Why is Yosemite so unique?

Yosemite is a classic example of a glaciated landscape, where glaciers have carved the smooth domes of Tuolumne Meadows, the jagged high country peaks, and the dramatic walls of Yosemite Valley. This scenery was the basis for Yosemite's preservation as a national park.



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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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Seven Wonders of the World to See in the USA
  • Grand Canyon, Arizona. The Grand Canyon is one of America's most recognizable natural wonders. ...
  • Niagara Falls, New York. ...
  • Sequoias and Redwoods, California. ...
  • Death Valley, Nevada. ...
  • Cliff Palace, Colorado. ...
  • Grotto of Atonement, Iowa. ...
  • Hubbard Glacier, Alaska.


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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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If you're looking for massive cascades that leave you speechless, Yosemite wins the prize. If you're not too fussed about height but you still want to enjoy the serenity of the water (with the added bonus of being able to see falls no matter what time you visit), go with Yellowstone.

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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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Known for its plunging waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, sheer granite cliffs, and more, you could easily spend weeks exploring Yosemite National Park. The park has a distinct appeal no matter what time of year.

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Known for its plunging waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, sheer granite cliffs, and more, you could easily spend weeks exploring Yosemite National Park. The park has a distinct appeal no matter what time of year.

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The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the largest and most impressive grove of redwoods in Yosemite National Park, containing approximately 500 mature giant sequoia trees (sequoiadendron giganteum).

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Plan on spending two to four days in Yosemite if you want enough time to see all the amazing sights. This will give you plenty of time to see Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point, and enjoy some hiking trails.

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Natural lightscapes, including dark night skies, are a scenic resource integral to many people's Yosemite experience.

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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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