Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Routes

Mountain biking trails

Yosemite Valley Loop

Mountain biking trails

Yosemite Valley Loop

Easy

2.5

(15)

riders

Yosemite Valley Loop

Q: What is the terrain like for cycling the Yosemite Valley Loop?

The cycling experience on the Yosemite Valley Loop is primarily on over 12 miles of paved bike paths and regular valley roads. These paths are generally flat and accessible, making for a leisurely ride. While the broader hiking 'Valley Loop Trail' includes mixed surfaces, cyclists are expected to stay on paved surfaces within Yosemite National Park.

Q: Is the Yosemite Valley Loop suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the paved bike paths of the Yosemite Valley Loop are mostly flat and considered easy, making them ideal for beginners, families, and riders of all skill levels. The speed limit on bike paths is 15 mph, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Q: Where can I park to access the Yosemite Valley Loop for cycling?

Parking is available at various locations throughout Yosemite Valley, including near the Yosemite National Park Visitor Center and Curry Village . Arriving early, especially during peak season, is recommended to secure a spot. Biking offers a great alternative to driving, helping you avoid vehicle congestion.

Q: Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to cycle the Yosemite Valley Loop?

While there isn't a specific permit required for cycling the loop itself, you will need to pay the standard entrance fee to enter Yosemite National Park. This fee covers all occupants of a private vehicle for seven days. You can find current fee information on the official NPS website.

Q: What landmarks and viewpoints can I see while cycling the Yosemite Valley Loop?

Cycling the loop offers breathtaking views of iconic Yosemite landmarks. You'll pass by the Yosemite Valley Bike Path , the Swinging Bridge , and the serene Mirror Lake . Other notable sights include El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, Cathedral Rocks, Three Brothers, and Yosemite Falls, all visible from the paved paths.

Q: What are the cycling regulations in Yosemite Valley?

Cyclists must adhere to park regulations, which require staying on paved surfaces and obeying all traffic laws when sharing roads with vehicles. Helmets are required by law for children under 18 and recommended for all riders. E-bikes under 750 watts are permitted wherever regular bicycles are allowed.

Q: Is the Yosemite Valley Loop dog-friendly?

Dogs are generally allowed on paved roads and paved bike paths in Yosemite Valley, including the Yosemite Valley Loop. They must be on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. However, dogs are not permitted on unpaved trails or shuttle buses. Always check the latest park regulations before your visit.

Q: What is the best time of year to cycle the Yosemite Valley Loop?

The Yosemite Valley Loop is beautiful year-round, but spring (April-May) offers spectacular waterfalls at their peak, and fall (September-October) provides vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures. Summer (June-August) is popular but can be crowded. Winter cycling is possible, but some paths may be closed due to snow or ice.

Q: Are bike rentals available in Yosemite Valley?

Yes, bicycles are readily available for rent in Yosemite Valley, typically at Curry Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge. A free bike share program is also offered seasonally, making it convenient for visitors who don't bring their own bikes.

Q: How long does it typically take to cycle the Yosemite Valley Loop?

The Yosemite Valley Loop is approximately 11.6 km (7.2 miles) long. For an average cyclist, it takes about 35-45 minutes to complete the loop, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. It's an easy ride, perfect for a leisurely outing.

00:38

11.6km

70m

Mountain biking

Mountain biking the easy 7.2-mile Yosemite Valley Loop offers iconic views of El Capitan and Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Yosemite National Park

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

604 m

Yosemite National Park Visitor Center

Highlight • Rest Area

The rangers are very nice and helpful. The center closes with the last shuttle from Yosemite

Translated by Google •

Tip by

946 m

Yosemite Valley Bike Path

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Yosemite Valley offers over 12 miles of paved bike paths, providing a scenic and enjoyable way to explore the park. These paths are mostly flat, making them suitable for riders of all skill levels, including families with children. Cyclists can enjoy views of iconic landmarks such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls while riding. This is a great way to get around the valley and avoid the traffic that piles up during the busy season!

Tip by

2.75 km

Swinging Bridge

Highlight (Segment) • Bridge

At the Swinging Bridge and Swinging Bridge Picnic Area, visitors can enjoy fantastic views of Yosemite Falls reflected in the Merced River, best seen by day or by full moon at night. Despite the name, the bridge no longer swings, as it was replaced after flood damage in 1964. The picnic area offers tables, grills, and scenic surroundings. The area is open from dawn to dusk and features accessible amenities, including picnic tables, vault toilets, and parking. Visitors should keep food secure due to bears and other wildlife and be cautious around swift waters.

