Valley floor, morning to falls
A day in Yosemite National Park — 6 stops, about 8.59 km on foot, 161 minutes walking.
An easy day on the Yosemite Valley floor: a look at the old lodge, the museum and village services, lunch packed up, then the short walk to the base of Yosemite Falls. About 3.9 km of walking, mostly flat and paved, suited to anyone not planning a climb.
The route, in order
The Ahwahnee
Start here before the village fills up, when the public rooms are quiet and Half Dome is visible from the grounds.
20 min walk — Head north toward Ahwahnee Drive
Yosemite Museum
Opens 10:00
A short walk brings you to the museum, which opens at 10:00 — the Miwok and Paiute baskets and displays are indoors, good for a cool start.
4 min walk — Head west toward Village Dr
Yosemite Village
The museum sits within the village, so step out and use the hub to orient yourself, check conditions and browse the visitor centre.
7 min walk — Head northeast on Village Dr toward Oak Ln Restricted usage road
Degnan's Kitchen
Opens 07:00
Degnan's has been open since 07:00; pick up a sandwich here rather than doubling back later in the day.
17 min walk — Head northwest
Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
From the village it's a level walk to the loop trail, the easiest approach to the falls and pleasant with lunch in hand.
113 min walk — Head south on Lower Yosemite Fall Trl
Yosemite Falls
The trail ends at the base of the cascade, the natural close to the day — loudest and fullest in spring snowmelt.