National Park Journal

Get the digital version of the National Park Journal with its four separate park editions (Grand Canyon, Rocky Mountain, Yellowstone and Yosemite) to discover all-time favorite road trips to the national parks. From Utah’s dazzling deserts, the adobe-lined streets of New Mexico’s charming towns, Wyoming’s authentic outposts, California’s stunning coastline and Colorado’s mountain towns, we feature all the amazing places to explore en route to the parks, no matter where you begin your adventure. Plus , our insider’s guide includes our top things to do in each national park in 48 hours. Discover the best hiking trails, campsites and attractions in our magazine. Our illustrated wildlife guide will help you discover the best of the park's wild animals, including tips on where to find them, and our packing list ensures you don’t leave anything at home.

4 Road Trips • Here are four of our all-time favorite road trips to Yosemite National Park — each with its own scenic wonders, dreamy towns and one-of-a-kind attractions. Turn to our Road Trips section starting on page 22 for details and itineraries.

EDITOR’S NOTE

National Park Journal

WELCOME TO PARADISE • Ready for the ultimate Yosemite vacation? Our insider's guide to the park will lead you to the best hiking trails, hotels and attractions.

Park Map • Get a sense for where everything is in Yosemite National Park.

THE FIVE YOSEMITE ENTRANCES • There are five entrances into Yosemite National Park, one of which is on the park's east side. Choose the entrance that puts you closest to what you want to see.

YOSEMITE’S TOP SIX • Have 48 hours? Here are some of our favorite things to do from hiking to exploring a giant sequoia grove.

HEART-POUNDING YOSEMITE • Hike, climb and backpack your way through this incredible park.

CHOOSE YOUR HIKE

Leave No Trace • Before you hit the trail, become familiar with how to recreate responsibly.

Pick Your Perfect YOSEMITE ACTIVITY

WHERE TO STAY • Find your perfect lodging with our personalized guide.

INTO THE WILD • You'll see more than incredible views when you visit Yosemite. Keep an eye out for these animals on the trails and soaring in the park skies.

TOUR LIKE A LOCAL

BEST OF THE COAST LOOP • From sparkling beaches to fresh food, this 886-plus mile route gives you the best of the Central Coast on the way to Yosemite National Park.

UNCROWDED PARADISE • You'll find wide open spaces, beauty and sea-swept beaches in towns like Camarillo, Oxnard, Ventura and Port Hueneme along California's undiscovered coast.

WILD ISLANDS • Take a day to explore the “American Galapagos,” otherwise known as Channel Islands National Park.

SEASIDE ESCAPE

RARE FINDS

LOMPOC’S TOP FIVE • Pronounced “Lom-poke,” this scenic valley town offers a ton to see and do year-round.

AFFORDABLE GETAWAY

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ • Experience the best of California beach culture in Pismo Beach, Calif.

STUNNING SAN SIMEON • Incredible wildlife, stunning scenery and fascinating history await along Hwy. 1.

PERFECT PASO ROBLES • Stop in Paso Robles for a fantastic dive into California's laidback wine and outdoor scene.

Brews, Burgers & Trails

PINNACLE OF A GETAWAY • The less-visited Pinnacles National Park, a gorgeous vineyard trail and historic areas await in towns like Hollister in San Benito County.

PINNACLES NATIONAL PARK'S TOP SIX • Here are some of our favorite things to do from gorgeous hikes to exploring a cave.

LOCAL FLAVOR • A gorgeous wine trail, beautiful family theme park and designer shops await in Gilroy, Calif.

Picture This • Along with a stunning panoramic poster, this section gives you details behind the...