Get away! Yosemite
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, this national park sees around 5 million visitors each year
Get hiking
1
With over 800 miles of trails, there are so many options to enjoy – for any level of experience. All hikes are quite easily accessible and some are very gentle, yet still deliver the most phenomenal views.
Spot the wildlife
2
Yosemite is also home to some great wildlife – and you can spot loads of creatures while you’re out exploring. Look out for over 90 mammal species, including bears, coyotes, raccoons, bobcats and skinks, plus 17 species of bat, as well as over 250 varieties of birds, including the California spotted owl.
Wonder at the waterfalls
3
The park has five waterfalls of 1,000ft or more. Some are an easy walk to visit, while some are a more challenging hike. Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in the area, dropping a total of 2,425ft 4
Long after the day-trippers have gone home and the sun has sunk behind the mountains, Yosemite’s night skies come to glorious life.
With very little light pollution, millions of stars light up the sky. A number of local tour companies offer stargazing tours, so you can learn more about them. Grab your telescope, look up… and look out for meteor showers, comets, planets and constellations.
Go glamping
5
AutoCamp is a new type of outdoor lodging experience, boasting modern and luxurious features. It’s inspired by the wanderlust of camping and the great American road trip. Pick accommodation to suit your needs, from luxury tents and trailers to vintage cabins. See autocamp.com for information.
Enjoy the peace Ð see big cities, too
6
The park is only about four or five hours drive from San Francisco – even closer from San Jose and Sacramento. And, surprisingly, from Las Vegas or Los Angeles, it’s still not that far if you’re already on a road trip or have a few extra days. So rent a car and get going!