Yosemite National Park

California

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Sunset at Valley View, Yosemite National Park

Why visit Yosemite National Park

The jaw-dropping head-turner of America’s national parks, and a Unesco World Heritage site, Yosemite (yo-sem-it-ee) garners the devotion of all who enter. From the waterfall-striped granite walls buttressing emerald-green Yosemite Valley to the skyscraping giant sequoias catapulting into the air at Mariposa Grove, the place inspires a sense of awe and reverence – four million visitors wend their way to the country’s third-oldest national park annually. But lift your eyes above the crowds and you’ll feel your heart instantly moved by unrivaled splendors: the haughty profile of Half Dome, the hulking presence of El Capitan, the drenching mists of Yosemite Falls, the gemstone lakes of the high country’s subalpine wilderness and Hetch Hetchy’s pristine pathways.

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Road Trippin' USA: San Francisco, National Parks & Las Vegas

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  1. 1 Riding a historic cable car to see the seals of San Francisco's Fisherman’s Wharf
  2. 2 Whitewater rafting along the thrilling South Fork American River
  3. 3 Hiking past Liberty Cap and Half Dome on a guided tour of Yosemite's highlights
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Top places to visit in Yosemite National Park

Discover the best attractions in Yosemite National Park from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Travel Guides

Yosemite National Park travel tips from Lonely Planet experts

Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip.

Best Things to Do

Planning a trip to Yosemite? Here are iconic sights, easy hikes, challenging climbs, scenic drives, waterfalls and insider tips.


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Things to Know

National park superstar Yosemite presents a vast yet accessible wilderness if you plan ahead with essential tips on permits, timing and transportation.


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