Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular parks of America and is
located near the eastern border of California. It is about the size of Rhode
Island and visited by over 3.5 million tourists each year. Yosemite
National Park spans over a huge area of 1189 square miles and has
un-spoilt Alpine scenery, countless lakes, forests, meadows and granite summits.
Yosemite Valley is located in the central part of the High Sierra and is
the visited section of the park. This is also the only place in the park where
you can buy food. Yosemite National Park also has the highest waterfall in North
America and 3 of the worlds 10 tallest waterfalls. It also comprises of the
tallest and largest single granite monolith in the world known as "El Capitan"
(very popular for rock climbing) and one of the most recognizable mountains
known as "Half Dome". There are several rare plants and animal species
which are specific to this region only. Yosemite has a large population of
Black Bears and its recommended to keep food wrapped.
Most visitors come to the famous Yosemite Valley starting February to May,
that means early spring to early summer. The park not only is in full bloom but
also the waterfalls of the park are most intense. Summer time is also
crowded especially because of the the summer school breaks and many parents
bring their children here (June to September). It takes about one hour
from park entrance to Yosemite Valley and Village.
Most popular attractions besides El Capitan and Yosemite Valley visitor center are as follows:
Glacier Point Road: It opens in late May to closes in November and is about 30 miles drive from the visitor center. You will see one of the best views of the valley from here, Many visitors make short stops to click a picture and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Tioga Pass: At about 9950 feet high, this pass also offers spectacular views of the park and opens only in summers. This area is also known for majestic sequoias and beautiful Wildflowers.
Mariposa Grove: Home to the largest grove of giant sequoias in Yosemite. Grizzly Giant is the most famous and oldest tree at about 1800 years old.
Half Done: Located at the eastern end of Yosemite Valley it is a granite dome and possibly the most familiar sight of the valley. The granite crest rises more than 4,737 ft above the valley floor.
Park entrance fee is $20 per car and is valid for 7 days.
Phone Numbers:
209-372-0200 For Current weather and road conditions.
209-372-0308 Information about trails and hiking.
518-885-3639 Campground reservations.
559-252-4848 Lodging reservations.
Last minute lodging inside the park can be a bit expensive but there are several cheaper options a few miles away of the park.
Please visit official website for the latest information and fees: nps.gov/yose/
Half Dome Picture
Photo of Falls
Yosemite
