Yosemite National Park

 October 2nd, 2025  

A new day, but a big one. I had done plenty of research about Yosemite, yet when I arrived, I wasn’t sure where to start. There was simply so much to see and do. This magical place was far larger than I had imagined; something I would soon learn firsthand.

As I moved through the day, I found myself living the law of the universe: everything happens for a reason. We humans, especially in recent centuries, plan too much, think too much, and fear too much. But if we just follow the rhythm of time, day by day, moment by moment, everything else falls into place. Most importantly, we must never regret or doubt our choices, past or future. The river always finds its way.

I woke up around 7 a.m., and the first thing that came to mind was coffee. I quickly gathered my things and went to a nearby market, where the owner greeted me with a smile. When I asked if they had coffee, she laughed and said, “Everyone wants coffee this morning!”

By 8:17 a.m., I reached the Yosemite National Park entry sign and began driving toward Yosemite Valley as my destination. The drive itself was stunning: endless campgrounds, trails, and breathtaking views. You could easily spend a year here, not just a day. Before reaching Tunnel View, I spotted a large black bear with two cubs crossing the road.

I stopped at the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area to use the restroom, then grabbed my backpack and began exploring the valley on foot. The roads were confusing, so I decided to wander and get a sense of direction. I eventually chose the Yosemite Falls Trail and started hiking around 9 a.m.

The trail was busy with hikers speaking different languages. By 11:30 a.m., I reached Columbia Rock and continued toward Upper Yosemite Falls. The hike was steep, full of stairs, and reminded me of the Manitou Incline in Colorado. I reached my physical limit by the time I arrived at the falls. The weather was mild and sunny, perfect for hiking. Several people mentioned seeing bears, so I stayed alert, but no luck!

Most hikers stopped at the main viewing falls area, content to rest and take in the view. After taking a few photos, I decided to go further into the falls. There was only one other person down there, so I offered to take his photo from above, and he did the same for me. The waterfall had a light flow, still beautiful. We shook hands and started talking. His name was Farhang, originally from Iran, now living in Sacramento, also a runner and passionate hiker. We exchanged socials, took a few photos, and enjoyed a great conversation.

I spent about 30 minutes resting inside the falls, eating snacks, refilling my water, and just soaking in the sound of water, the sunlight, and the crisp mountain air.

When it was time to move on, I had three options: hike back, go toward El Capitan (a 10-mile round trip to the falls), or head toward North Dome. Since I hadn’t gotten the Half Dome permit lottery I applied for a few days ago, I decided on North Dome. I had plenty of water, snacks, and daylight left (If I go fast)

I passed Sierra Point, took a few photos, and began the four-mile trek toward North Dome. That stretch will remain one of the best times I’ve ever had in nature, profoundly peaceful and healing. The silence was alive with whispers of wind through pine needles and the gentle trickle of streams. The air carried the earthy scent of moss and wet soil. I felt deeply connected, as if seeing the true essence of humanity, where our ancestors once lived among forests and animals.

Beautiful meadows, soft sunlight, and the distant murmur of Lehamite Creek made the trail feel timeless. I met a hiker and asked if there was another trail that goes to the valley other than the falls trail (I usually don’t like to go back the same way, if possible). He showed me a map and suggested an alternate route (Snow Creek Trail) back to Yosemite Valley, a few miles longer but worth it.

I reached North Dome by 1:40 p.m., took photos and videos, had a snack, and reluctantly started heading back. The view was majestic and powerful. On the way down, I met two French hikers.

We hiked for about 20 minutes together; they spoke limited English, but we managed to communicate. They shared that they are planning to hike El Capitan the next day. They had been to Sequoia and Canyonlands National Parks, and they were also taking the Snow Creek Trail back to the valley. Before I sped ahead, I wished them good luck and started hiking back to the  valley with 10 miles ahead.

For the first five miles, I didn’t see another soul.  just endless, raw wilderness: burned trees, meadows, deer, and, finally, a massive bear with two cubs. The trail was long, and the miles stretched endlessly. Every time I wanted to rest, I reminded myself: You are supposed to run an ultramarathon next year, keep going.

I finally reached Yosemite Valley around 6:42 p.m.; I thought I would still have to walk four more miles to my car, but a shuttle sign caught my eye. I doubted any service was running that late, yet as I started walking away, a woman shouted, “The bus is coming!” I thanked her and was so grateful to catch it. I clocked my hike at 19.94 miles in 7 hours and 37 minutes. What was supposed to be an easy 10-mile day turned into an ultra-training session.

On the bus, I realized Yosemite Valley was like a small town, packed with hotels, shops, restaurants, and even EV charging stations. I chatted with a friendly group, some of whom seemed to be from Wisconsin, who talked about cheese and beer. When I mentioned hiking nearly 20 miles today, one lady laughed and said, “You need food!” I replied and a “beer”

After getting off the bus near the Falls parking area, I struggled to find my car in the dark rain. My GPS confused me, and I wandered for nearly 40 minutes before realizing my Strava app had recorded my starting point, and my first guess had been correct all along.

Finally reunited with my car, I changed into dry clothes and drove to Yosemite Lodge Food Court, which was buzzing with people. I ordered a beer and food from one of the self-order kiosks, ate slowly, and replayed the day in my mind.

It was getting late, and I still needed a place to sleep. Every campground I checked was full. except one. Thankfully, I managed to reserve the last available spot at North Pines Campground.

By 9 p.m., I arrived, set up my tent, made ginger tea, and settled in as the rain fell softly through the night.