Tip by

5.89 km

Curry Village

Highlight • Rest Area

Curry Village, located in Yosemite Valley, is a popular spot for food and lodging, offering a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. For lodging, it provides a mix of accommodations, including canvas tent cabins, wooden cabins, and a limited number of hotel-style rooms. The tent cabins, available in both heated and unheated options, are a rustic yet iconic way to experience the park, while the hard-sided cabins provide more comfort. Each accommodation style offers easy access to the stunning views and nearby trails. When it comes to food, Curry Village has several dining options to keep visitors well-fed after a day of exploring. The Pizza Deck is a favorite, serving freshly made pizzas with outdoor seating that allows you to take in the incredible surroundings. The Coffee Corner is perfect for a morning pick-me-up or a quick snack. Meadow Grill offers burgers, fries, and other casual fare in a laid-back setting, while the Curry Village Dining Pavilion provides buffet-style meals in a family-friendly environment. Seasonal food trucks also appear on occasion, adding variety to the dining scene.

The field near Curry Village, officially known as Stoneman Meadow, offers stunning views of some of Yosemite Valley’s most iconic landmarks. From this open area, you can take in breathtaking vistas of Half Dome, its sheer granite face rising dramatically against the sky, especially striking at sunrise or sunset. To the west, you’ll see the towering cliffs of Glacier Point and Sentinel Rock, while the lush greenery of the meadow provides a peaceful contrast to the rugged surroundings. In the spring and early summer, wildflowers often dot the meadow, adding vibrant colors to the scene.

Tip by

8.21 km

Mirror Lake

Highlight • Lake

The small, seasonal lake on Tenaya Creek lies between North and Half Dome and is the last remnant of a large glacial lake that filled most of the Yosemite Valley at the end of the last ice age, but now mostly only has water in spring.

Tip by

11.6 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

10.7 km

623 m

166 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

8.56 km

2.97 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Thursday 7 May

21°C

3°C

3 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

This route was planned by komoot.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the terrain like for cycling the Yosemite Valley Loop?

The cycling experience on the Yosemite Valley Loop is primarily on over 12 miles of paved bike paths and regular valley roads. These paths are generally flat and accessible, making for a leisurely ride. While the broader hiking 'Valley Loop Trail' includes mixed surfaces, cyclists are expected to stay on paved surfaces within Yosemite National Park.

Is the Yosemite Valley Loop suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, the paved bike paths of the Yosemite Valley Loop are mostly flat and considered easy, making them ideal for beginners, families, and riders of all skill levels. The speed limit on bike paths is 15 mph, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Where can I park to access the Yosemite Valley Loop for cycling?

Parking is available at various locations throughout Yosemite Valley, including near the Yosemite National Park Visitor Center and Curry Village. Arriving early, especially during peak season, is recommended to secure a spot. Biking offers a great alternative to driving, helping you avoid vehicle congestion.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee to cycle the Yosemite Valley Loop?

While there isn't a specific permit required for cycling the loop itself, you will need to pay the standard entrance fee to enter Yosemite National Park. This fee covers all occupants of a private vehicle for seven days. You can find current fee information on the official NPS website.

What landmarks and viewpoints can I see while cycling the Yosemite Valley Loop?

Cycling the loop offers breathtaking views of iconic Yosemite landmarks. You'll pass by the Yosemite Valley Bike Path, the Swinging Bridge, and the serene Mirror Lake. Other notable sights include El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, Cathedral Rocks, Three Brothers, and Yosemite Falls, all visible from the paved paths.

What are the cycling regulations in Yosemite Valley?

Cyclists must adhere to park regulations, which require staying on paved surfaces and obeying all traffic laws when sharing roads with vehicles. Helmets are required by law for children under 18 and recommended for all riders. E-bikes under 750 watts are permitted wherever regular bicycles are allowed.

Is the Yosemite Valley Loop dog-friendly?

Dogs are generally allowed on paved roads and paved bike paths in Yosemite Valley, including the Yosemite Valley Loop. They must be on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. However, dogs are not permitted on unpaved trails or shuttle buses. Always check the latest park regulations before your visit.

What is the best time of year to cycle the Yosemite Valley Loop?

The Yosemite Valley Loop is beautiful year-round, but spring (April-May) offers spectacular waterfalls at their peak, and fall (September-October) provides vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures. Summer (June-August) is popular but can be crowded. Winter cycling is possible, but some paths may be closed due to snow or ice.

Are bike rentals available in Yosemite Valley?

Yes, bicycles are readily available for rent in Yosemite Valley, typically at Curry Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge. A free bike share program is also offered seasonally, making it convenient for visitors who don't bring their own bikes.

How long does it typically take to cycle the Yosemite Valley Loop?

The Yosemite Valley Loop is approximately 11.6 km (7.2 miles) long. For an average cyclist, it takes about 35-45 minutes to complete the loop, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views. It's an easy ride, perfect for a leisurely outing.

Does the Yosemite Valley Loop cycling route connect with other trails?

Yes, the cycling route primarily follows the Bike Path, which is the main paved route through the valley. It also intersects with sections of the Valley Loop Trail (which is multi-use and includes unpaved sections for hikers) and provides access points to other paved paths like the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail and Cook's Meadow Trail.