Yosemite National Park attractions

Located in Yosemite Valley, Mirror Lake is famous for its reflections of Half Dome and Mount Watkins (when the water level is high enough). Mirror Lake draws photographers, hikers, and swimmers looking to cool down, particularly in the summer months.

Most visitors are drawn to the famous cliffs and waterfalls of Yosemite Valley, but few know anything of the park’s pioneer history and how the park’s early residents shaped the future of Yosemite National Park. Located in the town of Wawona, the Pioneer Yosemite History Center is dedicated to these pioneers and showcases historic buildings and stories from Yosemite’s past.

This towering flow of water is one of Yosemite’s best known waterfalls, accessible on the ground by a moderate hike. Its volume depends on the season, though it generally runs year-round.Depending on the amount of water, there is either one massive waterfall or several smaller strands falling across the rock to the valley below. Vernal Fall flows from the Nevada Falls above before plunging over the rock. The waterfall is about 317 feet tall, so it’s impressive (and often a bit damp) standing right at its base. Aside from the water there is often lots of greenery surrounding the falls, which adds to its scenery. The falls also produce a fine mist that can create rainbows.The steep hiking trail that leads to Vernal Fall is mostly rock steps, but the views are worth the climb. There is also plenty of natural scenery, of Merced River and Yosemite Valley, to enjoy on the way up. If you’d rather see it from a distance, Vernal Fall is also visible from the Glacier Point overlook.

The trail to Taft Point offers some of the best views in Yosemite National Park. The viewpoint is an excellent overlook of El Capitan mountain and the valley’s golden meadows.The 2.2 mile, moderate roundtrip hike to Taft Point is well-shaded by tall trees. Winding through an open meadow area, you can see white quartz and granite hills surrounded by dark green pine forest. The hike is relatively easy given the payoff of the dramatic views once you reach the point.Most of the trail is flat. There are also vertical cracks visible in the granite cliffs — these are known as The Fissures. The rocky cracks drop all the way down to the valley floor at points and are an impressive natural sight. You can also see Yosemite Falls from the point at the canyon’s edge (not recommended for those with a fear of heights!)

Originating in the southeastern corner of Yosemite National Park, the Merced River flows 145 miles (233 kilometers) westward and through Yosemite Valley. The river and its tributaries are home to some of the most popular recreational activities in the park, including boating, fishing, whitewater rafting, and swimming off of its sandy beaches.