Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Parks are featured in a series of note cards that honor the Centennial Celebration of the National Park Service. This card set contains photos of special places in Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Parks from our visits. One of our greatest joys during our travels around the world has been exploring our National Parks in all of the seasons.
Grand Canyon and Yosemite National Parks have always been two of our favorites, and being native Californians, have always been easily accessible to us. We’ve been to both many times over the years as we trailer camped, tent camped and toured by car, staying in the Park facilities and in nearby hotels. Capturing the light as it enhances the natural beauty is a photographer’s dream.
Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon has been a favorite place to trailer camp. On one trip, we hired a geologist to take us on a tour of the south rim and into the Painted Desert.
The fall light angled perfectly in both daylight and as the sun began its descent below the rim. The play of sunlight and shadows deepened the natural beauty of the geologic features and allowed the colors to tell the story of the beauty of this National Park in the Arizona desert.
President Obama’s speech on how climate change
is affecting Yosemite and our National Parks
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite has been a favorite for many years as we camped, backpacked and stayed in the lodges and hotels in the park and nearby. Its natural beauty exemplified in the contrast between the stark granite cliffs and the tumbling waterfalls brings visitors from around the world. We always felt fortunate to have it in our “back yard.”
In the midst of the California drought, we joined some friends for a visit to the Park, not expecting to see much water. We were gratified to see the water still falling over the cliffs at both Yosemite and Bridalveil Falls.
It was spring, and a perfect day for photography as we broke off from our friends and just followed our noses through the Valley, searching for unforgettable views.
As we drove around Yosemite Valley, I looked for a unique view of Upper Yosemite Falls. We finally found it as we walked down to the Merced River and followed our nose along the edge, looking for the serene reflection that exemplified the calming force of nature. This is the gift that makes our National Parks a valuable national asset.
As we approached Bridalveil Falls, I was reminded of the winter visit we had, with snow encrusting the surrounding trees and the falls down to a trickle. To see it in its spring glory, even during a drought, was a treat for city-sore eyes.
*Photographs are also available as prints at my Etsy store.
*Check out FindYourPark.com to find your park learn about upcoming centennial events near you and share your stories.
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