Mountains · 3 h 45 from Burlingame

Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its stunning natural beauty.

Drive: 3 h 45 from Burlingame
Region: Mountains
Things to see: 9

Directions

Yosemite

El Capitan, Half Dome and 800 miles of trail

About Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its stunning natural beauty. The park boasts iconic landmarks such as El Capitan and Half Dome, as well as the breathtaking Yosemite Falls—one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. With over 800 miles of trails, visitors can explore vast meadows, deep valleys, and ancient giant sequoias. Yosemite’s diverse ecosystems and dramatic landscapes make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers seeking awe-inspiring vistas and a serene retreat into wilderness.

Things to see

9 things to see in Yosemite

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Park
Tenaya Lake
Tenaya Lake, nestled in Yosemite National Park’s high country, is a serene alpine lake known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic surroundings. Often referred to as the “Jewel of the High Country,” the lake is surrounded by granite domes and lush pine forests, making it a popular spot for picnicking, swimming, kayaking, and rock climbing. Its easy accessibility from Tioga Road allows visitors to enjoy the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of this mountain lake with minimal effort.
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Trail
Mariposa Grove
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, located in Yosemite National Park, is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias, some of the largest and oldest living trees on Earth. This grove includes iconic specimens like the Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree, drawing visitors from around the world. The grove’s restoration efforts have enhanced visitor access and protection for these ancient trees. Trails through the grove offer a chance to experience the awe-inspiring presence of these towering giants up close, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and those interested in the natural history of the Sierra Nevada.
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Trail
Tuolumne Meadows
Tuolumne Meadows, located in the high country of Yosemite National Park, is a broad, grassy expanse bordered by majestic granite peaks and domes. As one of the largest high-elevation meadows in the Sierra Nevada, it serves as a tranquil haven for wildlife and a popular base for hiking, rock climbing, and backpacking. The Tuolumne River flows gently through the meadow, adding to its serene ambiance. With its stunning natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities, Tuolumne Meadows is a favorite among visitors seeking a peaceful retreat in the wilderness.
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Trail
Vernal Falls
Vernal Fall is a powerful and picturesque waterfall in Yosemite National Park, known for its impressive 317-foot drop into the Merced River below. Accessible via the Mist Trail, one of the park’s most popular hiking paths, Vernal Fall is especially dramatic in the spring and early summer when it roars with runoff from the Sierra snowmelt. The trail offers hikers refreshing mist and remarkable views of the waterfall and surrounding granite cliffs, making it a favorite for those exploring Yosemite’s natural beauty.
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Trail
Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, is a spectacular feature of Yosemite National Park. Comprising three sections—Upper, Middle, and Lower Falls—it plunges a total of 2,425 feet from top to bottom. The falls are most powerful in late spring when snowmelt is at its peak. Yosemite Falls is not only a stunning sight but also accessible via a series of hiking trails that offer up-close views and the refreshing mist of cascading waters.
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Viewpoint
Taft Point
Taft Point in Yosemite National Park offers a unique and exhilarating viewpoint with dramatic vistas of Yosemite Valley and the Sierra Nevada. Located just west of Glacier Point, Taft Point features a series of cliffside overlooks, including the famous Fissures—narrow crevices that drop straight down to the valley floor. The point is accessible via a moderate hike and is especially popular at sunset when the fading light enhances the breathtaking panoramic views. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and thrill-seekers looking to capture the stark beauty and vastness of Yosemite.
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Viewpoint
Glacier Point
Glacier Point, an overlook with a commanding view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Yosemite’s high country, offers one of the most breathtaking panoramas in Yosemite National Park. Accessible by car during the warmer months and by ski or snowshoe in winter, it provides a stunning perspective of the park’s famous landmarks and expansive wilderness. Glacier Point is a favorite spot for both sunrise and sunset, attracting photographers and nature lovers looking to capture the park’s awe-inspiring beauty.
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Viewpoint
Half Dome
Half Dome is one of Yosemite National Park’s most iconic natural landmarks, renowned for its unique shape and challenging hike. Rising nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley, this granite dome offers climbers and hikers breathtaking views from its summit. The Half Dome hike, known for its rigorous final ascent equipped with cable handrails, is a bucket-list challenge for many outdoor enthusiasts, providing a rewarding and memorable experience amidst the stunning scenery of Yosemite.
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Stay
The Ahwahnee Hotel
The Ahwahnee Hotel, nestled in the heart of Yosemite National Park, is a historic hotel known for its stunning architecture and majestic natural surroundings. Designed to blend seamlessly with its setting, the hotel features Native American motifs, Middle Eastern influences, and rustic elements. Its grand public spaces and comfortable rooms offer panoramic views of Yosemite’s iconic cliffs and waterfalls. The Ahwahnee is a premier destination for travelers seeking luxury and adventure in one of America’s most breathtaking landscapes.