Yosemite

We took off on a last minute trip to Yosemite this weekend. We visit Yosemite National Park at least once a year, usually before Memorial Day weekend (official start of the camping season and when the crowds show up). As always, it was beautiful. The Sierra has had heavy snows this year and the waterfalls were running fuller than I have ever seen them. It was simply breathtaking.

We decided at the last minute (literally 2pm on Friday) to make the trip and were on the road by 6pm on Friday. We were able to reserve a small cabin at a PG&E owned camp that lies about 1.5 hours south of Yosemite valley for Friday and Saturday night. We decided not to camp in the Valley because the weather is still unpredictable and cold this time of year, particulary at night. We also felt that it would be a bit much, especially since we were both getting over colds. The cabin was really basic, it had a double bed, a bathroom with a shower and a small kitchenette. But it was way more luxury than we are use to when we head to the Sierra and best of all it was cheap!

Saturday was beautiful! It was 60 and partly cloudy in Yosemite Valley-perfect hiking weather! We hiked to the top of Vernal falls, which lies at the bottom of Nevada falls. These two falls are my favorite in all Yosemite. Illiloutte falls is a close third followed by Yosemite and Bridalveil falls. This hike isn't an easy hike, it's 5 miles roundtrip in a loop with a 1200 ft climb, followed by a 1200 ft descent down granite stairs right beside Vernal falls. It was a great opener for the backpacking season, even if it was difficult. Most of the difficulty lie in the fact that Chris and I had both had busy weeks and are still recovering for being sick. While I am feeling much better, I still tire easily and feel generally tired most of the time. But we took our time on the hike and Chris stopped often to take pictures which made the ascent a little easier. It was a good day.

We returned home Sunday afternoon (today). It started to rain just as we left the cabin, making the decision to come straight home a little easier. We stopped a few times so Chris could photograph some wildflowers on the side of the road, but otherwise made it home in time to relax before another week of work and lab.

Here is a pic of the Vernal Falls. We hiked down the trail/granite stairs that run right beside the falls. The steepest portion is actually hidden in this picture. It is aptly named "Mist Trail" as it covers hikers in water from the waterfall.