Yosemite Audio Adventures

Yosemite's Natural Firefall - Horsetail Falls

2012-02-23T09:34:00.000-08:00

In Yosemite National Park, on the Eastern side of the rock known as El Capitan, there is an inconspicuous waterfall called Horsetail Falls that offers a light show unlike any other.

During the month of February there is a two week period when the setting sun casts it's last light on this waterfall and a natural spectacle unfolds before your eyes.

It's about 4:30 in the afternoon and Yosemite Valley is quiet. Water levels are low this Winter but the waterfalls are still flowing. Normally, Yosemite Valley would be covered in snow this time of year and foot travel would be difficult.

Today, the roads are clear, temperatures near 70 degrees and the forest floor is covered with pine needles.

We drive West on Northside Drive in search of clues that will lead us to a place where we might witness this little known phenomenon and as we approach the El Capitan picnic area we begin seeing vehicles parked in nearly every nook and roadside crannie.

Further investigation reveals a small group of people and tripods on a knoll a few hundred yards into the forest. Bingo!

As we approach the group we're surprised, not only by the numbers of people but the sophistication of some of the camera equipment as well.

All cameras are focused on the side of the world's largest granite monolith, El Capitan. The shadow cast by the setting sun is already covering much of this massive rock so we stake a claim on a granite slab and begin the wait.

This event reportedly occurs at sunset and requires just the right combination of factors but we figure if all these people are here, we just might get lucky!

The numbers of people continued to increase as the minutes ticked by and an unexpected comraderie developed with the other onlookers. There was a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. Many of the spectators had come to Yosemite specifically to witness this particular event and we were not disappointed!

Enjoy the pic's!

Hedgehog Dogtail

2012-02-07T07:10:00.000-08:00

Things that grow around Groveland ! Hedgehog Dogtail

These grasses are common in this area and quite easy to identify. The top always tilts to the side!

Photo by © 2001 Julie Kierstead Nelson

This is an annual herb that is not native to California and is considered an Invasive Species.

It's about knee high and grows in areas that have been disturbed. It's found throughout most of California.

This plant is a member of the grass family and is thought to be a native of Southern Europe or Eurasia.

The seeds germinate in the Fall and spend the Winter as seedlings.

Dogtails can grow in very thin, rocky soils but thrive in areas rich in Nitrogen.

The grass grows from sea level to 3280 feet.

There are no known medicinal or traditional uses for this plant and it is highly resistive to herbicides.

Cynosurus echinatus
Annual Dogtail, Dogtail Grass, Bristly Dogstail Grass, Hedgehog Dogtail Grass

New car runs on AIR!!!!!!!

2012-01-11T12:34:00.000-08:00

Will it be the next big thing? Tata Motors of India thinks so.

What will the Oil Companies do to stop it?

Tata Motors of India has scheduled the Air Car to hit Indian streets by August 2012

It is an auto engine that runs on air. That's right; air not gas or diesel or electric but just the air around us.
The Air Car, developed by ex-Formula One engineer Guy N. For Luxembourg-based MDI, uses compressed air to push its engine's pistons and make the car go.

The Air Car, called the "Mini CAT" could cost around 365,757 rupees in India or $8,177 US.

The Mini CAT which is a simple, light urban car, with a tubular chassis, a body of fiberglass that is glued not welded and powered by compressed air. A Microprocessor is used to control all electrical functions of the car. One tiny radio transmitter sends instructions to the lights, turn signals and every other electrical device on the car. Which are not many.

The temperature of the clean air expelled by the exhaust pipe is between 0-15 degrees below zero, which makes it suitable for use by the internal air conditioning system with no need for gases or loss of power.

There are no keys, just an access card which can be read by the car from your pocket. According to the designers, it costs less than 50 rupees per 100 KM, that's about a tenth the cost of a car running on gas. It's mileage is about double that of the most advanced electric car, a factor which makes it a perfect choice for city motorists. The car has a top speed of 105 KM per hour or 60 mph and would have a range of around 300 km or 185 miles between refuels. Refilling the car will take place at adapted gas stations with special air compressors. A fill up will only take two to three minutes and costs approximately 100 rupees and the car will be ready to go another 300 kilometers.

This car can also be filled at home with it's on board compressor. It will take 3-4 hours to refill the tank, but it can be done while you sleep.

Because there is no combustion engine, changing the 1 liter of vegetable oil is only necessary every 50,000 KM or 30,000 miles. Due to its simplicity, there is very little maintenance to be done on this car.

This Air Car almost sounds too good to be true. We'll see in August. 2012

Summertime Solitude in Yosemite

2011-08-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

The Tioga Road in Yosemite National Park is a great place for hiking adventures. Here's a wonderful, short, flat hike for anyone with an hour or so to spare while traveling the historic Tioga Road.

The Sunrise Trailhead is located between Tenaya Lake and Olmstead Point. There's a small parking lot with a restroom and a few bear boxes. Follow this flat trail West from the parking lot a hundred yards or so to a creek that flows under the road. There is a sign that says Trail Junction. Cross the small waterway on stepping stones and take the trail labeled Yosemite Valley.

Follow this lovely trail a short distance through the Lodgepole Pines and a beautiful high country meadow reveals itself as you exit the forest. Mounds of smooth granite perfectly placed against the brilliant green grasses and intermixed with wildflowers. Classic Yosemite!

The trail follows the edge of the meadow and is actually paralleling the Tioga Road. Although road sounds can be heard on this trail they take nothing away from the natural beauty of the area.

Another trail junction is found halfway through the meadow, a trail to Sunrise Lakes takes off to the left. Your trail continues straight along the edge of the meadow and eventually re-enters a forest where you'll find a hidden lake, the source of all the greenery.

The total distance from the parking area to the little lake is about one mile.

If you're not quite done exploring, continue a little farther and the trail begins to climb through some rocky, exposed terrain as you near Olmstead Point. Views of Clouds Rest and the surrounding mountains seem just a little better from this perspective. Stand alongside the ancient Junipers that seem to grow out of the rock and perhaps contemplate all that they have seen.

Preston Flat Trail

2011-07-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

The Stanislaus National Forest offers some truly great scenery and a multitude of local adventures.

The trail to Preston Falls is a great day hike if you like slightly off the beaten path adventures. This well maintained trail follows the Tuolumne River about 4 miles to a large greenish blue pool fed by the Preston waterfall.

No one seems to know who Preston was but, you can find the remains of his homestead a short distance before the falls.

The trail is lined with moss covered boulders. Light green lichen hangs from the dead branches of the Canyon live oaks and it seems nearly every species of tree is represented in this canyon.

The Tuolumne River is raging right now and the area is still covered with wildflowers.

One of the great things about this trail is that there are many places along the way that you can stop and enjoy the river.

One spot in particular is about 2 miles into the walk. It calls to the weary hiker to set a spell and admire natures creations.

A huge smooth rock perfectly situated for hanging out or picnicking. A small sandy area and easy access to the water. A bend in the river were the gorge empties its fast flowing water into a wide peaceful pool and the only sounds are pure and natural.

The poison oak is quite healthy this year and long pants would be prudent for hikers on this trail.

Those willing to brave the icy water might want to reconsider. These waters are deceiving and undercurrents are swift and dangerous.

This area supports a wide variety of ducks, egrets and herons that nest along the shoreline. The steep canyon walls are impressive and tower one to two thousand feet above the river. Deer, squirrel, quail and a variety of mammals and birds are plentiful in this mixed oak and pine forest as well as a great assortment of song birds.

There are many beautiful places to explore in the National Forest and some of natures best kept secrets are discovered in your own back yard.

Take the time and take a hike! A few stolen hours from your busy day can fill your spirit for a week.
________________________________________________________________________________

Preston Flat Trailhead : From Groveland travel 14 miles East on Hwy 120 to Cherry Lake Road (1N07) turn Left and follow the road 8 miles to the the bridge at Early Intake. The 'town' is actually the housing facilities for employees at the Kirkwood power plant.

Turn Right after crossing the bridge and drive slowly through the residential area and past the powerhouse. The road ends in about a quarter mile at a trailhead parking area.

From Tuolumne City head for Cherry Lake on Forest Service road 14. Continue on past Cherry Lake until you reach the bridge at Early Intake. Do not cross the bridge! Stay on the road that leads into the employee housing area and follow it to the end.

Add this to your daypack!

2011-07-03T15:33:00.000-07:00

Yosemite National Park recommends that all non domestic water be filtered prior to drinking. Water in Yosemite's rivers, creeks and lakes may appear clear but no one can guarantee its safety.

So, you have choices. There are lots of water filters on the market these days that use various methods to rid water of micro-organisms that can make you sick. Filters have a wide range of prices but many are too bulky for day hiking so most people just carry what they think they'll need.

