Few places on Earth make a first impression like Yosemite Valley. Walk out of the tunnel on Wawona Road and the whole valley opens up at once: El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall and Half Dome in a single frame.
Plan ahead. Yosemite is one of the most visited national parks in the country, and it has used timed-entry or reservation systems during peak seasons in recent years. Check nps.gov before you go.
From granite valleys to cliff-top highways and alpine lakes, these are the California places that belong on every bucket list.
3 min read
Skip the crowds. These beaches, waterfalls and ghost towns show a side of California most visitors drive right past.
2 min read
The world's tallest trees, the hottest temperature ever recorded and a name borrowed from a 500-year-old novel. California is full of surprises.
2 min read
The California Letter · Free every week
Discover beautiful places, interesting stories, and California inspiration every week.