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).