Friday 24 August 2007

Yosemite camping trip

We've been on a trip to Yosemite National Park organised by Incredible Adventures.


This was a three day camping trip (two nights under canvas) in and around Yosemite with it's amazing scenery. The waterfalls weren't exactly gushing in August (they are best seen in Spring when the snow melt volumes are highest) but all that granite sure looks pretty. Most of the vegetation is Pine trees, although Giant Sequoias grow naturally in this area west of the Sierra Nevada mountains and they are as spectacular as you would expect a 3000 year old tree to look.

The valley and surrounding areas are filled with exotic wildlife. We saw chipmunks, coyotes, bears, and other creatures. The bears didn't disturb our sleep at the camp-site, which was a relief, although a big dog in the dark was an acceptable substitute.

We had a blast from start to finish. Our guide Jerry was perfect - gently guiding us where we needed to be, answering our stream of questions, and sorting out the food and shelter situation. Often doing all three at the same time.

In fact, from start to finish the trip was brilliantly run. Everyone we spoke to was friendly and very helpful. It couldn't have been better. Well, headrests on the bus would have made sleeping at little easier. All that fresh air must have tired us out.