Last summer I was looking for something to do to stretch myself and I had several trips in mind, most of them to remote places in foreign lands:) I was going through a difficult time in my life and I needed to find myself. I needed space. A good friend suggested I stay within the country and travel to Yosemite National Park. She thought it would be the perfect place to find some peace and clear my mind. So in my usual style I took it to the next level and decided that if I was going to take the trip I was going to hike the most difficult trails I could find. I booked a reservation to Yosemite and applied for the lottery to climb the Cables at Half Dome. If you’re not familiar with the cables at Half Dome you can click on the link to find out more:)
It was my first big hiking trip and to be honest my first real trip solo to a place I had never been. After flying from Minneapolis to Fresno, driving to Yosemite National Park, and finally arriving at my destination at the Awahnee Hotel I felt both a bit liberated and relieved. Although I never obtained a permit to climb the cables I did however hike; ALOT.
2014 Yosemite Hike. That’s Half Dome in the Background!
My daily ritual began with getting up every morning, (checking in with the concierge who checked on me every day to make sure I left and returned safely♥) and walking out the door to begin my hiking journey by 8 a.m. I usually returned to the hotel around 5 in the evening sweaty, dirty, and tired. I would then take an immediate left and head straight to the bar to talk with the friendly bartenders and order a couple of cold beers. One beer to drink there and one to take back to my cabin. Yes, I had a couple of beers. It was over 100 degrees when I was in Yosemite and I’m from Wisconsin. Enough said.
Hiking in Yosemite was an believable experience. (Thank you Shelly♥) I met great people from all over the globe and the scenery was indescribable. When I look at the photos from that trip I still think they look fake and in reality the photos don’t do justice to the real beauty.
If someone’s ever told you to take a hike, do it. Hiking is like moving meditation so it’s a great way to clear your head. It’s also good for your soul to be close to nature and take in the fresh mountain air.
View for the kimbentley Fitness Fashion Friday Hiking Gear segment on HELLO WISCONSIN, WEAU TV-13. The Product list will give you brands, prices, and where to buy information for the items shown on the segment!
Here’s to finding your style,™
Kim
