Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite National Park became America's first state park in 1864. Compared to other protected areas, Yosemite Valley is quite small, about seven miles long and a mile wide. Small enough anyway for John Muir, the conservationist and founder of Sierra Club, to explore the entire area on foot. But within its narrow confines are some of the most impressive cliffs, valleys, meadows, waterfalls, and flora and fauna.

The park ranges from 2,000 feet above sea level to more than 13,000 feet. Among its most famous peaks are El Capitan, the largest piece of exposed granite in the world, and Half Dome. Some of the most spectacular waterfalls, such as the Bridal veil Falls, are only a short hike from the Yosemite Valley floor. The view of the Valley floor from the top of 3,200 foot Glacier Point, 32 miles away by road, is considered by many to be the most impressive of all. When you are not feeling "stoned" by the sheer cliffs that circle the valley, be aware of the black bears that no longer appear to fear humans and have known to brazenly walk into campsites and raid food. Coyotes and other denizens of the forests are more cunning and less visible. There are 196 miles of paved roads within the park and 840 miles of trails. Since it also has 8 miles of paved bike path, rent a bike and explore the relatively flat valley floor. To prevent congestion and overcrowding, there have been proposals to ban automobiles in Yosemite, especially during the very busy and crowded holiday weekends such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day But don't let a trifle like that stop you from visiting one of the most fabulous natural wonders of the world