Yosemite National Park is one of the most breathtaking places on Earth, drawing millions of visitors each year with its towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene meadows. But beyond its postcard-perfect views, Yosemite is packed with fascinating history, geology, and secrets. Here are 8 surprising facts you might not know about this legendary park!
1. Yosemite Wasn’t the First National Park
While Yosemite inspired the national park movement, it wasn’t the first official national park—that title goes to Yellowstone (established in 1872). However, Yosemite became the first land set aside for protection in 1864, thanks to President Abraham Lincoln’s Yosemite Grant.
2. It’s Home to one of North America’s Tallest Waterfall
Yosemite Falls plunges a staggering 2,425 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. It’s actually made up of three sections: Upper Yosemite Fall, the Middle Cascades, and Lower Yosemite Fall.
3. Half Dome Was Once Thought to Be Unclimbable
The iconic Half Dome was deemed ‘perfectly impossible to climb’ by California State Geologist Josiah Whitney, until 1875, when George Anderson reached the summit. Today, hikers can follow a cable route to the top—if they can secure a permit.
4. Giant Sequoias Can Live Over 3,000 Years
Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove is home to some of the largest and oldest living trees on Earth. The Grizzly Giant, one of its most famous residents, is estimated to be nearly 3,000 years old.
5. The Park Has a ‘Firefall’
In the mid-1900s, a man-made Firefall took place nightly when burning embers were pushed off Glacier Point. Today, a natural “Firefall” occurs in February when the setting sun lights up Horsetail Fall, making it glow like molten lava.
6. Yosemite Has One of the World’s Largest Exposed Granite Monoliths
El Capitan, standing at 3,000 feet, is the tallest granite monolith in the world. It’s a legendary rock-climbing destination, famously conquered in a free solo climb by Alex Honnold in 2017.
7. There Are More Than 400 Species of Vertebrates in Yosemite
From black bears to bobcats, Yosemite is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including over 260 species of birds, 90 species of mammals, and countless reptiles and amphibians.
8. A Lost Valley Lies Beneath Hetch Hetchy Reservoir
Hetch Hetchy Valley, once considered a rival to Yosemite Valley in beauty, was dammed in the early 1900s to provide water to San Francisco. Today, the debate over restoring the valley continues.
Want to experience Yosemite’s magic firsthand? Plan your trip and explore these hidden wonders for yourself!