My nephew, Evan Lemire, had the urge to hike to the top of Half Dome in the Yosemite Valley. He flew all the way from New Zealand to make the hike and inspired the rest of the family to join in. We got up before dawn to begin the long hike.
5:54 The sky is just beginning to lighten as we get our first glimpse of our goal.
6:31 The well travelled path to the bridge looking up at Vernal Falls is the smoothest part of the hike.
6:48 The Merced is at high levels in late July due to heavy snowfall over the winter, and the water is gushing over Vernal Falls, giving proof to the name Mist Trail. We are all soaked and exhilarated.
7:08 Liz, Leslie, John, Scott, and Patty are shown here at our rest stop at the top of the falls for quick recharging and soaking up the presence of the river.
7:23 Here is our first glimpse of Half Dome since we started to climb. The sunlight makes it brilliant in the morning air.