О 2 Happy Isles Loop

This is a pleasant, short—but not dramatic—hike by the Merced River.

Take the free park shuttle to stop #16 or, for a longer walk, head southwest from Curry Village until you arrive at the Happy Isles Bridge.

Turn to the right to quickly arrive at the Happy Isles Art and Nature Center, which features a variety of exhibits, along with art workshops. Explore the area around the nature center and you will come across a nifty outdoor exhibit about rockfalls at Yosemite. The Merced River is close at hand, and there are tranquil spots on the small “isles” that give this area its name. If you double back after this little stroll, you’ll walk just over ½ mile.

You can also cross the bridge at stop #16 and then turn left to follow a flat, wide trail that follows the Merced River. While the surrounding trees offer cool shade, don’t expect to see much big mountain scenery on this hike. It is a peaceful walk through the woods.

The trail loops around the Upper Pines campground and then after about a mile deposits you back at the road, where you should have little trouble finding your way to the shuttle stop.

Must Do! TAKE THE SHUTTLE

The park operates a free shuttle within the valley and beyond. Hop on, hop off—it’s the easiest way to travel, and it delivers riders straight to all the favorite valley hot spots, including museums, visitors center, lodges, campgrounds, El Capitan and the meadow, Curry Village, Happy Isles and Mirror Lake.