Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

This Might Be The Most Iconic View In Yosemite National Park (And Getting There Is Easy)

staff@islands.com (Rachel Means) — Sun, 03 May 2026 09:45:00 +0000

Yosemite National Park can get busy, but if you're looking to capture the most famous view in the park, it's worth getting through the crowds.

The World's 10 Best National Parks, According To Travelers

staff@islands.com (Barry Peacock) — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 14:30:00 +0000

National parks are a great way to see unique landscapes and diverse wildlife. From the U.S. to Asia, these are the best ones to visit all over the world.

California's 'Jewel Of The High Country' Is An Alpine Lake Tucked In Yosemite's Sierra Nevada Mountains

staff@islands.com (Joseph Richard Francis) — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 23:00:00 +0000

This Yosemite lake, surrounded by the Sierra Nevada Mountains, is known as California's "Jewel of the High Country" thanks to the scenery, hiking, and more.

California's First DarkSky-Approved Resort Is A Breathtaking Yosemite Paradise

staff@islands.com (Kristin Conard) — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 20:45:00 +0000

A new DarkSky-approved stay near Yosemite offers prime stargazing, low light pollution, and easy access to hiking, swimming holes, and Sierra scenery.

This Is The Easiest Peak To Summit In Yosemite

staff@islands.com (Jen Ottolino) — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:45:00 +0000

Although Yosemite is known for its stunning but dangerous landscapes, this hike is considered the easiest in the national park, known for its iconic views.

3 Of America's Most Crowded National Parks Have Done Away With Reservations In 2026 (And It's Chaotic)

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 21:45:00 +0000

These three national parks, some of the most crowded in America, have dropped their reservations systems in 2026, leading to chaos at entrances and beyond.

The Best Budget-Friendly Vacation Rentals Close To National Parks, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Sara Caskey) — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Visiting one of the United States' best national parks is perfect for a vacation road trip, and you can stay close to many parks while staying within budget.

Yosemite's Famed Winter Firefall Is Free Without Reservations For The First Time In Years

staff@islands.com (Christine Dulion) — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 22:45:00 +0000

One of America's most spectacular natural phenomena is now easier to witness as Yosemite officials recently changed regulations, allowing for better viewing.

The 5 Best Day Hikes In Yosemite National Park, According To Experts

staff@islands.com (Joseph Richard Francis) — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 18:45:00 +0000

Here are the five best day hikes in Yosemite, with picks for all skill levels, whether you're an avid hiker or lacing up your boots for the first time.

The 5 Cleanest Campsites In Yosemite, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Joseph Richard Francis) — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 20:00:00 +0000

The top five cleanest campgrounds in Yosemite National Park based on cleanliness scores from Tripadvisor reviews boast sparkling facilities and campsites.

America's Most-Visited National Parks Will Have A New High Fee For Specific Tourists In 2026

staff@islands.com (Bridget Gleeson) — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 22:45:00 +0000

America's national parks are arguably among its greatest assets, but visitors to some of these destinations may have to pay an additional fee starting in 2026.

America's Top 5 Trending Destinations For A Beautiful Break In 2026, Per Google

staff@islands.com (Eva Johnstone) — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 15:45:00 +0000

According to a Google report, these five stunning U.S. destinations, from a major national park to East Coast beaches, are trending for 2026.

California's Resort Opening In 2026 Is An 'Alpine Oasis' Of Modern Luxury And Yosemite's Southern Gateway

staff@islands.com (Jessica Stewart) — Thu, 25 Dec 2025 04:45:00 +0000

A new luxury resort near Yosemite boasts a pool, sleek restaurant, and chic bar, yet feels like a cozy alpine lodge. Bookings are now open for a stay in 2026.

Yosemite National Park's Romantic Lodge Is The Most Amazing Getaway, Per Couples

staff@islands.com (Kira Reinke) — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 04:45:00 +0000

This timeless retreat in Yosemite is winning over couples with its mountain vistas, historic charm, and secluded atmosphere perfect for a dreamy getaway.

Outside Fresno Is California's Community With Serene Lake Camping Near Yosemite National Park

staff@islands.com (Audrey Simons) — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 19:00:00 +0000

Just an hour from Yosemite, this California community offers hiking trails, peaceful campgrounds set on two scenic lakes, and Old West history.

Yosemite's 5 Rare Animals That Tourists Would Be Lucky To See

staff@islands.com (Mina Elwell) — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 12:45:00 +0000

From twilight forests to icy peaks, Yosemite shelters some of North America's most elusive residents, and you can spot them if you know where to look.

Forget Yosemite: These 5 California Parks Are Just As Breathtaking Without The Crowds

staff@islands.com (Joseph Richard Francis) — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 13:45:00 +0000

Ditch the packed trails and standstill traffic of beloved Yosemite National Park for these stunning alternatives located throughout the state of California.

Yosemite's Secret Gateway Is A Mountain Town With Incredible Sequoia Views

staff@islands.com (Anahid Akkam) — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 19:45:00 +0000

Discover this serene Yosemite base with scenic trails, cozy cabins, waterfalls, and river swims. It's nature and tranquility without the crowds.

Yosemite National Park's 'Riviera Of The Sierra' Is A Best-Kept Secret Beachy Lake Haven

staff@islands.com (Mina Elwell) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Discover the stunning beauty of crystal-clear lake waters and majestic mountain vistas at this secret gem tucked away in Yosemite National Park.

Wyoming's No-Frills Casino Is A Perfect Pit Stop Along Its Scenic Desert Highway Near Yellowstone

staff@islands.com (Jessica Stewart) — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 12:00:00 +0000

Not far from Yellowstone and other nature destinations is an unassuming spot with a casino tucked into its back room, along with road trip necessities.