CnC: Waiting in Yosemite

We had an early start today. Looked out the window and the others were already in the carpark tending to the bikes.

A quick breakfast and we were all loaded and on our way at 6:40am. A good thing too considering the rest of the day.

We powered up some more freeway and then followed the road to Oakhurst. We refueled here, enough for the rest of the day. Then it was a quick blast up some quite twisty roads to Yosemite National Park and first stop was the enchanting Mariposa Grove of giant Sequoia trees. These monster pines are spaced throughout a pine forest like giant sentinels. Certainly magnificent trees. Just as enchanting are the squirrels and chickorees that dart here and there on the forest floor.

Back on the road and we found some coffee, then headed for Glacier Point, but came to a boring halt. They were doing roadwork and only taking groups of cars through every thirty minutes. We had to wait about 25 minutes to get through.

Glacier Point is an amazing place and the views were awesome as usual. The Half Dome, the waterfalls, the huge glacial valley. Always wonderful to see.

Then it was down to the Yosemite Village, three thousand feet below. But first we had to endure another 20 minute wait at the roadworks and a slow crawl through the six miles of roadworks. Needless to say lunch was late so we just grabbed sandwiches and drinks from the supermarket, but it was a little disappointing.

Heading out of the village, taking photos all the way, we soon joined Hwy 120 for the ride over the top of Yosemite. After a lovely fine day, some clouds rolled in, it got colder and began to rain. Rain - an old friend we haven't seen for a few days. But it turned out to be just a few spots on the windscreen so we kept going up to the highest point of our trip so far, 9951ft. Then it was doen the scary Tioga pass and in to Lee Vining just in time to retain our room bookings.

Settled in, we went for drinks at Bob and Kerry's "mansion" to wait out a small thunderstorm, then walked down the street where we selected a pizza shop for some quite nice nosh.

All in all a great day, although a litle slow in parts.

But, of course, Charleen took lots of pictures:-