Things to do at Yosemite National Park

There is a wide variety of things to do at Yosemite National Park. This remarkable landscape provides limitless opportunities for outdoor adventure. You can explore this majestic part of the country on foot, with a bike, or from your vehicle. The scenery is so awe-inspiring, chances are you'll want to get out of the car and explore. There are more than 760,000 acres of old-growth forests, meadows, granite cliffs, and sparkling streams. The Mediterranean climate and changing seasons make it a beautiful place to visit virtually any time of year.

Rock climbing is one of the most popular things to do at Yosemite National Park. The cliffs, canyons, and surrounding Sierra Nevada mountain range are ideal for climbing. The view from these landmarks, including El Capitan and Half Dome, offer spectacular panoramic views of the park. There are numerous wilderness trails up to towering waterfalls and through giant Sequoia groves. There are also paved biking paths through Yosemite Valley. Bicyclists can utilize more than 12 miles of these smooth paths, and ride on regular roads as well.

Many hikers and backpackers visit Yosemite every year. It has more than 800 miles of trails ranging from easy walks to strenuous climbs. Horseback riding and guided mule trips are another fun way to see this extraordinary wilderness. People also enjoy rafting and fishing on the Merced River that runs through the park. There is a free shuttle system operating year-round in Yosemite Valley. Visitor centers, a museum, and excellent lodges are located along its route.

There are many tours provided by the Park Service and other companies nearby. Scenic drives lead through the park's hot spots including Mariposa Grove, the Tuolumne Meadows, and to Glacier Point overlooking Yosemite Valley. There are dozens of sparkling mountain lakes surrounded by mountains and nature trails. Most of them are a short hike away, but the popular Tenaya Lake is accessible from the Tioga Road. Incredible lookout points and vistas can be found throughout the entire park.

There are many chances to see the variety of plant and wildlife in the park's distinct ecosystems. Sub-alpine, alpine, and woodland make up the majority of this area. The winter provides even more fun possibilities such as skiing, snowshoeing at the park in peaceful tranquility. More than 3 ½ million people visit every year and find no shortage of things to do at Yosemite National Park.

For more Yosemite National Park lodging information call 866.875.8456. For lodging reservations call or log onto www.nationalparkreservations.com today.