Yosemite National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the United States for a reason. The rock formations such as the sheer-faced El Capitan and the dramatic Half-Dome are truly awe-inspiring.
There are also several spectacular waterfalls including the Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls and the smaller, but no less incredible, falls along the Mist Trail. You can easily spend your time on the Yosemite Valley floor gazing up and around you, but if you want to get closer to the action, there are hiking trails for all levels of experience and fitness.
Yosemite National Park Travel Guide
Yosemite National Park at a glance
- State: California
- Main attractions: Incredible rock formations; waterfalls
- Best time to go: Mid-late spring when the waterfalls are at their peak but crowds are not
- Hotels/ Airbnbs: Inside the park, Yellowstone West
- Campgrounds: Inside and near the park
- Dining: Inside the park, Yellowstone West
- Shuttle: Yes, around Yosemite Valley
Yosemite National Park Guide
Navigate this Yosemite National Park guide by clicking on the articles below to read in-depth information about each aspect of Yosemite National Park.
Best Tours In and Around Yosemite National Park
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About the Author

James Ian has dedicated his life to travel and has traveled to 82 countries and all 7 continents. He’s visited all of the main national parks in the United States, as well as many national monuments and state parks.
As a national park expert, James has contributed to many publications, including Time Business News, Savoteur, and Wired. He also has several published detailed itineraries in addition to many free online guides.
James has rafted through the Grand Canyon; rappelled down slot canyons near Zion and Arches; hiked among the hoodoos in Bryce and the enormous trees in Sequoia; admired the waterfalls in Yosemite and the colored hot springs in Yellowstone; seen moose in Grand Tetons and seals in the Channel Islands, and much more.