Runners, hikers, jumpers, skiers or just plain walkers are attracted to Yosemite National Park. Bring the whole family, to the most majestic place on earth. With its picturesque landscape and Rolling Meadows, you will see the famous sites of Half Dome, El Capitan, and Glacier Point. In spring, the water falls flow like ribbons of majestic liquid; its beauty is unmatched by any heavenly body of water this side of the Mississippi.

Yosemite is home to many species of wild life and some can be seen feasting on the land and trees like Mother Nature intended. There are many trails for running, hiking and sight seeing for the entire family. If you are a climber, then make your trek to El Capitan and share the experience along side many other avid climbers.

Did you know that both the African American Mounted Infantry and the 9th Cavalry were entrusted with the protection of Yosemite National Park? They had almost completely disappeared from Yosemite’s history. There are some of us who have been there and wouldn't know or care that they ever existed more than 100 years ago. But, in 1903, nearly 400 African-American soldiers made the dusty journey on horseback from the Presidio in San Francisco to Yosemite.
These soldiers had the same responsibilities as their Euro-American counterparts and they had the added burden of race on their shoulders. On one hand, the Buffalo Soldiers were sent to protect parks, routinely telling white visitors what they could and could not do. On the other, these soldiers were a part of a larger society that had difficulty seeing them as symbols of authority. In spite of these challenges, the Buffalo Soldiers fulfilled their mission. This year marks the 107th anniversary of their service in Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks.

For accommodations, I highly recommend the historic landmark “Ahwahnee Hotel” nestled below Half Dome and Glacier Point; it is decorated in authentic Native American Art work which is prevalent in the area. I can also recommend the Tenya Lodge which is just outside the park and also has the Native American theme. The Lodge does offer a few cottages if you want some private space with the family. So, pack up the kids for a splendid vacation and travel just about 3 hours out of the San Francisco Bay to Yosemite National Park. You are certainly in for a treat of a life time in the great outdoors.

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