With my Canon T5 slung across my body, Jake and I took our first steps of a roughly 14 mile (round trip) hike. Leaving from Curry Village, snugly nestled in Yosemite valley beneath Half Dome, our destination was Vernal Falls.
The morning sun shining through the trees.
As we made our way past mile 1, then 2, I bagan to notice the slight pain in my back from our nights spent in the car. I couldn't focus on it for long, however, with so many breathtaking views to enjoy.
Slightly obsucred from view, Yosemite falls quietly roars far in the background.
Thanks to a very fancy lady in a fur coat Jake and I got a quick picture together.
Fast forward a few more miles, and a couple of snack breaks, to... The falls! I had been wondering why there wasn't very many people on the trail. It was becuase they were all here. Scattered about, folks were making pictures, hanging out with friends, and taking in the beauty. This is why I love hiking. It puts a smile on people's faces. I think it might be all the fresh air...
Jake takes a quick breather against a boulder. Vernal Falls smiles from behind.
The accumulation of ice is evidence of our cold extremities and general discomfort. It was early January after all.
Although we were looking at our destination we hadn't yet reached it. Still ahead lay an ice coated flight of stairs (if you can even call them stairs), and an entirely new viewpoint to experience.
The spray from the falls made this climb a bit slippery...
... But it was SO worth it.
Upon reaching our destination Jake took the opportunity to meditate to the sound and energy of this amazing place.
Mr. Jordan, taking it all in.
Don't ever forget to stop and look around every once in a while.
The hike back down was, for the most part, uneventfull, and only slightly painfull. This is a place I will certainly be returning to. Maybe not soon, but it will happen. I want to see every bit of beautifull nature in the park.
All in good time.
P.S. On our way out of the park that evening we happened to catch a glipse of Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson making history as the first people to free-climb the "Dawn Wall" on El Capitan. It took the pair nineteen days to ascend roughly 3,000 verticle feet only using ropes or other equipment for safety or shelter.
You can see three "portalegdes", which are basically hanging tents, housing Caldwell, Jorgeson, and any other support crew or equipment. Also, a dark figure repelling down to the shelters.
