Yosemite

Sep 16     Mono County is the east gateway to Yosemite National Park. From Lee Vining on Hwy 395, Tioga Pass Road winds just 12 miles up to Yosemite's east entrance and to one of the park's greatest wonders, Tuolumne Meadows.

The last time we visited Yosemite was over 35 years ago when Joe was in junior college. We were excited to start our adventure.We started early this morning and arrived at Yosemite around 8am. It was very cold when we started, around 40 degrees. Our first hike of the day was Tuolumne Meadows: Soda Springs, approximately 2 miles. 

For thousands of years animals and people have visited these springs. These small, carbonated mineral springs are a mystery - even geologists cannot explain why they are here. Although the bubbling water comes out of the ground pure and clean, there is a possibility that people or animals have contaminated the water.  

Beautiful scenery along the hike

Tenaya Lake

After the hike we decided to drive to Yosemite Valley, about 40 miles through the park. Amazing sights along the way. We made stops at Tenaya Lake and Olmsted Point.

Olmsted Point

Yosemite Valley is the main attraction at this park and it was very busy. The air was very smoky and the main sights were very hazy. 

Bridalveil Falls

Bridalveil Falls was the first waterfall we saw when entering Yosemite Valley. Very short hike to the bottom of the falls. Absolutely stunning waterfall. Lots of people at the base so can get kind of crowded. 


















Across from Bridalveil Falls was El Capitan. 

Hazy picture of El Capitan

The sheer face of El Capitan is more than spectacular. A  magnificent sight to see.

















We continued driving into the main valley area but it was very busy with people walking all over and cars trying to park all over the place. We just drove through this area. Tried to take a picture of Half Dome from the car but it was so hazy. 

Can barely make out Half Dome

Then we passed Yosemite Falls, I really wanted to stop and walk around this area but we couldn't find any parking and it was still very smoky so we decided to keep on driving. 

Beautiful scenery on this hike

We started our drive back to the east side of Yosemite. Stopped to have lunch, then did one more hike. This one was Lyell Canyon via the John Muir Trail. We only did part of this trail. Hiked to Lyell Fork and to Twin Bridges. Absolutely amazing, so beautiful. The water was very cold. Lots of people fishing in this area. 

Captain Morgan pose

Then back to Lee Vining. Tioga pass is kind of scary, the elevation at the top is almost 10,000 feet. Part of the road goes along the cliff with a steep downgrade....scary!

This was such a good day. Our visit to Yosemite was amazing. We didn't get to do everything because of the smoke but still had a wonderful time.