But, how many times have you gone day hiking in Yosemite and had to limit the amount of water you drank because you didn't bring enough? Here's the perfect solution:

This is a carbon filter and is good for 20 gallons. You get some carbon in the first few draws on the straw and have to get rid of it but it's a minor inconvienence for the size, weight and price. (~ $10.00)

Tioga Road Opening!

2011-06-15T14:04:00.000-07:00

Great news for adventurers! The Tioga road through Yosemite National Park will open on Saturday 6/18/11!
Late Afternoon Report - Yosemite National Park
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Because some news just can't wait for tomorrow.

Tioga Road to Open in Yosemite National Park; Visitors urged to take safety precautions while traveling on road - news release
Yosemite National Park Superintendent Don Neubacher announced today that the Tioga Road will open for the season on Saturday, June 18, 2011, at 8:00 a.m. for all vehicle traffic. The Tioga Road, bounded on both sides by State Highway 120, is the popular east-west crossing of the Sierra Nevada. Vault toilets are available in several locations along the road. There are several no-stopping zones along the road, which are clearly marked with road signs. Due to the heavy snowpack this past winter (199% of normal) and a cool spring, there is still several feet of snow in the Tuolumne Meadows area. Hiking opportunities are extremely limited and visitors are urged to use extreme caution in the area. Additionally, ice is prevalent throughout the area and stream crossings are treacherous. All campgrounds along the Tioga Road are closed. All commercial services, including the gas station, store, and village grill, are also closed. There are no anticipated opening dates for any of these facilities at this time. (K. Cobb - 6/15)

A few facts about Lilies

2011-06-11T16:07:00.000-07:00

Here's some information I found interesting when the flowers called 'Fairy Lanterns' appeared along some of my favorite hiking trails near Groveland California, just outside of Yosemite National Park. These flowers are actually called a White Globe Lily but other names include Snow Drops and Indian Bells.
This flower is part of the Lily Family and all lily bulbs are edible. Certain species are cultivated throughout Asia as a food source. But, here in California, wildflowers are protected so everyone can enjoy their scenic beauty. Don't dig them up and eat them!

There's lots of superstition about lilies. The simple fact that the White Globe Lily is commonly known as the 'Fairy Lantern' implies a belief in the existence of fairies.

There is evidence that a few thousand years BC that Lilies were believed to encouraged virtue and purity.

Another story tells of a Korean Hermit who befriended an injured Tiger. When the Tiger died the hermit used his magic to create the Tiger Lily.

However, my favorite comes from the Europeans who believed that sniffing the lilies up close causes freckles!

White Globe Lily (with fruit)

There you have it, more than you ever wanted to know about Fairy Lanterns!

Find out all kind of fun facts with Yosemite Audio Adventures!

Mr. Yosemite - A man named Galen Clark

2011-05-21T21:12:00.000-07:00

Imagine a Southern plantation in the mid 1800's. The two story main house is painted white with wide covered porches and huge compared to today's three bedroom, two bath suburban home. The Victorian style architecture boasts details created by craftsmen who took obvious pride in their work. The expansive lawns are perfectly manicured and it's not hard to imagine women in long skirts with perusals playing crochet.

However, instead of the moss covered trees you'd find in the deep South, add a backdrop of huge pine trees to the picture and you have a place in Yosemite National Park called Wawona.

The Wawona Hotel is the focal point of this area and appears 'out of place' in a National Park where the wood and stone 'parkitecture' style of building is the norm.

Wawona is situated near the Southern tip of Yosemite National Park approximately 4 miles from the Hwy 41 entrance to the park. At this 4000 foot elevation Ponderosa Pine, Incense cedar and Black Oaks are the dominant species of trees. The South Fork of the Merced River meets Big Creek here and the Wawona campground offers campsites along the river.

This is one of the earliest settlements in Yosemite Park, the Indians called this place Pallahchun which means "a good place to stop."

It all began in 1855 when a man named Galen Clark came to Yosemite as a tourist. His doctors had diagnosed him with consumption (known today as tuberculosis) and given him only 6 months to live. Galen Clark fell in love with Yosemite and decided to spend his remaining time on earth in this beautiful place. Clark opened a small modest hotel with a store at the place we know as Wawona. He served meals to weary travelers and provided overnight accommodations for those on the long, hard, dusty journey to Yosemite Valley. He called his place "Clark's Station"

Stage coach travel in those days was very slow, it took sixteen hours to reach the newly discovered Yosemite Valley from the Oakhurst area with stops every four miles to change horses. The journey would require eight more hours of rough travel from Wawona to Yosemite Valley.

