Yosemite National Park

Yosemite is the cathedral of American wilderness, renowned for its monumental granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome, and spectacular waterfalls such as Yosemite Falls. The iconic Yosemite Valley presents breathtaking, accessible vistas, while the vast high-country backcountry of Tuolumne Meadows offers alpine serenity. A climber's paradise and a hiker's dream, it features ancient giant sequoia groves in Mariposa and Tuolumne. Its profound influence on conservation and landscape photography cements its legendary status.

Managing high visitation, especially in the valley, is a challenge, but its awe-inspiring scenery justifies its top-tier ranking.