Yosemite National Park
Welcomed the chilly morning with hot cereal, apples and a steamy cup of tea. Chatted with super friendly rangers who advised us to explore a few waterfalls on this summer like sunny day (quite amazing weather, they noted, as the day before we arrived the road we came on was closed due to snow!) Decided to change campsite locations because our noisy neighbors could not seem to resist use of their generator. Lucked out on snatching one of the high demand sites, far from RVs and along the creek bordering the forest, plus a quick walk to the trailhead! Checked out the visitor’s center and learned all about the surrounding life in Yosemite, as well as its history. Made our way back to camp for a bite of lunch. Embarked on the coolest and most spectacular hike up Mist trail. It led to a fierce waterfall spitting mist out on the trail, drenching us. The sun beaming down painted rainbows at the base of the waterfall, I cried with joy and awe. 600 stone and root steps later we reached the break before the water flows over the cliff. Gazed into the etched valley below and warmed ourselves on the slab of granite that shaped the waterfalls decent. Monoliths surrounded us, staggering out from above the trees to shine their faces in the sun. Back on the trail we stood in disbelief at the gushing Nevada Falls, showering the world below with its snowmelt waters. Left Mist Trail at the conjunction to John Muir Trail (the man made famous for loving Yosemite so much it became protected by the federal government as a National Park, as well as our idle for how to love nature with every piece of your soul) Hiked up and down with blissful views at every corner and in every crevice. We finished the hike minutes before sunset, finding a cozy place on the river we rested our feet, enjoyed a beer, and for the second time in two days, watched as Half Dome flamed deep orange before being swallowed into darkness. Devoured our dinner and cuddled into bed for a deep sleep as the creek bubbled its lullaby.
