On my way to Columbia, I saw the sign... Yosemite 70 Miles. I almost made one of those turns in the middle of the ride... you know the slam on the brakes and turn around, I had to remind myself I could spend the night and actually get up early to go on the way back to The Bay.
I did not realize how close it was in miles, but in fact, it takes a couple of hours of swerves, curves and switchbacks to get in... with straight drops off to the valley of the below. So taking time getting there and being able to stop and enjoy the way is well worth it for those that have not been there. Oh, and, you need to gas up BEFORE you go into the park... no gas there, and you will be in that park for a few hours at least.
I did not have the full day, but packed what part of the day in full of just breathtaking views and the instant "ahhhhs" when you see this place the first time. I make myself get up at dawn and, yes, I did it. Summer vacation is at its height now too, so try and plan around traffic... that will also slow you down, along with some intermittent road work. I bought a year pass... just made sense because I know I will be back. Its also cheaper that way too. I can take in 3 riders with the pass I bought and, ride it all year long. Otherwise, it is only $10 a rider, I paid $40.
The snow was melting at full force and the weather was perfect and all that made for some spectacular waterfalls and river action. Horsetails Falls comes at you while you round a corner and I could not stop in time or pull over safely for a pic, but just seeing it was perfection and probably the first thing I will remember when thinking of Yosemite. It is HUGE! So is Half Dome. You feel like nothing inside this place and are humbled by Mother Nature.
So... here's a slideshow. All the photos are not uploaded yet, as I need to get behind a computer that uploads more efficiently. They will be posted on my photo gallery site eventually.
I can't say this more... visit your National Parks regardless of where you may be in this great Country. I got a good little taste of them last year riding to Sturgis and another bite with Yosemite. They are America and they sure are beautiful.
Happy National Trailzzz
KaTy Did
10 comments:
Awesome! Love the photos. Adding Yosemite to my list!
-Peace
Hey KT I love the National Parks too, especially since moving out west 11 years ago. You like motorcycles AND photography, so put this on your bucket list: Utah. 5 national parks, and the ride from Zion to Arches will take you thru some of the most amazing scenery on the planet.
Allen: It is a must see! The little I saw is nothing compared to the rest I hear. Can't wait to go back... its sooo close too!
No Name: Yes! One of my friends has been trying to get me to go to Utah and Zion. I am definately going there too. I have trouble in the heat, so going there is a planned time between the hot and cold weather. But I am looking forward to both the photos and the ride!
Man...those are some really stellar picts. Did you get to ride the tunnel? One of my favorite memories is running that mile long tunnel then coming out of the other end with half-dome in my face. It was a had to be there moment.
Well, I was suppose to hit the Grand Canyon last trip to AZ, but as usual, it got lost along the way. This makes try 11. I have tried 11 times to see it. I think the only way I'm going to see it is if I go it alone.
Zion is GREAT! There are so many things to see when you get into that part of the country. Bryce is great on a bike.
Thanks for the trip.
Dave: Yes! I did go through that tunnel and it was great! I had forgotton about that. I have so many more pics to go through when I get back. Maybe we should plan a trip the
re on my annual pass :) I do need to ride Zion and figure if I can get a little taste of our parks I can always go back for more.
Need to bring Flat too :)
Dave: Yes! I did go through that tunnel and it was great! I had forgotton about that. I have so many more pics to go through when I get back. Maybe we should plan a trip the
re on my annual pass :) I do need to ride Zion and figure if I can get a little taste of our parks I can always go back for more.
Need to bring Flat too :)
Beautiful, beautiful pictures! It still amazes me that I live so close, but have never been to Yosemite. It just shows how much we take stuff for granted when it's sitting in our backyard!
Hey, when you are ready to go to Zion let me know. I can help you with the route. There are two entrances to Zion. Most people think there is one entrance. One is a dead end, the other takes you through the park...both are pretty bitchin.
Zion is one of the few NPs that will let you have a campfire at your campground site-
just keep in mind, the main scenic drive is open only to shuttle buses spring thru fall- so if you want to ride your MC in Zion Canyon, go in the fall (after Nov 1) when the leaves turn and the colors are just insane
Wow, such a pretty area, hopefully I'll get around before I'm to danged old.Even seeing the pictures is uplifting. More Pictures! More Pictures!
Post a Comment