In the beginning of August, my family and I embarked on a a NorCal adventure. We visited San Francisco, Lake Tahoe, and one of the nation's most famous and breathtaking national parks — Yosemite. After spending three days hiking and exploring the park, I never wanted to leave. Upon arriving at the park from the east entrance by Tuolumne Meadows, immediately I fell in love with how peaceful it felt just driving around and taking in all of the scenery. We rolled down the windows and felt how crisp and fresh the air was. Our final destination being Yosemite Valley, we drove across nearly the entire park — stopping at countless, beautiful pit stops around every corner. After day three of exploring, I was left speechless about how such a place can hold so much natural beauty. I put together a list of 6 absolutely breathtaking places in Yosemite to stop by. Even if you are visiting in the summer (like me, where some of the waterfalls and water spots are seasonal) it in no way takes away from the serenity and pure beauty that Yosemite holds.
1. Tuolumne Meadows
Upon entering the park from this side, you will drive by acres of flat land surrounded by mountains in the background. There are several streams and spots on the side of the road that allow you to pull over and enjoy the views. The first time stopping, we pulled over near a stream where a few other cars were. When I got out I didn't hear anything but the sound of the running water. The meadows go for miles, and you can either drive and see the scenery, or there are also several hiking trails where you can get more information about at the visitor's center.
2. Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias
Not to be confused with the meadows, the grove has a hiking trail towards the west side of the park where you can visit a few of the giant sequoia trees. Mariposa Grove is another spot where you can see the trees, but was closed for renovations when we went. It's about a mile hike downhill to see the first sequoia, then going a little further will lead you to around 5 more to see. The hike is not that strenuous, however make sure to pack water and prepare yourself for a few steep uphill spots. The trees are unbelievably huge, and really cool to see in person.
3. Tunnel View
This spot doesn't require a hike, and is probably one of the most famous views in Yosemite. Peep El Capitan and Half dome in the distance. Of course pictures will never do justice.
4. Vernal Falls/Nevada Falls
Prepare and pack water! This hike is pretty strenuous, but it's worth every second. A paved trail leads you to first the bottom of Vernal Falls, where you can stop to take a break to sit on some rocks and have lunch. If you keep going a little further, you'll get to the stairs that lead all the way to the top of Vernal Falls. Make sure to be extra cautious, in certain seasons the water can be roaring, and the mist from the falls make the steep steps extremely slippery. Although I didn't, you can continue your hike past this, and it'll eventually lead you to Nevada falls as well! Keep going even further, and you'll reach half dome. Although, if you plan on going anywhere past Vernal Falls, experience is a must.
5. El Capitan
If you're driving or walking through the Yosemite Valley, be sure to stop for this.
6. Glacier Point
Whether you're hiking or driving, trails and roads can be treacherous on the way up here. But once you're there, you're mesmerized by the vast amount of beauty. Standing at one of the highest points in Yosemite, you get a really sick view of half dome, and glancing down, you can see the Valley floor, and even Vernal and Nevada falls. One of my favorite parts of this trip was definitely Glacier Point. If you're up for it, stay for sunset and get an amazing view of the night sky and the milky way!
Our world is breathtaking.
