Saturday, September 5, 2015

Amazed at Yosemite

After our reluctant farewell to Tommy at the airport, we headed south to Yosemite National Park. After driving up the mountain through many switchbacks, Kellee said be prepared to be amazed! Amazed we were as soon as we saw the breathtaking views as we drove out of the last mountain tunnel. The monoliths of Half Dome, El Capitan, the Cathedrals and more were created by glaciers and are the worlds largest. The granite cliffs are gigantic and breath taking. We could not take enough pictures of the amazing views. The couple of days we were there,Kellee made sure we saw as much of the 700,000 plus acre park as we could. We camped in the Housekeeping Camp on the Merced River with views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls area. The drought is so severe in this area the falls are a trickle and lakes and rivers have shrunk. The fire danger is very high and they were wrapping up extinguishing a fire in one area of the park. They did allow us to have camp fires during the evening. We cooked by the fire and had our fill of yummy s'mores. The cabins were 3 sided with a tarp front and bunk beds with a protected eating area. We saw several climbers preparing to climb and several pretty far up on El Capitan. We went up to Glacier Point and the views were spectacular. We could even see our campsite area from the point with the binoculars. We saw some deer who were not very phased by humans. The squirrels and raccoons were brazen and we needed to chase a few away. In an area away from where we stayed they found mice and chickmunks with flea carrying plague. The area was closed and treated before we arrived. Signs were everywhere with warnings. After doing research we found any areas in California and the southwest that have any kind of rodent has the potential. It in no way detracted from our fun and enjoyment. Mariposa Grove was closed for restoration but we saw other large sequoia and large pines in the park.There is so much diverse beauty in the park. We feel so fortunate to have had a chance to visit. Kellee was the best tour guide, which made our visit extra special.

2 comments:

  1. Looks like you guys are having a great time! Hope Yosemite weather wasn't too cold in the evenings and you avoided the plague :)

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    1. It was not too cold. The cabins were awesome. Missed having you with us, esp. During s'mores time;-)

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