"A dramatic valley ringed by monumental granite walls—from the first views of El Capitan and Half Dome to vistas made famous by Ansel Adams—feels vast and awe-inspiring; evenings include grand lodge dining under tall windows and timbered ceilings, and early snowfall can quickly transform the landscape." - Jane Siegel
"Reachable as a day-trip or short getaway from the region, this national park is mentioned as another place that provides expanded opportunities for outdoor recreation beyond the city's many parks and trails." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Vehicle reservations were required during the summer of 2024, but the park has not yet announced whether timed-entry vehicle reservations will be required for the upcoming summer; updates are expected soon and visitors should watch the park website or recreation.gov." - Katie Nadworny Katie Nadworny Katie Nadworny is an Istanbul-based writer who specializes in stories at the intersection of culture and politics in Turkey, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. She has lived in Turkey for nearly a decade and has traveled extensively around the region. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"A stunning national park renowned for dramatic granite cliffs, waterfalls, and classic wilderness experiences; it’s frequently featured on longer, organized routes—such as an 11-day train journey that lets travelers visit it alongside other major parks—making it an accessible highlight for those seeking iconic scenery on multi-destination trips." - Travel + Leisure Staff
"Known for its towering sequoias and sheer granite cliffs, offering hiking and shopping opportunities." - Evie Carrick Evie Carrick Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'