Galen Clark is a colorful character in Yosemite history and is known as "Mr. Yosemite." He was the first appointed guardian of Yosemite and was instrumental in gaining protection for Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa grove of big trees.

Clarks station was bought out by the Washburn enterprises who expanded the hotel and eventually renamed it Wawona.

Wawona is a Native American word that means, "the sound of the call of the owl."

The Native Americans considered the giant Sequoia's sacred. They believed that the owl was the guardian of these ancient trees.

The mountain air apparently agreed with Galen Clark. He moved from Wawona to Yosemite Valley where he lived till the age of 96. His obituary distinguishes him as Mariposa County's oldest registered voter.

Galen Clark is buried in the Yosemite Valley cemetery, his grave identified by a chunk of granite he chiseled himself and six sequoia trees that he planted.

Clark is credited with the discovery of the Mariposa grove of giant sequoia trees located about 5 miles South of Wawona at the Hwy 41 entrance to Yosemite National Park.

The Mariposa grove is the largest sequoia grove in the park. It contains approximately 200 trees. Many alive since before the time of Christ.

The Clark Range is named after this historical figure and Mount Clark is the tallest peak in this mountain range at 11,522 feet above sea level.

This area has gone through many changes since the white man arrived, at one time there was a landing strip for airplanes in the Wawona meadow. Today visitors can play golf on a rather challenging course in the meadow directly across from the Wawona Hotel.

The Yosemite Pioneer History Center is located here and visitors can still cross the river on the covered bridge originally constructed by Galen Clark in 1857.

Visit Wawona and explore the Mariposa Grove with Yosemite Audio Adventures.

Great Press for newest adventures!

2011-05-15T12:24:00.000-07:00

http://www.fresnobee.com/2011/05/14/2386417/audio-enhances-tours-of-yosemite.html

Bear Cubs at Wawona

2011-05-10T13:15:00.000-07:00

Wawona campground in Yosemite National Park was quiet on a Thursday morning in early May. The sun was warm, a few campers were moving about, occupied with morning chores. I took advantage of the early morning light and disappeared into the forest on an inviting trail that ran parallel to the swift flowing water of the Merced River's South Fork.

The trail led down to a sand bar composed of rounded river rock and back into the mixed forest. Eventually, the trail disappeared but I couldn't resist continuing downstream discovering nooks and crannies along the way. It seemed Spring had finally arrived in Yosemite.

This section of forest appeared healthy, it was open with scattered boulders, Black Oak trees, Incense Cedars & Ponderosa pines. A carpet of knee deep Bear Clover or Mountain Misery and pine needles covered the forest floor. Any noise caused by my movements was hushed or drowned out by the sound of fast moving Merced River.

I was about a quarter to half mile past the end of the civilized trail when I noticed movement over my right shoulder. Immediately I turned to see a medium size bear about fifteen yards away. She was a rich, dark brown color with a light colored muzzle. The bear saw me at the same time and quickly turned around and began retreating.
It only took a split second for me to spy two very small cubs at her heels. They both turned around several times, obviously confused by Mom's sudden change in direction.
The two cubs were obviously newborns and made a distinctly odd sound as they tried to find their mother on the new reverse route. Mom moved up the slope and found a spot about 50 yards above where she could see me and watched.

My instinct was to flank them and somehow get a good picture but I decided that stalking bears is probably frowned upon in Yosemite and headed back to camp instead. Leaving the bears to enjoy the beautiful Yosemite Forest. The pics aren't good but this was a memorable sighting and I'll never forget that noise. Very Cool Experience - Thanks Universe !

Springtime in Yosemite

2011-04-15T08:18:00.000-07:00

It seems Spring has finally arrived here in Groveland, CA ! Buttercups, Shooting Stars, Forget-Me-Nots and Five Spot decorate the spring green grasses as you travel East on Highway 120 to Yosemite.

National Park week begins tomorrow (4/16) and Earth Day is April 22nd ! The Park Service has a calendar of events and activities planned to celebrate this week.

This is a great time to visit Yosemite National Park and tour Yosemite Valley. Waterfalls are huge this year with the above average Sierra Snow pack and the entrance fee for the park has been waived through April 24th !

If you've never seen the unusual phenomenon known as Frazzle Ice this is the right time of year to experience Yosemite Valley and the surrounding area.

New Yosemite Audio Adventures Tour Guides are now available for the Mariposa and Oakhurst entrances to the park.

