National Park Guide

Yosemite National Park

California, US

Granite monoliths, thundering waterfalls, and ancient giant sequoias in the Sierra Nevada's crown jewel valley.

761,748
Acres
800
Trails
1890
Established
3.88 million
Annual Visitors

Quick Info

Season
Year-round (Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road close in winter)
Entrance Fee
$35 per vehicle
Nearest Airport
Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), 2 hours 30 minutes
Best Months
May, June, July, August, September

Highlights

  • Hiking the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls
  • Watching the Firefall at Horsetail Fall in February
  • Climbing or viewing El Capitan, the world's largest granite monolith
  • Half Dome cables hike for a summit above 8,800 feet
  • Mariposa Grove of ancient giant sequoias
  • Tuolumne Meadows high country in summer

Park Map

Explore trailheads, hotels, and points of interest

About Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park protects nearly 1,200 square miles of Sierra Nevada wilderness, centered around the iconic Yosemite Valley with its sheer granite walls, plunging waterfalls, and meadows threaded by the Merced River. El Capitan and Half Dome are among the world's most famous rock formations, attracting climbers from around the globe. Beyond the valley, the park encompasses vast wilderness, three groves of ancient giant sequoias, and the high country of Tuolumne Meadows.

Explore More

Where to Stay

View all hotels

The Ahwahnee

$$$$

The grand dame of national park lodges, this 1927 landmark blends Art Deco design with Native American motifs beneath soaring cathedral ceilings. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Falls.

Inside park$500-900/night
Check on Hotels.com

Yosemite Valley Lodge

$$

A modern lodge at the base of Yosemite Falls offering comfortable rooms surrounded by meadows and pine forests. The central location provides walking access to the valley's main attractions and shuttle stops.

Inside park$200-350/night
Check on Hotels.com

Rush Creek Lodge

$$$

A modern mountain lodge on 20 acres near the park's Highway 120 entrance, featuring a saltwater pool complex, tavern restaurant, guided activities, and hillside suites with forest views.

2 miles from Big Oak Flat Entrance$300-500/night
Check on Hotels.com

Park Details

Highest Point
Mount Lyell, 13,114 ft
Camping
Available
Wilderness Areas
Yes
Pet Friendly
Limited (developed areas only)
Region
Pacific
Established
1890