This morning was perfect, in all the uppity, snooty ways. I woke from the deepest slumber of the trip thus far to the scent of the strongest coffee. We nibbled on our variety of breakfast bars we had had to bring into the room yesterday. We lounged in bed, catching up on the news and playing games. Eventually we carved in time for some family Jacuzzi-ing and then made it to the pool. The Majestic Yosemite Lodge pool. Oh my. The rocks towered above us and the pool was surrounded by pine. The best part? We had it completely to ourselves. I sat poolside drinking coffee as Zak and the girls played games and had swimming contests. It sure was an odd way to spend a morning in Yosemite, but it was also kind of amazing.
We had to check out by noon and our welcome was running out, so we headed back to the El Dorado Diggins Suite, showered, and packed up.
Our hike today was one of the most special ones we’ve done. We are not sure if the park doesn’t want people to know about it or if it is just a super under utilized trail. We took the Old Wawona Road for a mile and a half, up about 500 feet in elevation, over a few small waterfalls. The road must have been really, really old. There were small patches of asphalt that were crumbling on this old road. We had to scramble over dozens of downed trees. The trail was completely unmaintained and a lot of fun. The highlight was the end though. Artists’ Point. The view was remarkable and I would have hiked four times as far and six times as high for the view. Bridalveil Falls. Half Dome. El Capitan. Yosemite Valley. Blue sky. It was simply so beautiful. We spent a while taking it all in before heading back down.
We eventually made it back to the crowded parking lot and did the short walk to the base of Bridalveil Falls. We were drenched by the spray. It felt good to cool off after being in the 90 degree heat.
We bit the bullet and finally checked into our yurt for the night. Mollie left a comment on yesterday’s post and it perfectly sums up the description of our dwelling for the night. The only other thing that I can add is “hellish.” By the way, Zak calls the yurt “glamping”. It isn’t glamorous at all. That word wasn’t enough to sell it to us. If there is one “perk” it is that we each get our own “bed.” Zak claimed the double and the girls and I were left with the crappy cots. The springs are literally poking through the rough, pilled sheets. There is also a very large sign reminding us of the waiver we signed that said we would not touch the mouse droppings. The term “Fun Facts About Deer Mice” is literally used. It’s going to be a fun night.
We made the decision to spend as little time as possible in the yurt, so after checking in, we threw on the nicest clothes we brought and headed back to The Majestic Yosemite Lodge. We pretended that we belong and drank wine (out of a can…we didn’t want to go overboard) and lounged in The Great Lounge. Our WiFi code was still active, so we spent time writing the posts. Months ago Zak made reservations at the fancy dining room, knowing hoe we’d handle the yurt situation. I’m looking forward to a nice dinner. The girls even donned a bit of mascara to feel a bit fancier.
Our alarms are already set for 4:30 in the morning and we’re ready to conquer an epic hike.
We hope to post pictures tomorrow night. The wifi (even at The Majestic Yosemite Lodge) isn’t strong enough to upload photos.
