Thursday, December 26, 2013 – Yosemite National Park
My day began with a 3-mile run—1.5 miles uphill from our cabin to the main road and 1.5 miles downhill back. Those 1.5 uphill miles at 6,000 feet of elevation were no joke for a Florida flatlander with sea-level lungs. But the effort was worth it, both for the scenery and the sense of accomplishment. When I returned, the rest of the family was just waking up, and we whipped up pancakes and bacon to fuel us for the day ahead.
Our exploration of Yosemite combined a bit of indoor inspiration with outdoor adventure. We started with visits to the Ansel Adams Gallery and the park visitor center and museum, which gave us a deeper appreciation for the park’s history and natural beauty.
But, of course, the real magic was out on the trails. We took a short hike to Bridalveil Fall, a slightly longer one to Lower Yosemite Falls, and a 4.2-mile trek to Mirror Lake. The relatively flat trails were a welcome reprieve after my hilly morning run, and every step was surrounded by stunning beauty.
The grandeur of Yosemite is difficult to put into words. It’s no wonder people have been visiting this park for over 160 years. Towering granite walls like Half Dome and El Capitan rise dramatically, making you feel tiny in the valley below. It’s a place that has inspired countless authors, artists, photographers, and conservationists. Standing there, it’s easy to understand how John Muir found the inspiration to start the Sierra Club right here in Yosemite.
Where Are We Going Now? 