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Yosemite National Park: 12 Must-See Tourist Attractions & Things to Do

Yosemite National Park is one of America’s most beloved and oldest national parks. Here you can experience natural wonders like the Merced River and El Capitan, as well as enriching history at Old Faithful Geyser and Zodiac Pool. Camp out under the stars in a designated campground, travel by car on America’s first national scenic byway, or head out on a multi-day trek to the top of Half Dome only accessible via cable car. Explore all that Yosemite has to offer with this list compiled by Traveling Feed.

Yosemite National Park may be one of the lesser celebrated national parks in North America, but Californians frequent it. The park is bigger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined and covers an incredible 1,200 square miles across four counties with a wide range of attractions.

Exploring California’s natural beauty is the essence of what a trip to Yosemite National Park offers. With activities for everyone, and plenty of opportunities for pristine hiking and camping, this American park is an adventure-seekers paradise. Discover 12 Yosemite attractions that should not be missed!

Why Yosemite is so popular

Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Every year, millions of people visit Yosemite to see its majestic mountains, waterfalls, and other natural wonders.

One of the main reasons why Yosemite is so popular is because it is one of the few remaining places in the world where you can see giant sequoia trees. These trees are among the largest and oldest living things on earth. They can grow to be over 300 feet tall and live for over 3,000 years. Seeing these giant sequoias is an unforgettable experience.

Yosemite is also home to some of the tallest waterfalls in North America. The most famous waterfall is Yosemite Falls, which plunges 2,425 feet from the top of a cliff. Other popular waterfalls include Bridalveil Fall and Horsetail Fall.

Visitors to Yosemite can also enjoy hiking, camping, rock climbing, and many other outdoor activities. There is something for everyone at Yosemite National Park.

Top 12 must see tourist attractions in Yosemite National Park

1. Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Valley is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Yosemite National Park. The valley is home to many of the park’s signature features, including Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls. Visitors can explore the valley floor by hiking, biking, or taking a scenic drive. There are also several ranger-led programs that offer insight into the park’s history and natural wonders.

Yosemite Valley is also home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and coyotes. Visitors should be aware of these animals and take precautions to avoid interacting with them.

2. Wawona Tunnel View

The Wawona Tunnel View is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Yosemite National Park. The view from the tunnel is truly breathtaking. You can see Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Valley from this vantage point.

The Wawona Tunnel View is located on Highway 41, just south of Yosemite Village. The best time to visit the Wawona Tunnel View is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is not too high in the sky. This will help you avoid the crowds and get the best light for photography.

If you’re visiting Yosemite National Park, be sure to add the Wawona Tunnel View to your list of must-see sights!

3. Glacier Point

Glacier Point is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Yosemite National Park. The point offers an incredible view of the park, including Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and the Sierra Nevada mountains. Visitors can drive to Glacier Point or take a shuttle bus from Yosemite Valley. There are also several hiking trails that lead to Glacier Point.

Another popular tourist destination in Yosemite National Park is Tunnel View. This viewpoint offers a stunning view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and El Capitan. Tunnel View is located just east of Yosemite Village and can be reached by car or shuttle bus.

Other popular tourist destinations in Yosemite National Park include Mariposa Grove, Yosemite Falls, and Sentinel Dome. Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 giant sequoia trees, some of which are over 3,000 years old. Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America and is located near Yosemite Village. Sentinel Dome is a granite dome that offers 360-degree views of the park.

4. Half Dome

Half Dome is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Yosemite National Park. It is a granite dome that rises more than 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) above the Yosemite Valley floor. Half Dome is located in the Yosemite Valley, near the center of the park. Visitors can hike to the summit of Half Dome or take a shuttle bus from Yosemite Valley.

The hike to the summit of Half Dome is strenuous, but it is very rewarding. The views from the top are amazing! On a clear day, you can see for miles in all directions. You can also see some of the other iconic landmarks in Yosemite National Park, such as El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall.

If you don’t want to hike to the summit of Half Dome, you can take a shuttle bus. The shuttle bus goes to a trailhead near the base of Half Dome. From there, it is a short hike to the top of Half Dome. The shuttle bus ride takes about 45 minutes each way.

5. Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Yosemite National Park. The falls are located on the Merced River and plunge 2,425 feet (739 m) over several cascades. They are best seen in the spring when the water flow is at its peak. However, even in the summer, Yosemite Falls is a beautiful sight. There are several hiking trails that lead to different viewpoints of the falls.

Yosemite Falls is just one of the many must-see tourist attractions in Yosemite National Park. Other popular attractions include Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Tunnel View. There is something for everyone to see and do in Yosemite National Park. Additionally, there are many vacation rentals to choose from in the park. There are a wide range of accommodations available, all within easy access to Yosemite’s famous attractions. Are you looking for a gorgeous, picturesque setting? If so, look no further than this vacation rental at 1126 Tenaya Drive in Yosemite National Park. A visitor favorite, this beautiful vacation cabin sits on the side of Tenaya Lake and offers its guests breathtaking views of the neighboring forest and Half Dome beyond. Check it

6. Merced River Rafting

Merced River rafting is one of the most popular activities in Yosemite National Park. The river offers a variety of different rafting options, from calm floats to white-water rapids. There are many companies that offer Merced River rafting trips, so it’s easy to find one that’s right for you.

 rafting is a great way to see Yosemite’s unique landscapes from a different perspective. It’s also a lot of fun! If you’re visiting Yosemite National Park, be sure to add Merced River rafting to your list of things to do.

