The shadows of Half Dome gradually retreated from Yosemite Valley’s Curry Village as I reluctantly climbed out of my sleeping bag. It was 8 in the morning, and though my roommates and I weren’t lively, the nature around us was.
Rubbing my eyes, I walked outside and nearly slipped on the ice beneath my feet, the sun’s light blinding me. I thought to myself, “Darn… Why did my school have to arrange our Yosemite field trip in the middle of January?” I met my outdoors guide and chaperone outside, and we embarked on another adventure together. This time, they said the journey was really going to be special. I rolled my eyes, for I could barely move my legs under the layers of thick, waterproof clothing.
We headed up a short trail, eventually reaching a clearing in the forest of redwoods. My jaw dropped at the majestic spectacle ahead of me: water transformed immediately into snow as it flowed off Upper Yosemite Falls, forming a snow cone at the base of the waterfall.
Yosemite in the winter is truly something special.
Sincerely,
Yosemite National Park
With its sculpted granite rock formations, towering ancient sequoia trees and spectacular waterfalls, it's no wonder Yosemite is one of the most celebrated national parks in the world.
State(s): California
Established: 1890
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