DAY 5

Our first day in Yosemite National Park was a bit cloudy and drizzly. This, however, did not dampen our spirits. We awoke early and by 10:30 am we were on our way. The RV campground was about twenty-five miles from the park but the road was filled with all kinds of scenic views. Because fall was approaching, there were many scenes of fall colors. As we approached the park practically every turn of the road presented us with a new vista of the canyon.

Once at the park my Golden Age Passport allowed us to bypass the $20 fee for a seven day pass; one of the (few) benefits of old age. As we drove up the winding road the colors started to change from greens to yellows, browns, oranges and gold. The valley which had been formed by glacial action those many years ago, presented us with a great variety of the wonders of nature. Our first stop was at Bridalveil Falls. A short hike up the trail and we were at the base of the falls. The wind was swirling about the cliff and blowing the falling water in a delicate free-fall. Because of the lateness of the season we were spared the pressing throngs of tourists. We did meet an older couple shuffling their way to the falls. Twenty-three years ago they had climbed their way to the falls and it was still just as beautiful.

As the day progressed the clouds and rain increased. Now the peaks were shrouded in a cloak of clouds and mist, which gave them an aura of mystery. No matter what the weather, so long as you can see, the valley presents itself in an ever changing canvas of beauty.

For a complete selection of tastefully selected photographs visit https://www.photoshop.com/user/travlinmangallery and select the Yosemite album.