May 31, 2012
Sentinel and Cook’s Meadow Loop, Yosemite National Park
Total distance walked: 2.25 miles
Last week, Andrew and I explored the Valley Floor Loop in Yosemite National Park. Today, my middle son Michael and I traversed the Sentinel and Cook’s Meadow Loop, but we didn’t overlap with any of the areas that Andrew and I covered last week.
On a warm, sunny afternoon, we began our walk at the Swinging Bridge picnic area. Watching children frolic in the chilly waters below the bridge, we were reminded that, half a century earlier, it had been an actual swinging bridge.
We journeyed to Northside Drive, making our way to Lower Yosemite Falls. Standing at 2,425 feet with three distinct tiers, Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America and ranks as the fifth highest globally. The smallest section, the Lower Fall, measures 320 feet. Joining a crowd at the viewing area, we observed the cascading water, which generated a misty breeze as it descended.
Departing from the roar of the falls, we meandered through the forest and followed a side trail that brought us to a shaded area where John Muir’s cabin once stood. From this vantage point, one can behold the breathtaking panorama of Yosemite Falls in its entirety.
Continuing our journey, we strolled through Cook’s Meadow. The views were spectacular, offering glimpses of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, North Dome, Sentinel Rock, and Glacier Point. Nestled within Cook’s Meadow stands an apple tree, a living legacy of the Yosemite pioneers.
Beneath the bridge, we observed rafters gently navigating the tranquil Merced River. The meadow is crisscrossed with numerous boardwalk trails.
Our brief stroll took us to the Yosemite Chapel, constructed in 1879. It stands as the oldest structure in Yosemite Valley and remains operational to this day. After departing from the chapel, we covered the brief span back to our vehicle.
It was yet another wonderful day, with another one of my sons experiencing even more of what Yosemite has to offer.
Hiking Yosemite and Beyond 