About This Route
The Yosemite Valley Floor Loop offers a scenic 11.5-mile trail running circuit through the heart of Yosemite Valley, passing landmarks like El Capitan, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Bridalveil Fall. Popular with trail runners for its relatively flat terrain and stunning views, this loop starts and ends at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. Expect a mix of paved paths, fire roads, and singletrack with minimal elevation gain of about 1,000 feet. According to NPS data, it's accessible year-round but best from spring through fall. Trail runners love it for quick loops or full circuits, often combining it with the Mirror Lake Trail for variety.
Safety Considerations
Weather shifts rapidly in Yosemite Valley; NPS warns of sudden thunderstorms, especially afternoons. Plan runs to finish by noon and avoid open meadows during storms. High water from spring snowmelt floods the Merced River; check NPS river gauge at Pohono Bridge before starting. Bears are active; store no food on you and make noise near berry bushes or streams, per Yosemite bear safety protocols. Rattlesnakes lurk on warmer trailsides; scan ahead and wear gaiters. Follow Leave No Trace by staying on trails to prevent erosion. Dehydration hits fast at elevation; carry 2-3 liters water. Hypothermia risk persists even in summer nights.
Essential Gear
Pack a Salomon hydration vest with at least 2L bladder, Garmin Forerunner GPS watch for navigation, Black Diamond headlamp for early starts, REI Co-op gaiters against dust and snakes, wide-brim hat, high-SPF sunscreen, layered merino wool base for temperature swings, compact first-aid kit with blister pads, and whistle for signaling.
Emergency Tips
Injury? Use your GPS watch to share location via satellite messenger like Garmin inReach. Nearest help is Yosemite Valley Ranger Station (209-372-0200) or dial 911. For lightning, drop packs and squat low in forested areas away from trees. Lost? Follow the Merced River downhill to valley floor. Heat exhaustion: seek shade, hydrate with electrolytes.