Why Choose Yosemite
Of all the excellent parks in California to see, why would you choose Yosemite? The way I see it, people go camping to get connected with nature. People go to Yosemite to be humbled by it.
Particularly in the Yosemite Valley, one is surrounded by the most stunning granite walls and cliffs. After we entered the park (through the snow!) we drove about a half hour until we reached the valley floor. We parked at one of the first opportunities, and were surrounded by sheer mountains of granite carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. Several artists were among us mountain gazers, patiently trying to capture the magnificence of Yosemite.
Taking center stage in this panorama was Yosemite Falls, the highest waterfall in North America. Our timing couldn’t be better, as in the spring the falls are at their fullest. I have visited here in the fall and never knew Yosemite Falls as more than a very long trickle. This trip I was stunned at presence this waterfall had.
Throughout the park are tributes to geology, the Native American tribes that lived here originally, the pioneers who created a nationally protected park for generations to enjoy, and to the wildlife who consider these forests home. Even trying to imagine the history of Yosemite as it has become what it is today is humbling.
Today, it is a park that can be accessed by all. Trams make traveling from one part of the park to another easy for everyone, whether you are in a stroller or a wheelchair. Staff coordinate tours, lectures, and programs for all ages on a daily basis throughout different areas of the park. The resources that go into making this a beautiful park and a top visitor’s destination simultaneously are likely equally monumental.
There will be more details about specific areas of the park to come. But for Photo Friday, I wanted to put out there just how awe-struck I was during this trip by Yosemite. There are crowds, and depending on when you go there can be traffic too. Still, if you want to see nature at its most dramatic, this is a place to go!
Photo credit of Yosemite Falls: http://www.extranomical.com/HTML_PAGES/YOSEMITE_FALLS.htm
I am participating in Photo Friday hosted by Debi at Delicious Baby. Check out her site for more travel photos!
Lora, I’m so happy to hear you were as awestruck by Yosemite’s beauty as I am year in and year out. Sometimes, I think there just aren’t words to describe it.
With all the snow & rain this year, the water will be much more plentiful (and gorgeous) than ever before. Look forward to reading of your adventures!
I have so many awesome memories from my childhood visits to Yosemite. I hope that someday I can bring my kids there to see it as well.
This is one National Park we have not gotten to yet – but it is at the top of the list. Thanks for the reminder!
Yosemite is definitely on our list! I am often in awe of nature for just the simple things, but places like Yosemite give me such perspective!
I feel so calm now. You also have reminded me how desperately I need a vacation…
The Yosemite has gorgeous areas, such as Tuolumne Meadows, the Clark Range, and the Kuna Crest. Yosemite Valley is one of the most well-liked climbing places in the world because of its various array of climbing routes and year-round accessibility as-well.
Best Regards,
So awe-inspiring to see geology in action. It makes us realise how small we are.