northern california: redwoods and yosemite

Officially a California convert over here. There was so much to see and do in the state it was hard to pick and choose. But we focused on the areas we were dying most to see by region. Northern California included the Redwoods and Yosemite. Both were a total hit.

We only planned on camping in the Redwoods for one night, but we ended up staying an extra night because we loved our site and our Aussie neighbors so much (huge shoutout to Matt & Bridie!). We hope to be back one day.

We’ve seen, experienced, and done so many things on this journey but I think Yosemite was my favorite. I’d highly recommend staying in Curry Village if possible; the other camp sites are somewhat removed from Yosemite Valley and Curry Village allows you to be fully immersed in the authentic culture and spirit of the park. There are so many climbers, living out of their cars, eager to talk over a beer in the parking lot. I was fascinated by them.

Another tip: book early. We have literally flown by the seat of our pants this entire trip, and almost didn’t get a campsite in Yosemite. Curry Village books up seasons in advance — we admittedly didn’t even stay there, we just spent our mornings and evenings there before we drove back to camp to sleep.

My favorite moment actually happened our final night headed back to camp. We passed El Capitan, and saw a few cars pulled off. We stopped too and realized the entire mountain was full of flickering flashlights — or headlamps to be exact. Climbers at camp all at different points in their trek up. I found it so beautiful. The world turns and we wake up and go about our day, but at any moment, there are several people climbing that mountain. Experiencing something that they’ll remember forever. I love thinking about that.

Hoping to get around to posting central and southern CA soon. Lots of coastline and sunsets and some pretty rad friends in there, too. I’m a lucky gal.