Things To Do Near South Entrance (Wawona) in Yosemite National Park

There are so many good things to do near Wawona, but most would agree that the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is at the top of the list. This is the largest of the park's three sequoia groves and the one with the most history. Pioneer/ranger Galen Clark popularized the grove, and was later responsible for its protection as part of the 1864 Congressional act that preserved this parcel and Yosemite Valley. Galen built a cabin in the upper grove, a replacement of which serves as a summer visitor center. There are several miles of trails that wind through the huge trees. Many people prefer to pay for a tram tour through the grove, which brings you to the Grizzly Giant and the famed Tunnel Tree.

Going north from Wawona, it's not too far to the Glacier Point Road. In summer the drive out to the end brings you to the rim of Yosemite Valley - unbelievable views of Half Dome, high peaks, waterfalls and cliffs. In winter, the Badger Pass Ski Area is 6 miles up the road; one of the West's first ski areas.

In Wawona itself, the visitor center, next to the Wawona Hotel is worth some time. Just down the hill is the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, an assemblage of historic buildings gathered from throughout the park to illustrate the challenges of the early days. In the summer, costumed interpreters provide a living commentary on Yosemite's heritage that far out-classes any brochure or sign. Across the street from the hotel is a very pleasant Meadow Loop Trail, an old carriage road following a mostly flat route through the forest.

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