Greetings from Yosemite National Park

I loved being in Yosemite. I was camping in a tent with my friend while her parents stayed in the camper. One night I heard what sounded like a bear nearby. That kept me awake for awhile!

It was 90 degrees there, so I went tubing down the Merced River. I didn’t have my glasses on. I passed the bridge where I was supposed to get out and went all the way down to the next one. It took me a long time, but I finally found my way back to our campsite. My friends were worried about me.

I was very inspired by the beauty of Yosemite. I became fascinated by the story and person of John Muir. It amazed me that he climbed those mountains with no protective equipment. I bought everything I could by and about Muir even after I was home again.

I haven’t had the chance since 1991, but I would love to visit Yosemite again and many other of our wonderful national parks.

Sincerely,
Lorri Goldman

Yosemite National Park

With its sculpted granite rock formations, towering ancient sequoia trees and spectacular waterfalls, it's no wonder Yosemite is one of the most celebrated national parks in the world.

State(s): California

Established: 1890

“The national parks preserve natural beauty and wildlife that might otherwise be lost to development and profit. I think, like John Muir did, that preserving these things is very important to us as an entire nation. I am pleased that we were the first country to conceive of the idea of national parks.”

National parks represent the best of America. Why do you care about protecting and preserving them? Tell us why parks matter to you!

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