No trip to Yosemite National Park is complete without a hike. While there are certainly hikes that are only for the most experienced and fit hikers (like summiting the sheer face of Half Dome), there are many hikes suitable for intermediate hikers, families with children, inexperienced hikers, and everything in between. Here are some of our favorite hikes in Yosemite:

A few basic tips to keep you safe on the trail:

• Stay on the trails—it’s safer for you and better for the environment
• Bring plenty of water—dehydration is the most common trail injury
• Pets are not allowed on hiking trails, but are allowed on designated bike trails and some other pathways
• Bicycles are only allowed on designated bike paths
• Allow horses and mules to pass you on the trails
• Trails are not maintained or constantly patrolled, so hike at own risk
• Smoking while hiking is prohibited, though you may smoke while stopped assuming fire restrictions are not in effect. Smokers must fully extinguish their cigarettes and pack them out.

Hike Safe Program:

http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/hikingsafety.htm

• Have a plan
• Inform someone of where you're going and when you plan to return
• Keep a flashlight and whistle with you
• Eat well, stay hydrated, carry plenty of water
• Stay on the trail
• Ask for HELP!
• Familiarize yourself with the area - use of a map
• Expect changes in the weather