We spent our second day there exploring the valley. We started out by hiking to Mirror Lake and the kids spent quite a bit of time just scaling rocks and running around. Then, we made our way towards the visitor’s center, detouring for an occasional fallen tree or snow patch. My rule following child kept panicking what we were off the path again as Ryan just kept leading the way to another adventure.
The view from Mirror Lake.
Lily found this round rock and loved it.
Ryan and the 3 oldest managed to scale this steep rock.
Resting at the top of another rock
After lunch, we explored the vistor’s center and the Indian Culture area. While we were there, and older Indian lady named Julia was there doing some basket weaving. As she worked she told the kids the legend of how her people came to be in the valley. It was really quite amazing to have her share with the kids as she sat and wove.
Julia, our storyteller
By then, we were ready for our second hike, so we headed over to the base of the Yosemite Falls. Those falls are at peak right now, since we were there during the snowmelt. Right now, the water falls over the edge at the rate of about 2,400 gallons per minute. Since it is fed entirely be snowmelt, the falls will likely be dried up by the end of the summer. When it’s running, it is the tallest waterfall in the US and the 5th tallest in the world. It truly is breathtaking. The kids really enjoyed veering off the path again and exploring the rocks in the forest floor just beside of the waterfall.
Playing in a rock patch
Yosemite Falls
Let me just say, if you have never been to Yosemite, do what you can to get there. It is amazing, beautiful, inspiring, energizing, etc., etc,. etc. Save your pennies, skip a trip to the beach or Orlando. Eat scrambled eggs for dinner twice a week and save your grocery money. But, go! It’s worth it. Our pictures can’t begin to do it justice. Go take your own. Seriously!
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