I was ready to go on a hike in Yosemite and I chose the Mist Trail. But when Thing 2 found out the strenuous trail climbs 1,000 feet, she complained. The ranger at the visitor center recommended we take the moderate trail to the Vernal Falls footbridge. With an elevation of 400 feet, the 1.4-mile hike was a better option.

We took the shuttle to the Happy Isles stop. This is the same trail that hikers take to Nevada Falls and to hike Half Dome. The area was bustling with activity and people. Since it’s the last stop for restrooms and drinking water, we stood in a long line to fill up our water bottles.

Afterwards, we walked up to the Happy Isles Nature Center. Although small, families seemed to enjoy looking at exhibits while kids sat at tables doing art work. (more…)