Stoneman Meadow
An underrated Yosemite gem offering serene meadow walks, iconic Half Dome views, and breathtaking alpenglow at sunset.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Stoneman Meadow
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An underrated Yosemite gem offering serene meadow walks, iconic Half Dome views, and breathtaking alpenglow at sunset.
"Stoneman Meadow is a serene, underrated gem that should definitely be on your list. "
🚶♀️ Stay on the Boardwalk
Protect the meadow's delicate ecosystem and wildlife by always staying on the designated path.
📸 Golden Hour Photos
The meadow is spectacular at sunset for alpenglow on Half Dome. Bring your camera!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Half Dome Views
Stoneman Meadow
Witness iconic Half Dome views, especially stunning during sunset's alpenglow.
Wildlife Spotting
Stoneman Meadow
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, like coyotes, in their natural habitat.
Serene Boardwalk Stroll
Stoneman Meadow
Enjoy a peaceful walk on the boardwalk, perfect for quiet reflection and photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Meadow Etiquette: Stay on the Boardwalk
Sunset Spectacle: Alpenglow on Half Dome
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stay on the Boardwalk
Protect the meadow's delicate ecosystem and wildlife by always staying on the designated path.
📸 Golden Hour Photos
The meadow is spectacular at sunset for alpenglow on Half Dome. Bring your camera!
🔭 Stargazing Gem
Yosemite's dark skies are incredible here. Perfect for stargazing away from light pollution.
🚲 Easy Bike Access
Great spot for a quick bike ride before or after work if you're staying nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stay on the Boardwalk
Protect the meadow's delicate ecosystem and wildlife by always staying on the designated path.
📸 Golden Hour Photos
The meadow is spectacular at sunset for alpenglow on Half Dome. Bring your camera!
🔭 Stargazing Gem
Yosemite's dark skies are incredible here. Perfect for stargazing away from light pollution.
🚲 Easy Bike Access
Great spot for a quick bike ride before or after work if you're staying nearby.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Stoneman Meadow is lauded as an underrated gem offering serene beauty and iconic views of Half Dome, especially magical at sunset with its alpenglow. Visitors appreciate the accessible boardwalk, opportunities for wildlife spotting, and excellent stargazing potential. While access has changed, it remains a peaceful escape within Yosemite Valley.
"Stoneman Meadow is an absolutely beautiful spot with stunning views of Half Dome, North Dome, Royal Arches, and Clouds Rest peeking through in the distance from behind Half Dome. It’s tucked between Curry Village and the Merced River, offering a peaceful escape with postcard-worthy scenery.
Before 2020, you could drive right up to it via Southside Drive, but since the road improvements, that access is now closed. You can still easily reach the meadow by taking Curry Village Drive toward Happy Isles Loop Road. Parking is available directly off that road, or you can park in the Curry Village lot and take a short walk over.
It’s conveniently located near Lower Pines and Upper Pines Campgrounds, as well as Curry Village. A lovely boardwalk cuts through the center of the meadow, making it a relaxing and accessible walk.
This is one of the best spots to witness alpenglow on Half Dome during certain times of year—it lights up beautifully at sunset. While Yosemite has no shortage of iconic views, Stoneman Meadow is a serene, underrated gem that should definitely be on your list. It’s a perfect place to slow down, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and soak in the magic of the valley."
James M
"Nice walk inside the meadow."
BEUMJOON KIM
"This is a primo spot for stargazing. Allow yourself to be enveloped, as you lay under the Yosemite darkness. You can play the game, "Drone or Star?""
LAB RATS UNITE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stoneman Meadow is located between Curry Village and the Merced River. You can access it by taking Curry Village Drive towards Happy Isles Loop Road. Parking is available directly off this road, or you can park at the Curry Village lot and walk over.
Yes, there is parking available directly off Curry Village Drive. Alternatively, you can park in the Curry Village lot and take a short walk.
Direct drive access via Southside Drive is closed due to road improvements. You need to use Curry Village Drive.
While there isn't a direct shuttle stop at Stoneman Meadow, it's a short walk from the Curry Village area, which is served by the Yosemite Valley shuttle system.
The meadow features a lovely boardwalk that makes for a relaxing and accessible walk, perfect for soaking in the views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Stoneman Meadow is located within Yosemite National Park. You will need a valid park entrance pass to enter Yosemite National Park.
