Yosemite Valley

Visiting Yosemite National Park is a magical experience.  The majestic granite that makes up the valley is gorgeous.  Thankfully the area became a protected national park back in 1864 which preserves the nature within the 1200-ish square miles of sheer beauty.

My dad packing up the truck! That’s my mom behind me!

Took us around 8 hours to get from our start point to the camp site.

Entrance into the park. Be prepared to pay entrance fees.

Fees amounts!

Make sure you fill up your gas tank before you enter Yosemite Valley!

Our first picture of the valley

Our camp ground in Upper Pines.

Make sure to keep all foods, toiletries and anything that has a scent in your bear box!

Free shuttle around the valley.

Ride a horse in Yosemite!

Horseback riding tour cutting across the road.

Merced River

Yosemite bear!

Explore!

Here are some tips while you are visiting the park:

• Make sure to take all items with a scent out of your vehicles and tents during your stay. Keep it locked in the bear boxes provided. Bears will go into tents (even when people are inside) and cars to find lotions, chap-stick, gum, and more! Be bear safe!
• That said, bear are very active in the area. You are in their territory now. If you see a bear in your campsite yell loudly and wave your arms to make yourself appear larger. We encountered several bears during our stays in the park and this has worked every time.
• If you actually want to see a bear, quietly visit the apple orchids (located past the stables, behind the dog kennels) at dawn or dusk. We have gotten pretty lucky in this location in the past. Just make sure to keep your distance. They are still wild animals.
• Use the free shuttle or a bike in the valley to get around during your vacation.
• Horseback riding in Yosemite is a fun way to see the park. We did not go this year, however, I have been previous years visiting the park. It is great fun!
• Bring a raft! The Merced River is, at times, deep enough to raft down and is a great way to see different wonders of Yosemite!
• Make sure to explore!