Last updated: August 21, 2025
Place
Cathedral Beach Picnic Area

Grill, Picnic Table, Recycling, Restroom, Trash/Litter Receptacles
Located in Yosemite Valley, picnic tables and grills are conveniently located at this scenic spot along the Merced River that offers views of El Capitan.
Seasonal Information
This picnic area is open year-round from dawn to dusk.
Swift-moving, cold water can be very dangerous and even deadly. Anytime the river is flowing strongly, such as in spring, stay away from the water.
Wildlife Safety
- Keep your distance from animals, even if they approach you.
- Never feed wild animals.
- Dispose of trash in bear-proof trash cans or dumpsters.
- While enjoying your picnic, keep your food, trash, and other scented items within arm's reach.
- If a bear approaches, yell as loudly as possible to scare the bear away.
Accessibility
The road and footpaths within the Cathedral Beach area are unpaved with irregular surfaces. The Cathedral Beach Picnic Area features wheelchair-accessible picnic tables with extended tops, accessible restrooms, and grills.