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< Previous SPRING - experience the landscape's colorful reawakening. It's a time of vibrant renewal with roaring waterfalls, swift flowing water, and new brilliant-green foliage almost everywhere! FALL - is the time to experience the wonderful contrast of a quieter and less crowded visit against a backdrop of amazing color as Mother Nature prepares for her winter slumber. Yosemite Through The Seasons Spring Fall Experience something unique & amazing in every season! VALLEY VIEW (aka GATES OF THE VALLEY) • JANET MARTINEZ BRIDALVEIL FALL •DARVIN ATKESON • VYMC HALF DOME, MERCED RIVER • BRITAIN ANDREW HORSETAIL FALL • BRITAIN ANDREW Chasing Moonbows in the Spring Snowshoeing in the Mariposa Grove 2025 - 2026 Visitors Guide - Visit Yosemite | Madera CountyYosemiteThisYear.com | info@yosemitethisyear.comSUMMER - with long days and warmer temperatures, it's the perfect season to explore the higher and more distant regions of the park. Summer opens up opportunities for hiking alpine trails, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and embarking on adventures in areas that shine brightest this time of year. WINTER - one of the most magical times of the year; tranquil, serene, and often stunningly beautiful. A true winter wonderland full of thrilling things to see and do! Summer Winter EL CAPITAN • STEVE MONTALTO • VYMC HALF DOME FROM OLMSTED POINT •STEVE MONTALTO LAMBERT DOME, TUOLUMNE MEADOWS •DANIEL CHUI • VYMC STONEMAN BRIDGE • DARVIN ATKESON • VYMC The Magic of the Horsetail Fall Event YOSEMITE FALLS, COOKS MEADOW • STEVE MONTALTO • VYMC CALIFORNIA TUNNLE TREE, MARIPOSA GROVE STEVE MONTALTO • VYMC YosemiteThisYear.com | info@yosemitethisyear.com2025 - 2026 Visitors Guide - Visit Yosemite | Madera CountyWhile the trails in Yosemite Valley are some of the most popular in the park, we encourage you to explore other areas of Yosemite that are less familiar but just as impressive. Travelers are expanding their interests and discovering the beauty of southern Yosemite and Wawona. Find new paths and become a more sustainable traveler along the way. The Swinging Bridge (Wawona) RATING: EASY More of a walk than a serious hike, this 1 mile out-and- back trail provides access to the namesake bridge that crosses the South Fork of the Merced River. Unlike the Swinging Bridge in Yosemite Valley, this bridge actually swings (the Yosemite Valley Swinging Bridge originally did swing until it was replaced due to flood damage in 1965). Water levels rush in springtime, but drop down significantly months later making for the perfect swimming hole in late summer. At the Wawona store, turn right on Forest Drive, then stay left when the road forks. Pit toilets are available near the dirt parking area. Chilnualna Falls Trail RATING: MODERATE TO CHALLENGING This 8 mile round trip trail begins at the end of Chilnualna Falls Road. There are restrooms and bear boxes at the trailhead. On route to the top of the waterfall, you will climb over 2,000 ft of elevation. Access this trail in the late spring or early summer for the most impressive displays of water. Chilnualna Falls is ephemeral, meaning it does not flow all year round. By July, the conditions in the region are mostly dry. However, the jaw- dropping view from the top is still impressive. Alder Creek Falls RATING: MODERATE From the Wawona Campground, drive 4.2 miles to the parking area near the sign for Mosquito Creek, located at a distinctive hairpin turn in the road. The trail begins on the east side of the road, across from the bear boxes. Use caution if crossing the road. Climb uphill and east. It is an 8 mile, out-and-back journey to reach an impressive view of this hidden waterfall. The trail features many wildflowers, including colorful Harlequin Lupin in late spring. Wawona Meadow Loop Trail RATING: EASY This 3.5 mile loop trail traverses one of the largest meadows in Yosemite National Park. Although a nine-hole golf course occupies the northern part of the meadow, the stunning natural beauty shines bright. Green grass and wildflowers fill the senses in the spring and hikers delight in fall colors in late October and November. The trail is horse-friendly, dog-friendly and bike-friendly, too! Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias RATING: VARIOUS There are numerous day hikes found in the Mariposa Grove region of Yosemite National Park and they cover the full range of short and easy to long and strenuous. Explore the Grizzly Giant Loop, Big Trees Loop, Guardians Loop, or even an excursion to the grove’s highest spot, Wawona Point. Ask for a map of trails to explore in Wawona and the Mariposa Grove at the Oakhurst Visitor Center. Note that the free shuttle from the parking area to the Grove Access Area does not operate during winter months. Depending on conditions, exploring the grove by hiking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing is an option. Know before you go and make sure to check current conditions. MARIPOSA GROVE HIKE • STEVE MONTALTO• VYMC Southern Yosemite Hiking Trails With over 800 miles of trails in Yosemite and many more in the surrounding area, you have more than enough to fill a lifetime of adventure! Much more hiking area info can be found here 2025 - 2026 Visitors Guide - Visit Yosemite | Madera CountyYosemiteThisYear.com | info@yosemitethisyear.comFind hidden gems in Madera County's gateway to Yosemite. The land captivates the imagination with stories of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Lewis Creek National Recreation Trail to Corlieu Falls and Red Rock Falls RATING: MODERATE Yosemite National Park is not the only place around to find some amazing waterfalls in the area. The Lewis Creek NRT is a special place and it deserves protection and care. This 7.4 mile out- and-back trail is heavily trafficked in the summertime and during holidays. To hike the entire length of the trail, park at the trailhead located on Cedar Valley Road and hike north toward Sugar Pine, following the route of the historic Madera Sugar Pine Lumber Co. flume. Ahwahnee Hills Regional Park RATING: EASY This stunning property has a lot of history. It was once home to the Ahwahnee Tavern, a stagecoach luncheon stop for President Theodore Roosevelt, Susan B. Anthony, John D. Rockfeller, and the Crown Prince of Belgium. Today, there are 7 miles of walking trails, 6 miles of horse trails, a seasonal creek, a springtime pond, and a picturesque barn on the property. The park is open Wednesday - Sunday 8am - 7:30pm. Nearby, take a self-guided tour of a California Registered Historical Landmark, the Wassama Round House State Park. Hensley Lake – Buck Ridge Trail RATING: EASY-MODERATE Hikers, mountain bikers, runners, and horses are welcome on this 6.8 mile loop trail. The best time to visit is during the winter and spring, when raindrops and wildflowers grace the landscape for a few short months. Bring $5 for parking. Picnic tables, restrooms, and campsites are available at Hensley Lake. Visit after winter storms to watch the surprising contrast of rolling grassy hills against the distant, snow-capped Sierra Nevada. Oakhurst River Parkway RATING: EASY The Oakhurst River Parkway is an easy, 3 mile out-and-back trail that begins at the Oakhurst Community Park and winds along the Fresno River. It passes Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park before it makes its way to Yosemite High School. You return back the way you came. Oakhurst Community Park RATING: A WALK IN THE PARK While this one's not a real hiking trail, you can walk around the dog- friendly with views of the Fresno River on all sides of this island-like space. It's also a great place to let the little ones run and play, put on performances in the center gazebo, and get their wiggles out in the playground area. There are events and family activities scheduled here throughout the year. North Fork – Manzanita Lake RATING: EASY Just 0.7 miles up Road 222 from downtown North Fork, you can explore this easy 2.1 mile out- and-back hike to Manzanita Lake. The largely paved trail is great for hiking and mountain biking and fishing at the lake is a favorite activity for many. