Day 11 - Yosemite

Today we went to Yosemite National Park and Geoff was keen for an early start so we left around 8.00am. Coaches were not permitted in parts of the National Park and therefore Geoff wanted ours to be the first coach to the bus stop. The bus into Yosemite left at 9.00am and we got there in time after a photo stop at a wonderful viewing point. The bus took us to the Mariposa Grove and there was an optional tram ride around the trail. We paid $22 each for the tram which was worth the money as you each received a headset to listen to the commentary. The tram stopped at interesting sights so you could get off and walk around. The alternative to the tram ride was a long walk and some of it was uphill. The tram ride was very cold as the sunlight did not reach through the trees and there was a very cold breeze. Eve a thin jacket would not have provided much warmth. From here we took the bus to the Visitor’s Centre and as explained the day before, a packed lunch would be best. We had forgotten to take our lunch out of the fridge in our room so we had to go to the food court after all. It was exactly as Geoff described. There were queues for the food, then queues to pay for the food, then queues for the tables. By this time your food was nearly cold. The place was packed and somewhat spoiled the picturesque view. We went for a walk into a meadow and the place was tranquil, a complete contrast to the food court. Others on our tour rented bikes and there was also a complimentary bus service which was hop on hop off. We went a little way along from the Visitor’s Centre and walked back, the bus however did a full circle. We looked around the Visitor’s Centre and found a bar which served food. It was very quiet and had picture windows, we wished we had gone there for lunch. The drinks prices were high though the food prices were not as bad. From here we could get back on our coach and we went straight back to the hotel. There was an optional BBQ that evening for $22 which was a coach ride away and we enjoyed it for the company alone. The BBQ was at the Sierra Sky Ranch and was outdoors. Although it did not include burgers or alcohol, it was worth the money. Wine was $10 per bottle and quite nice. Once everyone had eaten we were asked if we wanted to go indoors as it was getting a little cold. The staff were great and were handing out complimentary tea and coffee. Everyone was in a very good mood and it wasn’t long before the group started singing. This continued even after Geoff announced it was time to go back to the hotel. Once everyone was back at the hotel the singing stopped and everyone went to bed.