A Natural WONDER

With its giant rock faces, jagged peaks and thundering waterfalls, Yosemite National Park is one of the world’s most iconic sights

- HELENA CARTWRIGHT

Even the most jaded traveller will look past the crowds in amazement when wandering the trails below the towering canyon walls of Yosemite National Park. Established in October 1890 as one of the first national parks, the protected territory encompasses 1,200 square miles of scenic wild lands in the Sierra Nevada.

The highlights Half Dome is Yosemite’s most distinctive natural monument. An impressive 87 million years old and with a 93% vertical grade, it’s the sheerest cliff in North America. Climbers come from all over the world to tackle its north face, but good hikers can reach the summit, too, via a 17-mile round trip.

Yosemite’s waterfalls are mesmerising, especially when the spring run-off turns them into spectacularly thunderous cataracts. Yosemite Falls is considered among the tallest waterfalls in North America, dropping 2,425ft in three tiers. Bridalveil, Vernal and Nevada Falls are also nearby.