We left Monterey on Tuesday, August 5 (Day 27). With just over one week to go and almost four weeks under our belts, the mood had definitely shifted from "will we make it" to "I can't believe it is almost over". And for Sam, "Nine more days to Minecraft". Luckily Yosemite was on its way to keep us from thinking about schedule for a few days.
Driving into Yosemite is one of the most awe inspiring drives I can imagine. We had done some great drives on the trip so far (Going to the Sun Road in Glacier and the drive through the tunnel into Zion being the most memorable in my book). But driving into Yosemite is about pure power and majesty. Seeing the granite domes and faces, driving under El Capitan, seeing half dome looming up in the distance, and the Merced river wandering through it all, Yosemite put us under her spell immediately.
We stayed at the North Pines campground, with a spot right across from the river. The boys set out to play in the river as we unloaded all of our food into the bear box. We had spent time in bear country throughout the trip, but Yosemite bear country is different than other bear country. Once that was done we settled into dinner under the pine trees and mapped out our stay.
r-pod does Yosemite
tubing the Merced
life is good
exploding table cloth clips
Glacier Point
Wednesday we drove to Glacier Point and explored the valley from above - literally directly above our campsite. On the way down we stopped at Tunnel View and took in more views.
Royal Arches and Half Dome from Glacier Point
admiring the views from Glacier Point
looking down at North Pines - our campsite is in the middle of the picture where Tenaya creek runs into the Merced
Nevada Falls and Vernal Falls
up the valley from Tunnel View - El Capitan on the left, Half Dome in the distance
That night was shower and pizza night at Curry Village (thanks to a great recommendation from our camp neighbors). The highlight was watching a black bear climb up an apple tree our drive over.
Vernal Falls
Thursday we did the hike up to Vernal Falls. It was steep and hot but the view at the top, standing the mist under the falls was worth it.
enjoying the mist
Vernal Falls
best friends
We spent that afternoon tubing the Merced and enjoyed dinner at the Ahwahnee. A nice final night in Yosemite.
Saying Goodbye
Friday we left the park through Tuolomne Meadows. It is amazing that as impressive as the valley is, it is less than 3% of the park.
If we could return to one spot from our trip, the unanimous vote is Yosemite. Our guide in Zion, Jon, hiked the Pacific Crest trail from Mexico to Canada over two summers. He hiked the section through the Sierras twice because he enjoyed it so much. It is easy to understand why. If I could spend the rest of my life exploring one area, this would be it. We will definitely be back.
lunch and a swim in Tenaya Lake
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