What is the purpose of Yosemite National Park?

The purpose of Yosemite National Park is to preserve the dynamic natural setting within the park’s boundaries, including soaring granite domes, dramatic cliffs, towering waterfalls, ancient sequoia groves, expansive wilderness terrain, and free-flowing wild and scenic rivers; to celebrate the cultural and historic traditions of the Central Sierra Nevada, including thousands of years of human history; to perpetuate the American conservation ethic; and to provide opportunities for scientific exploration, recreation, education, and inspiration for generations to come.