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. While in the area, make a pilgrimage to the "Exact Center of California." OAKHURST RIVER PARKWAY • KIM LAWSON• VYMC Sierra Foothills Hiking Trails DOGS ARE ALLOWED on any trail in the Sierra National Forest. Bring them along for the fun, but remember, to keep them protected, they must stay on a leash, and you must clean up after them. YosemiteThisYear.com | info@yosemitethisyear.com2025 - 2026 Visitors Guide - Visit Yosemite | Madera CountyBass Lake Recreation Office The Forks Resort Miller’s Landing Resort Bass Lake Boat Rentals and Marina Bar & Grill Ducey’s on the Lake • Suites - Bar & Grill - Restaurant Outdoorsy Yosemite RV Campground Casa Velasco Mexican Restaurant Stars & Stripes Realty Bass Lake Home Rentals 3 6 8 2 5 7 9 1 4 THE PINES VILLAGE • Bass Lake Home Owners Association • Bass Lake Realty • Good Ol’ Daze • Nurture Coffee + Eats • Pines Village Bakery & Pizzeria • The Pines Resort • Market - Bar - Registration • Pines Village Vacation Rentals & Gift Shop • Out West • Yosemite Bass Lake Suites PICNIC AREAS 1. The Falls 2. Recreation Point 3. Denver Church 4. Little Denver Church 5. Pine Slope 6. Lakeside 7. Pine Point 8. Rocky Point GROUP CAMPGROUNDS 1. Recreation Point 2. Crane Valley Group Camp CAMPGROUNDS 1. The Forks 2. Lupine 3. Cedar Bluff 4. Spring Cove 5. Wishon Point CAMPGROUND INFORMATION CALIFORNIA Bass Lake BASS LAKE, CA • VYMC WATCH FOR ME high in the trees and fishing in the lake. 2025 - 2026 Visitors Guide - Visit Yosemite | Madera CountyYosemiteThisYear.com | info@yosemitethisyear.comBass Lake Bass Lake sits in a nearly perfect location. It is just 17 miles from the southern gate of Yosemite National Park and seven miles from the park’s largest gateway community, of Oakhurst. Its pristine waters and sandy shores are nestled among the tall cedars and pines at an elevation of 3,415 feet. It all comes together to create the perfect spring break, summer getaway, fall romantic adventure or winter escape. A year-round vacation destination, Bass Lake was named one of the “West’s Best Lakes” by Sunset Magazine and has been a popular tourist destination since the 1930s. The lake is renowned for excellent water activities, mountain bike trails, hiking, fishing, shopping and lakeside dining. You can find all types of lodging here including 3 resorts, an RV Park, lots of camping areas, and a wide variety of vacation home rentals. With summer water temps reaching 80 degrees, Bass Lake is the perfect place to splash around during the warmer months. Relax on a sandy beach with a book, have a family picnic at one of the many day-use areas, or enjoy an array of water sports from swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking to motor-boating. Bring your toys and launch your own boat from one of two public boat launches, or rent a fully-equipped boat from any of the three full-service marinas. Want to learn a new skill? Ask about water-skiing or wakeboarding lessons. You can even start your day with a little more balance by joining a morning paddleboard yoga session at Miller’s Landing Resort. On-water activities are not the only thing Bass Lake is known for. With the Sierra National Forest’s 1.3 million acres as a backyard, the lake is a great jumping off point for all sorts of adventures, both big and small. Hike or mountain bike on the many trails, or take an off-road adventure into the heart of the Sierra (check out the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway on page 24). There is a lot to love about Bass Lake and, to be honest, there’s too much to capture it all here. To help with that, download our handy digital Microguide that outlines the 31 Things We Love About Bass Lake (see page 15). Scan to view the “Bass Lake Play Like A Local” video YosemiteThisYear.com | info@yosemitethisyear.com2025 - 2026 Visitors Guide - Visit Yosemite | Madera CountyBASS LAKE STAY 2.The Pines Resort - Lakeside, full-service resort, open year- round, with dining options and many amenities. 3.The Forks Resort - Modern cabins with lake views, marina and restaurant with home-style dining. 4.Miller’s Landing Resort - Family cabins available year- round, with casual dining. 5.Vacation Home Rentals - Scores of vacation homes, many within walking distance of shopping, dining and recreation. 6.Outdoorsy Yosemite - Full hook-up RV sites with cable and wi-fi, cabins, pool, café, and playground for kids. 7.Campgrounds at Bass Lake - Tent and RV camping with fire rings, picnic tables, lake views, potable water, and restrooms. BASS LAKE PLAY & EAT 8.Miller’s Landing Resort Boat Rentals and Grill - Waverunners, ski boats, kayaks and more in the marina. Plus a family restaurant and store are all found here. 9.Bass Lake Boat Rentals and Marina Bar & Grill - North Shore full-service watersports rentals, lakeside grill with premium casual dining. 