Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a national park in the western Sierra Nevada mountains of California. The park, which is managed by the National Park Service, covers an area of 747,956 acres and reaches across the western slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Yosemite is internationally recognized for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, clear streams, giant sequoia groves, lakes, mountains, meadows, glaciers, biological diversity, and ancient rock art. Much of the park is designated wilderness. Yosemite is one of the most popular national parks in the United States, and receives more than 4 million visitors each year.

When the park was established

The park was established on October 1, 1890, by President Benjamin Harrison. The park was founded by John Muir, a Scottish-American naturalist and writer, who campaigned for its protection. Muir was a strong advocate for the preservation of wilderness, and he believed that Yosemite was a place of great beauty and importance. He also believed that the park should be open to all people, regardless of their social status or economic means.

Yosemite National Park is home to a variety of natural features, including:

Yosemite Valley: The Yosemite Valley is the most popular part of the park. It is home to towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoia trees.
Mariposa Grove: The Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 giant sequoia trees.
Tuolumne Meadows: Tuolumne Meadows is a high-elevation meadow that is surrounded by mountains.
Glacier Point: Glacier Point offers stunning views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls.
Tioga Road: Tioga Road is a scenic highway that winds through the high country of Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite National Park is a popular destination for a variety of outdoor activities, including:

Hiking: Yosemite has over 800 miles of hiking trails.
Camping: There are over 500 campsites in Yosemite National Park.
Rock climbing: Yosemite is a popular destination for rock climbers.
Biking: There are over 50 miles of bike trails in Yosemite National Park.
Fishing: There are over 500 miles of streams and rivers in Yosemite National Park.
Swimming: There are over 100 swimming holes in Yosemite National Park.
Rafting: There are over 100 miles of white-water rafting in Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite National Park is a beautiful and diverse park that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking to hike, camp, rock climb, bike, fish, swim, or raft, you will find something to enjoy in Yosemite National Park.

Entrances to Yosemite National Park

There are five entrances to Yosemite National Park:

Arch Rock Entrance: The Arch Rock Entrance is located on Highway 120, about 30 miles east of Merced, California.
Big Oak Flat Entrance: The Big Oak Flat Entrance is located on Highway 120, about 50 miles east of Fresno, California.
Glacier Point Entrance: The Glacier Point Entrance is located on Highway 140, about 45 miles east of Mariposa, California.
Tioga Road Entrance: The Tioga Road Entrance is located on Highway 120, about 200 miles east of Fresno, California.
Hetch Hetchy Entrance: The Hetch Hetchy Entrance is located on Highway 120, about 100 miles east of Fresno, California.

Tips for Visiting Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a popular destination, so it is important to plan your visit in advance.
The best time to visit Yosemite National Park is during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when the weather is mild.
Yosemite National Park is a large park, so it is important to do your research and plan your itinerary in advance.
There are a variety of activities to enjoy in Yosemite National Park, so be sure to pack appropriate clothing and gear.
Yosemite National Park is a beautiful and diverse park, so take your time and enjoy your visit.