Yosemite’s Horsetail Fall Firefall
You’ll need a pass for Horsetail Fall Firefall, Yosemite’s annual spectacle.
Horsetail Fall Firefall in Yosemite is a natural phenomenon that occurs during the winter months, typically in February, when this small waterfall is flowing. The magic unfolds when the skies are clear and the setting sun aligns perfectly with the fall, creating a stunning effect that makes the water appear to glow like molten lava. This breathtaking spectacle draws photographers, nature enthusiasts and travelers from all over the world.
The surge of crowds has led to logistical challenges, including packed parking areas, traffic congestion, and limited viewpoints. In some cases, the crowds have caused damage to sensitive riverbank vegetation, allowing further erosion during the rest of the year. To manage this, park officials have introduced measures like parking restrictions, permits, and designated viewing areas. This ensures safety and a better visitor experience.
The event has gained significant popularity in recent years, which means a reservation will be required to enter Yosemite National Park on weekends in mid- to late February each year. Even if you’re not specifically visiting Horsetail Fall, a reservation is required on these dates. If you plan to visit on Mondays through Fridays no reservation is needed, but planning ahead is still advised. The details on plans for managing visitor access are announced on the NPS website for the following February by the end of the year.
Don’t miss this spectacular event – get your reservation for Yosemite Firefall at Recreation.gov
Want to know what else you can do in Yosemite in winter? Follow Alice Ford on a Solo Winter Adventure in Yosemite.
Top photo of Horsetail Fall in February by Matthew Dillon
Family-Friendly Yosemite
Family-friendly Yosemite National Park offers easy hikes, educational programs, scenic drives, picnic spots, and adventure activities. Its breathtaking landscapes and rich history make it perfect for creating unforgettable memories with kids of all ages.
1. Kid-Friendly Hikes
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Lower Yosemite Fall Trail: This easy, 1-mile round-trip hike is perfect for families with young children. The paved trail leads to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall, providing an up-close view of the cascading waterfall. The short duration and minimal elevation gain make it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
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Mirror Lake Loop: A slightly longer but still manageable hike is the Mirror Lake Loop. This 2-mile round-trip hike offers beautiful views of Half Dome and reflections in the serene lake. It’s a great spot for a family picnic and a bit of wading in the shallow waters.
Happy Isles Art and Nature Center: This family-oriented space features short, easy trails that are both educational and engaging. Families can explore the surrounding area, learn about the local flora and fauna, and participate in hands-on exhibits that make nature fun and accessible for kids.
2. Junior Ranger Program
The Junior Ranger Program is a fantastic way for children to learn about Yosemite while earning badges and certificates. Kids can pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at any visitor center and complete a series of activities designed to educate them about the park’s natural and cultural history. Once the activities are completed, they can attend a ranger-led program and receive their official Junior Ranger badge.
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3. Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and Museum
The Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and Museum offer numerous educational opportunities for families. Interactive exhibits, informative displays, and historical artifacts provide insights into the park’s geology, ecology, and history. The museum also offers ranger-led programs and films that can enrich the visitor experience.
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4. Best Picnic Areas
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Cathedral Beach Picnic Area: Located along the Merced River, this spot offers stunning views of El Capitan and ample space for picnicking and swimming. Note it is not wheelchair accessible.
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Swinging Bridge Picnic Area: With views of Yosemite Falls and access to the Merced River, this area is perfect for a relaxing family picnic.
Church Bowl Picnic Area: Let the views of Half Dome and Glacier Point across Ahwahnee Meadow inspire you as you enjoy a picnic. Picnic tables and grills are available at this scenic spot as well as potable water and flush toilets.
5. Scenic Drives
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Glacier Point Drive: This scenic drive takes families to Glacier Point, offering breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. The drive is complemented by several overlooks and short trails.
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Tioga Road: This road traverses Yosemite’s high country, providing access to stunning alpine scenery, meadows, and several beautiful lakes. It’s ideal for families looking to explore different parts of the park.
6. Adventure Activities
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Horseback riding: This is a fantastic way for families to explore Yosemite’s backcountry. Stables in Yosemite Valley offer guided rides suitable for all ages and experience levels, allowing families to experience the park from a unique perspective.
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Rafting on the Merced River: During the summer, families can rent rafts and float down the Merced River. This gentle activity offers a refreshing way to see Yosemite Valley’s iconic sights while enjoying the water. Safety gear and instructions are provided, making it a fun and secure activity for children.
