Yosemite: A Symbol of Mother Nature's Generosity

Our family recently visited the Yosemite National Park in Yosemite, California. Located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, it is a paradise that combines waterfalls, valleys, meadows, glaciers and sequoia trees.

Although it is best to visit the park in the summer, a trip in mid-September could still be very enjoyable. The park is simply awesome because of the chance it would give one's eyes as they feast on the generosity that mother nature has gifted this haven. The lush old sequoias are just beautiful, the weather just perfect, the lakes and meadows appear to have jumped out of post cards, and even the squirrels look extra-special.

So what is there to experience in this gorgeous destination? Here are a few things that could lure you to visit and enjoy Yosemite's beauty.

1. Camping - For those who want to listen to the singing of the birds and the other sound of the wilderness, camping is the answer. The park has campsites that do not require reservation. However, there is usually a heavy turn out of campers during the months of April through November. Out of the 13 popular campsites in Yosemite, there are 7 that require reservation.

What is wonderful in this park is the availability of canvass tents that would make life easier for those who do not want to pitch their own tents. Nestled in different locations, these tents are part of the lodging accommodations of the park. Although other visitors may opt for the comfy cabins and luxurious hotels, sleeping in these tents is worth the experience. Some tents are located very near a river, while others are in the center of the valley or in the meadow. Beds, chairs and other pieces of furnishings are available inside the tents. Central restrooms and showers are nearby. Bear-proof food containers can be seen almost everywhere.

2. Hiking - For those who love to hike or enjoy the outside life on foot, this is the thing for you. Hiking could be done in large groups assisted by experience tour guides, while hiking with a few family members and friends is also welcome.

Hikers have the option to use different hiking sites in the valley. There is a ready brochure given at the entrance gate or found in most lobbies of the hotels, motels and restaurants. The brochure explains the distance of each hike site. Hikers are given a warning as to the level of the difficulty that the different trails would entail. Ranging from easy to moderate to strenuous, hikers would know what to expect and how to prepare before they hit the trails.

Some trails would take the hikers about 30 minutes to finish, while others would require an hour. Those who wish to go to trails that fall in the strenuous level should be ready for a 5- to 8-hour hike.

3. Mule or Horseback Riding - If other places allow people, especially kids to just have a quick ride around a stable, here, visitors would have a grand time enjoying a breathtaking scenery while riding a horse or a mule. Visitors could choose from 3 stables. The thrilling ride is done in groups. Available are 2-hour rides, 4-hour rides, and a ride that could even last all day.

4. Biking - People could bring their own bikes to the park which has a 12-mile bike trail that would allow a visit to different spots and have a good exercise as well. For those who do not with to bring their own bikes, there are bike rentals for everyone. Helmets and trailers are also available for rent. These bike rides are simply wonderful, it gives you a feeling of being in the movies.

5. Bus Tour - Some people might want to avoid wasting time wondering which place of Yosemite Park they want to see first. The guided tour is the solution to this. The tour gathers a group of people and bring them to different destinations that would make them enjoy and maximize their time. The history of the place is discussed. Geology, plant and animal life is described by a well-informed tour guide.

During the warmer seasons, a wonderful open-air "green dragon" tram goes around to bring people to various spots. The Moonlight Tour is one of the famous bus tours that they have, because this is done on lovely full-moon nights. From late fall to early spring, an enclosed and heated coach with large windows bring the visitors to the beautiful scenes of the park.

6. Rock Climbing - Experienced rock climbers provide guided climbs for both beginners and experienced climbers. Classes are also provided daily from April through October. These sessions take about 7 hours, so it is a one day event of fun and learning. The park boasts of their certified guides and mountaineers.

7. Water Activities - Whenever the weather cooperates, visitors of Yosemite could enjoy some water activities. Fishing could be enjoyed in April through November. People could expect to catch trout provided they have all the necessary equipment, gear and license.

Rafting is another exciting way to enjoy the waters of Yosemite. Usually done in May until July, visitors could enjoy this sport by renting rafts at some of the centers. They are equipped with paddles and flotation devices.

Summer swimming is another enjoyable activity in the park. Although swimming pools are available, many lakes and beaches are also there to allow people to take a dip in their waters.

8. Winter Sports - When winter has sprinkled its magic, Yosemite becomes a playground for those who want to go skiing, snow tubing, snow boarding and other winder activities. Lessons are provided and equipment could be rented. For those not wanting to go into these sports, they are most welcome to simply enjoy the snowy pristine meadows, the ice-capped mountaintops and icicle-draped trees.

So if you wish to go sightseeing or want to immerse yourself in outdoor activities amidst a backdrop of stunning natural splendor, come and visit Yosemite in Central California.