“By far the grandest of all the special temples of nature I was ever permitted to enter.”
– John Muir
WOW! That was our first reaction upon seeing Yosemite Valley for the very first time and its wowed us ever since. Yosemite National Park is one of the most beautiful destinations in Northern California, if not in the world. Famous for its natural beauty, majestic granite cliffs, giant Sequoias and spectacular flowing waterfalls, it’s no surprise that Yosemite draws millions of visitors from around the world. One such visitor was world-renowned photographer Ansel Adams. His spectacular black-and-white photographs captured the beauty of Yosemite Valley like no other.
Fun Yosemite Attractions
Half Dome
Magnificent Half Dome (pictured above), is one of Yosemite’s most photographed attractions. The sheer granite dome stands approximately 5,000 feet above the Valley floor and is popular with hikers and climbers the world over.
Glacier Point
Glacier Point is a “must-see” during your visit to Yosemite. The scenic Glacier Point overlook stands at over 7,000 feet above Yosemite Valley. The views are absolutely breathtaking.
El Capitan
El Capitan (pictured below), Yosemite’s famous granite cliff, is one of the world’s most popular climbing destinations. It stands about 3,000 feet from its base to summit.
Cathedral Rocks and Cathedral Spires
Cathedral Rocks (pictured below) are located just opposite El Capitan. The three main summits are called Higher, Middle and Lower Cathedral Rocks. The Middle Cathedral Rock and the Cathedral Spires are the most popular with rock-climbers.
Yosemite Falls
The 2,425-foot-high Yosemite Falls is the highest in North America. It is one of Yosemite’s most popular attractions, especially during late Spring when the waterfalls are at their most spectacular.
Vernon Falls
Vernal Falls is one of the shortest trails in Yosemite National Park. It’s also one of the most spectacular. Expect crowds, especially during peak season. Enjoy plenty of great photo ops.
Bridalveil Falls
Look out for Bridalveil Falls (pictured below) as you enter Yosemite Valley. It flows year-round, although Spring and Summer are when it’s at its fullest. Hike the paved trail (it’s an easy 20-minute walk) to the base of the waterfall.
Book Yosemite Sightseeing Tours, Day Trips and Fun Things To Do
Book a Yosemite National Park Tour. See the dramatic granite cliffs of Half Dome, El Capitan and Cathedral Rocks. See scenic Glacier Point and its magnificent valley views. Get up close to Yosemite’s beautiful waterfalls. Take a full-day Yosemite Valley Hiking Tour and explore Tuolumne Meadows. Hike a variety of trails to see Mirror Lake and Spider Caves. Learn about the history of Yosemite. Other fun tours include: Guided Half Dome Hike, Private Guided Hiking Tour, Family Hike, Hummer 4×4 Tour, Giant Sequoia Grove Hike, an Ansel Adams’ Legacy Photography Class – and even a Yosemite Yoga Tour!
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The Best Time To Visit Yosemite
Yosemite Valley is open year-round. It’s a great time to visit any time of the year.
Waterfalls are at their peak (and the most spectacular) during mid-Spring and early Summer. Summers are peak tourist times, so be sure to book well in advance. Fall colors are at their peak during the end of October through early November. The Holiday Season is also very popular.
During winter months, Yosemite offers downhill skiing at Badger Pass, as well as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at Badger Pass, Crane Flat and the Mariposa Grove. Other fun activities include horseback-riding and ice-skating.