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Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad: Just outside the park, the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad offers a delightful excursion for families. This historic steam train ride takes passengers through scenic forests, providing a glimpse into the area’s logging history. The experience includes gold panning and a museum, adding an educational twist to the adventure.
Yosemite National Park is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities that blend education, adventure, and natural beauty. Yosemite awaits your family’s next great adventure!
Capturing Yosemite: Ansel Adams’ Vision
One of the best-known photographers of the 20th century, Ansel Adams’ iconic photos of Yosemite National Park and the American West helped advocate for the preservation of the natural environment. His photos of Yosemite, a place that profoundly influenced his life and career, are among his most celebrated works.
Early Encounters
Adams first visited Yosemite National Park in 1916 at the age of 14. Armed with a Kodak Brownie camera, he was immediately captivated by the park’s majestic landscapes. This initial visit sparked a lifelong passion for photography and the natural world. The beauty of Yosemite’s granite cliffs, towering sequoias, and cascading waterfalls provided endless inspiration for Adams, who returned to the park year after year.
In 1919, Adams joined the Sierra Club, an environmental organization dedicated to preserving the wilderness. He spent several summers working as the caretaker of the Sierra Club’s LeConte Memorial Lodge in Yosemite Valley, where he honed his photographic skills and developed a profound appreciation for the park’s natural beauty.
Adams’ early works in Yosemite were characterized by their sharp focus and high contrast, capturing the park’s dramatic landscapes in stunning detail. He often sought out scenes that highlighted the interplay of light and shadow, capturing the essence of the natural world in its most pristine form. One of his most famous early photographs, “Monolith, the Face of Half Dome,” taken in 1927, exemplifies his ability to convey the grandeur and majesty of Yosemite’s iconic landmarks.
Technical Mastery and Artistic Vision
Adams was not only a master of composition but also a technical innovator. He developed the Zone System, a photographic technique that allowed him to control the exposure and development of his images with precision. This system enabled Adams to achieve a remarkable range of tones in his black-and-white photographs, from the deepest blacks to the brightest whites.
His meticulous approach to photography was matched by his artistic vision. Adams saw beyond the physical features of Yosemite, capturing the essence of the park’s wildness and beauty. His images evoke a sense of awe and reverence, inviting viewers to appreciate the natural world in all its splendor.
Conservation Efforts
Adams’ work in Yosemite was not just about creating beautiful images; it was also about advocating for the preservation of the natural environment. His photographs played a crucial role in the American conservation movement, raising awareness about the importance of protecting national parks and wilderness areas.
In the 1930s, Adams’ photographs were used to promote Yosemite and other national parks, helping to secure their protection and funding. His images were featured in publications, exhibitions, and books, reaching a wide audience and inspiring a greater appreciation for the natural world.
Legacy and Impact
Adams’ legacy in Yosemite is enduring. His photographs continue to be celebrated for their technical excellence and artistic beauty. They serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage for future generations.
The Ansel Adams Gallery, located in Yosemite Valley, stands as a testament to his enduring influence. The gallery showcases Adams’ work and promotes the appreciation of photography and the natural world. It is a place where visitors can connect with Adams’ vision and gain a deeper understanding of the park that inspired him.
Top photo of Ansel Adams in Yosemite National Park c. 1942 (Photo courtesy the Cedric Wright Family)
The Origin Story of Yosemite National Park
Nestled in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite National Park is a testament to nature’s grandeur and the enduring human spirit. The origin story of Yosemite is one of ancient landscapes, indigenous cultures, and passionate conservation efforts that have shaped it into the iconic national park we know today.
Ancient Beginnings
Long before Yosemite became a national park, it was home to the Ahwahneechee people, a group within the Southern Sierra Miwok tribe who lived in the valley for thousands of years. The Ahwahneechee thrived in the region, utilizing the valley’s abundant resources and developing a deep spiritual connection with the land. Their name for the valley, “Ahwahnee,” means “big mouth,” a reference to the valley’s gaping entrance.
The Ahwahnechee people, like many Native American tribes, practiced sustainable land management techniques that were deeply intertwined with their cultural and spiritual beliefs. They used controlled burns to manage the forests, which helped to clear underbrush, promote the growth of certain plants, and reduce the risk of larger, more destructive wildfires. These burns also encouraged the growth of plants that were important for food, medicine, and materials.
