Table of Contents
Yosemite National Park is a protected area in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, famous for the towering granite walls of El Capitan and Half Dome, the thunderous 2,425-foot Yosemite Falls, ancient giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove, and the iconic Tunnel View overlook. Garret stopped by Yosemite Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in North America at 2,425 feet. Also hiked around Mirror Lake, which only has water in the spring and early summer, but the views are still worth it.
In June 2024, Garret sold everything he owned and set off to live full-time on the road in his Storyteller van. It’s a converted Sprinter built for functionality and off-grid living — fully ready for whatever adventures come his way. He loves hiking, exploring the outdoors, and discovering new places, and my goal is to show you what his van-life journey is really like. No cleaning up for the camera — what you see from Garret is the real deal, with all the mess and all the awesomeness that come with life on the road.
For another remote van life adventure, discover Cape Arid National Park in Western Australia.
What are the quick facts about Yosemite?
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–May) or Autumn (September–October) for ideal weather; summer for full water flow at Yosemite Falls.
- Estimated Budget: Entry fee $35/vehicle; campgrounds $10–$36/night; lodge rooms $150–$400/night.
- Duration: Recommended 3–5 days to fully experience the highlights.
- Getting There: Drive from San Francisco (~4 hours) or Fresno (~2 hours). YARTS bus service operates from multiple gateway towns along Highway 140.
Lukas Weber
Adventure Travel & Road Trip Specialist
Lukas is a Munich-based adventure specialist who grew up exploring the Bavarian Alps. With extensive cross-continent driving experience, he shares highly practical tips for van life, 4WD road trips, and remote camping expeditions.
Activities in united-states
More stories from united states
Valentine's Day in the USA: Most Romantic Destinations & Ideas
From the snowy peaks of Colorado to the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans and the hidden corners of New York City. Discover the perfect backdrop for your love story this Valentine's Day.
Travel Trends 2026: How Explore the World Next Year
Travel in 2026 is no longer about ticking destinations off a list. More travelers are shifting toward meaningful experiences, personal growth, and deeper cultural connections. Instead of asking “Where should I go?”, people increasingly begin with a different question: “What do I want to experience?”
Best tours for camping
More camping
Japan by Mini Campervan: Alps, Ancient Trails and the Izu Coast
Two weeks in the cutest campervan imaginable, winding through the Northern Japanese Alps, walking a samurai-era highway, and chasing waterfalls down the Izu Peninsula.
Remote Paradise: A Solo 4WD Journey to Cape Arid, Western Australia
A solo 4X4 adventure will take you alongside the pristine beaches of Cape Arid National Park. The unspoilt beauty of Western Australia's remote beaches will be yours to explore on this trip.
600km of Rugged Off-Road Trails - Chile and Bolivia
When the plans changed at Bolivia's border, Alex and Meg had to change directions and took a 600 km off-road trip through the high-altitude roads of Chile and Bolivia.
Book your trip in north america
More from north america
Valentine's Day in the USA: Most Romantic Destinations & Ideas
From the snowy peaks of Colorado to the jazz-filled streets of New Orleans and the hidden corners of New York City. Discover the perfect backdrop for your love story this Valentine's Day.
Travel Trends 2026: How Explore the World Next Year
Travel in 2026 is no longer about ticking destinations off a list. More travelers are shifting toward meaningful experiences, personal growth, and deeper cultural connections. Instead of asking “Where should I go?”, people increasingly begin with a different question: “What do I want to experience?”