"As long as I live, I'll hear waterfalls and birds and winds sing. I'll interpret the rocks, learn the language of flood, storm, and the avalanche. I'll acquaint myself with the glaciers and wild gardens, and get as near the heart of the world as I can."
—John Muir
It's no wonder Muir was so in love with Yosemite. I think everyone who discovers her must be. From the moment we entered the park gates we were filled with awe at nature's beauty. We entered from the east side and drove the winding Tioga Pass through the entire northern section of Yosemite. It was very early in the morning and we noticed several die hard enthusiasts dressed in their hiking gear setting out on high mountain trails (especially near the Tuolumne Meadows—so gorgeous up there). But we were just a car full of little kids and eager hearts ready to see some waterfalls, explore the park a bit, and finally head to the beach to meet up with cousins and family later in the day).
The scenic views did not disappoint:
We rallied the troops for a short hike to Yosemite Falls:
On the way to the trail head we happened upon a deer:
love my little hand holders
Everyone wanted to be near or touching Luke that morning—made forward momentum a bit tricky
This is why we love Joseph
(and especially why we feel like we can venture out with so many little kidlets)
An older couple walked passed us as we took this picture and smiled and exclaimed "super dad!"
We made it to the falls but of course my explorers went in for a closer look
Livs hitched a piggy back from me on the way out (and nearly fell asleep on my back!)
We wandered around the village for a bit and had to explore the huge gift shop (of course!). By the time we were loaded back into car and off to another hike, the kids told us they were too worn out to walk anymore and just wanted to get on the road to Santa Cruz. And so we did, enjoying the last views of granite cliffs, green meadows and towering redwoods as we left the park and drove west toward the ocean.
2 comments:
Sadie has a dress similar to Livs- Target?
And who wouldn't want to be touching Luke? He is mushy.
Ben and I visited Yosemite a few days after I found out I was pregnant with Max. I now want to go back and read my post, such a majestic place.
We took all of you to Yosemite on one of our trips many years ago, maybe 1988? I had camped and hiked there a few times growing up myself, and wanted to share the majesty and beauty of it with my children and husband. So glad you went, to carry on that love of nature and mountains with your kids. The quote from Muir was perfect.
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