Pedals To Shins

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Hiking in Yosemite

Michael Conforti

After getting back from Yosemite there’s a lot to write about. I feel like Yosemite and California made a great impression on me overall. We flew in to LA airport then to Fresno, which is a prime spot for agriculture. The Vineyards and farms proved that. From Fresno we when to our rental The Tip Top Inn, which my wife did a fabulous researching and booked it! The Inn featured all the amenities needed to make a great experience. Interestingly enough the house used to be a Stagecoach stop and they had a display case displaying the numerous historical items found on the property during renovation. All in all it was a great place to return to after a long day of hiking. for more info about the Tip Top Inn check it out here: https://tiptopinn.com/

The Trees (Washburn Trail)

Washburn Trail- This was the first trail we hiked on. This trail took you through the woods on a well maintained trail which is approximately a 4.1 mile trail. The size of the trees were incredible! As you near the end of the trail it puts you out to another trailhead which leads to the Grizzly Giant, which is a huge tree! Along the trail you’ll see plenty of squirrels and deer. This trail is relatively easy and is a great trail to shake out the legs.

Waterfall at Lower Yosemite Falls Trail

Lower Yosemite Falls Trail- This is a quick 1.3 loop for the anyone from beginners to advanced, the ground is flat and not difficult. It is in probably the most populated part of the park due to its accessibility. the highpoint of the trail is the bridge in front of the waterfall offering a great photo opportunity. This was a short trail we did to break up the day.

Atop Vernal Falls

Vernal Falls- This next trail was a pretty fun one, the trail starts off on Northside Drive in the park. across a bridge. The trail continues along a stream and turns in a few switchbacks to a straight uphill climb. Soon you’ll hear the sound of the waterfalls and will reach the heavily constructed wooden bridge. Continuing on the trail you’ll be greeted with large amounts of mist which are definitely welcomed during hot days! You’ll have to make your way up the steps which can be slippery as well as being aware of other fellow hikers coming down the trail. The trail leads to a small walkway along the side of the mountain to the main area. If you have ever been to Angels Landing in Zion this particular spot was similar in my opinion. once you pass that area you’ll come out to the top of the water fall and have a large area of rock to relax on and take in the surroundings. The total trail mileage for us on this hike was 5.2miles with a 1657 ft elevation gain. I enjoyed this trail because of the variety of the hike. It offered multiple Vistas, Elevation gain and a waterfall.