Hike to Glen Aulin & Waterwheel Falls

2011-02-06T08:23:00.000-08:00

     Tuolumne Meadows is a popular destination in
Yosemite National Park and certainly one of the most
scenic areas outside Yosemite Valley. Springtime at
this 8500 foot elevation normally occurs in late June
and early July. Water levels are high due to melting
snow and the miles of green meadows accented with
wildflowers and surrounded by granite peaks are a
sight to behold.

      The Tuolumne River begins its journey a few
thousand feet above these beautiful meadows at
the Lyell glacier and meanders through these
lush grasslands before beginning its 5000' descent to
the Hetch Hetchy reservoir.

     Many hiking trails converge at Tuolumne Meadows
including the Pacific Crest Trail and the John Muir
Trail. There are many short, enjoyable day hikes
and backpacking opportunities abound.

     Not far from Tuolumne Meadows there is a "got to
see" place called Glen Aulin. It means "beautiful
valley" in Gaelic and it is home to one of the five
High Sierra Camps of Yosemite. The hike to Glen Aulin
is as nice as it gets. A five and a half mile trail that follows
the Tuolumne river at a slightly downhill grade until
it reaches Tuolumne Falls and drops into Glen
Aulin.

     Although the trip into Glen Aulin can be done in a
day hike of approximately ten to twelve miles round trip,
I would highly recommend a short (two night) backpacking
adventure if you have the opportunity. A leisurely
hike into Glen Aulin is a great start to any adventure
and this campground provides an excellent base camp
for day hiking. Views from this area down into the
"Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne River" are awesome.

    The Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp has a backpackers
campground nearby with some amenities not normally
provided the average backpacker in the wilderness.
(i.e: solar composting pit toilets and bear boxes
that can be shared with other campers)

     Wilderness permits are required for all overnight
stays in the back country. Obtain information on-line. (www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/wildpermits.htm)

     Waterwheel Falls is a well-known day hiking
destination and is located approximately 3 miles
downstream from Glen Aulin. It is a naturally occurring
phenomenon caused by the rocks beneath the waters surface.
The thundering whitewater shoots into the air creating the
appearance of huge spinning wheels.

      Timing is everything here and the best show occurs early
in the season when spring runoff is at its peak and water levels
are high. (Use Caution)

     The trail to the falls is steep and rather strenuous. Negotiating
the large rock 'stairs' leading into the canyon can be physically
demanding but the rewards are worth the effort.

     The spring snow melt is an impressive sight with waterwheels
up to twenty feet tall. But even more memorable is the feeling
you get standing next to the river. It is truly a humbling experience
to feel the enormous power of this liquid entity as it rumbles down
through the canyon.

                        Take the time. Take a hike.

Groveland- Population: Friendly - Elevation: Just Right

2011-01-25T08:26:00.000-08:00

January is turning out to be a terrific month here in the Yosemite area. Beautiful blue skies & sunshine, temps about 60 degrees. Perfect! Groveland is a great location! Above the Central Valley fog and below the Yosemite snow! This is the Stanislaus Forest and hiking trails are everywhere. Stay in Groveland & visit Yosemite with a Yosemite Audio Adventure! http://www.yosemite-tours.org

Hiking with Yosemite Bears

2011-01-21T20:05:00.000-08:00

It was about 2:00 PM on a sunny but crisp Fall day. The waters of the Hetch Hetchy reservoir sparkled in the sunlight. I was coming out of the Yosemite back country, descending the Old Lake Eleanor road at a pretty good pace when I looked up and came to a screeching halt.

Instinctively, I took a few steps backwards as my brain tried to comprehend the image before me.
There, in the middle of the trail, approximately 20 yards in front of me, was a sleeping bear.

The animal was facing my direction lying on a spot in the trail where the sun filtered through the remaining Oak leaves. It's head rested comfortably on the ground between its two large front paws. She opened her eyes, looked at me for a second or two and then closed her eyes again and I wondered if perhaps she wasn't ill or injured.

I began talking to her softly and ventured a little closer. She wasn't a large bear, probably 150 pounds, and I could see no obvious injuries. She appeared to be napping on the sun baked trail.

After a few minutes of watching her sleep it became obvious that she had no intentions of moving so I picked up a small stick and threw it in her direction. She lifted her head, looked at me, licked her paw and went back to her nap.

This section of trail is cut into a steep hillside so the topography prevented me from simply going around the bear. One side of the trail was straight up and the other, straight down, I had to chuckle at the situation.

