Not just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the strength of granite, the power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and the tranquility of the High Sierra. First protected in 1864, Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more.
Upper Yosemite Fall and Merced River in spring
Upper Yosemite Fall and Merced River in spring
Yosemite Valley from Tunnel View
Tunnel View is perhaps one of the most photographed views in the park.
Rainbow over Half Dome
A hike up to Sentinel Dome rewards people with great views of the landscape around them.
Cathedral Peak and Lake in Autumn
Cathedral Peak is one of the most recognizable peaks in the Yosemite Wilderness.
Lower Yosemite Fall
The walk to Lower Yosemite Fall is a popular and easy hike.
Yosemite Falls on a Winter Morning
Yosemite Falls will sometimes only trickle at the end of summer, but wet winters can rejuvenate the flow.
Glen Aulin
Glen Auilin is one of five High Sierra Camps, located in the Yosemite high country.
Giant Sequoia Trees in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Yosemite National Park's massive giant sequoias (Sequoiadendron giganteum) live in three groves in the park. The most famous of these is the Mariposa Grove, which contains about 500 mature giant sequoias.
Tenaya Lake at Sunset
Tenaya Lake is a favorite place to stop along the Tioga Road in summer.
Half Dome
Half Dome is one of the most recognizable granitic formations in the world.
El Capitan
El Capitan rises over 3,000 feet above the floor of Yosemite Valley.
View of Yosemite Valley in Winter
A rewarding view of Yosemite Valley in winter as seen from Tunnel View.
