for the Perseids peak and Olmstead Point for quieter, high-elevation viewing are highlights. Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows provide the daytime scenery and mild hiking you enjoy. With your AWD Subaru, access should be easy, and the addition of a bicycle will enhance valley exploration. Your plan is realistic and enjoyable for solo travel or with a companion.

1 week for stargazing, August 2026 Yosemite

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