Yosemite
There is an old saying that a picture is worth a thousand words. Though, what about when a picture isn’t enough? Then you simply have to go see for yourself. Experiencing for yourself is the only way to understand the grandeur encompassed within the majestic Yosemite national park.
During the current pandemic of Covid-19, there are limitations but also opportunities for all of us. Like anything worthwhile, the opportunities often require a bit of imagination and extra effort. The same is true in this case. The limitation is obvious. Due to restrictions in place for the better of us all as a whole, there is limited capacity for visitors at our national parks to reduce large crowds of people in one location. Admission via motor vehicle is currently limited to the lucky few who have been granted a reservation ahead of time such as with very limited camping, day use permits, or wilderness permits. However, if you are able to cycle or hike, one may park outside the national park, pay for a 7 day pass, and enter on bicycle or foot without a reservation!
One of the best ways to experience the treasure of our national parks is on a bicycle. Being outside immersed in the elements under self propulsion eliminates all the of distraction and confinement of being within an automobile speeding by the glorious sights, sounds, and smells. The pace of a bicycle allows for one to cover a fair amount of distance. This is where the extra effort plays a large role. In order to see some of the iconic sights and vistas contained within Yosemite, one must navigate the mountainous terrain. All it takes is the proper training and preparation in order to benefit from soaking up the environment this way.
Once you are physically prepared, have all the gear, water, food, and ambition, then you have your choice of where to park outside of Yosemite. (Just a reminder - always come prepared with plenty of food, water, and supplies.) The south gate entrance just north of Fish Camp on Highway 41 is a great choice if arriving from the south such as from Los Angeles. Parking is available sporadically throughout the small town of Fish Camp or at select locations along Highway 41 prior to the entrance. If you’re arriving from a different location, there are other options for parking depending on which entrance you are planning to use. The current fee for a 7 day pass for one person on a bicycle is $20.
Tunnel View and Valley Loop Road
Upon entrance you are welcomed by well maintained roads with lots of hills and minimal traffic surrounded by pristine wilderness for the next 25 miles! This continues all along Wawona Road if you continue until reaching the very long and dark Wawona tunnel. Going through this tunnel is a bit disconcerting on a bicycle. A bright rear flashing light and headlight are highly recommended for motor vehicles to better recognize you. The tunnel is an experience in itself, but what follows is nothing short of spectacular. Immediately upon exiting the tunnel the bright daylight shines like a spotlight over the vastness of Yosemite Valley below. This vista point is aptly named, Tunnel View, featuring the iconic Half Dome in the distance. It’s mandatory to stop at this point to soak in all the surroundings and appreciate nature’s magnificence.
After a few moments of taking it all in and snapping some photos, there is a calm stretch of mostly downhill road until reaching the Yosemite Valley loop road. This is a mostly one way flat road that runs alongside the pristine Merced River on the valley floor. It is also where many of the campgrounds, other amenities, and visitor center can be found. Currently, with fewer cars and most of the campgrounds closed, this a very peaceful and mellow loop with nature’s beauty of waterfalls in the distance, shear granite peaks, and towering trees surrounding on all sides.
Glacier Point
Another ‘must do’ portion of Yosemite is what is often described as the best view in all Yosemite, Glacier Point. The junction to begin Glacier Point Road can be found along the east side of Wawona Road. The junction is approximately 20 miles (2,500 feet elevation) from Fish Camp or about 15 miles from Yosemite Valley (2,200 feet elevation). This road is usually opened up around May each year after it is able to be cleared of winter’s snow. In fact, for one week each year just after the snow is cleared it is only available for foot or bicycle traffic prior to cars being allowed! Timing this week could be difficult as it is dependent upon the weather each year.
The climb along Glacier Point Road is approximately 14 miles gaining somewhere around 2300 feet of elevation. The grade seems gradual without exceeding 10% incline. There are plenty of turnouts to stop, rest, and soak in the scenery as you gain elevation. The road is generally acceptable condition although not nearly as smooth as the tarmac of Wawona Road. However, the final approximately 4 miles of Glacier Point Road become more rough, while definitely still passable on a standard road bike with 25c tires. Never fear, the destination is absolutely worth the effort and a short stretch of rough road! There is no doubt that at an elevation of 7,214 feet the view from Glacier Point is one of the most spectacular on earth. The panoramic vista includes too many highlights to list. One must simply sit and enjoy.
After savoring the moment, there are helpful resources atop Glacier Point including restrooms and drinking water. There is a short and steep climb with another great viewpoint available at Washburn Point prior to commencing the glorious descent back down. As always, great caution is advised while descending. After all, the slower you go, the more time you are gifted to enjoy! The same goes for the entire experience.
Mariposa Grove
Another experience not to be missed during this time is the majestic Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. This grove of over 500 giant mature Sequoia trees is located at the end of a two mile road just after entering the park from the south entrance. There is currently no shuttle or vehicle traffic allowed on this stretch of road so the only way to reach Mariposa Grove is via foot or bicycle! The road is a joy to ride with its smooth surface and gradual incline. Upon reaching the grove you are immediately greeted by the tall and gentle giants. There is water available as are several walking paths and hiking trails to explore. With such a unique grove of trees, it is recommended to set aside some extra time to bring some shoes, lock up your bike, and stroll through while looking upward in awe of these trees which can be as old as 2,700 years.
Although the photos are a excellent memento of the time spent fully immersed in your surroundings, the only way to experience Yosemite is for yourself. As always, enjoy the ride!
