Keep the spark alive by exercising our sense of discovery, our childhood curiosity, and natural wonder by exploring things from our fingertips. Here are a few ways to enjoy Yosemite National Park from home.

VR photographer Scott Highton has spent more than four decades in California including many of those days exploring Yosemite National Park. Using his groundbreaking techniques from his book Virtual Reality Photography, he has created a website offering the ULTIMATE virtual reality tour. It's filled with high resolution, 360-degree panoramic views from over 200 locations throughout the sprawling park. Even when the pandemic is over, you’ll still want to use his tool to figure out where you go next on your vacation.

To take it all in, head to virtualyosemite.org

Photo by: Darvin Atkeson

As urban landscapes are bathed in noise, Yosemite National Park gifts visitors with a symphony of natural sounds. Birds chirping, leaves rustling from the wind, the thunderous waterfalls and raging rivers. All a part of the allure of this magical place. The 1^st episode of the National Park Service podcast series delves into just that. The interview with Kurt Fristrup PhD talks about the effect of noise on the wilderness and reveals some of the interesting discoveries found on the acoustic health of Yosemite. For the full podcast series with insights into the cultural fabric, natural history, and management of the park, go here:

Yosemite Voices

Have you ever wondered what daily life was like back in the early 1900's in Yosemite? Well, now you can actually HEAR IT! Another podcast brought to you by the NPS, National Park Ranger Shelton Johnson plays Sergeant Elizy Bowman,  a Buffalo Soldier from Troop “K,” 9th U.S. Cavalry who was on patrol in Yosemite from 1903 through 1904. Although much is not known about Elizy himself, through Shelton’s years of research and his ledgers, the ranger brings him to life through this podcast. Click below to get a glimpse of what he might have been feeling or thinking after those long, arduous, but inspiring patrols through the "Range of Light."

A Buffalo Soldier Speaks

Take a break from the stresses of daily life. Instead, turn up your speakers. Lean back in your chair. And enjoy the sights and sounds of Yosemite Valley.

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Like what you see? Save any (or all) of these pins to your travel planning boards to give you an easy way to find your way back here!  Also check out our other itineraries as well as blog posts for more ideas and pins!