CA - Day 6 - Yosemite Valley

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Yosemite

The entire day was dedicated to exploring more of Yosemite. We entered at the Tuolumne Meadows area. During our previous visit, it was mentioned that a volunteer would be at the Olmsted Point overlook with a telescope for visitors to see the hikers climb up the famous Half Dome. It was pretty neat seeing the climbers.

Next we stopped to check out a Sequoia Grove. The main grove (Mariposa) was closed for restoration. We visited the grove named Tuolumne Grove.  The paved path hike was 2.5 miles. The grove only has about a dozen trees. There is one tree that you can easily walk through and another than you can crouch your way through (both are dead). The main parking lot was full, but there was plenty of additional parking just down the road.

Yosemite

Yosemite

Next, we headed to the village area. There were a few lunch options available – all which were affordable. Since we were near the visitor center, we checked that out. The displays were okay. Two videos are also available for viewing, both were very good (about 30 minutes each). Also in that area is an Indian Village. There are some signs and displays of the types of housing. There is also a museum of Indian artifacts.
Near the visitor center is a hike along the valley floor. The trail (Valley Loop) was really hard to find/follow, we were not sure which way to go. The boardwalks and bridges were nice, but then again we probably were not on the trail we thought we were.

We stayed at a place just outside of the park - Yosemite View Lodge. The place was okay (a bit outdated). We opted for the mountain view, which was about $50 less a night than the river view option. The room had amenities which would allow you to cook your own meals. There was a restaurant and a little store also on-site. If you wanted internet access it was an extra $10 for 24 hours.

Yosemite