Best Yosemite California Travel Books of 2025

The National Geographic Atlas of the National Parks is a stunning book that showcases America's sixty-one national parks. The book is richly illustrated with maps, graphics, and photographs, providing an up-close look at what makes these lands so special and uniquely American. Former ranger and author Jonathan Waterman introduces readers to the country's scenic reserves and highlights the extraordinary features that distinguish each park. The book offers plenty of well-researched and effectively written textual material, as well as numerous crisply detailed photos, maps, and illustrations per spread. Overall, this book is an excellent reference for visitors, students, and anyone interested in learning about America's natural treasures.

Your Guide to the National Parks: The Complete Guide to All 63 National Parks is an exceptional travel guidebook for those planning a trip to any of America's national parks. The book provides detailed maps, lodging, camping, and hiking tables to help simplify travel planning. It also explores hiking in depth and provides details on all the most popular activities. The tips and recommendations from the author are helpful to decide when to visit and how to avoid crowds. The updated third edition features more than 150 large maps and 100 easy-to-read tables. The book is comprehensive, instructive, illustrated, exceptionally well organized, and impressively presented. It is an ideal resource for getting the most out of a visit to any or all of America's national parks.

The High Sierra: A Love Story by Kim Stanley Robinson is a beautiful tribute to the Sierra Nevada mountains. Robinson’s love for this place is evident in his vivid descriptions of the geological forces that shaped the Sierras, the history of its exploration, and the uniquely beautiful hikes. The book is packed with maps, gear advice, and breathtaking photos that will inspire both seasoned hikers and casual walkers to embark on a magnificent adventure. Robinson’s personal experiences and relationships add depth to the narrative, making it a must-read for anyone who loves the outdoors. Overall, The High Sierra is a sublime and radical tribute to one of the most compelling places on Earth.

Moon Best of Yosemite is a comprehensive and practical travel guide for those who want to explore Yosemite National Park. The book contains easy-to-follow itineraries for one to three days, top hikes, can't-miss experiences, stunning photos, and essential planning tips. Written by Ann Marie Brown, a Yosemite expert, the guidebook offers valuable insights into the park's best-kept secrets and hidden gems. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, Moon Best of Yosemite is a must-have resource for anyone who wants to make the most of their adventure in this breathtaking park.

The Yosemite Day Hikes and National Park Map Pack Bundle is an essential guide to exploring one of the most stunning national parks in the world. With waterproof and tear-resistant topographic maps, visitors can plan their trip with ease, from multi-day backpacking trips to short hikes in Yosemite Valley. The bundle includes an overview map of the entire park and a guide to eighteen diverse day hikes for all hiking enthusiasts. Each hike comes with a detailed map, trail profile, and a summary of interesting features. The National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map is a must-have for anyone looking to explore Yosemite National Park.

National Geographic's Trails Illustrated Map of Yosemite National Park is an essential tool for anyone planning a visit to the park. With detailed information on camping, hiking, lodging, transportation, and safety, this waterproof and tear-resistant map is perfect for both casual visitors and avid adventurers. The map covers almost 800 miles of trails and includes key areas of interest such as Yosemite Wilderness, Inyo National Forest, and Ansel Adams Wilderness. The inclusion of inset maps of Tuolumne Meadows and Yosemite Valley makes it easy to navigate through the park's most popular areas. Overall, this map is a must-have for anyone looking to explore Yosemite National Park.

National Park Maps: An Atlas of the U.S. National Parks is a comprehensive guide for those who want to explore America's most scenic treasures. With full-color maps of all 63 U.S. National Parks, hundreds of photos, and driving distance charts, this atlas is an invaluable tool for planning your next national park adventure. The book also provides need-to-know information about permits, crowds, and closures. Michael Joseph Oswald's goal is to help readers make the most of their National Park experience, and he does an excellent job. Overall, this book is exceptionally informative, well-organized, and user-friendly. It's a must-have for any American travel guide and map collection.

Fodor's The Complete Guide to the National Parks of the West is the ultimate travel guide for exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the American West. This guidebook is packed with detailed maps, itineraries, and recommendations from locals to help plan your trip and make the most of your time. With special features on the Colorado River, Yellowstone's geothermal wonders, and more, this guidebook offers historical and cultural insights to enhance your experience. The book is also filled with stunning color photos to inspire your wanderlust. Overall, Fodor's The Complete Guide to the National Parks of the West is an essential companion for any traveler looking to explore the natural wonders of the American West.

USA National Parks Lands of Wonder, published by DK Eyewitness Travel, is a comprehensive guide to exploring the country's 62 national parks. This book is packed with practical tips, inspiring photography, and interesting facts about each park's culture, history, and wildlife. It also includes expert-led hike trails with easy, moderate, and challenging options to plan your route ahead of your trip. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a first-time visitor, this book is a must-have for anyone planning a trip to the great outdoors. Overall, USA National Parks Lands of Wonder is an excellent resource for those seeking adventure and inspiration in America's most breathtaking landscapes.

Lonely Planet’s Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks 6 (National Parks Guide) is the ultimate travel companion for those planning a trip to these stunning US national parks. The guidebook provides practical advice on what to see and skip, insider tips to avoid crowds, and highlights for all budgets. It also includes contextual insights on the history, geology, wildlife, and conservation of the parks. With over 40 full-color trail and park maps and images throughout, it's perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less traveled. Overall, this comprehensive guidebook is a must-have for anyone planning a trip to these breathtaking national parks.