Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
7569ft El Capitan (El Cap), one of the world's largest monoliths and a magnet for rock
climbers, and 8842ft Half Dome , the park's spiritual centerpiece - its rounded granite pate
forms an unmistakable silhouette. You'll have great views of both from Valley View (
MAP GOOGLE MAP ) on the valley floor, but for the classic photo op head up Hwy 41 to
Tunnel View ( MAP GOOGLE MAP ) , which boasts a new viewing area. With a little sweat
you'll have even better postcard panoramas - sans the crowds - from Inspiration Point (
MAP GOOGLE MAP ) . The trail (2.6-mile round-trip) starts at the tunnel.
Yosemite's waterfalls mesmerize even the most jaded traveler, especially when the
spring runoff turns them into thunderous cataracts. Yosemite Falls ( MAP GOOGLE MAP ;
west of Yosemite Village) is considered the tallest in North America, dropping 2425ft in three
tiers. A slick wheelchair-accessible trail leads to the bottom of this cascade or, if you
prefer solitude and different perspectives, you can also clamber up the Yosemite Falls
Trail , which puts you atop the falls after a grueling 3.4 miles. No less impressive is nearby
Bridalveil Fall ( MAP GOOGLE MAP ) and others scattered throughout the valley.
Any aspiring Ansel Adams should lug their camera gear along the 1-mile paved trail to
Mirror Lake early or late in the day to catch the ever-shifting reflection of Half Dome in
the still waters. The lake all but dries up by late summer.
South of here, where the Merced River courses around two small islands, lies Happy
Isles ( MAP GOOGLE MAP ) , a popular area for picnics, swimming and strolls. It also
marks the start of the John Muir Trail and Mist Trail to several waterfalls and Half
Dome.
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