A few months back, we discovered that Mia and her little adventurers were going to have one last week of delightful summer before school kicked in. So, we decided to embrace spontaneity and booked a three-day, two-night trip to Yosemite. I hadn’t visited since childhood, and the kids are becoming quite the experts at embracing the #campvibes, so why not seize the moment?
We settled on staying at the HOUSEKEEPING camp. To be honest, we weren’t entirely sure what that entailed, aside from the fact that we wouldn’t need to set up our own tent. Upon arrival, we were pleasantly surprised. It turned out to be a canvas cabin featuring one solid concrete wall and a canvas roof extending over a porch. Inside, there was a double bed, a bunk bed, ample storage, and even ELECTRICITY (perfect for charging phones, cameras, and iPads)!
We lucked out with a site right by the river. The kids wasted no time heading down to skip rocks and marvel at the towering mountains. Everyone talks about Yosemite’s breathtaking beauty, and it truly is awe-inspiring. The raw power of nature is evident at every turn, and it can be overwhelming—in the best way possible.
Here are a few highlights from our trip:
- JUNIOR RANGER CAMPFIRE: This was a fantastic way for the kids to learn about the local wildlife. There was a lot of discussion about bears, which did make young Max a bit anxious. However, he found comfort in the thought that if a bear approached, we could always offer it s’mores. Overall, it was a valuable lesson in understanding the wild and the importance of conservation.
- HIKING ADVENTURES: We kicked off our first full day with a hike to Yosemite Falls. The trek was relatively easy with just a few small inclines, but arriving at a dry waterfall was a bit of a letdown. We then headed to Bridalveil Fall, where we spotted flowing water driving into the valley. The kids loved this hike! The trail was steeper and longer, but the sight of the waterfall and the rocky area to climb made it worthwhile. There were some caution signs, but those are just part of the adventure, right?
- CYCLING EXCURSION: Our bike ride turned out to be a highlight! There are several bike rental places in the park, but we opted for the Curry Village rental station. We rented a bike with a trailer for Mia and Emma, while Max and I rode a tandem bike. It took a bit to get used to, but we had a blast. Max loved being able to take in the views while relaxing without worrying about steering. The bike paths are well-marked and take you around the valley floor. We stopped for a delicious lunch at a picnic area near Degnan’s Deli (they have fantastic vegetarian options). On our way back, we treated ourselves to some ice cream in Curry Village.
- SWIMMING FUN: Following our bike adventure, we discovered a fantastic swimming spot by the river behind our cabin. The kids were thrilled! Max even ventured out to a log in the deeper section of the river, showing off his cannonball skills. Meanwhile, Emma was happily rolling around in the sand. The water was chilly but refreshing, and the views were stunning!
Of course, our trip also included making s’mores, spotting deer and squirrels, sharing spooky campfire stories, and enjoying cozy campfires. If you’re planning a Yosemite adventure with your little ones, hopefully, these tips will help you get started on the right foot.
All in all, it was a brief stay and a long journey, but every moment was worth it. The changing seasons offer a different experience, so we’re already planning to return and explore Yosemite again!
For more insights on pregnancy and family life, check out this excellent resource on in vitro fertilisation. And if you’re interested in home insemination, learn more about the process at this informative blog.
Summary:
This article highlights the joys of a family vacation in Yosemite, showcasing activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, and learning about wildlife. The experience is filled with memorable moments and emphasizes the beauty of nature, making it a perfect getaway for families looking to bond and explore.