First protected in 1864 and designated as the third national park in 1890, Yosemite is home to countless natural icons including Yosemite Falls, the world's fifth tallest waterfall; El Capitan, one of the largest exposed monoliths of granite in the world; and Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, which were the first scenic natural areas set aside by a national government for public benefit and appreciation.

With so many spectacular historical, scientific and scenic resources and recreational opportunities that include backpacking, hiking, world-class climbing, fishing, camping and numerous winter pursuits, Yosemite has something for everyone.