With breathtaking views, thunderous waterfalls and nearly 1,200 square miles of forested beauty, Yosemite National Park stands out among wilderness parks for its astounding beauty, rich history and vast wilderness. While visiting Yosemite you can enjoy the region where the Merced River weaves its way through the valley floor and rustic cabins and lodges invite overnight stays. Camping in the valley and backcountry are widely popular. If your visit is just for a day there are many hiking trails to experience.
Group and Custom Hikes
You can take part in group hikes, go hiking on your own or even have staff members at Yosemite customize a trip for you and your friends. Group hikes can last a few hours, covering three or four miles, or longer, lasting at last six hours. Your guide will share his knowledge of the park and highlight special points of interest. Bring snacks or lunch, your own water, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Waterfalls and Wildlife
During your hiking adventures you will see the famed Yosemite waterfalls, which include six separate falls. Yosemite Falls is one of the highest in the country and drops 2,425 feet. Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls are shrouded in mist, cooling you off on your hike. You may also see a variety of wildlife; mule deer are a common sight, as are coyotes and ground squirrels. Mountain lions also live in the park but are extremely shy and rarely seen by hikers.
Campgrounds and Backcountry
Yosemite has 13 designated campgrounds in the High Sierra Camps and Little Yosemite Valley. Seven of them work with a reservation system; the others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The wilderness region of the park, commonly referred to as backcountry, is operated separately from the campgrounds. Permits are granted on a limited basis for overnight camping. You must make a reservation for the trailhead where you are beginning your backpacking trip. Once you are on this trailhead you may camp in any area you can hike to. If you intend only to day hike in the wilderness region you will not need a permit.
Half Dome
One of the most popular hikes in Yosemite is to Half Dome. Half Dome rises over 5,000 feet and can be completed in one day, although you can turn it into a two-day trip by reserving a camping spot at Upper, Lower and North Pines campgrounds. Plan to spend at least 10 to 12 hours for your hike and leave at sunrise. Because of the trail's popularity, you will need a permit to hike on Friday, Saturday, Sunday or any federal holiday.
Permits and Bear Awareness
For camping and trailhead permits, check in at the valley floor or the ranger station at Tuolumne Meadows. You will be reminded many times that this is bear country, so it's important that you carry your own bear-proof canisters. Bears will not hesitate to tear into coolers, cars or tents to get to food.
Member Comments