Is Yosemite better than Yellowstone?

The winner: The opportunities for wilderness adventure in Yellowstone are many, but Yosemite has it all, from gentle trails along the floor of the valley to spine-tingling ascents of its rock faces. Plus, Yosemite remains open to many activities through the winter, while Yellowstone goes into bear-like hibernation.



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You might already know this, but it's official; Yosemite National Park is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. It ranked #2 on MSN's Ranked: the world's most stunning national parks!

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The short answer is absolutely! Of all the places we have been in the world, there are few that rival the natural beauty of Yosemite. It is with good reason that the park is world famous.

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Yosemite National Park is famous for its spectacular glacially carved landscape. Although glaciers have come and gone many times in the past, there are still two active glaciers near Yosemite's highest peaks.

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One of California's most formidable natural landscapes, Yosemite National Park features nearly 1,200 square miles of sheer awe: towering waterfalls, millennia-old sequoia trees, striking, daunting cliff faces and some of the most unique rock formations in the United States.

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Historically, June, July and August are the busiest months at Yosemite. That said, here are a few factors that make even the most touristy season approachable and appealing. Many people visit Yosemite just for the day, driving Tioga road to see the spectacular views.

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Visitors will usually find more to do in Yosemite National Park than Grand Canyon National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grand Canyon National Park is well known for its iconic beauty, layers of color, breathtaking sunsets, and world-renowned geological history.

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Yosemite became a park before Yellowstone, but as a state park. Disappointed with the results 26 years later in 1890, Congress made Yosemite one of three additional national parks, along with Sequoia and General Grant, now part of Kings Canyon. Mount Rainier followed in 1899.

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How Many Days Should You Spend in Yosemite? For the best experience, plan on spending three days in Yosemite, especially if you like hiking. Three days gives you enough time to hike a few trails, explore Yosemite Valley, drive Tioga Road to Olmsted Point, and visit Glacier Point and Taft Point.

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Stay away from river and creek banks during high water conditions and avoid rock hopping. Stream polished rocks along the water's edge may be slippery when wet or dry. If you choose to cross a stream without a bridge, avoid deep and/or swift water.

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How Many Days Should You Spend in Yosemite? For the best experience, plan on spending three days in Yosemite, especially if you like hiking. Three days gives you enough time to hike a few trails, explore Yosemite Valley, drive Tioga Road to Olmsted Point, and visit Glacier Point and Taft Point.

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The Grand Canyon is perfect for first-time National Park goers who are new to the whole schtick, as it attracts newbies from across the *entire* planet daily and is expertly prepared for accomodating visitors.

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While this national park tends to be one of the hardest to visit due to its high demand, it includes scenic beginner hiking trails for budding explorers. Don't feel pressure to become a pro at all things outdoors before planning your trip to Yosemite National Park.

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Where should you stay while visiting Yosemite? If you want to be close to the best hikes and viewpoints in the park, try to stay in Yosemite Valley. If you're looking for something outside of the park, the El Portal area is a fantastic option.

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Tunnel View Wawona Road leads visitors into the park's hub from the park's south entrance. Along with Glacier Point, Tunnel View is widely considered to be the most popular viewpoint in all of Yosemite.

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Although the park is open all year, nearly 75% of visitors come during the busiest six months (May through October).

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With so much to see and do in Yosemite, it can be difficult to know where to start, which is why planning an itinerary is essential. We recommend taking 3 days in this beautiful national park, though you can make it work if you have more or less time.

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There is so much amazing wildlife, incredible morning weather, and some of the most unique and commanding mountain views in the world. Spending one day in Yosemite National Park is enough for the best highlights of the park. If you only have one day in Yosemite in Winter, check out my guide to Yosemite in Winter.

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