California dog parents are perfectly positioned for a visit. Mariposa County and Yosemite National Park are an easy drive from just about anywhere in the state. And, with no reservations needed to enter the park in 2023, exploring Yosemite is even easier. Pack up the family (including four-legged family members!) and head to Yosemite’s magnificent waterfalls.
Dog-friendly beauty at Bridalveil Fall
Bridalveil Fall is beautiful to behold and famously photo-friendly in the spring. The sound of water splashing and crashing against rocks creates an immersive experience as you approach the waterfall. Thanks to a convenient paved path, this 620-foot wonder is also very accessible. A Yosemite Conservancy restoration project slated for 2023 completion will create new restrooms and expanded viewing areas, too.
While pups are welcome at Bridalveil Fall and on the other waterfall hikes mentioned here, please remember that dogs must always be on a leash. This simple step safeguards your pet, protects local wildlife, and helps ensure continued park access for all dog-loving travelers.
Furry friends love Lower Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America and the sixth tallest in the world. DogTrekkers are especially fond of Lower Yosemite Falls, which is easily accessible for humans and hounds via a one-mile loop trail. It’s a favorite of visitors, thanks to stunning views and the soundtrack of water crashing onto the rocks below.
While Lower Yosemite Falls may not typically flow all year, this year’s peak snowmelt in May and June will make for an especially impressive cascade. Get a sneak peek at Yosemite Falls through a webcam provided by the Yosemite Conservancy. Other Yosemite Valley webcams can be found at Yosemite.com.
In Yosemite, overnight at these dog-friendly Mariposa properties
Mariposa County, home to Yosemite National Park, is often known as the “Mother of Counties.” This historic segment of California was one of the original counties established after statehood in 1850.
You’ll find lots of DogTrekker lodging favorites in Mariposa County, including Yosemite View Lodge on Highway 140 near the park’s west entrance, with fantastic views of the majestic Merced River. Inside the park in the quiet town of Wawona, The Redwoods in Yosemite rents cabins and many dog-friendly vacation homes. Nearby on Highway 41, just outside the park’s southern entrance, you’ll find Tenaya at Yosemite, featuring Tenaya Lodge and Explorer Cabins at Tenaya.
Leave Only Paw Prints® when visiting Yosemite
Editor’s note: The lodging properties mentioned above are members of the Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau (YMCTB), the destination marketing organization for Mariposa County. The YMCTB is a long-time DogTrekker.com destination partner and a valued supporter of our Leave Only Paw Prints stewardship values.
The YMTCB invites all Mariposa County and Yosemite National Park guests to use care while enjoying one of the world’s top wilderness destinations. Check out the region’s Nature Rules educational campaign before visiting. Together, we can all help protect this magnificent corner of the globe for future generations.
