Yosemite National Park Vacation Guide

Covering just under 1,200 square miles, Yosemite National Park preserves some of California's best terrain in the Sierra Nevada region. Brimming with spectacular scenery, the park is a natural wonderland you are sure to enjoy during a Yosemite National Park vacation.

Activities Abound in Yosemite National Park

Hiking

Is there a better way to explore the mountains than trekking through them? If you're one of the many individuals who doesn't think so, then you'll enjoy hiking during your vacation to the natural area. The park offers six routes, including Yosemite Valley, Hetch Hetchy, Tuolumne Meadows, Glacier Point Road, and Wawona and Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. During the winter, some trails close due to weather.

Biking

Do you enjoy the challenge of bike riding steep terrain? If so, you'll appreciate over a dozen paved paths designed for bike riders. You can also ride your bike on roads, provided you follow traffic laws. The park does require children between the ages of two and 18 to wear helmets at all times when riding bikes.

Horseback Riding

People who have trouble walking or riding the trails may want to consider horseback riding or mule tours. Unless posted, horses can use all the trails in the park, and they actually have the right of way over pedestrians. While you can bring your own stock, the park recommends that you allow the animals to adjust to the high elevation before you begin excursions.

Rock Climbing

Visitors from all over the world flock to the national park to try their skill at rock climbing. Whether you want to pinch crystals or crack climb, you'll find all the challenge you can handle during your Yosemite National Park vacation. The park does not maintain routes, and requests that you keep your climbing impact to a minimum, as the crags and walls help maintain the area's ecosystem.

Things to See

Waterfalls

Snowmelt in the spring keeps Yosemite National Park full of raging waterfalls. The peak of activity occurs in May and June. From the small 317-foot stream at Vernal Fall to the massive 2,425-foot drop at Yosemite Falls, the area offers a variety of water displays. Be sure to check out Horsetail Falls, which glows orange (and looks more like a lava stream than water) during sunset in the month of February.

Sequoias

What Yosemite National Park vacation would be complete without a trip to see the giant sequoias of the park? Many experts consider these massive trees to be the largest living organisms on earth, and some date back 3,000 years. Though Yosemite has three groves, the most popular is Mariposa Grove, because it is the easiest one to reach. If you're up for a longer trek, head for Merced or Tuolumne Groves. If you prefer to enjoy the beauty from a distance, consider taking an auto tour of the park, which brings you close enough to see the beautiful trees without the hike.

Viewpoints

If you have looked at any Yosemite National Park vacation guides, you've seen some of the most spectacular views in the park. These are even more impressive in person. Glacier Point overlooks the high country, Yosemite Falls, the valley, and Half Dome. If you enjoy water views, then head to O'Shaugnessy Dam, which overlooks the reservoir. At Tunnel View, you can feast your eyes on one of Yosemite's most famous views. Take in the sight of El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls, Half Dome, and the valley.

With its spectacular vista views, it diverse terrain, and the plethora of things to see and do, this is the place for your dream vacation. No matter what type of outdoor activity you prefer, you're sure to find it during your Yosemite National Park vacation.