Nestled on a beautiful meadow near the South Fork of the Merced River and 25 miles south of Yosemite Valley, Wawona’s first name was Pallahchun, the Miwok word for “a good place to stop.”

The Wawona area has continued to weave a spell over visitors ever since, enticing people to stay longer to listen to the babble of the Merced River and breathe the fresh air.

Must-See Stops

Make sure you take in these classic Yosemite features.

Wawona Hotel

Pioneer History

Mariposa Grove

Let your jaw drop at the size and majesty of Mariposa Grove’s celebrity sequoias. Enjoy a  horse-drawn carriage ride at the Pioneer Yosemite History Center. Wander the grounds of the charming Wawona Hotel and play the links at the adjacent golf course.



Activities for All

Fun for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike!

Horseback ride beneath towering trees or trek the 6.5 miles from the Wawona Hotel to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. In winter, Wawona makes an excellent starting point for snowshoeing and cross country ski adventures!

Tour the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, see works in process at an artist’s studio, and feed your brain at a ranger program.

Where to Stay

Options for every group, at every price level.

Lodge in comfort and wake up to complimentary breakfast at the Wawona Hotel. outside the park. During the summer months, rent a privately-owned cabin in the area known as Section 35. Just outside of the Park’s South Gate, choose from a wide array of lodging options, including inns and campgrounds

Getting There and Around

Directions to Wawona and Southern Yosemite.

Wawona lies on Highway 41, midway between the Park’s South Gate and Yosemite Valley, making it an excellent addition to the trip into or out of the Park.

Visit our Travel Tools page to find tips on when to go, entrance gate information, and mileage charts.

Plan your route with our interactive map to include the best roadside attractions, lodging, dining, and more!