Yosemite Photo Gallery

Recommended lodging in Yosemite National Park, located near the southern entrance to the park. Formerly known as the Wawona Hotel, this cherished 1879 National Historic Landmark is rustic but offers plenty of amenities.

Overlooking Yosemite Valley and El Capitan.

In the heart of Yosemite Valley

An abandoned shop in Bodie.

Following the San Joaquin River.

Our first stop is always a National Park Visitor Center. There we connect with a Park Ranger to check if there are any trail closures due to wildlife sightings or maintenance work, and ask about their favorite hikes to add to our list. We also review schedules for tours and Ranger talks, and pickup maps, guidebooks, snacks and gifts.

In Yosemite, the primary visitor centers are Wawona near the south entrance and Yosemite Valley Visitors Center in the heart of the park. 

photo by Almonroth

Black bears, coyote, deer and squirrels are just a few of the species active throughout the year in Yosemite National Park. Remove all food from a parked car and store food appropriately while camping. Keep a safe distance from any wild animal, and never feed or approach them. We enjoyed watching this little guy from a distance while wandering the Valley Loop Trail.

Yosemite National Park, as with all of our National Parks, is a treasure that we should preserve for future generations. Compass & Key reminds you to do the following: leave nothing along the trail or at the campsite, regardless of how small; follow the main trails; don't pick wildflowers or any plants; do not deface any natural or manmade feature with carvings or markings; and only use designated campsites and campfire rings.

For more information, visit the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics.