Yosemite National Park offers some of the most compelling hikes where granite domes reach skyward and waterfalls command the landscape with restless energy. From the forested base to panoramic summits, these trails challenge and reward hikers of various skill levels, with terrain and vistas that shift as the day unfolds.

One classic trek is the Trail to Cathedral Peak, a moderate 7.5-mile round trip with roughly 1,400 feet of elevation gain. The path moves through dense pine forests before climbing exposed granite slabs where every foothold counts. Cathedral Peak stands fiercely itself — an unyielding monolith urging caution and respect. From the summit, the Sierra Nevada stretches out in every direction, the rock corners catching sunlight like smoldering embers.

For those drawn to water’s movement, the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls combines effort and spectacle. Covering about 7 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 2,000 feet, the path follows the Merced River, which pushes steadily downward, daring you to match its pace. The rocky, sometimes slippery stairs demand careful footing, especially approaching Vernal Fall, where spray blankets the trail and tests your grip. The payoff: thunderous cascades framed by lush greenery and granite cliffs that seem carved by the river’s raw force.

A less-traveled alternative is the ascent of Liberty Cap, about 6.5 miles round trip with 1,800 feet climbed. The terrain alternates between forest tracks and granite slabs, pressing upward alongside the roaring Merced River. The summit offers sweeping views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley’s infamous walls, rewarding the focused climber.

Preparation is key. Dress in layered moisture-wicking clothing, ensure sturdy footwear with good traction for granite and wet rock, and carry sufficient water. Start early to avoid midday heat and crowds, especially from late spring to early fall. Weather in Yosemite shifts quickly; summer thunderstorms can surge unexpectedly, making trails slick and rivers more challenging to approach.

Practical hydration is critical. Water sources can be scarce above tree line, so carry filtration options if you plan longer treks. Recognize the signals the park’s terrain offers: granite can be unforgiving, and rivers active, insisting on attention and respect.

These hikes in Yosemite revolve around engaging with nature that is fiercely itself — granite shaped by millennia, waterfalls carved by relentless currents. The reward goes beyond scenery: it’s the steady rhythm of your steps matching nature’s pace, a direct conversation with the park’s most iconic features.