Hi there,
My name is Zeke, and I’m a Yosemite guide and all-around nature enthusiast, here to share the ultimate Yosemite packing checklist with you today!
For the longest time packing was my kryptonite. After a few trips to Yosemite I quickly realized this was something I couldn’t leave up to chance.
The hikes in Yosemite tend to be long and strenuous and the weather can change at any moment. Packing the right gear for the right situation is essential to avoid becoming trapped out in uncomfortable and potentially dangerous situations.
But this is much more than a simple list of what to bring and what to leave behind. We're going to walk you through every task you should check off BEFORE leaving for your Yosemite vacation to avoid headaches and unnecessary delays.
Ready to dive in?
Planning Ahead
There are generally two types of travelers, those who meticulously prepare by planning every detail and those who like to "wing it," simply going with the flow. While some may fall in between, the bottom line for visiting Yosemite is that you're better off being the planner.
Due to the high volume of visitors, limited parking, and the need to reserve campsites and lodging, especially in Yosemite Valley, Yosemite is a park that requires planning ahead. The good news for those who prefer leaving everything to the last minute is that it doesn't have to be stressful, provided you follow my comprehensive Yosemite packing checklist.
Yosemite Packing Essentials
Footwear
With over 800 miles of hiking trails in the park, exploring on foot is the best way to take in Yosemite's most breathtaking scenery. That means you need to choose your shoes wisely. Sturdy footwear is a must and will ideally include waterproof hiking boots or proper athletic shoes to be prepared for river crossings or a sudden storm.
Clothing That Can Be Layered
There are extreme elevation changes in and around Yosemite which means temperatures can drastically change from the time you start your hike to the finish. Layers are essential no matter what the season.
Spring Through Fall
A base that includes a tank top or t-shirt and shorts, layering from there, is ideal.
Or, start out with long cargo pants that have removable sections and then simply unzip once it warms up.
You'll want a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt that provides sun and insect protection. Remember, mosquitos tend to be most active at dusk and dawn.
A lightweight jacket on top made with water-resistant materials will keep you protected from the mist or spray of a waterfall too.
You might also consider packing a rain poncho. Small and compact, they don't take up much space and you'll be prepared for the light afternoon showers common in the summer throughout the region.
A trip to Yosemite between fall and spring requires thicker layers, such as fleece or wool undergarments followed by a warmer jacket.
Swimming Gear
There are few things more refreshing than a dip in one of the streams, rivers, or lakes in Yosemite after a hike, or at any time on a warm summer's day, so be sure to pack a swimsuit and water shoes. Along the Merced River, you'll find multiple soft sand beaches that provide access to swimming, including Cathedral Beach, Housekeeping Camp Beach, and the path just across from the El Capitan Picnic Area. Tenaya Lake is one of the most scenic places for a dip. Overlooked by dramatic Tenaya Peak, it offers another one of the park's few sandy stretches.
Sun Protection
No matter what time of year, when it comes to what to pack for Yosemite, you'll want to bring sunblock, sunglasses, and a sunhat (a wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap). The park gets a lot of sun in the winter and it can be especially intense, especially at higher elevations. Even if it isn't sunny, UV rays get through the clouds too. If there's snow, the light reflects from it, making it extra bright while increasing the risk of sunburn.
Backpack/Hydration Pack
A backpack with a built-in water reservoir, which is essentially a hydration pack, is sure to be appreciated during a demanding hike. Most are designed to distribute weight evenly which means you'll be more comfortable carrying the essentials. Having easy access to water out on the trail is a must for hydration, allowing you to sip frequently without the need to stop and fumble through a backpack.
Plenty of Water
That brings me to my next point. Having enough water can't be underestimated. This guide from REI is a great one to check out for determining how much water you should bring on your hike. I would also highly recommend purchasing a water filtration system to prepare for the unexpected.
Food
You'll need to stay fueled for your activities, including hiking. The length of your trek is an important consideration with more substantial foods obviously necessary for longer hikes. It's also a good idea to adjust your choices based on temperature, particularly if you'll be hiking in hot or cold weather.
While your personal preferences take precedence, some of my favorites include:
Beef jerky
Energy bars
Trail mix
Dried and/or fresh fruits like apples and oranges
Almond butter
Sandwiches with lean protein
Nuts and/or seeds
Hard cheeses
Carrot and celery sticks
Picnic Supplies
You'll need some basic picnic supplies as well:
Swiss army knife (this comes in extremely handy for slicing cheese, cutting open packages, and more while being compact and lightweight)
Flatware
A non-breakable plate
Wet wipes for clean-up (not only your hands but utensils and plates)
Insect Repellant
Wearing lightweight clothing that keeps your legs and arms covered will help prevent bug bites, but be sure to bring insect repellent as well if you're visiting anytime from around late May through fall. The bugs can be brutal during this period, especially in Yosemite Valley.
Binoculars
Bring a powerful but lightweight pair of binoculars to watch for Yosemite's abundant wildlife, with the park home to 90 different mammal species. While mule deer are commonly seen, with binoculars you'll more easily be able to spot the endangered Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep which prefer the higher elevations. They can also be used for stargazing while being a more practical and portable alternative to a telescope. Their also useful for spotting the most unusual wildlife in the park... climbers scaling the walls of El Capitan!
Headlamps/Flashlights
Speaking of stargazing, Yosemite is stellar for the activity with half the fun in the park happening after dark. Headlamps (or flashlights) will allow you to get out there and enjoy the world-class stargazing.
