Overview
Yosemite National Park is a stunning natural park known for its waterfalls, deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, and a vast wilderness area. It offers breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Yosemite is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited national parks in the United States, known for its exceptional natural beauty and ecological importance.
Location
Address
Yosemite, California
Neighborhood: Yosemite Valley
Coordinates
37.865100, -119.538300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
April to May, September to October
Best Time of Day
Early morning
Fewer crowds and better wildlife viewing opportunities
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild to cool
- • Waterfalls at peak flow
- • Wildflowers
summer
Warm to hot
- • All trails and facilities open
autumn
Cool
- • Fall colors
winter
Cold
- • Snow activities
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book accommodations well in advance
- Check road and trail conditions
- Prepare for variable weather
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high, depending on activities
- • Altitude sickness (in some areas)
- • Wildlife encounters
Medical facilities: First aid available, nearest hospital in nearby towns
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for hiking and outdoor activities, Layered clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, Hiking shoes or boots, Inappropriate clothing for hiking
Booking Tips
- • Several months in advance for popular times
- • Official Yosemite website
- • Varies by booking platform
- • Purchase tickets online in advance
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Yosemite National Park Official App
Size: 100 MB
Features: Park map, Trail information, Event calendar, Wildlife tracking
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, some lodges
Charging Stations: Visitor centers, some lodges
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT)
Distance: 180 km
Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and a sense of tranquility
Historical Significance: Home to Native American tribes for thousands of years, later explored by early American settlers
Insider Tips
- Visit Glacier Point at sunrise for a peaceful experience
- Try the pineapple fritters at the Curry Village Store
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the Yosemite Valley Lodge for a hearty breakfast
- • Try the famous Yosemite Granola at the Curry Village Store
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Tunnel View
Best Time: Sunrise or sunset
Tips: Wide-angle shots capture the full vista
Result: Iconic Yosemite Valley view
Glacier Point
Best Time: Sunrise
Tips: Panoramic shots of the valley
Result: Breathtaking sunrise over Yosemite Valley
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Mariposa Grove
Distance: 20 km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Giant Sequoia Grove
Giant Sequoia Trees
Distance: 20 km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Nature Reserve
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Book accommodations well in advance"
- "Pack layers for changing weather"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
60
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$35 per vehicle