Yosemite adventure activities

Bike on comfy SoCal-style cruisers available for rent in Curry Village. INFO: $24.50 per day; 209/372- 8319; bike rentals also available at Yosemite Lodge, 209/372-1208.

Hiking is one of the best ways to experience Yosemite. Short, easy hikes that result in amazing views include Lower Yosemite Fall and Mirror Lake. You can find trail descriptions and maps through the National Park Service. INFO: NPS trail guide, www.nps.gov/yose. (See Best Yosemite hikes.)

Horseback ride to Chilnualna Falls, Mirror Lake, or in Tuolumne Meadows. Two-hour, half-day, and full-day rides are available at three locations through DNC Parks & Resorts at Yosemite from spring through fall. INFO: From $60 for a 2-hour ride, reservations recommended; www.yosemitepark.com.

Raft or kayak the Merced River. You can rent an inflatable raft and drift 3 miles down the Merced River, taking in majestic Half Dome and towering Yosemite Falls. INFO: Rafting rentals and permitted locations, http://www.nps.gov/yose.

Rock climb with Yosemite Mountaineering School. Yosemite has been a rock climber’s haven for a century--you can learn, too, at daily classes offered by the school. INFO: From $117 for a 6- to 7-hour class, reservations recommended; in Curry Village; www.yosemitepark.com or 209/372-8344).

Hiking, bird-watching, photography―these are just some of the enjoyable courses offered by the Yosemite Association. INFO: 209-379-2324; www.yosemite.org

Winter activities

Ice-skate at the world's most beautiful outdoor rink. INFO: $8, $3 skate rental; at Curry Village; 209/372-8319.

Skiing and tubing Badger Pass Ski Area is ideal for families: No crowds, and beginning and intermediate runs. INFO: Lift tickets from $28, rentals from $18; tubing $11; 209/372-8430.

Snowshoe with outings lead by The Yosemite Association. INFO: From $82, including equipment; reservations required; 209/379-2321, www.yosemite.org.