To get the most out of visiting Yosemite National Park, plan ahead. The park sees peak tourist season during the summer months, which means popular spots like El Capitan Half Dome, and the Mist Trail can get busy.
For a more serene visit, explore areas like the Valley Rim, Eastern Side, or hike less-trafficked routes near North Dome or Eagle Peak.
Whether you’re exploring cliffs and cascades or walking through meadows and canyons, the park’s natural beauty is matched only by its variety. The National Park Service manages over 800 miles (1,287 km) of trails, each offering a unique slice of this incredible landscape.
From the scenic vistas of Tunnel View to the tranquil waters of Tenaya Lake, every corner of Yosemite Park offers something new to discover. And whether you’re here for the waterfalls, the granite giants or just the sheer joy of the hike, there’s no shortage of reasons to keep coming back.
We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.