Ah, Yosemite. There is so much here to see. Our time is short. This is another one of those parks were, before we even arrived, we knew we would be back! We entered the park via the Wawona entrance (having spent the night on public land just outside the park). Unfortunately for us on this visit the weather wasn't ideal for experiencing the incredible overlooks that this park has to offer. The clouds were low and thick, and Half Dome was completely invisible and hidden behind the wall of fog. But! We were still in Yosemite and there is so much more than just sweeping overlook vistas!
We continued our park journey by dropping down into Yosemite Valley itself. It was raining just a bit as we arrived, but that didn't dampen our spirits too much! After a quick stop at Yosemite Lodge, a quick conference with a bus driver on how to reach Yosemite Falls, and a quick jaunt on the trail to the falls, we arrived at our first destination in the valley! Yosemite Falls is the largest tallest waterfall group in North America. Spectacular is one of the words that comes to mind (there are several others like incredible, fantastic, picturesque, etc.) We were happy for the rain because there are times in the fall when there is little or no water to be seen, this was not one of those times! The waterfall alone is enough to warrant a return trip.
From there we headed back up the valley toward the parapet of El Capitan. This granite monolith towers over the valley floor, truly humbling any who dare to challenge its heights! We continued past the guardian of the valley, passing several other rock behemoths. Just as we were driving by the clouds were dissipating and we were rewarding with some fantastic picture opportunities! Finally, though, we left the park behind and continued on our journey, hopefully soon to return!
Personnel:
Our personnel encounter in this park consisted of seeking information from one of the shuttle bus drivers. He was sad that we weren't taking his shuttle bus, but happy to provide us with the information we were seeking, specifically, the best way to reach the base of Lower Falls. He was quite friendly and very helpful, and we wanted to ride his bus as much as he wanted us to... but alas, his bus route didn't stop at our destination. It was a bittersweet parting.
Climate/weather:
SNOW! We actually had snow hitting our vehicle as we entered the park! Sadly none of it remained frozen for long, but it was there! Which brings us to the cold aspect of our visit, which was very much so. There was also some rain as we got to the valley, but it let up as we began our quest for the falls.
Facilities/signage:
The restrooms at Yosemite lodge were excellent. The restrooms at Lower Falls were not so great (no hand sanitizer, no paper towels, no soap in the dispensers, and no way to open the door sanitarily). The Yosemite entrance sign was excellent (this sign was approved by P&J). Inside the park the driving signs were great, but we had trouble finding the falls, some of the trail signs were unclear (that was how our encounter with the bus driver was realized).
Hiking experience:
The trail was lovely, well maintained, and paved the whole way. The trail to lower falls is quite quick and easy (total elevation change is 50') but it takes you through beautiful forest and to the base of Lower Fall where you can see all 3 parts of the falls.
Driving experience:
Driving through Yosemite is inundated with amazing views and epic scenery. We were sad that the clouds were thick and heavy when we stopped at tunnel overlook, but on the way out of the park we got some great views of some of the towering rocks that define the valley, so we were satisfied.
Camping options:
There are 13 campgrounds in the park, but this is a very popular park, especially during peak season, so get there early or reserve ahead of time where possible. Backcountry camping requires a wilderness permit.
Hammockability:
Yes. Very yes. You should hammock here. The end.
Scenery:
Everywhere you look in this park, something epic is revealed. Really, we could describe amazing views upon incredible vistas... but the best situation would be for you to come see it for yourself. There just aren't enough words.
Nearby food:
There are plenty of food options on the valley floor.
Oh Yosemite, we shall meet again! Hopefully by way of the John Muir Trail from Sequoia NP! Our next meeting will include backcountry camping, sightseeing and a jaunt up Half Dome (jaunt may not be exactly the right word to describe the half dome adventure, but... we sticking with it!). We also want to see this park with a blanket of fresh snow! This park is very heavily visited for good reason. That said, there is so much backcountry here that if you are willing to strap on a pack and stretch your legs you can find a place of peace and beauty. What we are saying is "Go to Yosemite."
Next stop: Lassen Volcanic National Park!
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