During the spring time in Yosemite National Park, the water-levels are at their highest, as the sun warms the granite and melts the winter snow. As this magical landscape sheds its winter coat, the rushing water flows down waterfalls and cascades. One of those is the Royal Arch Cascade located near the iconic granite arches of Royal Arches. This cascade can only be seen during the springtime as the snow is melting because there is little soil to retain the groundwater. So, what does this mean? Well, imagine the warming sun comes out and the water has no place to go but down! Yup, that is right, Royal Arch Cascade becomes an epic waterslide!
We turned the corner and pointed our headlights for Cooper’s Landing. We didn’t totally have a destination, but knew we wanted to explore the Kenai Peninsula. We got lucky. As we passed Cooper’s Landing, Kristin suggested we take a left down a dirt road to quickly check out this massive lake we just saw. Bumping down the road, we found beaches, free camping, great hiking, and a magical place called Kenai Lake.
Have you ever stumbled upon a place without knowing what it is supposed to look like and are left completely dumbfounded by its beauty? Well, when I decided to make the hike out to Crocker Point for the first time, that was exactly what happened to me. I didn’t even know this vista point had a name, but I was taken back by its beauty, its grandeur, and the alignment of El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall. All together, my first experience seeing Crocker Point made me realize this underrated vista point might actually be the most incredible view in all of Yosemite Valley.
Just a few miles up from Tunnel View is a similar view called Inspiration Point. Some people swear it is better, while others say the hike is not worth the trek. They are both correct. Yosemite Valley has tons of view points that are all similar with just a little bit of difference. Some views are slightly more aligned and some are a bit higher than others, but provide the “same” view. But, that is only if you care about the view at the destination. If you are in Yosemite Valley to hike and explore different spots, taking in the changing views as they come, then does it really matter what the end view is?
Bumping down the dirt road to the Freel Peak Trailhead, we had a crazy idea in mind. My climbing partner and I, for our rest day, decided it was time to give peak bagging, aka hiking to the top of a peak, a try. Not really sure what we were getting ourselves into we were giddy with excitement. Sleeping the van, I am not sure if either of slept. Maybe it was the lentil soup that bloated our bellies, or maybe, it was the excitement. Regardless, we knew attempting to tackle the Tahoe Triple would be an adventure.
If you are an avid rock climber and are itching to climb on rock outside, Sunshine Ridge is your answer. Located close to Anchorage, Alaska along the Seward Highway is a wonderful rock climb to gain confidence and learn how to place trad gear. This route is rated 5.7, however most would claim it is something more like 5.5. Without getting into the weeds about grades, the route is fun and has quality rock, which is a surprise for the area.
Halfway between Lake Tahoe and Mount Whitney there are two lakes tucked away in the Eastern Sierra mountains filled with fish, readily available fishing, and a glassy waters that are asking to be paddled upon. Located in Bridgeport, California, Twin Lakes are a hidden gem perfect for a weekend get away, or a week long family camping trip. Not only does Twin Lakes have some of the best flatwater kayaking, accessible to all levels of kayakers, but there is stellar hiking, hot springs to soak in, and trees to hang a hammock.
Fish tacos, a few beers, and sunburns, that is often what Baja Mexico gets its name for, but that isn’t all this 1000 mile peninsula has to offer. The golden beaches often have surf-able waves, the mountains contain waterfalls, and the salty-waters are home to one of the most diverse aquatic biospheres. When you come down to Baja for vacation, you could sit on the beach, or you could make memories that will last you a lifetime when you step a little outside of your comfort zone and head out on an epic adventure.
Bridalveil Falls in Yosemite Valley is the second most popular waterfall in Yosemite National Park. Before plummeting the 620 feet, the water travels 10 miles from Ostrander Lake located in the high country. Many recognize Bridalveil Falls from photographs of Tunnel View.
Forty miles southeast of Anchorage, on the Seward Highway, lies the small town of Girdwood, Alaska. Full of character and outdoor enthusiasts, this seemingly sleepy town has some of the best access to adventures big and small. With the Chugach Mountains as a backyard and the Turnagain Arm as the front yard, the options for adventure are endless, so you just have to decide what you want to do. Which can be hard. So, I tried to make it easy for you and created this of the best adventurous things to do near Girdwood, Alaska.
For years, I have been itching to surf the bore tide in Alaska, but I never thought the opportunity would arise, but today was the day! By some miracle I was in Alaska and had the opportunity to surf the bore tide with a college buddy, so we inflated his paddle boards and headed out in the Turnagain Arm for some bore tide surfing. The joke was kinda on me as I epically failed, but you have to watch this video to find out how I failed!
Hiking Byron Glacier during the summer is a treat. From the trailhead, the cool breeze from the glacier and the rushing river sounds draw you into a mystical mindset as you approach the ice cave. After hiking for a 1.5 miles, you reach the entrance to the cave. Looking dark and daunting, as you enter, your eyes quickly adjust and reveal the magic that is the Byron Glacier Ice Cave hike.
When you arrive in Yosemite Valley, one thing you will immediately notice are the waterfalls. In every direction, you will find waterfalls that can, and will, take your breath away as you stare at their beauty. Many of them have names and one of my favorites is Ribbon Fall near El Capitan. This waterfall is often “hidden” in plain sight as Ribbon Fall is often in the shadow of El Capitan. However, once you start to spend some time in Yosemite National Park, you will realize this delicate waterfall dances with the wind and shimmers in the sunset light, unlike any other waterfall in Yosemite.
With Lake Tahoe being such a huge lake, surely you are asking yourself, “Where the best spots to kayak and paddle-board around Lake Tahoe?” Well, look no further because Zephyr Cove is one of the best places to kayak and SUP in all of Lake Tahoe, giving you access to those giant boulders everyone is posting about on social media.
Red dirt, a history of cowboys, landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see, and sandstone towers reaching towards the sky are all iconic concepts of the American West. However, there are few cities that demand the respect of adventurers alike more than Moab, Utah. It is here, in this desert oasis, where you will find an adult playground that will blow your mind when you visit for the first, or the 10,000th, time.
What better thing to do during the weekend than go surfing. Austin Smith Ford and I did just that. Heading north four miles out of Santa Cruz to surf a fun, local wave. We avoided the crowds, we had an epic surf session during the sunset even though the waves were small.
As you plan your visit to Yosemite Valley, make sure to add in some time to just sit and relax. Soaking up the scenery and embrace the opportunity you have to be in Yosemite Valley. Try not to run around from dusk till dawn, so you can hang with friends and appreciate the gorgeous views Yosemite Valley has to offer.
Rainbow Lakes are a hidden gem between Kenai Lake and Cooper Lake. This chain of lakes is not very large, but Rainbow Lakes offers wonderful views—especially at sunset— and short hikes accessible to all. The trails are maintained and many of the lakes have a bench you can sit at to enjoy the view. Additionally, there is camping and fishing at all of these lakes, so bring a tent and stay for the weekend.
