Today was spent exploring this spectacular National Park.
As we left our overnight stop at Yosemite View lodge, Kate noticed the smell of woodsmoke in the air so we enquired at the gate, and they confirmed that fires were at large in the park! but thankfully managed and well away from the tourist areas.
We arrived at our first must-see stop, Glacier Point. Forest fire haziness hung in the morning air and even as we approached we (worryingly) drove through quite thick smoke. The views were breathtaking, the photos don’t do it justice. Half Dome is a prominent feature, with a famous 3,000 foot overhanging ledge where many have been photographed. I had intended to stand on it but Kate wouldn’t let me. I have to say, I was secretly relieved 😦.
We headed back down to the valley and stopped at Bridal Veil falls (how Honeymoon appropriate) and dipped our feet in the stream. Then on around the valley loop drive with amazing views of El Capitan and various falls.
The park was quiet so little tourist traffic which made our visit far more enjoyable than it might have been.
We headed out toward the Tioga road and stopped to visit the giant Sequoia trees at Tuolumne Grove. There was a fabulous view point where we could see the other side of Half Dome and the smoke filled skies. Then headed toward the Tioga mountain pass at almost 10,000ft.
Our day ended with a short drive South to our overnight at June Lake; a charming little wilderness, fishing and ski resort town.
It’s smokin Kate at Tunnel View point.
Here we are with the mighty glacial valley backdrop.
Kate victorious in front of Half Dome.
Me too… but with understated excitement.
Here we have some lovely falls in the background.
A quiet spot close to Bridal Veil falls.
The mighty El Capitan.
Little Kate in a Sequoia alcove.
The first ever tree tunnel tourist attraction, circa 1880.
Half Dome from the North and dramatic fire smoke skies.
A rather nice scene at Tioga lake.