Finally, I decided that I needed to take a more assertive approach to the situation. I raised my voice, waved my arms above my head and advanced towards the bear. I thought if I could just crowd her a little she would certainly move.

Well, just as I was beginning to worry about our proximity to one another she finally stood up and I stopped.
"Great!" I said aloud, "Now what?" We were less than 6 yards apart and I had one small stick left in my arsenal.

I tossed it at her front paw and sure enough she took a step backwards. But rather than run away she simply moved to the edge of the trail, the downhill or cliff side of the trail to be exact and gracefully climbed about 3 feet up an Oak tree.

She looked much larger from this perspective. Her head was now elevated slightly above mine.

She hung there on the side of the tree looking over her shoulder at me. The sunlight shimmered off the brown tips of her fur. I was thrilled to see her climb but I expected her to keep going. I waved my arms to encourage her to keep climbing but she just stopped, looked back at me again and grunted as if to say, "Well, I moved, go on past."

So, I put on my nicest bear voice, faced her directly and inched past with only 6 or 7 feet between us.

She grunted a few times when we were at our closest but I really didn't feel threatened. We were both essentially in the same predicament. Unsure and cautious but forced into trusting each other. (Of course she did take the side of the trail with an escape route, I was the one inching along with my back to a wall.)

Once past her tree and out of danger I stopped to watch her climb back down and return to the same sunny spot in the trail.

Encounters with bears are rare but not uncommon in this area of Yosemite National Park and hikers should take proper bear precautions and follow park rules.

Winter in Yosemite Valley

2011-01-05T20:42:00.000-08:00

Yosemite Valley is open year around and Winter has it's own challenges and rewards. The pics give you an idea of the incredible beauty here in Yosemite National Park but the temperature on the Valley floor remained a constant 32 degrees so most of the walkways are frozen solid. The hike up to Bridalveil Falls was downright comical. The frozen path proved incredibly challenging to walk on but it did create a fun and entertaining comradery with the other visitors. Those of us that reached the upper landing were then faced with how to get down. My solution, slide. I carry a butt cushion made by Thermorest and it doubles as a sled when needed, doesn't steer very well but Alex and I rode the icy trail the whole way down! Excellent!
'Groveland to Yosemite Valley' Audio Adventure works any time of year. Come visit and dress warm!

People are few, traffic is very light and, least for today, chains were not required although there was considerable packed snow on the roadway around Crane Flat. Go Slow but Go!

Yosemite Audio Adventures Bug Summits Smith Peak

2011-01-04T18:24:00.000-08:00

Alexander Beetle, the Yosemite Audio Adventures Bug has discovered one of those short, close to Groveland, CA easy day hikes that offers some incredible Yosemite views with very little effort and no chains required.

If you're looking for a short adventure, that's not terribly strenuous, visit the Smith Peak Fire Lookout.
Drive up the road from behind the Pines campground or hike the two miles to the top for 360 degree views of the surrounding area. Elevation 3876 '

You can access the road to the lookout (2S16) behind the Pines Campground on Hwy 120 next to the Stanislaus National Forest information office. The road is good and you can drive most of the way up but you have to hike the last section beyond the locked gate.


Smith Peak Fire Lookout


Alex the YAA Bug

Yosemite Region from Smith Peak

The view of the snow covered Hetch Hetchy area and the Yosemite region is awesome.

If you visit during the Summer the tower is staffed but during the quiet of Winter it offers visitors a place to sit, eat and enjoy the view!
Yosemite Audio Adventures is always looking for little gems such as this. This entire adventure only took about 3 hours, surely you can find 3 hours on one of these rare sunny days to escape.

Take the Time, Take a Hike
http://www.yosemite-tours.org

Bothered by Bio-Diesel

2011-01-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

Bio diesel is a really cool way of using old cooking oil to create fuel that can be used to operate a diesel truck or car.
Well, I'm just a little confused about the other side of this coin and frankly, I'm hoping that my addition doesn't add up.
This is what I think I know:
    A) You can't buy diesel cars in California because they pollute more than California emmisions allow
    B) You can buy Diesel trucks in California as long as you license them commercially. It doesn't mean you have to use them commercially, just pay more to DMV.
     C) You can buy diesels outside of California and bring them into California without a problem as long as you license them commercially.

Now, the way I understand it, a vehicle, a diesel pick-up for example, is not required to pass California smog because it can't and, even if you run bio-diesel in it, the truck still cannot pass smog. Is this true?

