Ahwahnee Hotel

The Ahwahnee Hotel is a lodge in Yosemite Valley, California, with granite walls, exposed beams, and large stone fireplaces that echo the surrounding cliffs. The interior combines dark wood with high ceilings, while wide windows frame views of waterfalls and rock formations.

The building was completed in 1927 following designs by Gilbert Stanley Underwood to accommodate wealthy visitors to the park. Transporting heavy construction materials through the mountains required months of planning and numerous trucks.

The name comes from the Ahwahnechee people who lived in the valley for centuries. Visitors can see handwoven tapestries in the dining hall that display traditional patterns from the region.

The lodge sits next to stop number 3 of the free shuttle bus that runs through the valley. The outdoor pool is heated and open year-round, offering a place to relax on cooler days.

Behind the wooden panels, modern sprinklers protect the building without disturbing the original appearance. This system was installed during construction and remains almost invisible from the outside.

Location: Yosemite Valley

Location: Yosemite Village

Inception: 1927

Architects: Gilbert Stanley Underwood

Architectural style: National Park Service rustic

Website: https://travelyosemite.com/lodging/the-ahwahnee

GPS coordinates: 37.74574,-119.57419

Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:00