“Wawona is like a bright green emerald set between the sparkling diamonds of Yosemite Valley’s waterfalls and the red rubies of the Sequoias in the Mariposa Grove.” – Yosemite visitor, early 1900s Although Wawona was not added to Yosemite National Park until 1932, this large mid-elevation basin has hosted many people and activities for centuries and is home to numerous other natural features. Originally home to American Indians, the Wawona area later became a prosperous settlement and primary thoroughfare for people traveling to Yosemite Valley during the late 19th century. Galen Clark, the first state-appointed guardian of Yosemite, built Clark’s Station, which later grew to become the Wawona Hotel. Getting to Wawona
Visitor Centers and Museums
Image Gallery
Yosemite History CenterGo back to a time of horse-drawn wagons, a covered bridge, and rustic cabins at the Yosemite History Center. The history center is a collection of the historic buildings where outdoor interpretive signs tell the stories of people who moved here from around the world and shaped the park’s development. During the summer, visit exhibits inside the Chinese Laundry, the Acting Superintendent's Office, and the Artist's Cabin, learn about the era of horse-drawn stages, or watch blacksmiths forge iron tools on a coal forge! Check the Yosemite Guide for details. Activities
Points of Interest
Chilnualna FallsChilnualna Falls flows all year, with peak flow in May. Pronounced “Chil-noo-al-na,” this waterfall is comprised of five large cascades sliding through and over large granite formations above the Wawona area. Eventually joining the South Fork Merced River downstream, Chilnualna Creek is fullest in spring and early summer. A strenuous trail, Chilnualna Falls allows for you to view the cascades in many locations along the hike and also rewards you with expansive views overlooking Wawona during your uphill climb.
Enjoy waterfall views 0.25-mi from the trailhead. The falls are fullest in spring and early summer. 
Yosemite History CenterIn the Yosemite History Center, see horse-drawn wagons, walk across a covered bridge, and visit rustic cabins from Yosemite's past. The Yosemite History Center is a collection of historic buildings where outdoor interpretive signs tell the stories of people who moved here from around the world and shaped the park’s development. Many of the buildings that make up the Yosemite History Center were moved to Wawona in the 1950s and '60s from various locations throughout the park. These buildings were moved to make way for more modern park facilities and to create an area to interpret Yosemite's history. The History Center commemorates the efforts of people, the events they experienced, and the issues they faced during the establishment of Yosemite as a national park. During summer, some buildings are open for demonstrations or exploration. Check the Yosemite Guide for details. 
Mariposa GroveThe Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. There is no shuttle service between Wawona and the Mariposa Grove. The welcome plaza, near Yosemite's South Entrance, has about 300 parking spaces and may fill up by late morning. Arrive by mid-morning to increase chances of finding a place to park. The national park idea is rooted in the Mariposa Grove. In 1864 President Lincoln signed legislation protecting the Mariposa Grove and Yosemite Valley for "public use, resort, and recreation." This landmark legislation holds an important place in our country's history and was enacted at a time when the nation was embroiled in the Civil War. For the first time in our nation's history, the federal government set aside scenic natural areas to be protected for the benefit of future generations. Later added to Yosemite National Park in 1906, the Mariposa Grove is a popular destination within the park. |
Last updated: April 30, 2026