Yosemite Valley

Yosemite Valley is the centerpiece of Yosemite National Park. The flat floor of the valley holds both forest and large open meadows, which provide breathtaking views of the surrounding crests and waterfalls. When you first enter the valley you are surrounded by great granite walls from El Capitan to Cathedral Rock while Three Brothers to the north rising one above the other stands in contrast to Sentinel Rock to the south.

As you marvel at these great giants you will no doubt become enthralled with the many waterfalls flowing from the crevices of the mountains. The waterfalls of Yosemite are some of the most popular attractions in the area. The Merced River flows down to the end Little Yosemite Valley, where it begins what is often called the Giant Staircase. The first drop is Nevada Fall, which drops 594 feet, bouncing off the granite slope below it to Vernal Fall, which is 317 feet high. The Merced then descends down rapids to meet Illilouette Creek, which drops from the valley rim to form Illilouette Fall. They combine at the base of the gorges that contain each stream and then flow around the Happy Isles to meet Tenaya Creek at the eastern end of Yosemite Valley proper.

From most of the lodging options, you will be able to enjoy so many of Yosemite Park’s charms. Yosemite Valley very much embodies the view posited by naturalist John Muir when he said: “(Yosemite’s) natural beauty cleans and warms like a fire, and you will be willing to stay forever in one place like a tree.” With so much to offer this park truly is a national gem. Several of the lodges capitalize on the great views and many activities to be had here.

For more lodging information call 866.875.8456 or log onto www.nationalparkreservations.com/yosemite.htm today.

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