Yosemite National Park
Half Dome, Vernal and Nevada Falls from Glacier Point.
Yosemite National Park is one of America’s most visited National Parks. Millions of visitors each year come to see some of Yosemite’s stunning sights, including Half Dome, El-Capitan, Vernal and Nevada Falls, just to name a few. Yosemite’s towering cliffs and gorgeous mountains are primarily made from Granite that was once molten rock but solidified over time. Covering almost 750,000 acres, Yosemite is truly one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Yosemite Valley with Bridalveil Falls-June 2021
Half Dome in between the mountains-February 2021
Depending on what entrance you take into Yosemite, you will see different views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley. Pictured above are two separate views of Yosemite taken in June 2021 and February 2021 respectively. No matter what entrance you take, the views are sure to be spectacular. Once in the park, be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife. Yosemite has a vast diversity of animals, including Mule Deer (see below), Bobcat, Lynx (See below), Black Bear, various birds, and squirrels, just to name a few.
A curious Mule Deer posing for a photo at Glacier Point.
A Lynx in Yosemite Valley-February 2021
A candid Blue Jay in a tree.
During my time in Yosemite, I decided to take on one of the most challenging single-day hikes in the park. The infamous Vernal and Nevada Falls. This trail is quite strenuous, but the payoff is well worth it. The trek begins at the Mist Trail, which leads up to Vernal Falls, a 317-foot waterfall that flows into a large pool at the base of the waterfall. Vernal runs all year round, but for the best flow, I would recommend coming Mid-April to Mid-June. Once you reach Vernal Falls, it is a couple miles more to Nevada Falls. At just over 594 feet, Nevada Falls is absolutely spectacular and can be heard from far away during peak season.
Vernal Falls from an overlook.
Nevada Falls
After a long day, it may be tempting to go home and relax, but if you can wait, I would recommend staying until the sun goes down because not only will you get stunning views of Half Dome at sunset (Pictured at the top), but the stars at night from Yosemite Valley are extraordinary, and you won’t want to miss them.
El Capitan with the midnight stars in the background.
If you want to see videos of my travels, be sure to check out “Alex Haney Adventures” on Youtube and Instagram!
Thank you for reading!
