Even if you know nothing about US natural wonders, you know this one

Seven wonders within Yosemite National Park

One of the world’s most famous national parks, Yosemite is known for its towering granite cliffs, its waterfalls, and its giant sequoia trees, not to mention its relatively easy access from San Francisco. Here are seven of the must-see highlights.

1. El Capitan

The majestic El Capitan.Credit: iStock

You can know almost nothing about the US and its national parks, and yet still be familiar with El Capitan. This 1095-metre cliff face is the world’s largest single sheet of granite, and a sight to behold for any visitor.

“El Cap” is also something of a holy grail for rock-climbers, and the site of free-climber Alex Honnold’s famous “free solo”, an ascent without ropes or any sort of protection.

For those interested in dipping their toe into the world of climbing, Yosemite Mountaineering School and Guide Service offers beginner lessons at the base of the cliff. For visitors who would prefer to just gaze from afar, take in the best views from El Capitan Meadow.

2. Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls in spring.Credit: iStock

Yosemite is known for its numerous waterfalls across 3000 square kilometres of Californian parkland, and the most spectacular is surely Yosemite Falls.

This is actually a set of three falls – Upper, the middle cascades, and Lower – which combined form the highest waterfall in North America at 740 metres.

The waterfalls only flow from November to July, with peak flow in May. You can spot them from numerous locations, including Yosemite Valley and around Yosemite Village. Those who are really keen can hike about eight hours to the top of the falls for a truly spectacular vista.

3. Merced River

The slow-flowing Merced River.Credit: iStock

Going by the rock-climbing on offer, it may seem as if Yosemite is all about adrenaline – but then, you haven’t seen Merced River. The national park’s main waterway is pleasantly languid, particularly around summer when you would really like to jump in for a dip.

Though whitewater rafting is offered in some sections of the river, particularly when water levels are highest in spring, during summer it’s possible to flop into the river on a lilo and float slowly downstream. Begin at Curry Village and take a shuttle bus back at the end.

4. Glacier Point

The view from the top – Glacier Point.Credit: iStock

This is perhaps the most spectacular viewpoint in a national park filled with spectacular viewpoints.

Towering almost one kilometre above Curry Village, Glacier Point will give you views across Yosemite Valley to Half Dome, Yosemite Falls and much of the area’s high country.

It’s particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset, and is accessible by road from May to October. In winter, this is a popular area for cross-country skiing, with those gorgeous views a reward for your toil.

5. Yosemite Creek Campground

Isolated campsite in Yosemite.Credit: iStock

There are plenty of sites to camp (and park your RV) within Yosemite, though our favourite is Yosemite Creek Campground, in the northern part of the park, at about 2300 metres above sea level.

This is actually one of the few camping areas where RVs are discouraged, which means you get a quieter, more intimate experience at a site with few facilities, but a stunning riverside location. You’ll never want to leave.

6. Half Dome

Last light at Half Dome.Credit: iStock

Have you even been to Yosemite if you haven’t taken a photo of Half Dome? This sheared-off granite monolith is just so spectacular that you can’t help but dig out your camera or your phone, and with Mirror Lake in the foreground, perfect snaps are almost guaranteed.

Serious hikers, meanwhile, can apply for a permit to climb Half Dome (300 are available by lottery each day), and then trek the steep, rugged 27-kilometre track, which is likely to take between 12 and 16 hours.

7. Ahwahnee Dining Room

The Ahwahnee Hotel.Credit: iStock

The Ahwahnee Hotel is one of the world’s great park lodges, and within it lies the Ahwahnee Dining Room, an absolute must even for those merely passing through on their way to the campground.

This spectacular room has 11-metre-high ceilings, giant pine trestles and granite pillars, and the sumptuous buffet meals served within are equally impressive. Be aware though, there’s a dress code: men need trousers and shirts with collars, women require dresses or long trousers.

The writer travelled at his own expense. See yosemite.com; nps.gov/yose