Thursday, December 12, 2024

Yosemite

 Over the spring and fall, I made a trip to Yosemite National Park for some quick overnight stays.  The first in early spring was a 2 nighter to rediscover the park.  Literally decades since my last visit so I wanted to give myself ample time.  On both occasions, I stayed at lodgings within the park and primarily ate at the stores and restaurants.  I dont own much in the way of camping equipment and this makes pack in and pack out very easy.  This was especially helpful on the days I left the park.

The first trip I went around the valley with the help of the shuttle bus system.  The weather was fabulous and the waterfalls were in full gush from winter melt.  I took the opportunity to watch the sun set and fall over Tunnel View.  I stayed at Housekeeping with a site near the Merced river.  Nice set up with fire pit, tables, covered porch, lighting, and electricity.  Sleeps several with a double bed and bunk beds.  The canvas flaps were the only "doors" and could not keep out the elements, bugs, or woodland creature.  That trip has been posted with links to videoes.

On the return a few months later, I really wanted to visit Glacier Point above the valley.  In early spring, the road to the point had not been opened yet.  This time, they would close shortly after my visit.  The sun rise and set with nothing but Half Dome and the sky behind it was breath taking.  Twinkling lights along the trails below Half Dome were evidence of those making their way back from the long hike.  After sunset I got back to my ten at Curry Village.  This area has a greater number and density of free standing tents but do not have facilities for cooking or campfires.  One of the main benefits are the restaurants and eating establishments within the grounds.  Head over to my Youtube page, RogueogueVlogue, to see the videoes post for the second go around.


Also available is a video for Castle Air Museum.  I stopped by here on the way to Yosemite