hiking

Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 126 (Half Dome – Not Always A Beauty)

Jeff

Half Dome seen from Mirror Lake

Half Dome peeks out above other mountains and cliffs as one hikes around and near Mirror Lake

When we began our explorations of Yosemite, we thought we would be able to easily find and complete the Valley Loop Trail. Unfortunately, the map provided to visitors as a freebie was a bit ambiguous.

We were able to hike part of the Valley Loop Trail, but found ourselves accidentally segueing over to the Mirror Lake Trail. There was a ranger addressing a group nearby so I approached and waited to ask a question. When there was a break in the presentation, I learned that we were far off the Valley Loop Trail.

The ranger was very animated and encouraged us to finish the Mirror Lake Trail and told us that there were views of Half Dome that most people don’t see.

Generally speaking, we find that rangers provide very good information. We have relied on them many times and found areas we would probably not have discovered on our own.

So…off we went. The hike around Mirror Lake was pretty and a worthy one. Following the ranger’s advice, I took a detour to see if I could spot Half Dome. The picture above is one of Half Dome among and behind other mountains and cliffs. Even this icon of Yosemite doesn’t always have it’s “best face forward!” It was still something to see, just not as picturesque as usual!

 
Do you have a question about our visit to Yosemite? Ask it in the comment section.

 

JBRish.com originally published this post
*All photographs Copyright by Jeffrey B. Ross with all rights reserved.

 
See previous Year of Yosemite (YOY) posts HERE. If you want to read the introduction to the YOY series, CLICK HERE.

 

Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 125 (Danger Sign Ignored)

Jeff

A warning sign many ignoreX

A sign placed near the entrance to the trail leading to Bridalveil Fall

This is something I just don’t understand. This warning sign is very clear and announces DANGER. I don’t know how legible it is on your computer monitor or device, but the little red and yellow sign in the upper-left says:

2015 life altering injuries to visitors scrambling between boulders below waterfalls:

  • 1 spinal fracture – paraplegic
  • 1 cervical fracture – quadraplegic
  • 1 skull fracture – traumatic brain injury
  • 1 shoulder dislocation
  • Multiple leg and arm fractures

PLEASE STAY ON THE TRAIL

Below this sign, there are replicas of x-rays that show some of the broken bones and injuries.

With all this, AND with rather large yellow danger signs attached to some of the boulders, people were still scrambling on the rocks and taking risks just like those in the picture.

It is hard for me to understand this behavior. I enjoy a thrill as much as anyone else, but when clear warning is given in a national park or other hiking area, attention must be paid! Another thing or two to keep in mind…Where is the nearest hospital and how would I get there?

 
Do you have a question about our visit to Yosemite? Ask it in the comment section.

 

JBRish.com originally published this post
*All photographs Copyright by Jeffrey B. Ross with all rights reserved.

 
See previous Year of Yosemite (YOY) posts HERE. If you want to read the introduction to the YOY series, CLICK HERE.

 

Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 124 (Bridalveil Fall)

Jeff

Bridalveil Fall

Bridalveil Fall was creating quite a spash!

Unfortunately, I think I might have missed some opportunities by visiting Bridalveil only one time. I did get a few photographs, but nothing that I would categorize as “special” IMHO.

While writing my Year of Yosemite posts, I have come to realize how we sometimes misname a particular waterfall. Invariably many of us add an “s” on the end of a waterfall’s name. For example, when I search Google for Bridalveil Fall, even on Tripadvisor, it is sometimes labeled Bridalveil Falls. There are certain waterfalls that do carry the “s,” at the end, but these are the features that generally have several different areas where the water cascades.

Here is a list of some of the waterfalls at Yosemite to underscore the point:

  • Bridalveil Fall
  • Chilnualna Falls
  • Horsetail Fall
  • Illilouette Fall
  • Nevada Fall
  • Ribbon Fall
  • Sentinel Fall
  • Vernal Fall
  • Wapama Falls
  • Yosemite Falls

 
Do you have a question about our visit to Yosemite? Ask it in the comment section.

 

JBRish.com originally published this post
*All photographs Copyright by Jeffrey B. Ross with all rights reserved.

 
See previous Year of Yosemite (YOY) posts HERE. If you want to read the introduction to the YOY series, CLICK HERE.

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Meta Data – Day 124 YOY – Year of Yosemite

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Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 123 (Wildflower – California Sweetshrub)

Jeff

California Sweetshrub

Calycanthus occidentalis aka California Allspice or California Sweetshrub near the Arch Entrance at Yosemite

While pulling off the main road into Yosemite from the El Portal access, known as the Arch Rock Entrance (click HERE for a picture), I entered a staff parking lot. In many of the wooded spaces surrounding the parking area, there were numerous bushes of California Allspice also called California Sweetshrub.