There are no additional fees to enter Stoneman Meadow itself, beyond the standard Yosemite National Park entrance fee.
Stoneman Meadow is accessible year-round during park operating hours. However, the best experience is often during daylight for views and sunset.
Pets are generally not allowed on trails or in meadows within Yosemite National Park, including Stoneman Meadow, to protect wildlife and sensitive habitats.
Yes, the boardwalk through Stoneman Meadow makes it an accessible and enjoyable experience for visitors with mobility challenges.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Stoneman Meadow offers stunning panoramic views of Half Dome, North Dome, Royal Arches, and Clouds Rest. It's particularly famous for the alpenglow on Half Dome at sunset.
You might spot various wildlife, including coyotes hunting, deer, and numerous bird species. Remember to observe from a distance and never feed the animals.
Absolutely! It's a prime spot for landscape photography, especially during golden hour and sunset for dramatic lighting on Half Dome.
While picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas of Yosemite, it's best to check current park regulations. Respecting the meadow's delicate nature is key.
Yes, Stoneman Meadow is an excellent location for stargazing due to Yosemite's dark skies. You can experience the vastness of the night sky here.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Golden hour, just before sunset, is ideal for capturing the alpenglow on Half Dome. Early mornings also offer soft light and fewer crowds.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive meadow and surrounding granite cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife.
Drones are prohibited in Yosemite National Park, including Stoneman Meadow, to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety.
The boardwalk offers unique perspectives, and any spot with a clear view of Half Dome, especially during sunset, is highly photogenic.
Experiment with different angles from the boardwalk, capture wildlife if you see it, and focus on the changing light on Half Dome throughout the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will love the open space to explore (on the boardwalk, of course!) and the chance to spot wildlife like birds or even coyotes from a safe distance. It’s a great place for a relaxed picnic or just to let everyone stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
+1📸 Photographers' Paradise
Beyond sunset, the meadow offers beautiful light in the early morning and throughout the day. The boardwalk provides interesting foreground elements for your shots. Remember that drones are prohibited, so focus on ground-level compositions and the natural beauty of the landscape.
🌌 Stargazers' Delight
It's a perfect location to simply lie back and gaze upwards, perhaps even playing the 'Drone or Star?' game mentioned by some visitors. The vastness of the night sky over Yosemite is truly humbling and a memorable part of any visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Alpenglow at Stoneman Meadow
Timing is crucial for capturing this breathtaking display. The intensity and color of the alpenglow can vary depending on atmospheric conditions and the time of year. Many visitors find that Stoneman Meadow provides an unobstructed view, making it a prime location for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Remember to check sunset times and arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Beyond the alpenglow, the meadow itself offers a serene environment. The boardwalk allows for easy exploration without disturbing the delicate meadow ecosystem. It's a place to slow down, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and truly appreciate the grandeur of Yosemite Valley.
Wildlife Encounters in Stoneman Meadow
It's a reminder that this beautiful landscape is a living, breathing ecosystem. Observing these animals in their natural environment is a privilege, and it's essential to maintain a safe distance and never feed them. Beyond coyotes, you might also encounter deer grazing peacefully or a variety of bird species flitting through the meadow. The Merced River nearby also supports aquatic life and attracts birds. Respecting wildlife is paramount; always keep your distance and avoid disturbing their natural behaviors. This ensures their safety and allows future visitors to enjoy these encounters.
Remember that while these sightings are exciting, they are wild animals. Never approach them, and keep pets on a leash and under control at all times. The park's efforts to protect these meadows mean that wildlife can thrive, and visitors can experience a more authentic natural setting.
Accessibility and Enjoyment for All
This accessibility makes it an ideal spot for families, seniors, and anyone looking for a gentle, scenic walk. You can easily stroll along the boardwalk, pause to admire the views of Half Dome and surrounding peaks, and even spot wildlife without strenuous effort. It's a place where you can truly relax and soak in the natural splendor of Yosemite.
Being conveniently located near Curry Village and campgrounds, Stoneman Meadow is a perfect stop for a leisurely walk, a quiet moment of reflection, or a picturesque picnic spot. Its ease of access combined with its breathtaking scenery makes it a truly inclusive and rewarding destination within the park.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit