A World Heritage Site, Yosemite National Park is a bountiful reserve nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, over 140 miles (225 km) to the east of San Francisco. Giant sequoias tower to dizzying heights at the Mariposa Grove, while the bare walls of the hulking Domes rise from the verdant depths of the valley. From the thunderous descent of the Yosemite Falls to the wildflower-laden Tuolumne Meadows, the Yosemite National Park is a tapestry of awe-inspiring spectacles, dappled with pristine lakes and etched with canyons; a maze of stark granite walls riddled with tumbling cascades that drench the scene in a cool mist. Amid the varied habitats of the Yosemite National Park thrive a fascinating variety of flora and fauna including the endemic Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep. Visited by thousands each year, the Yosemite National Park continues to inspire awe in the hearts of all those who venture here. There are several permanent campgrounds and accommodations, dining options, a visitor center, and a myriad of hiking trails at the Yosemite National Park, weaving the perks of civilization through the heart of the wilderness.
Overlooking the Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park, Glacier Point is an observation area from where visitors can admire the spectacular valley unfurl before them. It is a striking geological wonder, with some of the best views of the national park and all the favorite rock climbing attractions in the region. The hike to this scenic vista point is relatively easy and not as tedious as some of the other hikes and climbs in the area, making it a popular destination for those looking to soak in some spellbinding sights.
This picturesque grove is defined by towering trees that reach for the sky, each of them significant in their own way. Many of the trees of the Mariposa Grove are over a thousand years old, their majesty evoking a sense of awe in all those who venture here. The Grizzly Giant, General Sheridan tree, the Fallen Monarch, and the Washington tree are among some specimens which can be admired here. A museum located onsite offers visitors the chance to gain a deeper insight into the area's history.
The U.S. Congress authorized this group to support interpretive, educational, research, scientific and environmental programs in Yosemite National Park. It works closely with the National Park Service and has members worldwide. Memberships cost from USD35 to USD1000 per year, and a special international membership for those living outside the United States costs only USD40. In addition to supporting the park, members receive considerable benefits including: subscription to Yosemite, the quarterly journal of the association; 15-percent discount on all books, maps, posters, calendars and other products sold by the association (which has an outstanding collection); a 10-percent discount on most of the field seminars conducted by the association in Yosemite National Park; and other benefits.
A World Heritage Site, Yosemite National Park is a bountiful reserve nestled in the heart of the Sierra Nevada, over 140 miles (225 km) to the east of San Francisco. Giant sequoias tower to dizzying heights at the Mariposa Grove, while the bare walls of the hulking Domes rise from the verdant depths of the valley. From the thunderous descent of the Yosemite Falls to the wildflower-laden Tuolumne Meadows, the Yosemite National Park is a tapestry of awe-inspiring spectacles, dappled with pristine lakes and etched with canyons; a maze of stark granite walls riddled with tumbling cascades that drench the scene in a cool mist. Amid the varied habitats of the Yosemite National Park thrive a fascinating variety of flora and fauna including the endemic Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep. Visited by thousands each year, the Yosemite National Park continues to inspire awe in the hearts of all those who venture here. There are several permanent campgrounds and accommodations, dining options, a visitor center, and a myriad of hiking trails at the Yosemite National Park, weaving the perks of civilization through the heart of the wilderness.
Overlooking the Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park, Glacier Point is an observation area from where visitors can admire the spectacular valley unfurl before them. It is a striking geological wonder, with some of the best views of the national park and all the favorite rock climbing attractions in the region. The hike to this scenic vista point is relatively easy and not as tedious as some of the other hikes and climbs in the area, making it a popular destination for those looking to soak in some spellbinding sights.
This picturesque grove is defined by towering trees that reach for the sky, each of them significant in their own way. Many of the trees of the Mariposa Grove are over a thousand years old, their majesty evoking a sense of awe in all those who venture here. The Grizzly Giant, General Sheridan tree, the Fallen Monarch, and the Washington tree are among some specimens which can be admired here. A museum located onsite offers visitors the chance to gain a deeper insight into the area's history.
The U.S. Congress authorized this group to support interpretive, educational, research, scientific and environmental programs in Yosemite National Park. It works closely with the National Park Service and has members worldwide. Memberships cost from USD35 to USD1000 per year, and a special international membership for those living outside the United States costs only USD40. In addition to supporting the park, members receive considerable benefits including: subscription to Yosemite, the quarterly journal of the association; 15-percent discount on all books, maps, posters, calendars and other products sold by the association (which has an outstanding collection); a 10-percent discount on most of the field seminars conducted by the association in Yosemite National Park; and other benefits.