07.10/08.10. Yosemite National Park

After the glamour and glitz surrounded by music and hundreds of thousands of lights in Las Vegas, we returned to the wilderness, to Oakhost, near Yosemite National Park.

After an almost seven-hour drive through picturesque and less appealing landscapes, we finally reached the small Oakhost. Our surprisingly spacious house was nestled in greenery. To get from one room to another, we had to cover some distance. After a relaxing time in the hot tub and a cozy barbecue, it was time to shake off the tiredness and gather strength for the next day.

We had big plans: the Nevada Fall Trail, which stretched a total of 16 kilometers and had an additional 800 height meters from our parking lot, was to be explored.

As we drove for 60 minutes through the great landscape of Yosemite Park to reach our starting hiking point, we passed by vast burned areas. Two years ago, there was a huge fire here. Over 2000 firefighters were deployed, and the scars were still clearly visible.

Upon arriving at the parking lot, we set off. After a short, pleasant walk through a vacation campsite, the ascent began steeply and mercilessly. We quickly gained altitude and were rewarded with breathtaking views of the valley where our hike had begun. The view of the massive riverbed, peppered with towering boulders, made us pause – a stunning piece of natural artwork that left us speechless.

After a brief photo session, we continued on our way, always heading towards the mountain's summit and the associated view of one of the majestic waterfalls of Yosemite National Park. After another hour and a half of strenuous, serpentine ascent, accompanied by fellow hikers from all over the world, we finally glimpsed the 181-meter-high Nevada Fall. Although the water flow was not as abundant as in autumn or spring – the heat and dryness had left their mark – the combination of the vertically rising rocks and the waterfall provided a breathtaking sight.

However, our goal was not yet fully reached; we wanted to get up to the waterfall. Half an hour later, on comparatively easy hiking paths, we finally reached the summit and admired the narrow stream up close. After an extensive break, we began our descent. With a slope of about 75°, we went steeply down into the valley in serpentine curves right next to the waterfall. The picturesque paths along the Merced River made the descent a pleasure.

However, we had to go back up again because part of the hiking route was closed due to construction work. During the ascent, we were treated to another wonderful view of the second waterfall, the Vernal Fall. With the reassuring thought that the most difficult part was now behind us, we finally reached the starting point again, drank our last reserves, and began our descent.

In comparison to the ascent, we managed the return journey in record time. Completely exhausted, we arrived at the car and could only dream of the hot tub and the grilled food. With cool drinks, warm water, and plenty of food, we spent the evening in good company before we fell into bed, tired as stones.