Adventure In Yosemite National Park

by Kathy Medina
(Clovis, California, USA)

Vernal Falls In Yosemite

Living two hours from Yosemite National Park, I go there every month. Sometimes it is a day trip and at other times, I stay for a week at a time. There is so much adventure to be had in Yosemite.

When one is feeling strong and adventureous, there are waterfalls to be climbed, trails to hidden valleys to be walked, rocks to be conquered and the Merced River is just waiting to take you from one end of the valley to the next.

The nice part about Yosemite is that if you want to relax and not put out a lot of physical energy, there is still much to do and see. The free green valley tram will take you around the valley for a beautiful view. There is an endless supply of fallen trees and rocks that you can sit on and just stare up at the granite mountains that surround you.

Deer are readily spotted in most meadows. Grab your binoculars and watch the daring people climb the face of Half Dome or El Capitan. Most meadows have beautiful walkways for you to walk and enjoy your surroundings. Several shops are filled with one of a kind treasures for you to browse through.

The recognizable Yosemite's triple tier waterfall, the largest single piece of granite in the world (El Capitan) and the most famous landmark named Half Dome can be seen from just about anywhere in the valley. A 45 minute drive to Glacier Point will give you a breath taking view of Yosemite Valley and a large part of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is a view that should not be missed by anyone visiting the park.

Its a nice vacation when you can go somewhere and not get nickeled and dimed with every activity. Hiking, riding the tram, walking through the museums, climbing rocks, swimming in the Merced River or the Curry swimming pool are all free to do once you are here.

It is minimal cost to go rafting, biking or horseback riding. Yosemite is open year around. You can grab pizza and beer and the local pizza place in Curry Village or pamper yourself with fine dining at the Ahwahnee Hotel with its well known chefs.

Everyone should see Yosemite National Park at least once in their life time. You will be in awe of the natural wonder that many call the crown jewel in all of the National Park System. I am blessed to be able to visit so often. I have created a website called See-Yosemite. Please visit and see all that Yosemite National Park has to offer for a vacation and adventure of a life time.