Yosemite National Park in California is
one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on earth. The park’s
1,200 square miles encompass mountains, lakes and valleys of such Olympian
proportions and stunning wild beauty that no visitor can leave the park
unmoved. From the tranquil waters of Budd Lake beneath the ivory spire
of Cathedral Peak to the titanic Giant Sequoias of Mariposa Grove, outdoor
adventures in Yosemite National Park are more than simple diversions;
they border on the spiritual.
There are over 800 miles of hiking trails in California’s Yosemite
National Park. The Mist and John Muir trails are the most popular, and
justifiably so. Those who make the trip to the summit of Glacier Point
can gaze over the entire valley from the top of the 3,200-foot cliff.
Yosemite National Park contains more than 1,000 rivers and lakes, many
of which may be used for kayaking or fishing. Mirror Lake is a favorite
destination, as is the 3-tiered, 2,425-ft. cascade of Yosemite Falls.
There are nearly endless outdoor activities to enjoy in Yosemite National
Park. Badger Pass provides both downhill and cross-country skiing opportunities.
Bird watchers may spot the Great Grey Owl, the Northern Goshawk or the
Pileated Woodpecker. Yosemite is one of the world’s premier climbing
areas. Whether climbers are looking for crack climbs on the Merced River
canyon or Multi-day ascents of the Valley’s Big Walls, Yosemite
can provide them.
Campers have many options in Yosemite National Park. Most campgrounds
and facilities are found in the 7 square miles of the Yosemite Valley.
The Yosemite Campground are crowded year round, and require reservations,
but campgrounds at Bridalveil Creek and White Wolf are first come/first
serve, and have running water and flush toilets. Tuolumne Meadows, the
sub alpine plane 55 miles from the valley, have less crowded sites,
as wells as great hiking and climbing.
95% of the park is designated Wilderness Area in which Black Bears are
abundant in Yosemite National Park. They are not usually black, however.
The average bear weighs about 300 lbs, but the largest ever captured
tipped the scales at 690 lbs. Visitors should be mindful of these animals
when hiking or camping in the wilderness.