If so, it's very cool that no petroleum products were used to make the truck operate but if it's putting out more carbon emissions than the gas version of the same truck then ?????? How good is this product really?

I recently saw some tourists driving a rental car to Yosemite National Park. The vehicle was fueled with biodiesel and that is why these visitors rented it. Are these folks really doing a good thing? Would a little gas powered car really put out fewer emissions????

Can anyone explain this one?
Are my facts incorrect?

Snowshoe to a fire lookout!

2010-12-30T21:10:00.000-08:00

There are some excellent places to snowshoe hike just outside of Yosemite near Groveland. One of my favorites is the hike to Pilot Peak. The view from this tower is really incredible.
So, I've decided to visit Smith Peak Fire Lookout on New Years Day! (weather permitting) Accompanying me on this adventure will be the ever faithful, loyal and well mannered dog, Kibbie and the newest addition to the Yosemite Audio Adventures family, the YAA Bug! The little VW (Alex) is ready to go and was out today for the first time today getting a feel for the new steering and suspension.

Christmas at the Hotel Charlotte

2010-12-27T19:31:00.000-08:00

Groveland California had a new event this year. The 'Oops! I Forgot a Gift Fair' hosted by Lynn & Victor of the Charlotte Hotel. Lots of hand made things by local vendors including yours truly with Yosemite Audio Adventures!

FREE Yosemite Audio Travel Guide!

2010-12-17T10:05:00.000-08:00

Yosemite Audio Adventures is always looking for Yosemite Trivia. Just curious if anyone, besides me, knows what this picture is of? Where it was taken? And, the story is behind it?
If you're the first to know or better yet, know more than I do, get a free Yosemite Audio Adventures CD! (Groveland to Yosemite Valley)

Kristy in Groveland, CA wins. An intelligent woman! She did the obvious and called the Ahwahnee Bar. She was told that the mobile was donated.

I was told that it was found in a junk pile by some employee who recognized what it was suppose to be. This person fixed it and then gave it to the Ahwahnee. So Kristy is correct.

However, I'm not satisfied so, the mobile investigation continues.

I contacted the 'Oh Ranger' website and asked about the mobile and still haven't received a response. I should probably mention that 'stump the Ranger' is one of my favorite games and I may have stumbled on a good question here.

Anyway, what I really want to know is who made it? or fixed it? or found it? or donated it?

I heard one story that it was actually made by Alexander Calder, a well known sculpture who specialized in mobiles. Haven't been able to confirm that one either. Not listed on the Calder website but you never know.

So, now you know as much as me.

Mariposa to Yosemite Valley

2010-12-16T19:34:00.000-08:00

I'm just starting the script for a new Yosemite Audio Adventure that begins in Mariposa. This Highway 140 / Arch Rock entrance is a beautiful route, rich in history. I'm looking for a few tid bits of information, historical anecdotes, etc. Anything interesting & preferably odd about this route into Yosemite Valley. Anyone?

2010-12-14T21:43:00.000-08:00

Yosemite National Park News

News Release

For Immediate Release

Yosemite National Park Announces Changes to the
Interim Program for Half Dome Cables Day Use Permits
Permits to Ascend Cables will be Required
Seven Days Per Week

Yosemite National Park announces that Day Use Permits to climb the Half Dome cables will be required seven days per week for the 2011 summer season to increase visitor safety on the cables.

Over the past several years, the popularity of the hike has resulted in large numbers of people using the Half Dome cables, particularly on weekends and holidays. Saturdays and holidays averaged 840 visitors per day, while peak days saw up to 1200 people using the cables. These large numbers of hikers generated significant safety concerns and there was a fatality and serious injuries sustained by park visitors due to these crowded conditions.

The park instituted an interim program for climbing the Half Dome cables in 2010 to address these serious safety concerns. Day Use Permits were required to use the cables on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays during the 2010 season. Although the interim program worked well on the permit days, visitor use on the cables during days in which permits were not required reached peak weekend levels, analogous to peak days before
permits were required.

Therefore, to address the consistent crowded conditions on the Half Dome cables, Day Use Permits will be required seven days per week for the 2011 summer season. The Half Dome cables are generally in place from mid-May through mid-October, depending on snowpack and weather conditions.

The Half Dome Day Use Permits will be available starting March 1, 2011 for climbing the cables in May and June, 2011. Subsequent permits will be available at the beginning of each month for permits three months in advance. Reservations for a permit can be made through www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. Each person climbing the Half Dome cables will be required to have their own permit. Up to four permits may be obtained under one reservation. The permits are free, however, there is a non-refundable $1.50 service charge for each permit obtained.

