Wildflowers, waterfalls, and towering sequoia lie just off the beaten path in Southern Yosemite, a region famous for its sprawling natural beauty and early American history. Here, you can visit still-standing hotels frequented by legendary U.S. presidents, a cathedral-like giant sequoia grove, and miles of accessible, pet-friendly trails, all in the same day. And, with a little local knowledge and a lot of wanderlust, you can get up close and personal with the best of the season (and the best of Yosemite National Park).
Yosemite History Center
Cross the covered bridge and travel to a time long since passed at the first stop on our hunt: Wawona’s Yosemite History Center. Here, Mother Nature and humankind live side by side: rustic cabins, a blacksmith’s shop, and even a jail are ripe for exploring against a backdrop of fresh spring greenery. Brush up on your National Parks knowledge, get the scoop on nearby Southern Yosemite landmarks, and visit the Chinese Laundry building to learn about the immigrant workers who helped develop the park as a destination.
Chilnualna Falls
Chilnualna Falls is another Mariposa County gem and the prize waiting at the end of a challenging 8.2 mile hike. Spring marks peak flow for this trio of waterfalls, so don’t miss this one-of-a-kind, all-day hike if you’re in Yosemite this time of year. Be cautious and don’t get too close to the stream – when the water is high, it’s also fast, and the granite can get slippery.
The Redwoods in Yosemite
For a well-earned rest, lie down next to Yosemite’s sleeping giants at The Redwoods in Yosemite, a collection of 125 cozy cabins minutes from the Grove. With pet-friendly lodging and a new events venue, The Redwoods in Yosemite is a gathering place for friends, family and adventurers with convenient access to the best of Southern Yosemite.
Wawona Meadow
Your next scavenger hunt destination is Wawona Meadow Loop, the perfect place to stretch your legs and work on your swing. But don’t be fooled. Though the golf course might seem like the most extraordinary part of this trail, the real treasures are the heaps of wildflowers you’ll find along the edges of the meadow. Explore on foot or by bike, or even alongside a furry friend; dogs are welcome!
Don’t forget to visit Wawona Hotel – a collection of bright, Victorian-era buildings surrounded by endless green mountains. Opened in 1879, this historic hotel hosted former president Ulysses S. Grant. Today, it’s an activity hub for travelers (and the perfect place to fuel up in spring and summer). Most importantly, it’s just around the corner from the next larger-than-life stop on your spring scavenger hunt.
Mariposa Grove
You might feel as though you’re walking in a cathedral here, but rest assured you’re still in the greatest outdoors of all: the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite. Over 500 mature specimens, some close to 3,000 years old, live quietly here at the edge of the park’s South Entrance. On foot or horseback, the hiking here will bring you up close and personal with titans like Fallen Monarch, Grizzly Giant, and the famous California Tunnel Tree.