Exploring Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park has been on my bucket list since I was a teenager.  I would stare at Ansel Adams photographs of these amazing rock formations and appreciate the depth and tone of these images with such scrutiny.  I couldn't believe a place like this existed in real life.

Then the time had finally come where I was in CA and able to make the drive to Yosemite at the age of 36, for the first time!

It was surprisingly emotional for me.  I was in awe in every direction I looked.  I immediately didn't feel like I had enough time to see what I wanted to during my two day visit.  So, I had to be smart with my time.

Sunset on El Capitan

When visiting National Parks they can be overwhelming, even without the whole buildup of years dreaming of a place you finally get to explore and take your own photos of.  And planning ahead can pay off.

My advice is to take your time looking at the Park's map and take advantage of the Visiting Center.  I was able to get in a full day of hikes, travel from one end of the park to the other, and plan my meals out accordingly based on the hours that the stores and restaurants were open till within the park.  Knowing what is open and closed during the season you are visiting in is also crucial.  

Park Map

This made my time at the park more efficiently spent.  There is always more to see, but I didn't feel like I wasted any time. 

Views at top of North Dome Trail