At first I thought it might be a type of rhododendron, but I was able to make a positive identification using a field guide. The pretty red color against the lush green foliage was very striking. Some of my favorite moments during my hiking trips are discovering a wildflower or wild plants such as these.

 
Do you have a question about our visit to Yosemite? Ask it in the comment section.

 

JBRish.com originally published this post
*All photographs Copyright by Jeffrey B. Ross with all rights reserved.

 
See previous Year of Yosemite (YOY) posts HERE. If you want to read the introduction to the YOY series, CLICK HERE.

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Meta Data – Day 123 YOY – Year of Yosemite

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Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 122 (Looking Over the Edge at Taft Point)

Jeff

A view from near the edge at Taft Point

El Capitan looms large when viewed from Taft Point

As I worked my way to the edge of a viewing area at Taft Point, I saw El Capitan in all if it’s glory. It was truly impressive. Look at all those nooks and crannies! The Yosemite Valley meadow stands out as a welcoming pathway.

Also visible is the Merced River meandering by on the left of the meadow areas. Look at the cliff on the left in the picture above. Did you notice…

A view from near the edge at Taft Point

In the enlarged portion of the photo above, there is one person near the left of the photo (circled in red) who is standing up and taking a picture and then there is a dangler under the yellow arrow. I am always astounded at how close to the edge some people feel comfortable.

 
Do you have a question about our visit to Yosemite? Ask it in the comment section.

 

JBRish.com originally published this post
*All photographs Copyright by Jeffrey B. Ross with all rights reserved.

 
See previous Year of Yosemite (YOY) posts HERE. If you want to read the introduction to the YOY series, CLICK HERE.

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Meta Data – Day 122 YOY – Year of Yosemite

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Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 121 (Taft Point 2/3 – Closer to the Edge)

Jeff

Taft Point Closer to the Edge

Following the Taft Point Trail, we moved closer to the cliff’s edge.

In yesterday’s post about the Taft Point Trail, we showed part of the trail. In the distance, off to the left in that picture were a cluster of evergreen trees. Today’s picture reveals what was behind that group of trees.

There were people peering over the cliff to view the fantastic sight. There were a number of people sitting on the cliff with their feet dangling over while they took a break or ate lunch.

Tomorrow we will reveal the scene beyond the cliff! To be continued…

 
Do you have a question about our visit to Yosemite? Ask it in the comment section.

 

JBRish.com originally published this post
*All photographs Copyright by Jeffrey B. Ross with all rights reserved.

 
See previous Year of Yosemite (YOY) posts HERE. If you want to read the introduction to the YOY series, CLICK HERE.

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Meta Data – Day 121 YOY – Year of Yosemite

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Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 120 (Taft Point Trail 1/3 – Nearing the End)

Jeff

Taft Point Trail near the end point
“The Taft Point Trail as we neared the end and the ‘big reveal?'”

If you hike to Sentinel Dome, the Taft Point Trail is nearby and makes an excellent companion hike. I don’t think it makes a difference which hike you do in which order, but I do think Sentinel Dome has more awesome views overall. They are both worthy and I would encourage all those who are fit enough to hike both.

The Taft Point Trail seemed a bit easier to me with fewer significant inclines along the path. There are some, but I think Sentinel Dome has more of them and they are a bit steeper. As a matter of fact, there is a loop trail on the map if you care to investigate. We did not do the loop.

The picture above shows a spot in the trail when we could almost see Taft Point itself. We were nearing the end of the trail at this point. Just beyond the cluster of pines to the left of the large tree (right of center) is Taft Point. To be continued…

 
Do you have a question about our visit to Yosemite? Ask it in the comment section.

 

JBRish.com originally published this post
*All photographs Copyright by Jeffrey B. Ross with all rights reserved.

 
See previous Year of Yosemite (YOY) posts HERE. If you want to read the introduction to the YOY series, CLICK HERE.

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Meta Data – Day 120 YOY – Year of Yosemite

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Canon PowerShot SX50 HS

 

Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 119 (Hetch Hetchy – Stairs Along the Trail)

Jeff

Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 119 (Hetch Hetchy – Stairway Along the Trail)

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Partial “stairway” along the Wapama Falls Trail at Hetch Hetchy – Yosemite

As other posts pointed out, our day at Hetch Hetchy turned overcast shortly after we arrived and parked the car. As we hiked along the Wapama Falls Trail, the sky would become more threatening at times and then brighten slightly. When the clouds rolled in, the pictures were dramatic, but when the sky brightened and the sky turned solid gray picture opportunities were limited.

This photograph shows part of the trail that offered stone stairs to the hikers. I am so impressed to see these features from time-to-time as I understand the work that is required to construct these “stairways.” Not only do these pathways take a large amount of manpower to construct, they need to be maintained over time.

