: Want to see Yosemite’s most stunning waterfalls without any hiking? I got you! Here are 7 scenic viewpoints you can access with little to no walking — perfect for a chill Yosemite trip: 1. Yosemite Falls Trailhead – See North America’s tallest waterfall! Lower Yosemite Fall is a short 0.5-mile walk on a paved, flat path. 2. Swinging Bridge – A quiet spot with amazing reflections of Yosemite Falls over the Merced River. 3. Valley Chapel – Snap a peaceful shot of Yosemite Falls framed by the charming wooden chapel. 4. Valley View Point – One of the best photo ops in the Valley. See El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall & the Merced River all in one shot. 5. Sentinel Meadow Boardwalk – A short stroll with breathtaking views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. 6. Tunnel View – Iconic and unmissable. The postcard shot of Yosemite with Bridalveil Fall, El Capitan, and Half Dome. 7. Cook’s Meadow – Easy, scenic loop with stunning waterfall views and meadows bursting with wildflowers in spring. I visited on Saturday, April 13 — no permits were required at the time! Tips: • Arrive before 9AM to find parking, especially on weekends. I reached Yosemite from the Bay Area at 7:30am. Found whole of the park to myself! • Spring to Early summers (April–June) is the best time for full waterfalls. • All locations are family-friendly and great for quick photo stops. Tag someone who needs a no-hike Yosemite getaway! Follow to see more of Yosemite and Bay Area picturesque spots and hikes! #yosemitenationalpark #yosemitefalls #BridalveilFall #yosemiteviewpoints #yosemiteitinerary #WaterfallsOfInstagram #VisitCalifornia #yosemite #SpringInYosemite #igspringaura
Attraction
El Capitan
Natural feature
4.8
Iconic glacial rock known for its near-vertical climbing route & sweeping peak views.
Bridalveil Fall
Natural feature
4.8
This famous plunge waterfall in Yosemite National Park drops from a height of 617 ft.
Half Dome
Natural feature
4.9
Legendary granite dome at Yosemite National Park, attracting hikers & rock climbers for its views.
Yosemite Falls Trailhead
Hiking area
4.9
Challenging hike among oak & pine trees to a towering waterfall, with views of granite peaks.
Yosemite Valley Chapel
Church
4.7
This simple 1870s church in a picturesque setting is the oldest structure in the Yosemite Valley.
Place
Cook's Meadow Loop
Landmark
4.6
Views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Glacier Point & Sentinel Rock from a short, flat hiking route.
Yosemite Valley View
Landmark
4.9
Lookout spot & parking lot with sweeping views of El Capitan peak & the valley, plus picnic tables.
Tunnel View
Landmark
4.9
Popular roadside overlook providing impressive views of the park's forested valley & mountains.
Entertainment
Swinging Bridge Picnic Area
Picnic ground