Sequoia National Park, California

The view from the top of Morrow Rock.

After my trip to Delaware, I headed off to California with my Little One.  The intent of my California trip was for my family to meet my son and also for me to go hiking (assuming I had a babysitter).  I chose to go to Sequoia National Park because it was a park I hadn't gone to and it was close enough to where my parents lived.

On the day of my trip, after securing a babysitter for my son, I picked up a good friend and off we went.  We entered the park from the southern entrance rather than the northern entrance.  It was sunny and hot, but once we got closer to the mountains and went up in elevation, it got colder.  It was beautiful and the skies were clearer so that the mountains in the distance were visible, but the smog and pollution from the cities created a distinct haze in the horizon.

It was humbling to see the humongous sequoia trees and wonderful to be with nature.  It was also wonderful to walk and talk with my friend.  Because we headed out in the late morning, we only hiked a fraction of the park.  We didn't get to see the General Sherman (the largest tree in the world) because I wanted to climb Morrow Rock.  It was a moderate climb, as I encouraged my friend to keep going (apparently, she has become more afraid of heights as she ages).  Once at the top, it was easy to see that the view was well worth the climb; it was so beautiful and breathtaking.

A babbling brook.

The Meadow.

We left the park as the sun began to set.  The drive down was twisted and curvy, so I wanted to drive it while there was light out.  As we drove home, I wondered why it took me so long to go visit Sequoia National Park, when I had lived near it for years.  I'm sad that it took me all of these years to appreciate its beauty, but I hope to be back again.  Maybe, I'll even stay a night or two, if there's a next time.

On my way up Morrow Rock.

The view at the top of Morrow Rock.

Heading back down from Morrow Rock.

Have you gone on any hikes lately?