Yosemite National Park is beautiful right now. Though it's mid-winter, all the roads are open, even Tioga Pass and Glacier Point Road.
For the first time in my life, I got to see Tenaya Lake completely frozen. I walked and slid across it, marvelling at the thickness of the ice. The sun gleamed through the crystals, creating wonderful rainbow patches.
From Glacier Point, I gazed down on Yosemite Valley, seeing the ribbon of the Merced River and tiny landmarks like the historic Ahwahnee Hotel.
I then summited Sentinel Dome, another first for me. It's the second highest point in the valley, only Half Dome being higher. The sun began to set, illuminating everything in rose alpenglow. Beyond stood El Capitan. Half Dome and North Dome looked stunning, and I could see many waterfalls, including Vernal and Nevada Falls.
El Capitan seen from Sentinel Dome
North Dome (left) and Half Dome (right) seen from Sentinel Dome
A chill wind roared down the valley as the sun sank below the horizon, reminding me that even though there is a lack of snow in the Yosemite high country, it is still very much winter.
CLICK HERE TO RETURN TO ALICE HENDERSON'S WEBSITE
posted 12:58 AM