The Road Trip Day 2: Foggy Mountain Monoliths

 

Yosemite National Park, California

May 8, 2015

 

 
 

I woke up to yesterday's cloudy skies still hanging around. The coastal air was crisp.

We packed up and drove with the windows down. Today's journey was less than 200 miles and we had a camping reservation. The goal was to head out early, take our time, and enjoy the views.

 
 
Pacheco Pass Highway, just before San Luis Reservoir.
 
 

Slowly, we gained in elevation. The temperature kept dropping.

 
 
Welcome to Fish Camp.

Welcome to Fish Camp.

 
 

It was cloudy and ominous all day.

 

Upon arrival at Mariposa Grove, we were surprised to find at least three inches of snow on the ground. Water dripped from the trees, plunking loudly on our car's roof. We each took turns peering through the sunroof watching large droplets splash on the glass.

 
 
Carter Smith watching rain through a car sunroof.
 

We got out and took a walk.

 
 
Walking through Mariposa Grove, Yosemite, California.
 

It was cold!

Yesterday's overcast delight spoiled me. I hope I brought enough warm clothes for the entire trip.

 
Caleb Jennings enjoying the cool air at Mariposa Grove.

Caleb Jennings enjoying the cool air at Mariposa Grove.

 
Moss growing on tree bark.
Sequoia tree back macro.
 
 

With temperatures hovering in the mid 30's, there was talk of finding an alternate plan. We were not prepared to camp in the snow.

 
 
Snowy, foggy road in Yosemite National Park
 
 

The decision was to find and rent a room for the next two nights. After all, we are on a vacation.

 
 
Headed to Tunnel View via Wawona Tunnel.

Headed to Tunnel View via Wawona Tunnel.

 

After exiting the park, we found a room with a reasonable rate. Camping would have been rough; my sleeping bag is only rated to 20 degrees.

Dinner was Mountain House pasta primavera and a generous glass of whiskey. I lost two cribbage games.

Tomorrow's plan is to hike the Mist Trail.

 

Hey, want a ride?

Turn it around:

Stick your thumb out:


Justin Kernes
Justin Kernes is a photographer who hails from the land of sunny omnipresence; California. Early in his life, the family mini-van was regularly loaded up with tents, stoves, ice chests, and sunscreen tubes, and the destination set to "wilderness adventure". National Park books were stamped. Weenies were roasted. Trails were hiked. Fun was had. It was in these weekend escapes where Kernes found his connection for the great outdoors. Since the summer of 2010, he has been running away to New Mexico during the summer to work at Philmont, world's largest youth camp. For three months, he freely volunteers to forgo electricity, regular showers, and all other civil amenities. Kernes begrudgingly earned his BA in Art from Cal State East Bay, a tiny school not even remotely considered for its art program.
www.justinkernes.com
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The Road Trip Day 1: Barefoot in Monterey

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The Road Trip Day 3: 7,200 Feet of Granite