An impromptu zero day in Yosemite Valley. The park itself is such an amazing place. We were told not to go as crowds are crazy and getting around would be a hassle. I’m glad we expected that as we experienced a much easier and relaxing time in the park. We woke up at the gas station and got a hitch in from two ladies visiting from San Diego. The ride was amazing as well with views of both Half Dome and El Capitan. The scale of these rock faces cannot be comprehended. Pictures can’t do it justice and unless you’re standing near the base of these faces, you don’t truly realize how large these walls are.

For most of the afternoon, Mackenzie, Rummage, Icy and I waded in the river that runs through the park and people watched. People were tubing and car camping all around the backpackers campsite. There were some awesome set ups that struck envy in a lot of us. Luxury canping. We had already claimed our camp spots luckily as the campsites filled up quick in the afternoon so we spent most of the time relaxing and enjoying the down time. Towards the evening, we went to the village store to grab some food to cook over the fire pit. Burgers, sausages, corn and onions with a salad. A pretty fine meal in such a beautiful park.

Sir James showed up a bit late after hiking the half dome trail. We drank beer and enjoyed the campfire until around 10 PM. We’re planning on getting up somewhat early to take the bus to a gas station at the junction out of the park. Two climbers that live in the valley work at the gas station bodega and have been giving us free ice cream and coffees. Well enjoy a quick pit stop before heading back out on trail.

Happy views…