There’s so much to explore in Yosemite - whether you’re the adventurous type or just here to soak up the views. Late June is one of the park’s best times of year: waterfalls are flowing, the meadows are bright green, and the weather is perfect for just about everything.

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Take in Yosemite's scenery the old-fashioned way - on horseback!

Wawona Stables offers guided two-hour mule or horse rides through meadows and forest trails, typically open May through September. This location is only a few minutes from the Redwoods In Yosemite.

travelyosemite.com/things-to-do/horseback-mule-riding

Yosemite Trails Horseback Adventures (just outside the park) runs 1- to 5-hour rides with friendly guides and creek crossings.

yosemitetrails.com

Tip: Long pants and closed-toe shoes are a must, and rides can book up quickly in summer.

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Yosemite Valley's 12 miles of paved bike paths make it easy to explore without having to deal with parking or traffic.

Rentals are available at Curry Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge bike stands.

travelyosemite.com/things-to-do/biking

The Yosemite Bike Share program is a fun (and free!) way to take shorter rides around the valley.

yosemite.org/yosemite-bike-share

Ride through meadows, stop for photos at Valley View or Lower Yosemite Falls, and enjoy the views from every turn.

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When the weather warms up, floating down the Merced River is a Yosemite must-do. And June is the perfect time to do this.

Rent rafts directly inside the park from Curry Village (when river levels allow) on the day of. Rafting the Merced River from Curry Village is a slow paced, relaxing day on the river with the ability to pull over on any beach and have a picnic.

travelyosemite.com/things-to-do/rafting

For more adventurous white-water runs, Sierra Mac River Trips offers guided rafting outside the park.

sierramac.com

Water levels change from year to year, so check conditions at the Curry Village front desk when you arrive, as rafting season can vary depending on snowmelt.

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If you've ever wanted to try rock climbing in Yosemite, this is your chance.

The Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service offers half-day and full-day lessons for all skill levels.

yosemite.com/yosemite-mountaineering-school-guide-service

Even total beginners can learn the basics with a professional guide and get an entirely new perspective of the valley's granite walls.

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From short walks to jaw-dropping viewpoints, Yosemite has trails for everyone.

Lower Yosemite Fall Trail – An easy paved loop with incredible waterfall views.

Mirror Lake Trail – Peaceful, reflective water and great photo spots.

Mist Trail to Vernal Fall – A moderate climb with cooling waterfall mist (bring a rain jacket!).

Half Dome – Yosemite’s most iconic hike, featuring cables to the summit and panoramic views of the valley. A permit is required (via recreation.gov), and it’s a strenuous all-day trek best for experienced hikers. If you’re still interested, permits become available to apply for on March 1st-March 31st. Fees are $10.

Check the NPS trail guide for trail status and difficulty ratings before you go.

And if relaxing in the village with a cold beer and some hot, fresh pizza or tacos is more your thing — you’re in luck. Yosemite Village and Curry Village both have great casual spots to unwind after a day of exploring. Grab a table at Degnan’s Kitchen for pizza, try The Meadow Grill for burgers and tacos, or head to the Base Camp Eatery at Yosemite Valley Lodge for a wide variety of bites (and a great craft-beer selection). Then just sit back, watch the granite walls glow at sunset, and toast to a perfect Yosemite day.