No trip to Yosemite would be complete without see El Capitan. It’s a huge granite cliff face that rises over 3,000 feet, more than twice as high as the Empire State Building. It’s a great place for pictures and you can take in the varied views from several spots. For an up close look, go to El Capitan Meadow. It’s also very popular for rock-climbers who decide to undertake the treacherous task. Depending when you go, you’re likely to see more than one scaling its face.

One of the most beautiful things to see in the park is Yosemite Falls. At over 2,400 feet, it can be seen from several vantage points. The strenuous Yosemite Falls Trail (7.2 miles) gives you a great view from the top of the falls. Go to Columbia Rock for amazing views of several of the park’s attractions, including the falls. Several other vantage points will give you a great view as well. For optimal viewing, go in the spring when the winter snows have begun to melt.

One of the more iconic features of the park is the famous Half Dome. The feature gets its name from the fact that it’s rounded on three sides, while the fourth is a sheer granite cliff. The top of the dome rises to about 5,000 feet above the valley below. If you choose to hike to the top, preparation is essential. You should be in shape and the hike is not for small children. The entire trip is from 14 to 16 miles total, while you gain in elevation almost 4,800 feet. It’s an arduous trail and you should leave early in the day to make sure you get back by sunset. The trail typically takes anywhere from 10 to 12 hours. You’ll also need to use hand cables for the final 400 foot ascent. The cables are only in place from Memorial Day (late May) through Labor Day (early September). A permit is required by lottery as only 300 hikers per day are permitted.