Yosemite National Park vs Yellowstone National Park
Yosemite and Yellowstone represent two of America's most iconic national parks, each offering dramatically different experiences. Yosemite showcases towering granite cliffs and waterfalls in California's Sierra Nevada, while Yellowstone amazes with geothermal wonders and wildlife across Wyoming's volcanic plateau.
California
1890
747,956 acres
3.9 million
$35/vehicle
2,127 - 13,114 ft
Very High (summer)
Wyoming
1872
2.2 million acres
4.9 million
$35/vehicle
5,282 - 11,358 ft
Very High (summer)
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Yosemite National Park | Yellowstone National Park |
|---|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | May-June for waterfalls, September-October for fewer crowds | May-June for wildlife, September for fewer crowds |
| Top Highlights | Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls | Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone |
| Main Activities | Rock climbing, Hiking, Photography | Wildlife viewing, Geothermal features, Hiking |
| Crowd Level | Very High (summer) | Very High (summer) |
| Entry Fee | $35/vehicle | $35/vehicle |
| Nearest Airport | Fresno (FAT) - 65 miles | Jackson Hole (JAC) - 60 miles |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- + Iconic granite formations
- + World-class rock climbing
- + Stunning waterfalls in spring
- + Close to San Francisco
Cons
- - Extreme summer crowds
- - Reservation system required
- - Limited winter access
- - Expensive lodging
Pros
- + Unique geothermal features
- + Abundant wildlife
- + America's first national park
- + Diverse ecosystems
Cons
- - Very large - requires multiple days
- - Remote location
- - Harsh winters
- - Crowded geyser areas
Best For
Yosemite National Park is Best For:
Yellowstone National Park is Best For:
Both parks deserve a spot on every outdoor enthusiast's bucket list. If you can only visit one, choose based on your interests: dramatic landscapes and climbing go to Yosemite, while geothermal features and wildlife favor Yellowstone.
Choose Yosemite National Park if...
Choose Yosemite if you love dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and rock climbing. The sheer granite walls of El Capitan and Half Dome are unmatched anywhere in the world.
Choose Yellowstone National Park if...
Choose Yellowstone if you're fascinated by geothermal features, want to see abundant wildlife like bison and bears, or are visiting your first major national park.
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