Just this past weekend, I had the privledge of going to the Yosemite National Park in California and let me tell you, it's an amazing location.
COST:
The park costs $20 a car to enter, so the best deal is to pack your mini van full of people and just split the costs.
WHAT'S THERE:
Among the many attractions are Half Dome (a giant rock that literally looks like half a dome), several lakes and rivers, numerous waterfalls, and a glimpse into what the world looked like before man took over. The state park is huge and has a variety of trails that you may take, ranging from those that are kid friendly and those that are going to challenge your body and livlihood. (My group and I went on the 8.6 mile panoramic trail...i haven't been able to walk yet and it's been two days since we went -__-) But despite the pain, it was worth it. The highlight of the trip for me was walking next to Verona Falls and being showered by the mist that came from the falling water. It was like being inside a Lever2000 commercial. Simply breathtaking
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR:
Being summer, there were a lot of people there with their kids, so try to get there early to beat the crowds. Make sure you bring walkie-talkies and go with people...just in case anything were to happen, you have some means of getting help. Bring lots of water because you will run out if you go on the harder trails. There are areas to refill your water, but they are few and far apart. Wear lots of sunblock and mosquito repellant because those suckers can't wait to get a taste of you. If you're going to camp there, remember to keep your food and stuff in the bear bins...And please be careful...The trails are steep and dangerous so keep your focus.
more