After a few days in Yosemite Valley and exploring the main sites, I was asked if it was possible to experience all of Yosemite in just one day. I immediately thought to myself there is no way, and as I reflected it dawned on me that our group had just accomplished almost all there is to see in the grand scheme of things. Below is a list of all that was done in a day’s trip.
Sunrise over Tunnel View: I have yet to see the fog rise over the valley, after three trips from Southern California to Yosemite I am still waiting for the weather to cooperate. However, this is the perfect start to the day.
Bridalveil Falls: Make your way from the top as you wind down the valley road. Park your car at the lot and make your way to the trail leading to the base of the 620-foot falls. Climb the rocks while being sprayed with the remains of this past season's snow melt and stand in awe under a giant rainbow as the water reflects off the sun.
Hit the John Muir Trail: While still early in the morning you can get an early start as moss covered trees and rocks guide you along the rushing river. About a mile and a half in you will hit Reflection Lake. Still one of the most epic sights I have seen today with not a soul around, this is a very moderate hike and able to be done by children and elderly.
Vernal/Nevada Falls: Turn back around, remaining on the Muir trail steering left as you head for Vernal falls. A solid three-four hour hike this will consist of most of your afternoon as you can rock scramble and get off trail to avoid tourists. Vernal Falls is one of the most iconic falls in Yosemite and is a straight drop down; a must see especially during this time of year.
Find deer in the grass forests: As you turn around and notice El Capitan and half dome lurking across make your way into the fields smack dab in the middle of the valley as deer graze.
Ahwahnee hotel: Relax next to the fire and grab lunch at one of the oldest, most original landmarks in the valley.
Yosemite Falls: Hike to the base of lower Yosemite Falls which gives you a perspective of just how small you are as you gaze up the 2,425-foot drop.
Glacier Point: One of the most iconic drives and photographed places on the planet; stand atop as you gaze out over the entire valley floor.
Taft Point: Once again, one of the most iconic spots to view the bottom floor. The sun sets over the Merced River as you stand more that 7,000 feet above the flowing water.
As always, let me know what I missed and your thoughts as to if you think you could complete the list in a day’s trip.
