If you like hiking through ancient forests with breathtaking views of canyons and rushing rivers and the tallest trees you have ever seen, with birds singing above you and leaves and sticks crackling and crunching beneath your feet, you might love Sequoia National Park.

I said to Dan several times, “This place is a photographer’s dream.” It seemed like everywhere I turned, there was another awe-inspiring view.

First, we drove to several scenic spots, jumped out of the van, and captured a few quick photos.

Then, we found our first spot to hike, called, “Moro Rock.” It was a bit of a strenuous climb uphill for me–especially since I am still suffering (for more than 3 years now for goodness’ sake!) with plantar fasciitis in my left heel. It was also a bit hard to breathe with the thin air in the higher elevations. Not to mention all the flowers pollenating everywhere have been triggering my seasonal allergies. But, I still loved every minute of this hike and would do it again in a heartbeat. Perhaps everyday if we lived there!

Here are some photographs I took from the climb up Moro Rock.

I am proud to say that we successfully climbed the 350 steps to the top of the rock, and were rewarded with some indescribably magnificent views! And, we sat and rested our feet for a few minutes!

I think I must’ve spent so much time photographing flowers because I was tired and wanted an excuse to stop and breathe. Anyway, thanks to Dan for his patience! And, they were pretty flowers, right?! I was amazed that they were just growing from the side of a rock! (They are the same flowers from the pictures above–just closer-up. Don’t worry–I did not climb over the ledge–I just used my telephoto lens! ;))

After our Moro Rock climb, we had a quick lunch in the van and then drove to another beautiful hike called the, “Congress Trail,” where we spent several hours viewing trees and wildlife–and we even found a few rustic cabins in the woods!

And, of course I stopped and photographed every beautiful plant and/or creature I (or Dan) spotted. (Usually Dan spots them first because his eyes are better than mine!) So, he points in the general direction, and I set up my camera to capture the image. I honestly can’t think of anything I love doing more than photographing. Except maybe thrift shopping. But, it’s close.

Probably the funniest thing(s) I will remember from this hike are:

(1)Every time I said I was hungry, Dan would say, “Do you want a cookie?” I obviously said, “Yes,” and he would reach in his pocket and pull out a cookie for me. Turned out, he had a whole pocket full of oatmeal cookies!

(2) I had to pee SO badly that I was desperate, and Dan suggested I go behind a bush. I responded that I didn’t have any toilet paper, so he reached in his other pocket and pulled some out. It made me wonder what else I should ask for! Guess my Eagle Scout came prepared!

And, of course, we capped off our hike with a viewing of the General Sherman tree, which is said to be the largest tree in the world! (We sure look tired, don’t we!)

Next, we made a quick stop in Kings Canyon National Park for some more scenic photos–as if we hadn’t already had enough–and snacks in the van.

And now, we are on to our next adventure!

Bye for now!

XO,

Joanna