California 2010 Day 10

The morning dawned clear and perfect. We loaded up the loaner Jeep with our gear and headed into Yosemite National Park, staying on the upper road to Tuolumne Meadows. We were in the mood to do some hiking! The scenery is breathtaking as you climb above 8000 feet.

We reached the Tuolumne Meadows Campground and drove back in to the trailhead for Elizabeth Lake. The hike would not be too long. Just a bit over 2 miles and an altitude change of 900ft. The lake is at 9,500ft with higher peaks around it. The first part was the steepest and we soon found ourselves looking for a place to take a break, catch our breath, and eat lunch.










It was SO green. Absolutely beautiful. It sprinkled on us off and on the first hour, the temps were very pleasant. A buck, used to people, kept his distance but allowed us to enjoy his company.




The crystal clear creek was filled with trout that could see you coming. We got a few hits on our flies, but only if we snuck up on the wary trout.




There were a few people on the trail and at the lake, but, for the most part, we felt like the mountains were ours.






Naturally, the hike downhill was a breeze, making us feel like we were in incredible shape! We hopped in the car and spotted a clash of bucks out in Tuolumne Meadows. Becky thought I was joking when I said I wanted to turn around and go get a better shot...you decide.



Next stop was the west end of Tenaya Lake. Talk about picturesque. Wow.





At Olmstead Point, we got out and enjoyed the view of the backside of Half Dome. A Pika was out running around making quite a racket and posing for a multitude of viewers.










This pic tickled me. Although it meant well, I just wondered why the bears don't slow down...





The end of our day found us buying Pizza for our hosts and relaxing back at the cabin. A young doe and her baby hoped to join us. After a good night's rest, we loaded up the plane and headed home. The density altitude at 10am was 4600ft (physical elevation of Pine Mountain E45 2900ft) but the little Cessna ("that could") lifted off easily and took us to lunch with friends in Redding. From Redding, we found another tail wind and rode it home, although not without a good share of mild turbulence along the way that kept it exciting.




What a great trip. Nothing like making memories.