February 16, 2016
Photo with Words by garth
It seemed only natural that I, having lived in the Bay Area for many years, visited Yosemite National Park several times already. Yet, it wasn't until well after I left the Bay in 1995 that I finally made it to Yosemite in September of 2015.
As I have been impressed before by the awesome nature and its sheer scale at other places, I admit my arrogance coming to experience Yosemite for the first time. How naive we were, I become sheepish, as we peaked out of the Tunnel View and become mercilessly mesmerized by the jaw-dropping vista. Now, that is Yosemite!
In the midst of record-breaking dry season, Yosemite was galloped by fast-spreading forest fire, thus its air rather thick. Firetrucks shuffling fearless volunteer firemen were everywhere. Yet, time seemed to have slowed down in the Valley. Or almost forgotten, as we became oblivious to the urgency and panic surrounding the place.
Not just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the strength of granite, the power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and the tranquility of the High Sierra. from Official Yosemite Website
Our four-day visit to the Valley left us with such impression that we vowed to not only return but to make effort to go and see other U.S. National Parks.
