Geological Marvel

Yosemite showcases the Earth's geological processes

As a geological marvel, Yosemite provides an outdoor classroom for understanding the fundamental processes that shape our planet. The park's features illustrate concepts ranging from igneous rock formation and plutonic geology to glacial carving and ongoing erosion. Geologists from around the world study Yosemite's formations to better understand Sierra Nevada geology and the broader processes of mountain building, making the park as valuable for scientific research as it is for recreation and inspiration.