Yosemite National Park, with its million-year-old granite monoliths, demands superlatives. Year after year, our readers crown it a favorite destination, while Travel + Leisure recently ranked it #4 on their World’s Best National Parks list for the United States—and #1 in California. The accolades are well-deserved. What’s equally remarkable? How this ancient landscape continues to offer fresh ways to experience its timeless beauty.
Mariposa County (Hwy 140):
It seems almost paradoxical to speak of “newness” in a place where Half Dome and El Capitan were formed during the Cretaceous period, and where the park itself has welcomed visitors since becoming America’s third national park in 1890. Yet as Sunset magazine recently explored, the past year has brought an exciting evolution to the Yosemite gateway experience, with several adventure hotels and glamping options cropping up around the park’s perimeter.
In the charming Gold Rush town of Mariposa along Highway 140, Windhaven Yosemite offers the rare combination of outdoor sleeping and actual comfort. Guests can choose between canvas tents or updated glamping cabins, waking to views of rolling foothills backed by snow-capped peaks.
Beyond serving as your Yosemite base camp, the property features miles of hiking trails and access to nearby lakes for boating, fishing and swimming. Back at camp, yoga classes, live music and beer tastings create a social atmosphere that connects travelers and locals alike.
Tuolumne County (Highway 120):
Coming spring 2026, Under Canvas Yosemite will bring its signature safari-style glamping experience to Groveland. The brand, recently featured in Sunset’s Best Nature Resorts & Hotels for 2025, promises its hallmark blend of adventure and refinement at Yosemite’s doorstep. For more traditional lodging, Firefall Ranch offers pet-friendly cottages and villas through their “Doggie Daily” rate, accommodating up to two dogs for an additional $85 per night.
Madera County (Highway 41):
Not far away along Highway 41, Outbound Yosemite is also slated to open its doors in April 2026, adding to the growing constellation of upscale outdoor accommodations surrounding the park’s southern entrance. Another dog-friendly favorite just outside the southern gate to Yosemite National park is Tenaya at Yosemite, featuring dog-friendly rooms in the lodge, Explorer Cabins and cottages. Check out their Deluxe Pampered Pet Package to see why Tenaya won the 2015 Sunset Travel Awards for Best Resort for Pets!
In the Park:
Once inside the park itself, you’ll discover that Yosemite offers more pet accessibility than many visitors expect. Leashed dogs can accompany you on paved roads, sidewalks and bicycle paths, giving you and your four-legged companion access to those postcard-perfect scenic vistas.
Beat the crowds with an early morning start at Tunnel View, where the valley spreads before you in all its granite glory, then make your way down to the dog-friendly trail leading to Bridalveil Fall’s base. The waterfall flows year-round, offering a reliable spectacle and a cool mist reward for you and your pup after the walk.
While you won’t be hitting the backcountry trails together, these accessible routes prove you don’t need to leave your canine companion behind to experience Yosemite’s wonders.
