Yosemite National Park

I’m not a very religious guy, but Yosemite has become a sort of mecca for me these last few years. There’s something in that valley that stays with those who spend time under its walls. Despite the growing tourist population that travels to Yosemite to feel those same things, it somehow still retains its majesty and its sacrety even though on any summer weekend it’s near impossible to find parking in Half Dome Village.

On my most recent pilgrimage to Yosemite, I took my girlfriend Sierra (@sierranderson) for her first time back in the valley since she was a child. Seeing her arrive in Yosemite with the same elation I had when coming out through tunnel view for the first time was something special. We were only in the park for a weekend and wished we could stay longer but I felt lucky to be her tour guide for those few days and show her around the places I love so much.

We were only able to explore a small piece of Yosemite National Park on our weekend trip but there is still so much to the park outside the valley that I haven't even come close to exploring yet. What most people don’t realize is that while Yosemite Valley is the centerpiece of the park, for good reason, the entirety of the park in incredibly large and has close to zero access roads. On my next journey to Yosemite, I plan to tap into that expanse a little bit and see what sort of photographic opportunities it has to offer.

Like a lot of places overrun with tourism, with just slightly more effort than the average joe you can find places away from the crowds and much quieter than the valley floor. Places like this are where the real Yosemite is hiding. Places that aren’t found on the postcards but are equally inspiring. Places that will humble you and make you feel small no matter what elevation you’re at. These are the sorts of places that more people should be searching for but not sharing. An important part of the adventure is finding something secret and keeping it that way.