The Gold Rush and Conflict
The mid-19th century brought dramatic changes to Yosemite. The discovery of gold in 1849 led to an influx of miners and settlers, disrupting the lives of the Ahwahneechee. Tensions escalated, culminating in the Mariposa War of 1851. During this conflict, the Mariposa Battalion, a group of volunteer militia, entered Yosemite Valley, marking the first recorded visit by European Americans.
The number of Native Americans killed in the conflict is not well-documented. However, it is well known that the influx of settlers resulted in significant loss of life and displacement for the Ahwahnechee and other indigenous groups in the region. The Mariposa Battalion’s leader, James D. Savage, is often credited with “discovering” Yosemite, despite it having been inhabited by Native Americans for millennia.
The Birth of Conservation
The beauty of Yosemite Valley soon captured the imagination of early visitors. Among them was Galen Clark, who arrived in 1857 seeking a cure for his tuberculosis. Clark was so moved by the landscape that he dedicated his life to its preservation, becoming Yosemite’s first guardian. His efforts, along with those of other early conservationists, laid the groundwork for the park’s future.
In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Yosemite Grant Act, which set aside Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias for public use and preservation. This landmark legislation was the first time the U.S. government had protected land for its natural beauty, setting a precedent for the creation of national parks.
John Muir and the Push for National Park Status
One of the most influential figures in Yosemite’s history is John Muir, a Scottish-born naturalist and writer. Muir first visited Yosemite in 1868 and was immediately captivated by its splendor. He spent years exploring the park, writing about its wonders, and advocating for its protection. Muir’s eloquent writings and passionate advocacy brought national attention to Yosemite and the broader conservation movement.
Muir’s efforts culminated in the establishment of Yosemite National Park in 1890. The park initially included the high country surrounding Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove, while the valley itself remained under state control. Muir continued to campaign for the valley’s inclusion in the national park, which was finally achieved in 1906.
Before the National Park Service was established, the U.S. Army played a crucial role in protecting Yosemite. From 1891 to 1914, the Army managed the park, enforcing regulations and preventing illegal activities such as poaching and logging. The soldiers stationed at Yosemite, known as the “Buffalo Soldiers,” were among the first African American troops to serve as park rangers.
In 1916, the National Park Service (NPS) was created to oversee the growing number of national parks, including Yosemite. The NPS brought a more structured approach to park management, focusing on both preservation and public enjoyment. Under the leadership of figures like Stephen Mather and Horace Albright, the NPS worked to improve infrastructure, build visitor facilities, and promote the parks to a wider audience.
Yosemite has faced numerous challenges over the years, from natural disasters like wildfires and floods to the pressures of increasing tourism. Despite these challenges, the park has remained a symbol of natural beauty and a haven for wildlife. Efforts to preserve and protect Yosemite continue to this day, with ongoing projects to restore natural habitats, reduce human impact, and educate visitors about the importance of conservation.
Top photo of the Yosemite Valley by SwissMediaVision/iStock
Yosemite: Beyond the Valley
Yosemite Valley provides exciting adventures for hikers, but peak season crowds can diminish the experience. Thankfully, many hidden gems lie beyond the valley, ready to be discovered.
Situated in California’s famed Sierra Nevada Mountains, the stunning waterfalls and high-elevation views of Yosemite National Park are a hiker’s dream.
Carved by ancient glaciers, its iconic U-shaped valley features unique topography, including glacial megablocks, waterfalls, and domes. The park is among the top 10 most visited national parks in the United States, boasting millions of visitors every year.
If you’re planning a trip to Yosemite, you’re probably thinking about doing the popular Yosemite Falls Trail with its breathtaking views of the valley, Half Dome, and Upper Yosemite Fall. Or maybe the Mist Trail is on your itinerary with its intimate view of Vernal Fall, vibrant plant life and dramatic ascent up a giant staircase to the top.
Yosemite Valley offers tons of unique and thrilling experiences. However, the crowds of hikers in popular seasons can detract from your experience. Thankfully, there are dozens of great hikes—and plenty of other adventures—in less-visited areas beyond the valley.
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1. Wawona
Wawona is an expansive mid-elevation basin in the southern part of the park. It’s home to giant sequoias and one of the largest mountain meadows in the High Sierra.
The area was originally inhabited by the Ahwahnechee, part of the Southern Sierra Miwok tribe. Many Native American artifacts can still be found, including mortar rocks used to prepare food, as well as arrows and spear tips that serve as reminders of the region’s rich indigenous history. (Remember to always leave artifacts where you find them.)
The town of Wawona is located entirely within Yosemite and precedes the establishment of the park. It serves as a gateway to the southern areas of the park and is known for several historic buildings, including the Wawona Hotel, a classic Victorian resort and National Historic Landmark.
