Quick Yosemite Hike

Hi Everyone! I'm new to the San Jose area and my brother and his girlfriend are coming for a quick visit. They really want to do a day hike in Yosemite- drive up and back in one day. I've never been but am up for whatever because I really love the hiking here. We want to see the best view but won't have time to camp. Any recommendations? Thanks!!

there's a ton of stuff on the web about Yosemite hikes.

The definition of a "day hike" will vary depending on the physical condition of the hikers.

The hike up to Vernal Falls (and past that) is THE most popular hike in the Valley. It's the same route for Half Dome (you need a pass in advance to climb the backside of Half Dome).

The hike up to the top of Lost Arrow Spire gains a ton of elevation, but the views are spectacular.

Also, taking the bus from the Valley floor to Glacier Point and then hiking down into the Valley is a nice day hike (and all downhill!).

Enjoy!

p.s. Tuolumne Meadows is less crowded and equally beautiful. A hike to Cathedral Peak & back is an easy day hike.

Yosemite for a day is tough , because it's such an amazing overwhelming experience ...

...its hard to go wrong with a hike to Vernal and Nevada falls , but they can be quite crowded , so not really much of a wilderness experience...

...if it was my first and only day in Yos. , I think I might just do a tour of the Valley floor , maybe spend some time on the Shuttle Bus , hike to Lower Yosemite Falls , dip my feet in the Merced , maybe walk out to Mirror Lake ... hang out in El Cap Meadow , and top it off with a drink in the Awahnee Bar !

Good luck .