Wake up and smell the pine at Yosemite National Park! If you are on a mission to visit all of the National Parks or if you are just wanting to plan a family vacation to any NP, definitely add Yosemite to your list!
We had packed our hiking and camping gear in our suitcases with us to be able to camp in Yosemite and you totally should too! I had never went fully hiking in a National Park and I cannot believe I waited this long. Yosemite is unlike anything I have every seen. You are surrounded by looming mountains with such structure and texture that it will leave you speechless numerous times while you are there!
We camped in Crane Flat, which is a short drive from Yosemite Village. We were unable to camp in the village because we booked too late, but Crane flat was just as amazing ☹ Tip for anyone interested in visiting: book far in advance! Fun fact about the campsite we stayed at: it has one of the most sightings of bears!! Make sure to put ALL your belongings in the bear box that seems even remotely like food for an animal…even toothpaste or makeup! If your dog would eat it if you left it on the living room floor while you were at work, guaranteed that a bear would find it tasty too!
There are tons of trails up mountains and through the pines, trails along water, trails within the Yosemite Village, and even some longer hikes if you are up for the challenge. I am NO means athletic or in shape, but happily said yes to going on a 6-8 hour hike…#IamCrazy.
**Friendly advice: if you are anything like my sister and cannot handle high altitudes...bring an oxygen inhaler!**
Hiking the Upper Yosemite Trail was challenging. Not just physically but also mentally. After walking uphill for 3 hours, it is easy to want to just call it quits…and to be honest, the entire hike up to Yosemite is absolutely stunning. It is easy to think that the view can’t get better at the top…but you would be so so surprised. We were lucky enough to climb to the top of the falls and enjoy the cool water of the falls. There is something so fulfilling about seeing the falls from the bottom in the village knowing that you climbed to the very top! If Becs can do it, so can you!!
Visit Yosemite during the Spring to see rushing waters and blooming plants. If you want snow/icy shots, go during the Winter. If you plan on going during the Summer, keep in mind you will burn extra calories while hiking because of hot temperatures. Make sure to pack extra water and snacks in your backpack! If you aren't a fan of sweating like crazy in the hot Summer, visit during the Fall or Spring!
Take a nice scenic drive through Yosemite National Park. You won’t be disappointed in the slightest.
Related Article:
Comentarios