Yosemite is a representation of California’s glorious natural beauty. In 1890 Yosemite became a national park thanks to John Muir, Johnson and President Lincoln among others. John Muir co-founded the Sierra Club in 1892 to protect the park.
The indigenous native Americans called themselves the Ahwahnechee, meaning “dwellers” in Ahwahnee.
Yosemite attracts millions of visitors to the national park each year with the dramatic waterfalls, plentiful wildlife, giant sequoias, and granite cliffs. There is something for everyone whether you’re looking for a photographic exploration, or an adventure-filled vacation, you’ll find it all in Yosemite National Park.
Through all of my travels in Yosemite I always go back to Tunnel View. I wish I could say, “I hiked 30 miles to get to this view spot. It was raining and freezing, I lost my shoes and ended up walking back barefoot” well its right at the parking lot. There might be a 20-ft walk. This is an ideal location for everyone to enjoy. Tunnel View also makes for wonderful nighttime photos, too. Besides location, timing, weather, and patience are crucial for capturing the perfect Yosemite nature photo.
Vernal Falls is another special place to capture nature photos. Witnessing the 317’ waterfall rushing off the sheer cliffs is worth the hike. Yosemite’s signature hike to Vernal Falls climbs up flights of stairs along the Mist Trail. The name speaks for itself, as you near the waterfalls, expect to get misted on most months. This hike is very crowded but the scenery is truly rewarding. If you head to Vernal Falls in the spring, there could be a rainbow on the bottom of the waterfall.
This impressive dome stands 5000’ above the valley floor – Half Dome. Standing on the top of Half Dome invites panoramic views of the High Sierras, Vernal and Nevada Falls. Half Dome is a distinct looking granite dome with a sheer cliff face on one side, with three sides smooth and round. Half Dome is a signature climbing spot for experienced climbers and hikers. I captured an image of climbers sleeping on the side of the mountain with their light on.
Mirror Lake is a quaint little lake which offers lovely reflections of surrounding mountains. It is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of Yosemite Valley. If you like to walk there’s a peaceful short hike that loops around the lake. This is a wonderful opportunity to capture nature photos of reflective lake waters.
Some of my favorite Yosemite Photos:
Some of my favorite National Park Photos:
“Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.”
– John Muir