First Aid Kit
There are plenty of pre-made first aid kits available for purchase providing all the items you might need. They'll save you time and money as compared to purchasing the supplies individually, but you can easily build your own. REI offers this excellent guide on how to build and use a first aid kit. That said, NOLS Wilderness Medicine is always my go-to as a world leader in education on the topic. Its online store offers just about everything you might need for treating an injury or an illness in a remote setting.
Backup Batteries/Portable Chargers
As electronics have become essential items for a hiker's backpack, keeping them charged out on the trail is another essential consideration on a Yosemite packing checklist. If one of your devices runs out of juice in the backcountry, it can be a real drag. Inevitably, that perfect shot will appear just as your camera battery dies.
Maps
You can't rely on your smartphone everywhere in Yosemite as many areas have no cell coverage. Fortunately, you can download offload maps via Gaia using this guide. The site is also quite useful for planning and reviewing your trip - data can be synced between it and the mobile app too.
Kids' Activities
If you plan to visit Yosemite with your family, you'll be happy to know boredom is a word seldom heard here. In addition to hiking, swimming, and other activities, the family-oriented Happy Isles Art and Nature Center offers art workshops, the chance to learn from a professional artist, view interactive displays and natural history exhibits. Short trails nearby are focused on a variety of environments, including forest and river.
Plus, we've developed a Yosemite scavenger hunt to provide even more fun that can be downloaded for FREE right here.
Do NOT Pack
Bear spray! You might be surprised to learn that bear spray is illegal in Yosemite National Park. I know I was shocked to discover this after living in Alaska for the previous two years, where you're considered a daredevil if you don't take it everywhere you go. Yes, there are black bears in the park, but they aren't a threat to people in Yosemite. In fact, in the entire 130-year history of the park, no person has ever been killed by a bear! You probably won't even see one as they're naturally afraid of humans. If enough visitors go around unnecessarily spraying them that might change, so please don't be tempted to bring it.
Your Yosemite Pre-Trip Checklist
Beyond your Yosemite packing list, this essential pre-trip checklist will ensure that you're prepared for it all to enjoy a virtually stress-free trip.
Accommodation & Reservations
As such a popular park, it's a must to book your Yosemite accommodations as soon as possible - a year in advance if you plan to visit during the peak tourist season. Hotels and lodges often sell out months ahead. Before making your reservations, review the requirements thoroughly.
The park often requires reservations for entry as well, with the latest details provided here. While the information for the entire 2025 season has not been released yet, in 2024, reservations were required during the peak seasons and hours at all entrances other than Hetch Hetchy. This includes the Firefall event in February when reservations are necessary 24 hours a day on the weekends.
Itinerary
Creating an itinerary will allow you to make the most of the time you have. Determine how many days you'll be spending in Yosemite and then create a list of the key attractions you'd like to see, along with the hikes and other activities you plan on enjoying. Try not to cram in too much. Consider how many you can realistically tackle each day while taking time to enjoy the little moments.
Independent Exploration vs Guided Tours
An important aspect of your itinerary worth a category of its own is deciding whether you'll explore the park alone or with a guide. While it can be enjoyed independently, there are many benefits of guided tours, especially when heading out with an expert naturalist.
A guided tour can provide insight that only a highly experienced Yosemite hiker can offer, including viewing hidden spots most visitors miss and learning park secrets from mysteriously disappearing lakes to "haunted" hotels.
Driving Route
There are five entrances to the park. Each one offers access to unique sights and trails so you'll want to determine which is best based on your interests and then plan your driving route.
Vehicle Preparation
Before heading out on the road trip be sure your vehicle is prepared for the journey. The last thing you want to have happen on the way to Yosemite is a breakdown. Check that the tires are in good shape including the tread and pressure, fluid levels are where they should be, and the windshield wipers are in good working order. Don't forget to check the brakes, as they will be tested on those steep mountain roads.
If you're traveling between the fall and early spring, snow can occur, which means you may need chains. Check here for tire chain requirements, keeping in mind that the rules are strictly enforced.
Fitness Check
It's not only your vehicle that you need to be sure is in good working condition. If you're planning a long hike, the sooner you start preparing the better. Work on cardio, leg strength, and endurance as the strenuous trails and high elevations can kick your butt if you aren't ready for them. Not sure where to start? This handy REI guide offers a training schedule.
Weather, Road & Trail Conditions
Be sure to check the latest weather forecast before heading out on the road. Yosemite and the surrounding area can be unpredictable, with snow and road closures possible, especially at higher elevations, even in late summer. Current updates can be found on the NPS website.
By texting "ynp" to 333111 you can sign up for Yosemite National Park alerts and updates which include traffic conditions and potential park closures.
Travel Documents
Double and even triple-check that you have all the travel documents you need, from entry passes and lodging confirmations to tour reservations. Hard copies may come in handy in areas without cell coverage such as Tuolumne Meadows.
Dining Reservations
Dining options in Yosemite National Park are limited, making it a must to secure your reservations in advance. The top restaurants, including the famous Ahwahnee Dining Room and The Mountain Room, require them.
Prepare for the Trip of a Lifetime
Now that you've reviewed everything in our packing guide, you can relish the anticipation of an exciting adventure. If you haven't already, be sure to download our free, printable Yosemite packing and pre-trip checklist to ensure you don’t forget a thing! You'll be well-prepared for the trip of a lifetime. And, by sharing this guide with your fellow travelers, you can be sure they're just as prepared as you will be!
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