YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
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When you’re visiting Yosemite, there are more wonders of
nature to see than most travelers can fit into one visit.
(Many of us who’ve lived near here for years haven’t seen
half of it!)
But here are our favorite places that you just can’t miss:
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
From the South Gate into Yosemite Park, turn right to drive
a few miles to one of the largest groves of the largest trees in the world.
This area is undergoing serious renovation, with parking
lots and some pedestrian areas being closed off for a year. See it while you
can, or be sure to visit it next time you come to the park!
Glacier Point
Glacier Point offers the best views of Yosemite Valley that
are easily accessed: you can drive almost right up to the viewing area.
From an elevation of more than 7,000 feet, you’ll overlook
the full valley below, seeing Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Vernal Falls, Nevada
Falls, and more.
Pass the South Gate entrance on the way into the Valley, and
turn right up onto Glacier Point Road.
Yosemite Valley
Hike and bike through the 2.8 mile-long Yosemite Valley to
gaze at impressive waterfalls, high cliffs, unusual rock formations, sunny
meadows, groves of pine and oak and sparkling rivers and lakes.
Tunnel View
Yes, this is likely the most iconic view of Yosemite Valley.
You’ll see El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall.
How do you see it? Well, if you are driving into the park
from Oakhurst, you can’t miss it! The main road, Hwy 41/Wawona Road, goes
through the tunnel as you head into the valley.
Bridalveil Fall
In the valley, Bridalveil is the first waterfall you will
drive near — the parking lot for it is right off Wawona Road as you enter the
valley. Get out of the car and walk right up to the base of the Falls — it’s
well worth it!
Half Dome
This is a granite dome rising 8,800 feet above sea level.
The adventurous can climb the summit using the seasonal
steel cables.
The rest of us can appreciate the sight from many vantage
points throughout the valley.
Vernal Falls and the Mist Trail
Vernal is a 317-foot waterfall that gushes from the Merced
River into the valley.
The Mist Trail is a mostly paved path to the base of the
cascading waterfall, where you can feel the namesake mist (or get soaked by it
during peak seasons).
If you’re feeling energetic, continue on up past Vernal to
Nevada Falls.
While we recommend the free shuttle, the nearest parking lot
is just past Curry Village.
Yosemite Falls
In early Spring, you can experience the thunderous sound of
Yosemite Falls throughout the Valley. The main Valley loop road takes you to
the main access point to it. Enjoy an easy hike up to the base of the Falls.
Mirror Lake
Mirror Lake is a nice hike up from the Valley to the “half”
side of Half Dome and the slow moving stream that runs at its base. While not
as deep as in the days when it got its
name, you can still peer into it from certain angles and see the rocky
walls of Half Dome reflected in its mirror surface.
El Capitan
This monolith is known as the largest exposed slab of
granite in the world. It’s especially striking when lit by the sunset, which
you can best see as you head West toward the Valley exits, and it’s on your
right.
Big Architecture in the Big Valley
Visit the big hotels:
The Awahnee, Wawona and, just outside, the Tenaya Lodge —
all are magnificent buildings well worth seeing!