During this interim program, visitor use and impacts are being monitored. Yosemite National Park Rangers are studying visitor use and safety, assessing the visitor experience, and compiling data that will be analyzed by park managers. An Environmental Assessment process for a long-term plan for the Half Dome cables began public scoping in spring 2010.

A visitor use study on the 2010 Half Dome Cables Day Use Permit is available at http://www.nps.gov/yose/naturescience/half-dome-cables.htm.

To learn more about the Half Dome hike please visit
http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/halfdome.htm

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Media Contacts:
Scott Gediman 209-372-0248
Kari Cobb 209-372-0529

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

This message is sent to you by Yosemite Gateway Partners, on behalf of Yosemite National Park. Please share this information with groups in your communities

Yosemite Gateway Partners is a public charity 501 (c)(3) tax exempt organization
Our tax ID is 27-0372540

South Fork Waterfalls

2010-12-13T19:09:00.000-08:00

Hey there friends and neighbors in the Groveland area! This is a great time of the year to visit some of our local waterfalls! One of my favorite short adventures is down into the canyon below Rainbow Pools. Here, the whitewater crashes through an impressive gorge and moss covered walls tower above your head. This is a short 3/4 mile hike down a maintenance road. It's steep but not slippery and not too painful getting back up. There are lots of impressive waterfalls along the way. Road ends at the old Hetch Hetchy water tunnel.
One of the great things about this mini adventure is that you can do the whole thing and get back to Groveland in about two hours.

Take the Time, Take a Hike

800 Miles of Trails

2010-12-10T07:27:00.000-08:00

For a number of years now I have been on a quest to hike all the trails of Yosemite. This Summer (2011) I'd like to reach 500 miles. To do this I'm planning a great adventure that would take me from Virginia Lakes on the East side of the Sierra to Hetch Hetchy. I'm looking for some easy, lightweight foods / recipes for this excursion. Ideas anyone? What's your favorite backpacking food?

Bears in Yosemite

2010-11-25T19:18:00.000-08:00

I've been hiking solo in Yosemite National Park for a very long time and am pleased to say, I've had many bear encounters. Each one wonderful, unique and educational! A good scoocher as John Muir would say. Finally, I have a place to tell my bear stories. The one below was originally published in the Yosemite Gazette and is part of a collection I call, "Learning from Bears."

1st Snow at Point A

2010-11-20T12:15:00.000-08:00

First snow of the season, an unexpected surprise! Got about 5" of the white stuff and the thermometer read 32 degrees at 7am.

There's something special about waking up to fresh unanticipated snow that brings out the kid in me. I'm instantly wide awake and in a hurry to get outside at the sight of snow in the pale morning light.

What's funny about this is that I hate being wet and I hate being cold but, a morning this pretty just can't be wasted on warmth and comfort!

I've been wondering and even a bit concerned about how my new home would fare in snow. I bundled up and hurried outside to relieve the shed and the slide outs of their snow weight and all seems well. (Got to find a better tool for this job though, the broom doesn't cut it.)

The clouds to the East lifted to reveal the snow covered mountains and that rich blue popsicle sky that I love so much.

Kibbie and I ventured into a tree studded meadow that looked like it should have been a x-mas card picture as the sun rose higher in the sky. Clumps of snow began falling off the trees and we heard that distinctive crack of a large limb breaking in the distance. Must have been a high branch as it took a few seconds before we heard the thump of it hitting the ground.

I don't recall the oaks having their gold leaves in recent snow history, it adds even more color to this wonderful picture. The trails are narrow with the heavy snow on the manzanita bushes and the red berries stand out boldly against the white snow.

Today is a gift from the Universe, why do you think they call it the present? Enjoy!!

Fall in Yosemite & Blue Popsicles

2010-11-16T07:36:00.000-08:00

Fall is my favorite time of year in the Yosemite area. The Black oak trees on the Highway 120 corridor through Groveland California to Yosemite National Park have turned to gold and contrast beautifully against the dark green pines. The dogwoods add their reds to the collage of colors and the foothills at this three to four thousand foot elevation are simply spectacular right now.

The sky is a rich blue that accentuates the snow capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada Range and always reminds me of blue popsicles.

The air is crisp and visitors to the park are few. There's water in the falls and the hiking trails are quiet.
Fall is a wonderful time to visit Yosemite National Park.