We're in YOSEMITE...

Not just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the strength of granite, the power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and the tranquility of the High Sierra. First protected in 1864, Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more.

This was our fifth visit and the first in Autumn. I may never come at another time of year again. The rich Fall colors, lack of crowds, and crisp temperatures made this an incredible visit.

We entered at the Tioga Pass entrance. Located at 9,945 feet, and with a storm due the day we leave, we knew this was our only chance to be see the east side of the Park allowing glimpses of Tenaya Lake, Olmsted Point and Tuolumne Meadows.

We arrived late, found a place to call it a night, and then meandered, oohing and aahing throughout the valley floor.

Yosemite was nicknamed God's Cathedral by early settlers who were awestruck by the valley's majestic scenery. Each time we come here, we find ourselves awestruck, too. It is all so GRAND!

"It was like lying in a great solemn cathedral,

far vaster and more beautiful than any built by the hand of man."

-Theodore Roosevelt, after camping in Yosemite National Park

Steve is 'drinking' from Yosemite Falls. At 2,425 feet it is the tallest in North America. It is visible from many points in the Park and a true joy to behold, even if it isn't at its peak.

Strolling in the darkness gave us a respite from the craziness a day of travel causes. There was a solitude even though we were together. I 💙 Yosemite.