🌲 Yosemite National Park

Search: Yosemite Valley map Tioga Road elevation Yosemite National Park sits on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada; elevations range from about 2,000 ft in Yosemite Valley to nearly 10,000 ft on Tioga Road and passes. Glacial carving produced the valley’s sheer walls and domes; about 95% of the park is wilderness, with distinct valley, foothill, and high-country zones. (nps.gov)

Search: Mist Trail Half Dome hike permit The park offers everything from short accessible loops to multi-day wilderness treks. Classic day hikes include the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall, and the strenuous route to the top of Yosemite Falls. Summiting Half Dome requires a permit (lottery or daily draw) while the cables are up — plan, pack water, and expect long mileage and big elevation gain. (nps.gov, recreation.gov)

Search: Yosemite campground reservations Recreation.gov Reservations are required for many Yosemite campgrounds and are released on staggered schedules (some sites open five months in advance, others on rolling windows). Upper Pines, Lower Pines, North Pines, Tuolumne Meadows, and other sites all have specific seasons and reservation rules — check Recreation.gov and the park’s camping page before you go. (nps.gov)

Search: El Capitan big wall permits climbing regs Yosemite is a world-class climbing destination (notably El Capitan and The Nose). Day climbing has minimal permitting, but overnight big-wall climbs require a free wilderness climbing permit (self-register kiosk) and strict Leave-No-Trace practices. Familiarize yourself with Yosemite’s climbing regulations, human-waste rules, and big-wall stewardship expectations. (nps.gov)

Search: Yosemite Falls Bridalveil flow season Waterfalls are a highlight: Yosemite Falls (one of the tallest in North America) peaks in spring runoff, while Bridalveil Fall, Vernal Fall, and Nevada Fall offer dramatic seasonal displays. Flow timing depends on snowpack — spring (April–June) is usually best for maximum runoff. (nps.gov)

Search: Tioga Road Glacier Point Road status Scenic routes include the Tioga Road (high-country access to Tuolumne Meadows) and the road to Glacier Point (panoramic views of the valley and Half Dome). Both roads are seasonal — Tioga typically opens late spring/early summer depending on snow, and Glacier Point Road also closes in winter; check current conditions before you travel. (nps.gov, en.wikipedia.org)

Search: Yosemite bear food storage regulations Yosemite hosts black bears and abundant wildlife. Proper food storage is legally required: use park food lockers, bear-resistant containers, or in-room secure storage. Never feed or approach wildlife; maintain at least 50 yards from bears. Poor storage leads to habituation and harm to animals and people. (nps.gov)

Search: Yosemite Valley Visitor Center Yosemite Museum hours Start at the Yosemite Exploration Center (Valley Visitor Center) and the Yosemite Museum in Yosemite Village for maps, exhibits, ranger programs, and current conditions. Centers are typically open year-round with seasonal hour changes; they’re good places to confirm trail and road status before heading out. (nps.gov)

Search: Half Dome permit wilderness permit how to apply Overnight wilderness permits are required for backpacking; Half Dome day ascents require a permit while cables are up (lottery + small daily allocation via Recreation.gov). Wilderness and climbing permits have specific pickup/registration rules — read the details and apply early. (nps.gov, recreation.gov)

Search: Half Dome safety thunderstorm cables bears food storage Yosemite’s hazards include steep trails, afternoon thunderstorms (especially on exposed summits and cables), rockfall, and wildlife attracted by food. For Half Dome and other exposed routes, avoid summiting in wet or stormy conditions and bring gloves for cable work. Follow all park safety guidance and carry navigation, weather, and emergency gear for backcountry travel. (recreation.gov, nps.gov)

Search: Tunnel View best sunrise spots Iconic photo spots include Tunnel View, Glacier Point, and viewpoints in Yosemite Valley near El Capitan and Half Dome. Early morning and late afternoon light give the best contrast; be mindful of crowds and park rules (stay off fragile meadows and follow posted closures). (nps.gov, en.wikipedia.org)

Search: Yosemite NPS plan your visit reservations Yosemite rewards careful planning: check the National Park Service site for current conditions, road and campground status, permit rules, and the 2025 peak-hours reservation policy. Book reservations early, follow food-storage and climbing rules, and time your visit to match the experiences you want (waterfalls in spring, high-country in summer). Have a safe trip. (nps.gov)

Further reading / trip planning: See the official park pages on planning, campgrounds, permits, and current conditions — the National Park Service and Recreation.gov pages are the authoritative sources for reservations, permits, and closures. (nps.gov, recreation.gov)