The electrifying vistas of the Yosemite Valley and neighboring Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks continue to exert a magnetic attraction for America’s nature lovers. Giant sequoia groves, thundering cascades and epic climbs—it’s all here, and Fodor’s takes travelers right to the heart of the best trails, experiences, and places to stay. <br> <b>UNIQUE DESIGN: </b>Fodor’s Compass American Guides is a unique series that features an eye-catching and reader-friendly design, inside and out. Beloved for their stunning photography, the Compass guides capture the best images of the national parks alongside the indispensible practical information that sets Fodor’s guides apart. <br> <b>COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE: </b>Compass American Guide to Yosemite and Sequoia/ Kings Canyon National Parks is the most inspirational Yosemite guide available—none of our competition is entirely full color with so many full-page photos.<br> <b>YOSEMITE NEWS: </b>Visitor arrivals to Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon National Parks have grown steadily in the past five years, now reaching more than 4 million people annually. 2014 marks the 150th anniversary of the Yosemite Grant, and associated celebratory events are set to make this a record year for park tourism. <br> <b>ILLUSTRATED FEATURES:</b> Dazzling full-color photographs illustrate the parks’ beauty and make the guide a memorable keepsake. Clear, easy-to-read maps show sights, topography, and trailheads. Topical, illustrated essays on Ansel Adams, Yosemite’s Indian Wars, bears and wildfires (amongst other topics), offer background on the rich cultural and natural history of the parks.<br> <b>ESSENTIAL TRIP-PLANNING TOOLS</b>: Our authors give a personal, insider's tour of these national treasures. A special chapter on flora, fauna and geography is a fun reference tool, while a handy chart detailing all of Yosemite’s free shuttles makes getting around a cinch. A 14-page Spotlight on rock climbing spans the range from easier routes to big walls. <br> <b>ABOUT FODOR’S AUTHORS: </b>Yosemite & Sequoia/Kinds Canyon National Parks is written and photographed by local experts.