Lover of The Outdoors

Things to Do For Kids in Yosemite National Park California

Author:

Published:

Updated:

light in a tunnel

Affiliate Disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

There are many things for your family to do in Yosemite National Park. For example, they can visit the Happy Isles Nature Center and explore the swinging bridge. They can also bike or go hiking through the park. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, you can take the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail. Stunning views from the Swinging Bridge surround the park.

Things to Do For Kids in Yosemite National Park  California

Happy Isles Nature Center

Happy Isles Nature Center is a great place for young children to learn more about Yosemite’s cultural and natural heritage. This small, air-conditioned, indoor center is open May-September and features interactive exhibits, trails, and more. There are many books for children. The Center also offers special programs for children, such as a Junior Ranger Program.

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail

Yosemite National Park can be found in Northern California, in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. It covers approximately 759,620 acres. Most visitors spend time in the park’s Yosemite Valley. Many trails lead to different points of interest within the Valley. The park offers shuttle services to and from key sites.

May Lake

If you’re traveling with kids, there are a variety of things to do in Yosemite National Park California. Younger children will love a rock-throwing contest. Older children can cruise down the Merced River, or hike to Nevada Falls. Bicycle rentals are available at Half Dome Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge.

Columbian Mammoths

Children who enjoy nature will love exploring the Columbian Mammoth skeleton at Yosemite National Park. These larger cousins of Woolly Mammoths lived in the San Joaquin Valley 11,500 years ago. You can also find fossils from 22 species for kids.

Hiking

Yosemite hiking with children is a great way to spend quality family time. The Park is open year-round, but summer is the most popular time to visit. The park can be very hot during these months, and temperatures regularly reach 90 degrees. However, late spring and early fall are more pleasant months, and the park is not as busy during the school year.

Biking

Several hiking and biking trails in Yosemite National Park are safe for small children. The popular Mist Trail runs through the valley, up to the Vernal and Nevada waterfalls. This 5.4 mile round-trip trail is not difficult to ride and is a popular choice with families.

Seeking out wildlife

Regardless of your age, you can find wildlife in Yosemite National Park California. The park is open all year, but the summer months are the most popular. Summers can be extremely hot, with highs in the 90s in Yosemite Valley. However, spring and fall are both pleasant seasons for visiting the park.

About the author

Latest posts

  • What Size Inverter Do I Need For My Camper

    What Size Inverter Do I Need For My Camper

    We know what you might be thinking: ‘Do I really need to worry about the size of the inverter for my camper?’ Well, let us assure you, it’s a crucial consideration if you want to power all your appliances and devices while on the road. In this article, we will guide you through the process…

    Read more

  • What Size Is A Camper Queen Mattress

    What Size Is A Camper Queen Mattress

    Have you ever found yourself on a camping trip, excited to unwind and relax, only to discover that your camper mattress is too small for a comfortable night’s sleep? We’ve all been there, tossing and turning on a cramped mattress, longing for the comforts of home. That’s why it’s crucial to know the size of…

    Read more

  • What Size Is A Camper Mattress

    What Size Is A Camper Mattress

    When embarking on a camping adventure, one of the key considerations is ensuring a comfortable night’s sleep. And what better way to achieve that than with a camper mattress that perfectly fits your needs? But here’s the catch: what size is a camper mattress? Fear not, fellow adventurers, for we are here to shed light…

    Read more