Yosemite Travel Guide
“…The most songful streams in the world…the noblest forest, the loftiest granite domes, the deepest ice sculptured canyons.”
- John Muir
Set in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite was the first territory in America to be set aside for public use. The majestic 1,169 square mile park is visited by over 3 million people each year and with such beautiful  scenery and attractions it is no wonder why they continue to come. Its splendor is so widespread that there is no way to see it all in just one visit.
When you come to Yosemite, you will see waterfalls, steep cliffs, wilderness country, mountain meadows, lakes, snowfields, streams and river beaches. During the winter months there is downhill and cross country skiing, ice skating, and snow shoe tours available at Badger Pass Ski area. Summer temperatures draw those who love fishing, camping, hiking, cycling, and other warm weather activities. You will find indoor and outdoor exhibits, tram rides,
cultural demonstrations and endless opportunities
for fantastic photos.
In and around Yosemite there are many sights to see. There is the Bodie Ghost Town State Historic Park with its store, houses, saloons, and other buildings from bygone days; the Mono Lake Tufa State Reserve where you can see the numerous birds and the Tufa towers; gold panning at Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad; see the impressive works at the art at Gallery Row or step back in time at the Columbia State Historic Park.
 Of
course, the best way to see Yosemite is on foot. There are
over 800 miles of trails, but hiking these trails are not
for the rookie as Yosemite ranges from 2,000 feet to 13,000
feet above sea level. The two most well known attractions
are the Half Dome which can be seen from Glacier Point and
El Capitan (7,569 feet) which is the largest monolith of
granite in the world.
The park was established on June 30, 1864, when President
Abraham Lincoln signed a bill granting Yosemite Valley and
the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias to the State of California
as an incontrovertible public trust. It was the first time
in history that a federal government had set aside scenic
lands simply to protect them and to allow for their pleasure
by all people. Later, John Muir's struggle against the desolation
of the sub alpine meadows surrounding Yosemite Valley resulted
in the establishment of Yosemite National Park on October
1, 1890.
When you come to Yosemite there are a few things you'll
have to see. Here are a few of the best
things to do and see in Yosemite. Go here for Yosemite
lodging and if you're the type that likes to get closer
to the outdoors here is a list of the best camping
in Yosemite National Park.
Photo Credits: Yosemite Photos by Scott Thompson |