10.The Forks Resort Boat Rentals and Restaurant - Homemade meals in the original 50s diner setting, boat rentals at the adjacent dock. BASS LAKE PLAY 11.Watersport Fun on Bass Lake - Every type of water fun imaginable can be enjoyed on the lake. 12.Patio Boat Fun - Designed for all-day cruising, patio boats may include canopy, gas barbecue, and ice chest. BASS LAKE BOATING • VYMC Want to see more? BASS LAKE PLAY 13.Paddleboarding and Kayaking - Affordable, low-key explorer activities that leave room for socializing on the water. 14.Mountain Biking - Exciting trails for riders of all abilities, complete with beautiful Sierra views. 15.Bass Lake Fishing Derby - First weekend in May, anglers have a chance at $55,000 in prize money. 16.Sporting Events At Bass Lake - Challenging events like a half marathon, triathlon, fun runs, and more! 17.4th of July Fireworks and Boat Parade - Timeless celebration with patriotic boat parade and spectacular fireworks over the lake. 18.Special Events Around the Lake - Craft fairs, live music, boat & car shows and more - fun for all ages. 19.Lakeside Day Use Picnic Areas - Picnic and recreation areas for a day of family fun. BASS LAKE EXPLORE 20.Way of the Mono Trail - A self-guided mile-long loop to a spectacular vista point. 21.Falls Beach and Angel Falls - Day use area includes barbecue, picnic tables, potable water, restrooms and the trailhead for Willow Creek trail. 22.Bald Eagles - Bald Eagles have been nesting at Bass Lake for over three decades. 23.Hiking Around Bass Lake - Trail hikes range from easy to more challenging, with stunning Sierra views. 24.Goat Mountain and The Dam - The lake was formed by constructing a 145-foot dam at the base of Goat Mountain. Here are highlights of the many reasons we love Bass Lake! BASS LAKE SHOP 25.Out West and Pines Village Vacation Rentals & Gift Shop - Discover unique treasures at Out West, offering handmade, American-made clothing and gifts, or visit the Gift Shop at Pines Villages Vacation Rentals for lake essentials, souvenirs, and old-time candy. Open year-round, these shops have something special for every Bass Lake visitor. 26.Good Ol Daze - High-quality gifts, clothing, accessories, and tasty treats in an old fashioned setting. Don't miss out on the delicious soft serve ice cream! BASS LAKE EAT 27.Dining at Ducey’s On The Lake - Enjoy fine dining or the Bar & Grill with magnificent views of the lake. 28.Pines Market - A little bit of everything to keep the traveler happy, including groceries, produce, deli and gifts. 29.Pines Village Bakery & Pizzeria and Nurture Coffee + Eats - Right next door to each other - the perfect combo of scrumptious pizza and coffee drinks and a whole host of delicious eats! 30.Casa Velasco Mexican Restaurant - Some of the best authentic Mexican food in the mountains. BASS LAKE EAT & DRINK 31.Pines Bar - Down-home environment with a great selection of beers on tap and weekend live music. #1 on the list is of course... Bass Lake itself! 31 Things We Love About Bass Lake YosemiteThisYear.com | info@yosemitethisyear.com2025 - 2026 Visitors Guide - Visit Yosemite | Madera CountyClear alpine waters. Miles of beach and tree lined shoreline. Endless trails and creeks to explore. Yes – we have a lot to enjoy and be thankful for here at Bass Lake. But with thousands of people coming every year to recreate, we are bringing more to the lake and leaving more too. Keeping this place clean and any other of the neighboring wilderness areas too, requires all of us to be mindful of our impact, use the spaces responsibly, and clean up after ourselves when done. Keep Bass Lake Clean Preserving Bass Lake's Beauty BASS LAKE SPRING WITH KAYAKS • JANET MARTINEZ 2025 - 2026 Visitors Guide - Visit Yosemite | Madera CountyYosemiteThisYear.com | info@yosemitethisyear.comPACK IT IN, PACK IT OUT Pack it in, pack it out. There are trash bins at the day-use areas, but they only hold so much and are frequently overloaded at the end of a big weekend. An overloaded trash bin is an invitation to all manner of wildlife: bears, raccoons, ravens, etc., to see what they can scavenge. Add to this the miles of shoreline that don’t have these accommodations. Always be prepared to pack out everything you bring in (while you’re at it – please pick up any other trash you may see). BALD EAGLE PAIR AT BASS LAKE • LARRY TOWNSEND YosemiteThisYear.com | info@yosemitethisyear.com2025 - 2026 Visitors Guide - Visit Yosemite | Madera CountyNext >