Wawona’s clear rivers are perfect for water activities in the summer. Its abundant wildlife—including rare birds like the Great Gray Owl and aquatic creatures such as Western Pond Turtles—add natural beauty to its streams. For photographers, relaxed vacationers and thrill seekers, this location earns a spot on every visitor’s itinerary.
Popular attractions
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Chilnualna Falls: A long and steep hike with a rewarding payoff—a comparatively deserted trail boasting beautiful cascades and three picturesque waterfalls. The popular Mist Trail, on the other hand, has only two waterfalls and swarms of people blocking your view!
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Wawona Swimming Hole: During the late spring and summer months, enjoy tubing down rapids or read a book while relaxing in a cold, crystal clear river. There is also a swinging bridge at this location for the daredevils of your group.
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Yosemite History Center: Are you looking to complement your hiking trip with an enriching historical experience? See rustic cabins and unique exhibits—such as the long-abandoned Chinese Laundry—and get a fascinating glimpse into the community that flourished during the Gold Rush.
2. Hetch Hetchy Valley
Just over an hour’s drive up to the quiet northwest corner of the park, this area is known for biodiversity and grandeur that rival Yosemite Valley. Hetch Hetchy is perfect for hikers and features impressive waterfalls, sprawling granite cliffs and domes, and abundant wildflowers due to its low elevation.
Like Wawona, this beautiful valley was cherished by indigenous people until a decision was made to flood it to create the reservoir. The Hetch Hetchy Reservoir was formed by the O’Shaughnessy Dam on the Tuolumne River and serves as a water supply for the city of San Francisco and surrounding areas. The valley was historically home to the Miwok and Paiute Native American tribes and had significant cultural and environmental importance to these indigenous communities. The construction of the dam has been a subject of controversy since its inception in the early 20th century.
The name “Hetch Hetchy” translates to “edible grasses,” likely due to its abundance of acorns and edible plants. With one of the longest hiking seasons in the park, Hetch Hetchy offers visitors the flexibility to explore its trails almost year-round, providing hikes of all difficulty levels.
Popular Attractions
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Wapama Falls Trail: Hike along the reservoir’s edge on a moderate 5-mile round-trip, with a great view at the base of Wapama Falls. During spring, adventurous hikers can cross the bridges below the falls and experience a refreshing mist from the cascade.
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O’Shaughnessy Dam: Though its 1919 construction spurred controversy, this 430-foot dam remains an impressive sight. Hikers can take a short, 2-mile hike up to Lookout Point, offering a sweeping view of the reservoir and its backdrop of glacier-carved granite cliffs. The Wapama Falls trail also takes hikers on a scenic walk across the dam.
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Evergreen Lodge: After a long day of hiking and spectacular views, hikers can kick back at a tranquil cabin in the woods, cool off in the pool or hot tub, lay in a hammock, or if they still have energy, enjoy the thrill of Evergreen’s ziplines. Known for its terrific restaurant, Evergreen Lodge is ideal for tired visitors ready to relax.
3. Tuolumne Meadows
Prefer the tranquility of high elevation views? Accessible via Tioga Road, Tuolumne Meadows involves an 8,600-foot ascent to a subalpine meadow. This magnificent area features picturesque lakes, trails up its distinctive domes, and a backdrop of mountain peaks accessible by cross-country skis.
Known for its amazing campsites, gorgeous alpine lakes, and secluded hikes, Tuolumne Meadows appeals to novice hikers and families who want to explore the scenery without much of a challenge.
Fun fact: The water sources at Tuolumne Meadows are so clean they require minimal water treatment. The Tuolumne River originates here, flowing through the meadows and eventually reaching Hetch Hetchy which accounts for the vast majority of drinking water in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Popular Attractions
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Pothole Dome: Situated on the western edges of the meadow, a short half-hour hike leads up a smooth, granite dome with panoramic views of Tuolumne Valley, the river, and the surrounding mountains. This spot is rarely crowded, giving hikers a unique opportunity to enjoy Yosemite’s peace and quiet all to themselves.
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Cathedral Lakes: For hikers who prefer a longer journey, this 8.2-mile round-trip features the pristine lakes of the High Sierra, reflecting the stunning alpine scenery on the famed John Muir Trail. One of the most popular attractions in Tuolumne Meadows, the subalpine landscape sets the meadows apart from other parts of Yosemite.
