Yosemite National Park -- Day 3

Sunday we stretched out legs and headed up to Dewey Point by way of McGurk Meadow. Driving out took quite a bit of time as there was a fire burning further up the mountain and the road to Glacier Point was closed down. Since we were not going to Glacier Point but up to McGurk Meadow they let us through. A couple areas were still smoldering as we drove by and the smell of campfire was heavy in the air. It made the ride to the trail head very interesting as we speculated if it was a controlled burn or an accidental fire. When we arrived at the trail head we loaded up our backpacks with water and necessities then headed out. I knew the hike would be long, hard and beautiful but I failed to take into account the change in altitude. It took us about 2 hours and 15 minutes to make it up to Dewey point because we had to keep stopping to catch our breath and quiet our heart rates. It only took about 1 hour and 40 minutes to make it back down.

All in all, we were extremely glad we did the hike!




Heading out! At the beginning of a 7.8 mile walk!



Coming up on McGurk Meadow about a mile into the hike.



Very cool to find a shelter! It even has two rooms. A bedroom and sitting area that overlooks McGurk Meadow.



An old hummingbird nest in one of the bushes by the bridge in McGurk Meadow. In July it had been new.



McGurk Meadow was very beautiful!



A very cool, giant tree with a hollowed out area big enough for him to stand in.



Very cool neon green plant (possibly lichen) was everywhere!



Slight misstep at the stream. Not to worry! It's only water!



Giant pine cones were everywhere!



Not going any closer to the edge no matter what you say!

Lunch break! Cuban sandwiches, fruit, and water. They tasted amazing! Maybe it was the height, maybe the company, and maybe the hunger.



Grandfather and grandson looking out over the edge at Dewey point. It was a bit like standing at the top of the world.



The views were breathtaking and a bit scary. We were at about 7,000 feet above sea level and the drop was straight down.



Trekking back down the trail back to the trail head.

Mom and son encouraging each other to keep going on the way back to the car.

At the trail trail head to Dewey Point through McGurk Meadow. Finally finished!

The ride back to the rental property... After approximately 8 miles of hiking our Junior Park Ranger is completely comatose. I think at one point he was even snoring.