An Empty Valley in the Rain

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Geo: 37.7163, -119.665

We got up early, hopped onto Wawona Road, and headed down into the Valley. The early morning was fairly clear, and it was quickly evident there were a lot less tourists than usual. Which is a blessing when the weather is rainy. People just lose their brains when the water falls from the sky. And Yosemite can get VERY congested with traffic and people. So this was an awesome change! I rarely get to be there when there are so few people about. =D

We first stopped at the Bridge Tunnel View and got some great shots of the valley before the clouds took over. Then we hiked up to Lower Yosemite Falls. Normally, I would never call it a hike- it's an easy walk on pavement, and it's just insulting to say it's more than it is. But loaded down with a baby and a diaper bag and a backpack- ok, it's now a hike. We hiked up to the Lower Falls in the drizzle, and then walked through the meadows on the walkways as it started to rain. It was just amazing- I can't say it enough. This is my favorite place in the entire world. I'm at peace here. And now I'm going as a family for the first time- the third generation in my family to do so. #proudmamamoment

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