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Yosemite National Park protects a stretch of California's Sierra Nevada known for granite cliffs, waterfalls and giant sequoias. Glaciers helped carve Yosemite Valley into its broad U shape, and an 1864 grant signed by Abraham Lincoln set the area aside for public use, an early step toward the national park idea. The Ahwahneechee lived in the valley long before.
Arriving on Wawona Road, many people get their first look at Tunnel View, with El Capitan on one side and Bridalveil Fall on the other. On the valley floor, climbers inch up El Capitan's sheer face, and a short trail reaches the base of Yosemite Falls, among the continent's tallest. The Mist Trail climbs granite steps beside Vernal and Nevada Falls. From Glacier Point Half Dome looks close enough to touch, and an easy walk leads to Mirror Lake beneath it. Mariposa Grove, in the south, holds hundreds of mature sequoias, and in summer Tioga Road crosses the high country past granite domes and the clear water of Tenaya Lake.
Hikers, climbers, photographers and families all find plenty to do. Waterfalls peak in late spring, summer is busiest, and Tioga and Glacier Point roads close in winter. Entry reservations have been required at peak times in recent years, so check current rules, and book park lodging early.
WiserMap travel guideYosemite National Park California Glacier Point and SequoiasPlan Yosemite with the best spots in the Valley, Glacier Point, Mariposa Grove and Tuolumne Meadows, plus seasons, road openings, shuttles, lodging and hikes.Read the guide
The classic first look at Yosemite Valley, right at the end of the Wawona Tunnel, with El Capitan on the left, Bridalveil Fall on the right and Half Dome in the distance. Easy roadside parking makes it a must for sunrise or sunset photos and a perfect start to any visit.
A viewpoint 3,200 feet above the valley floor with a breathtaking, close view of Half Dome, Vernal and Nevada falls and the high country. Reach it by car in summer and fall or by the steep Four Mile Trail. Sunsets turn Half Dome pink, and stargazing here is superb.
A 3,000-foot granite monolith, one of the world's most famous big-wall climbing destinations. From El Capitan Meadow, use binoculars to spot climbers on the wall, and see their headlamps after dark. In February, the Horsetail Fall firefall can glow orange on its eastern edge.
Yosemite's iconic granite dome rises nearly 5,000 feet above the valley. Most visitors admire it from viewpoints, while strong hikers tackle the 14 to 16-mile round trip with the famous cable section, which requires a permit from a lottery. Start before dawn and turn back if storms approach.
At 2,425 feet, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, roaring in spring and early summer and often dry by late summer. An easy 1-mile loop leads to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall, while a strenuous trail climbs to the top. Listen for the thunder from across the valley.
A graceful 620-foot waterfall that sways in the wind, often seen as you enter the valley. A short paved trail leads to a viewing area near the base, where you will feel the mist in spring. It flows year round, making it a reliable sight even in late summer.
One of Yosemite's most popular hikes climbs granite steps beside the 317-foot Vernal Fall, where spring spray soaks hikers and creates rainbows, then continues to the top of the 594-foot Nevada Fall. Go to Vernal Fall for a 2.4-mile round trip, or loop back via the John Muir Trail.
A seasonal lake at the base of Half Dome that reflects the surrounding cliffs in spring and early summer, gradually turning to a meadow by fall. An easy 2-mile round trip walk from the shuttle stop follows Tenaya Creek. Quiet mornings bring the best reflections.
Yosemite's largest grove of giant sequoias, with more than 500 mature trees, including the 3,000-year-old Grizzly Giant and the walk-through California Tunnel Tree. Trails range from an easy 0.3-mile loop to longer climbs. In season, a free shuttle runs from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza.
A wide subalpine meadow at 8,600 feet in the high country, with the Tuolumne River winding through and granite domes all around. Easy walks lead to Soda Springs and Parsons Lodge, and longer trails reach alpine lakes. Open roughly June to October when Tioga Road is clear.
A quieter valley in the park's northwest corner, dammed to form a reservoir that supplies San Francisco. Walk across O'Shaughnessy Dam and follow the trail to Wapama Falls, which thunders in spring. It sees far fewer visitors than Yosemite Valley and is great for wildflowers.
The highest highway pass in California crosses the park's high country through forests, granite slabs and meadows, open roughly June to October. Stop at Olmsted Point for Half Dome views and at sparkling Tenaya Lake for a swim, picnic or paddle on its sandy beach.
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California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
California, United States
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