I believe the waterfall in the upper part of the picture is the Tueeulala Falls.

 
Do you have a question about our visit to Yosemite? Ask it in the comment section.

 

JBRish.com originally published this post
*All photographs Copyright by Jeffrey B. Ross with all rights reserved.

 
See previous Year of Yosemite (YOY) posts HERE. If you want to read the introduction to the YOY series, CLICK HERE.

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Meta Data – Day 119 YOY – Year of Yosemite

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Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 118 (Half Dome Village Residences)

Jeff

Half Dome Village

Half Dome Village

Half Dome Village – More substantial than tents!

Yesterday, we showed a view of the Yosemite Majestic Hotel. In describing Yosemite’s more modest accommodations, we can talk about Half Dome Village. This area was formerly known as Curry Village, but with the change of management of the park came the change of names.

As we were hiking through the valley, we were glad to be able to stop at the snack bar and other stores for some air conditioning and a few modern conveniences. The snack bar was quite busy as were several of the other nearby stores.

For those who would like to try camping, this might be one way of taking a dip into that realm. Understand, however, that many of amenities at Half Dome Village will not be had at the more traditional, bring-your-own-tent campgrounds. There are a variety of lodging types from motel-style rooms to to canvas tents. I have provided more links and information below.

The location is very nice and would be a wonderful launching point for many of Yosemite’s treasured hikes.

Below is some of the information from the Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bueau’s website: Link #1 below

Half Dome Village

Incredible location just below Half Dome and Glacier Point, Half Dome Village is a unique and scenic place for families visiting Yosemite National Park.

Half Dome Village Features:

  • 46 Yosemite cabins with private baths
  • 14 Cabins that share convenient bathhouse
  • 403 Canvas tent cabins
  • 18 Standard motel rooms

From the National Parks General Reservations web page:Link #2 below

Half Dome Village (formerly known as Curry Village) is the largest lodging facility in Yosemite Valley. Half Dome Village offers many lodging options including, a motel, cabins with private restrooms/showers, and tent cabins without plumbing. Half Dome Village is one of the most popular lodging options inside Yosemite Park, because of its popularity Half Dome Village sells out quickly; make your reservations 10-12 months in advance to ensure availability of your lodging needs.

Half Dome Village Highlights

  • 1 Specialty Cabin
  • 14 Cabins w/Central Bath
  • 18 Standard Motel Rooms
  • 319 Canvas Tent Cabins
  • 499 Guest Accommodations
  • 56 Cabins w/Private Baths
  • Amphitheater
  • ATM Machine
  • Bicycle and Raft Rentals
  • Coffee Corner
  • Free Shuttle Bus
  • Gift Shop
  • Ice Cream Stand
  • Ice Skating Rink
  • Pizza Deck
  • Swimming Pool – Outdoor
  • The Taqueria Stand
  • Tour/Activities Desk
  • Village Pavilion

Half Dome Village Rooms & Amenities

The following amenities are available at this lodge. Please check individual room listings for room specific amenities.

  • ADA / Handicap Access
  • Daily Housekeeping Service
  • Heater
  • Kid Friendly
  • Pool (Outdoor)
  • Restaurant On Site

Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bueau’s website – 1

National Parks General Reservations web page – 2

 
Do you have a question about our visit to Yosemite? Ask it in the comment section.

 

JBRish.com originally published this post
*All photographs Copyright by Jeffrey B. Ross with all rights reserved.

 
See previous Year of Yosemite (YOY) posts HERE. If you want to read the introduction to the YOY series, CLICK HERE.

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Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 117 (The Majestic Yosemite Hotel from Above)

Jeff

Majestic Yosemite Hotel from aboveThe Majestic Yosemite Hotel as seen from near Glacier Point

It is difficult to appreciate the size and scope of The Majestic Yosemite Hotel and the grounds when you are actually at the former Ahwahnee. The picture shows this structure in the center part of the photo just to the right of the dead tree in the area between the pines. When standing on the grounds, the abundant number of trees tend to partially block the view so seeing the resort from a distance provides more perspective.

Other YOY Posts about the Majestic Yosemite Hotel (formerly the Ahwahnee):

Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 4

Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 31 (Majestic Yosemite Hotel Dining Room)

Year of Yosemite (YOY) – Day 81 (The Majestic Yosemite Hotel – Teal Shutters)

 
Do you have a question about our visit to Yosemite? Ask it in the comment section.

 

JBRish.com originally published this post
*All photographs Copyright by Jeffrey B. Ross with all rights reserved.

 
See previous Year of Yosemite (YOY) posts HERE. If you want to read the introduction to the YOY series, CLICK HERE.

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Meta Data – Day 117 YOY – Year of Yosemite

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