26 Oct Finding Solace in Yosemite: A Perfect Getaway

Written By: Mariola Menendez

As we reflect on Mental Health Awareness Day on October 10th, it’s essential to emphasize the
significance of this day in our fast-paced world. The pressures of college, combined with the
hectic pace of city life, such as in bustling San Francisco, can take a toll on mental well-being.
Considering these concerns, I want to share a journey that has personally helped me combat
anxiety and find tranquility. Yosemite National Park, with its awe-inspiring natural beauty,
played a pivotal role in this process.

First things first, if you plan to visit Yosemite, renting a car is a must. The park covers vast
distances, and it’s a journey from one point of interest to another. For our stay, we chose
Mariposa, one of the nearest towns to the park, which still took us an hour and a half to reach the park entrance. To simplify car rentals, I recommend using the “Turo” app, offering a variety of car sizes and pickup locations throughout San Francisco.

For accommodations, we opted for Airbnb and stayed in a charming cabin nestled in the forest,
complete with a spacious terrace for unwinding after long days in the park.

Now that the logistics are out of the way, I want to tell you about the most remarkable spots in Yosemite.

Big Oak Flat Information Station: Our first stop, located near the park’s entrance, was more than just a visitor center. Besides its American-style horror camp film aesthetic, the friendly staff assisted us in planning our itinerary, providing maps, and highlighting key must-see locations. The station also houses a souvenir shop stocked with books on Yosemite’s rich birdlife and diverse flora and fauna.

Lake Tenaya: As we continued our adventure, we encountered a serene Lake Tenaya. Its crystal-clear waters and tranquil ambiance make it an ideal spot for relaxation. Along the way, we were fortunate to spot deer, a common sight in Yosemite.

Olmsted Point: Craving panoramic vistas of the valley, we headed to Olmsted Point. This viewpoint offers breathtaking views of Yosemite’s remarkable landscape, including the iconic Half Dome.

Tunnel Tree Trail: Our exploration also led us to Tunnel Tree Trail, where we encountered the famous giant sequoias that are synonymous with California. These towering trees are a sight to behold, and learning about their unique characteristics is a humbling experience.

Salto Yosemite: Lastly, Yosemite Falls captivated us with its majestic grandeur. The cascading waters offer not only a spectacle of nature’s grandeur but also a refreshing respite from the heat, making it a memorable part of our journey.

Yosemite National Park is a sanctuary of natural beauty, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of San Francisco. It provided us with the perfect escape to rejuvenate our minds. As we navigate the challenges of modern life, it’s essential to find solace in places like Yosemite, where nature’s serenity can help mental well-being.