YOSEMITE

YOSEMITE :

Its valley is bounded by sheer mountain cliffs, towering falls, and a forested valley floor. The combined scene is one of nature's most inspired creations.The icon of Yosemite (see photo). Tip: It's best photographed in the afternoon sun.This steep-sided peak soars almost 1,100 meters (nearly 3,600 feet) above the valley floor.

The park has a number of lofty falls, the two most famous are:
Bridalveil FallsThe 188-meter (620-foot) high Bridalveil Falls gained its name because winds push its falling water around, creating a plunging gossamer spray.
Yosemite FallsIt is one of the world's highest falls, the equivalent of a modern 240-story building. Although it appears to be a single entity, it is a combination of three sequential falls.This the home of Giant Sequoias, the world's biggest and oldest botanical life form. One sequoia tree is 2,700 years old, dating back to the seedling days of the Roman Empire.

The light-faced canyon walls are beautifully lit during full moons. And, stars are brilliant on moonless nights because Yosemite is not near a city or large town. Another factor: You're in a very deep valley. This further helps shield the invasive, defused sky glow emanating from distant cities.There is a variety of hiking trails to please nearly everyone. They range from challenging backpacker paths to short easy loops.The national park is open 24 hours a day every day. However, entry can be delayed on high-traffic days.

Yosemite is about 300 kilometers (200 miles) east of that city.