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Tenaya Lake: Looking for a prime swimming spot without the effort of a long hike? Tenaya Lake—named after Chief Tenaya, of the Yosemite Indians—is 7 miles west of Tuolumne Meadows on Tioga Road. It offers visitors rocky and sandy beaches, as well as canoeing and tubing.
4. Sentinel Dome and Taft Point
This location is often ignored by visitors, partly because of the popularity of neighboring trails, and partly because of its initially unkempt appearance with fallen trees and sparse vegetation.
However, a short and easy-to-moderate hike rewards visitors with arguably the most fantastic view of Yosemite. Located along the road up to Glacier Point, Sentinel Dome offers a 360-degree view of the park including Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite and Nevada Falls, and much more.
Watch how NatureBridge connects young people to the wonder and science of Yosemite.
Popular Attractions
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Fallen Jeffrey Pine: The fallen Jeffrey Pine on Sentinel Dome is one of Yosemite’s most photographed trees, celebrated for its poetic beauty and twisted, rugged appearance. Perched on the park’s second-highest point, the iconic tree, which died in 2003, was shaped by its harsh, high-altitude environment.
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Taft Point: Hikers can extend their trek with one of the best photography spots in Yosemite Park. The trail is connected to Sentinel Dome, so both viewpoints can be seen in a single day. Taft Point stands on a vertical cliff with an impressive view of Yosemite Valley with notable cracks in the granite that help form a dramatic landscape. Ideal for sunset views and pictures, it tends to be less crowded than Sentinel Dome.
5. Mariposa Grove
Hikers looking for an especially memorable experience should check out the giant sequoias, exclusive to the western Sierra Nevada. These colossal redwood trees are among the oldest and largest trees on the planet, a surreal sight that no Yosemite visitor should miss.
The largest concentrations of giant sequoias are found in Mariposa Grove, which boasts a community of more than 500 giant sequoias. Famous trees to look for include the Grizzly Giant, California Tunnel Tree, and the Bachelor and Three Graces. The grove is found in the southern part of the park and is accessible by a shuttle or 2-mile hike from either Washburn Trail or Mariposa Grove Road.
Follow Alice Ford on a winter journey to Yosemite and Mariposa Grove.
Popular Attractions
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Grizzly Giant Loop Trail: A moderately difficult 2-mile loop, beginning at the Big Trees Loop, this trail takes hikers on a tour of all three of the famous trees, the Grizzly Giant being the largest in the grove.
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Guardians Loop Trail: For visitors looking for a more challenging and enriching hike, this 1.5-mile loop has unique features including the Wawona Tunnel Tree. Cut in the early 1880s to attract tourists, it unfortunately collapsed in the late 1960s. Other attractions include the Telescope Tree, a hollow sequoia, and Mariposa Grove Cabin, an iconic and quaint cabin originally constructed by Galen Clark who was known as the first European American to discover Mariposa Grove.
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Big Trees Loop Trail: Ideal for casual hikers, families, and people with disabilities, this flat loop takes visitors on a 0.3-mile trek past giant sequoias including the impressive Fallen Monarch tree, which highlights just how massive these redwood trees are even after they meet their end.
6. Yosemite Creek Campground
Just an hour north of Yosemite Valley, this location is perfect for campers looking to settle in the midst of stunning scenery and views of famous landmarks. Situated not far from the popular trails and attractions in Yosemite Valley, it’s also near Olmsted Point, Tenaya Lake, Tuolumne Meadows and more. It is only available by reservation—and it’s closed for 2024 for upgrades—so make sure to check for updates and plan in advance.
Learn more about visiting Yosemite from Parks Channel creators.
Popular Attractions
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Yosemite Creek Trail: The trail offers a tranquil alternative to the busy valley, accessing valley landmarks like El Capitan while uncovering hidden waterfalls and serene landscapes.
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Olmsted Point: Get ready for breathtaking panoramic views of Tenaya Canyon, Half Dome, and Clouds Rest. Named after landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and his son, it provides a unique perspective of Yosemite’s rugged beauty and is accessible via Tioga Road, making it a must-see spot.
While the famous landmarks of Yosemite Falls and El Capitan rightfully capture most visitors’ attention, there are countless unique experiences beyond the valley. From the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove to the lakes and streams of Wawona, these lesser-known spots offer a tranquil escape from the tourist hotspots in the valley. Deepen your connection to Yosemite’s beautiful landscapes and explore some of the hidden gems of this beloved national park.
Top photo of Mariposa Grove by Marty Aligata
