As you enter the park, you navigate under a massive rock formation precariously perched above the road. A leisurely drive through the forest tries to calm you but the anticipation keeps you on the edge of your seat. Sunlight finds its way through the limbs of the backwoods to taste the moisture of the soil.
It sneaks up on you, hidden within the forest until it is right on top of you. You never see it coming. It’s like someone jumping out of the birthday cake to surprise you. The first thing people usually say is, “Wow!!!”
El Capitan confronts you as you slowly bear left. There it is in all its glory, 3000 feet of granite. The face is nearly vertical and a major challenge for even the most experienced climbers.
As you continue through Yosemite Valley, protrusions of rock jut into the sky, one stretching higher than the next. Tunnel View is one of the most famous and photographed areas of any national park. Busloads of tourists and school children unload their vehicles and load their cameras with memories of a grand scene.
Although not tame, animals are so accustomed to visitors that they might walk right up to you while you visit. It is important to never feed the animals as they could become sick from the food or become reliant on tourists for their nourishment.
Bridal Veil Falls is the friendliest of the waterfalls. It is a short hike of less than 100 yards to its base from the parking lot. The falls run your round and are flush with flow.
Snow rolls into Yosemite Valley in April 2013
Last but not least is Half Dome. It is the sitting king of the valley. Campers rest in its shadow and it is a favorite of climbers. You must register in advance to climb the side of the granite monarch via a system of cables. Climbing the vertical face should be left to the professionals.
Yosemite Valley is nature’s amusement park for us nature nerds ensuring that everyone has a jaw-dropping experience there.
Have you been to Yosemite Valley? What is your favorite part of the valley and why?
For more information about Yosemite National Park, click the link below.