Visit a natural WONDER

With its giant rock faces, jagged peaks and thundering waterfalls, Yosemite National Park deserves a place on all our bucket lists

- HELENA CARTWRIGHT

Even the most jaded traveller will look past the crowds in amazement when wandering the trails below the towering canyon walls of California’s Yosemite National Park. The breathtaking landmark will amaze, surprise and charm in equal measure. Around four million people visit each year, most in summer, but Yosemite offers adventure all year round. Visit in autumn and you’ll hike in relative peace. The weather is cool first thing, but a perfect 20C later in the day.

The highlights

Half Dome is Yosemite’s most distinctive natural monument. An impressive 87 million years old and with a 93 per cent vertical grade, it’s the sheerest cliff in North America. Climbers come from all over the world to tackle its legendary north face, but good hikers can reach the summit, too, via a 17-mile round trip.

Yosemite’s waterfalls are mesmerising, especially when the spring run-off turns them into thunderous cataracts. Yosemite Falls is considered among the tallest waterfalls in North America, dropping 2,425ft in three tiers. Bridalveil, Vernal and Nevada Falls are also nearby.