On June 30, 1864, President Lincoln signed a land grant to protect the Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove. It was the first time the United States set aside land to preserve its majestic beauty for future generations.
Here are some of our favorite photos of the Yosemite Valley from our recent trip to the park.
View of the valley, featuring Half Dome, from Olmstead PointView of El CapitanYosemite Falls is the focus for much of the activity in the Valley.It is truly awe inspiring.Yosemite Falls viewed from the Merced River.Half Dome with people relaxing on a beach by the Merced River.The hike to Vernal Falls is green and mossy.Vernal Falls rushes by.