Yosemite National Park, a Californian wonderland

The Yosemite Reserve protects over 300,000 hectares of wilderness. This makes it the third largest protected park in California. After Joshua Tree and Death Valley.

Set in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite National Park boasts contrasting landscapes at altitudes of between 600 and 4,000 metres.

In addition to its remarkable terrain and granite cliffs (El Capitan, Half Dome), Yosemite is home to some superb waterfalls. The highest waterfall is Yosemite Falls, 739 metres above sea level.

There are also several viewpoints offering grandiose panoramas, including Olmsted Point and Glacier Point.

Special mention should be made of Yosemite Valley, a remarkable U-shaped glacial valley. It's a natural jewel, but in summer it's regularly congested.

So it's best to visit in late spring or early autumn, avoiding weekends.

The variation in altitude and thermal amplitude favours the existence of very diverse biotopes. This can be seen in the varied vegetation that adapts to the different climates.

First of all, you'll be able to admire some magnificent and imposing sequoias. Don't miss the Grizzly Giant, the oldest sequoia in the park at 1,800 years old!

Then comes the high mountain forest, and finally the subalpine forest (white pine), where the vegetation is sparser and more sparse.

As far as wildlife is concerned, Yosemite National Park is home to more than 80 types of mammal!

Among the most emblematic species are the following:

• The black bear (more than 350 specimens have been recorded, so follow the recommendations provided by the park if you come across one)
• Puma
• Mule deer

There are also more than 250 types of bird that frequent Yosemite (peregrine falcon, Steller's jay, great grey owl).

If you're a keen walker, there are over 1,200 kilometres of footpaths in the park, with and without facilities. Some sections are adapted for people with reduced mobility.

The park's terrain is ideal for rock climbing. Permits must be requested in advance if you are planning to bivouac. Yosemite National Park also offers opportunities for cycling and rafting. In winter, you can choose between cross-country skiing and mountaineering (for the more sporty). For all these activities, it's always best to ask the park rangers and visit the national park website.

Don't hesitate to stop off at one of the various visitor centres. There you'll find a wealth of practical information. As well as maps, guides and flyers are available. Finally, if you don't want to tire yourself out, there are more than 300 kilometres of trails serving different parts of the reserve. So you'll always find a way to get away from the crowds...

There's nothing like staying in the heart of the national park. At Curry Village you'll be right in the centre of the action, and can go hiking from your accommodation!

You'll find a restaurant, a communal lounge and an outdoor swimming pool for your general comfort.

Note that some tents are heated, while the cheaper ones are not. In this case, bring warm clothes for the night.

The maximum capacity of some tents is 7 people, and there is a private car park for Curry Village guests.

The Yosemite View Lodge is a 3-star hotel located at the gateway to Yosemite National Park. It is located just beyond the hamlet of El Portal, around fifteen kilometres from the western entrance to the national park.

The Yosemite View Lodge has 2 pools and a jacuzzi overlooking the Merced River. The hotel has over 330 rooms and suites, all with kitchenettes and SPA baths.

Other comforts include cable TV, practical furniture and a coffee machine. Some rooms even offer a view of the river. What's more, the rooms vary in size and can accommodate up to 8 people! In fact, you'll find suites and even a whole flat to rent.

There is also an on-site restaurant and bar, and free private parking for guests only.

👉 When should you visit Yosemite National Park?

Spring and summer are certainly the best times to visit.

At this time of year, crowds are at their peak, especially during the summer school holidays. July and August are the busiest months.

What's more, entry to Yosemite National Park may require you to make a reservation, so find out before you come.

Make sure you book well in advance, especially during the summer holidays. Please note that entrance to Yosemite National Park is not free.

👉 How do I get to Yosemite National Park?

The nearest international airport is San Francisco. Direct flights from Paris take between 11 and 12 hours.

From San Francisco, Yosemite National Park is 260 kilometres away. By car, the journey takes around 4 hours. From Los Angeles, the journey takes an average of 6 hours.

Several bus networks serve the major cities of the American West. You can take a bus from Los Angeles or San Francisco.

The various operators include Amtrak, Greyhound and YARTS (Yosemite Area Rapid Transit System) as well as the YARTS bus network.