7. Mist Trail

The Mist Trail is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Yosemite National Park. This trail takes hikers up to Vernal Fall, a stunning waterfall that drops 317 feet (97 meters). The Mist Trail is named for the mist that forms at the base of the waterfall. This trail is considered moderate to strenuous, and it is recommended for experienced hikers only.

The Mist Trail is open from late spring to early fall, and it typically closes in October due to snowfall. Hikers should take caution when hiking on the Mist Trail, as the rocks can be slippery when wet. The best time to hike the trail is early in the morning, before the sun gets too hot.

8. Tioga Road Drive

The Tioga Road Drive is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Yosemite National Park. This scenic drive takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the park. You’ll see towering mountains, pristine lakes, and waterfalls. The drive is about 45 miles long and takes about two hours to complete.

 Along the way, there are several stops that you can make to take in the sights. Some of the most popular stops include Olmsted Point, Tenaya Lake, and Tuolumne Meadows. There are also several hiking trails that you can take to explore the park further.

The Tioga Road Drive is a must-see for anyone visiting Yosemite National Park. It’s an enjoyable way to see some of the most stunning scenery in the park.

9. Yosemite Museum

The Yosemite Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Yosemite National Park. The museum tells the story of the park, from its geological formation to its human history. It also features exhibits on the plants and animals that call Yosemite home. The museum is located in the park’s Visitor Center, which is also a good place to pick up maps and other information about the park.

 Admission to the Yosemite Museum is free, making it a great option for budget-minded travelers. The museum is open all year round, although hours may be reduced in the off-season.

10. El Capitan

El Capitan is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Yosemite National Park. It is a large granite rock formation that rises 3,000 feet (914 meters) above the ground. Visitors can hike to the top of El Capitan or take a scenic drive to view it from below.

El Capitan is a popular destination for rock climbers. Every year, thousands of people attempt to climb to the top of El Capitan. The first person to successfully climb El Capitan was George Anderson in 1869. Today, many people use special equipment and ropes to help them reach the top.

El Capitan is also home to several species of animals, including peregrine falcons and bighorn sheep. Visitors often see these animals while hiking or driving through the park.

Overall, El Capitan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Yosemite National Park. Its unique features make it a must-see for visitors from all over the world.

11. Tuolumne Meadows

Tuolumne Meadows is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Yosemite National Park. This large meadow is in the eastern part of the park and is a great place to enjoy the scenery. There are plenty of hiking trails in the area, so you can explore the meadow at your own pace.

Tuolumne Meadows is also a great place to see wildlife. You might spot deer, squirrels, and birds while you’re hiking through the meadow. And if you’re lucky, you might even see a bear!

12. Ice Skate in Curry Village

Curry Village is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Yosemite National Park. Located in the heart of the park, Curry Village is a great place to ice skate in the winter. The village has a large rink that is open to the public. Skating is a great way to enjoy the beautiful views of the park.

In addition to ice skating, Curry Village also offers a variety of other activities. Visitors can go sledding, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing. There are also several restaurants and shops in the village. Visitors can find everything they need to enjoy their stay in Curry Village.

How to Plan a Trip to Yosemite

Here are some tips for planning a trip to Yosemite National Park, by following these simple steps, you’ll be on your way to a stress-free visit to Yosemite National Park.

  • Decide when you want to go. Yosemite is open all year round, but some activities and attractions are only available during certain times of the year. For example, hiking trails may be closed in the winter due to snow.
  • Choose where you want to stay. There are several different accommodation options in Yosemite, from camping to hotels. Consider your budget and what type of amenities you want when making your decision.
  • Decide what activities you want to do. There are many different things to do in Yosemite, from hiking and biking to horseback riding and rock climbing. Make a list of the activities you’re interested in so you can plan your trip accordingly.
  • Get a Yosemite National Park map. This will help you navigate your way around the park and find the attractions and activities you’re interested in. You can get a map at the park entrance or online.
  • Plan your route. Once you know what attractions you want to see and do, you can start planning your route through the park. Consider how much time you have and how far you’re willing to travel each day.

What is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park

The best time to visit Yosemite National Park is in the summer. This is because the weather is usually warm and sunny, and there are lots of activities and events going on. However, it should be noted that Yosemite National Park can get very crowded during the summer months. If you are looking for a quieter and more relaxing trip, you may want to visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall).

Yosemite National Park is a world-renowned destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park is in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California and covers an area of over 1,200 square miles. Yosemite is known for its dramatic landscape, which includes towering mountains, giant sequoia trees, and cascading waterfalls.

The best time to visit Yosemite National Park depends on what you want to see and do while you’re there. If you’re interested in seeing the waterfalls at their peak flow, the best time to visit is during the spring months (March-May). This is also a great time to see wildflowers blooming throughout the park. If you’re interested in hiking or backpacking, the best time to visit is during the summer months (June-August). This is when most of the trails are open and conditions are ideal for hiking. Fall (September-November) is a great time to see the changing leaves and experience fewer crowds than during other seasons. Winter (December-February) can be a beautiful time to visit Yosemite, but many of the trails and roads are closed due to snowfall.

No matter what time of year you visit Yosemite National Park, you’re sure to have an unforgettable and memorable experience!

Olivia Martinez
Olivia Martinez
I’m Olivia Martinez, a travel enthusiast with a huge passion for outdoor adventure & travel. I enjoy exploring everywhere from the beach to the backcountry. You can find me at TravelingFeed, where I share daily wanderlust and help people discover new places. My goal is to make your trip more adventurous and comfortable by sharing fun things to do, travel and backpacking tips.
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