I can't tell you how much I loved being in Yosemite National Park for a week. The scenery there was absolutely astounding... especially in contrast to the endless flat farmland I'm surrounded by in my day-to-day life. There was no shortage of photography opportunities, which made me quite happy, to say the least.

This was taken very early on the Panorama Trail, which is an amazing 8.5 mile hike from Glacier Point to the Valley (or vice-versa). So many spectacular views along the way, and I even took the time to stop over at a couple of falls along the way... pictures of which have already been posted. I especially loved the Panorama Trail for the fact that it really takes you out into more of the "wilderness" aspect of Yosemite. For the first 4-5 miles of the trail, I only encountered 4 or 5 people. It was wonderful to have more of a sense of "alone-time" with that beautiful place, away from the growing crowds on the various valley-trails. This panorama, looking south-southeast, illustrates that "wilderness" ideal, since what you're looking at is really an overview of said 4-5 miles.

Also note, at the distant left, a waterfall... which is Nevada Fall, seen here http://www.furaffinity.net/view/8398636/ ...and the view from over said fall, here http://www.furaffinity.net/view/8499205/ . So yes... the hike goes out into the wilderness of this picture, loops around to the other side and ends up by that waterfall you can barely see. It's fantastic.

Yosemite National Park
June 1, 2012