10 Best Things to Do in Yosemite National Park
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El Capitan is a notable landmark of Yosemite National Park. Magnificent by itself, or as the focal point of a wide-angle shot with nearby Cathedral Rocks, this 3,000-ft granite cliff attracts photographers with telephoto lenses to capture climbers in action. El Capitan is beautifully reflected in the Merced River as well.
The most popular view is from El Capitan Meadow, at the roadside where Northside Drive meets El Capitan Drive. You can park on either side of the road. Hikers can attempt to scale the summit via a 15-mile-long route. Your reward is expansive views of surrounding peaks like Taft Point, Dewey Point, Half Dome, and Clouds Rest.
Vernal Falls reach 317 ft in height and are accessible via a 3-mile trail to a footbridge of the same name. You can buy provisions at the Yosemite Village Store before taking the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle to the trailhead of the John Muir and Mist Trails. The hike is entirely uphill on the way to Vernal Falls, but you’ll be treated to elevated views of the waters cascading into the Merced River.
It’s fairly strenuous, so most beginners are content to admire the view from the Vernal Falls Footbridge, located less than a mile along the trail. The more intrepid will follow the Mist Trail to the larger Nevada Falls. Vernal Falls is at its best is from late April to early May.
Location: Yosemite Valley, CA 95389, USA