Valley Loop Trail to Mirror Lake

The Valley Loop Trail to Mirror Lake is an awesome hike that will surely get your blood pumping. Wander past some of the best sights that Yosemite National Park has to offer in one circuit hike. Note: sections of this path will likely be busier than others as there are several connecting routes. Revel in panoramas of Half Dome looming above, Yosemite Valley, and Yosemite Falls. Admire the granite landscape as you loop through the valley. The National Park charges an entrance fee, check out the NPS website for a pricing guide and more information.

Embark on your adventure along the Valley Loop Trail to Mirror Lake from the Mirror Lake Trailhead. From here, the loop can be completed in either direction, but we chose to track counterclockwise. From the trailhead, head north along the Valley Loop Trail—which you will stay on for the entirety of your adventure. Wander north along the Merced River, before diverting northeast along the Tenaya Creek. Soon, the path will approach the shores of Mirror Lake, with Half Dome and North Dome looming above. The path will eventually redirect you west along the northern shore of Mirror Lake and back onto the floor of Yosemite Valley. As you meander west, you will pass over several creeks and by a campground to make your way into Yosemite Village to Yosemite Falls.

Revel in the grandeur of the cascades, then head south before being redirected east. Follow the path through Curry Village and you will soon be delivered back to the trailhead, marking the end of your adventure.