What to Include when Planning Your Yosemite Vacation

When looking for a vacation sure to please even the toughest critic, don’t overlook the astounding delights found at Yosemite National Park. From the 2,425 foot Yosemite Falls, to the tranquility of the valley floor; the enormous Half Dome that resembles a loaf of bread to the lazily winding Merced River, beauty abounds. You may select the palatial accommodations at the Ahwahnee Hotel or a rugged campsite, explore the vast acreage, shop at Curry Village or watch a play at the Yosemite Theatre. But no matter your preference, the Yosemite has a plethora of activity for all. The Park can be seen in a day, but it is not really the ideal way to discover all the best of Yosemite National Park’s splendor. The Park is open year round with activities ranging from hiking its many trails to canoeing or kayaking the Merced River, visiting the giant Sequoia groves to the rush of winter sports like skiing or snowshoeing. With so many adventures to choose from, you will want to plan for a minimum of 3 days, during which "I’m bored" will be replace with "Wow or Awesome".

Some attractions thought by many to be the best of Yosemite are:
• The Ahwahnee-the 1927 hotel is built of granite and concrete which have been stained to look like redwood. The name actually means "place of the gaping mouth" which is rather appropriate as its elegance and splendor often have that affect on its guest.

• Ansell Adams Gallery-Whether you are an art aficionado or simply looking for a sensational piece of art for your home or office, you will want to browse this inspiring gallery.

• El Capitan- a favorite of mountain climbers, the large granite "mountain" offers an impressive and awesome sight that never gets old. Its bold face is definitely worthy of several photos.

• Glacial Point- This overlook is the perfect location to see best of Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Falls, the Merced River, Half Dome, Vernal and Nevada Falls and the Ahwahnee. You can reach the overlook via bus or you can hike the 4 mile (this will take approximately 4 hours) trail.

• Tenaya Lake-The ideal place for a picnic lunch thanks to the picnic areas provided.

The best of Yosemite hiking trails:
One of the best ways to appreciate fully Yosemite National Park is on foot. With its many trails and the help of a map or an experience park guide, you can get an up close look at the flora and fauna that call the park home. Be sure to bring along sturdy shoes, comfortable clothing, water, first aid supplies, your binoculars, and a camera as you trek these and other trails throughout the Park.

• Bridalveil Falls-while only a 10 minute walk, the trail has a surplus of photo opportunities sure to inspire your creativity.

• Cathedral Lakes- This 7 mile hike slowly inclines 1,000 feet until you reach its peak and Upper Cathedral Lake with its shimmering waters. The lower lake is surrounded by towering granite walls.

• Clouds Rest- This is a 14 mile round trip of moderate difficulty. As you hike, you will see the Yosemite River to your left and the Valley to your right.

• Mist Trail-A relatively easy trail designed with the family in mind - despite its 7 mile length. You will see the cascading Vernal and Nevada Falls, cross a foot bridge and see incredible scenery.

Yosemite National Park is truly a trip that will be remembered with smiles, laughter and awe by all those who visit. Its beauty and majesty will be inspiring regardless of the season and the adventures there will not lose their excitement-no matter how often you tell the story. So plan your trip, pack your bags, and prepare yourself for the adventure of a lifetime.

What to Include when Planning Your Yosemite Vacation
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