Yosemite National Park is the third oldest U.S. national park, having been designated in 1890. One of the most popular parks in the country, it draws about 4.5 million visitors per year (pre-COVID). Being on the western side of the Sierra Nevada, the main route from the eastern Sierras is over Tioga Pass, one of the most scenic drives in the country. In addition to all the mountain views, there are numerous lakes, meadows and waterfalls along the route, with many opportunities for hiking, rock climbing and observing wildlife. The road is closed much of the year, but when it opens around Memorial Day, wildflowers add another dimension to the scenery.
The main destination in the park is Yosemite Valley, which is open all year. Here is where the most spectacular cliffs and waterfalls are found.
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Bridal Veil Falls
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Valley Chapel
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Half Dome
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North Dome
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The highest waterfall in the U.S. at more than 2400 feet (in three stages), Yosemite Falls can dry up later in some years. In late September, 2002, there was no water at all, just the stain on the cliff from earlier flows. El Capitan's sheer face makes it one of the most popular rock climbing destinations in the world.
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| Yosemite Falls |
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El Capitan
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El Capitan
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Cathedral Rocks
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Driving east over the pass, there is a great view of Mount Lyell, the highest point in Yosemite National Park at 13,120 feet above sea level.
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