Yosemite National Park
Granite monoliths, thundering waterfalls, and ancient giant sequoias in the Sierra Nevada's crown jewel valley.
Quick Info
Highlights
- Hiking the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls
- Watching the Firefall at Horsetail Fall in February
- Climbing or viewing El Capitan, the world's largest granite monolith
- Half Dome cables hike for a summit above 8,800 feet
- Mariposa Grove of ancient giant sequoias
- Tuolumne Meadows high country in summer
Park Map
Explore trailheads, hotels, and points of interest
Top Trails
Featured trailheads in Yosemite National Park
Half Dome Trail
StrenuousMist Trail
StrenuousYosemite Falls Trail
StrenuousMirror Lake Loop
EasyCathedral Lakes Trail
ModerateSentinel Dome Trail
ModerateTaft Point Trail
EasyAbout Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park protects nearly 1,200 square miles of Sierra Nevada wilderness, centered around the iconic Yosemite Valley with its sheer granite walls, plunging waterfalls, and meadows threaded by the Merced River. El Capitan and Half Dome are among the world's most famous rock formations, attracting climbers from around the globe. Beyond the valley, the park encompasses vast wilderness, three groves of ancient giant sequoias, and the high country of Tuolumne Meadows.
Yosemite National Park Guide: Best Hikes, When to Visit & Where to Stay
Plan your trip to Yosemite National Park. Top hikes, best months to visit, where to stay, and essential tips for California.
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Where to Stay
View all hotelsThe Ahwahnee
$$$$The grand dame of national park lodges, this 1927 landmark blends Art Deco design with Native American motifs beneath soaring cathedral ceilings. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Falls.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
$$A modern lodge at the base of Yosemite Falls offering comfortable rooms surrounded by meadows and pine forests. The central location provides walking access to the valley's main attractions and shuttle stops.
Rush Creek Lodge
$$$A modern mountain lodge on 20 acres near the park's Highway 120 entrance, featuring a saltwater pool complex, tavern restaurant, guided activities, and hillside suites with forest views.
Compare Yosemite National Park
See how Yosemite National Park stacks up against other national parks
Yosemite National Park vs Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Choose Yosemite for iconic granite walls, waterfalls, and a classic national park experience. Choose Sequoia and Kings Canyon for giant sequoia groves, fewer crowds, and a more rugged wilderness feel.
See full comparisonYosemite National Park vs Glacier National Park
Choose Yosemite for iconic granite walls, waterfalls, and world-class rock climbing. Choose Glacier for turquoise alpine lakes, remote wilderness, and a wilder, less developed atmosphere.
See full comparisonYosemite National Park vs Zion National Park
Choose Yosemite for granite cliffs, waterfalls, and high-country meadows. Choose Zion for red rock adventure, desert landscapes, and a warmer-weather experience.
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