Yosemite–Day 2 of 5

May 23, 2017 Paul Groves



The Merced River runs through the valley. I liked this view of Half Dome over the river. Even when the light is nearly gone, the Merced River is beautiful and gentle. We had to take a Selfie during our walk and my eye was caught by this nice contrast in colors and textures of the leaves against the moss on the bark of the tree.

On our way to the viewpoint for Yosemite Falls, Ron ventured out on a log over a stream for a photo opportunity. We have watched for wildlife and have seen birds, squirrels, and several deer. Here is a photo of our tent cabin in Camp Curry. Notice the “bear box” outside where we have to store anything that has a food-like odor. We put our granola bars, shampoo, and deodorant in the box. In the night, I have heard some rustling noises, but it is probably only people going to the bathroom in the middle of the night. The pretty yellow-white flowers are on the Dogwood trees. They contrast nicely with the dark bark of the surrounding trees.

I keep using this phrase, “The photo simply does not do this justice!” We followed the trail to the view of the upper and lower Yosemite Falls and that was very nice. We then followed the trail to the Lower Yosemite Falls and Wow! We were at a large stone bridge where the spray from the falls hit you in the face, the roaring sound of the water and the people scuttling about to get pictures and enjoy the moment made this the most exciting stop of the day. Nature is so beautiful from a distance, but being closer, in the “Splash Zone” really makes a difference for the experience. Fun.