Yosemite National Park offers countless hikes for visitors to enjoy throughout the year, but adventurers searching for the best Yosemite hikes in the summer need to look no further than right here at Rush Creek Lodge and the surrounding area.
Read on for a list of some of the best Yosemite hikes in the summer!
Best summer hikes in Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Falls Trail
Approximately 7.2 miles | Moderate
Starting in Yosemite Valley, this trail will lead you to the majestic Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. This hike offers challenging uphill sections that reward hikers with awe-inspiring views of the valley, Half Dome, and the surrounding peaks.
Tuolumne Meadows + Cathedral Lakes
8 miles | Moderate
One of the best Yosemite hikes in the summer is Tuolumne Meadows and Cathedral Lakes, beginning in the high country of Yosemite. The picturesque trail leads hikers through Tuolumne Meadows to Cathedral Lakes, where you can take a dip beneath the tall granite peaks. The crystal clear waters and stunning vistas make this trail an ideal summer hike.
Yosemite Valley Explorer
4-5 miles | Gentle to Moderate
Yosemite Valley Explorer traverses both iconic and hidden sights of Yosemite Valley. This trail takes about half a day round-trip, and showcases seasonal creeks, meadows, and unforgettable views of the park. During the summer is when you’ll see the landscape covered in its brightest green under gorgeous blue skies.
Yosemite Overnight Backpacking Adventure
6-30 miles | Intermediate to Advanced
This overnight backpacking trip is fully customizable, making it one of the best Yosemite hikes in summer. Your Rush Creek Lodge guide will craft a unique, memorable adventure tailored to your goals. Whether you’re looking for a slow-paced overnight camping trip with the family or a 30-mile trek through the backwoods of the park, this overnight adventure in Yosemite is one of the best summer hikes.
South Rim of Yosemite Valley Tour
10.5 miles | Moderate
This hike takes you away from summer crowds to the southern rim of Yosemite Valley. See the Red Fir groves, wildflower meadows, and historic sites that populate this less-traveled area of the park. Stop at multiple vista points along the way for stunning views of Mt. Hoffman and Mt. Conness.
Learn more about Rush Creek Lodge’s guided Yosemite National park tours to add to your summer getaway itinerary.
New Hiking Trails at Rush Creek Lodge
Guests at Rush Creek Lodge can enjoy three onsite hiking trails, bringing the best Yosemite hikes in the summer right to their doorsteps.
Nature Trail at Rush Creek Lodge
.5 mile | Gentle
The Nature Trail is a leisurely and picturesque half-mile trail. Conveniently located on Rush Creek’s property, this is an ideal choice for families and individuals seeking a short, relaxing stroll. Created to showcase the natural flora of the Yosemite area, the trail is also an opportunity to learn about the nature of Yosemite Valley.
Vista Trail at Rush Creek Lodge
1.6 miles | Moderate
The Vista Trail is a moderate 1.6 mile trail that offers stunning views of the Stanislaus forest and the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The trail features lookout points with benches that encourage you to stop and take in the natural beauty of your surroundings in their brightest shades of summer green.
Adventure Trail at Rush Creek Lodge
2.7 miles | Moderate to Advanced
The Adventure Trail is a 2.7 mile trail that begins at Rush Creek Lodge. The trail is multi-use for hikers and mountain bikers – you can rent a bike on the property or bring your own! This trail was created with adventure in mind, promising an unforgettable journey through the Yosemite wilderness on foot or by bike.
Some of the best Yosemite hikes in summer are located right here at Rush Creek Lodge. Whether you venture off the property to tour Yosemite Valley or stick around near our Yosemite lodging, no day of trail adventures is complete until you end your day with a starlit soak in our hot tub, a dip in our 2,400 square-foot saltwater pool, or an aromatherapy massage at the Rush Creek Spa. Rest well at Rush Creek Lodge knowing you’re just steps from the action when you wake up!
