Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite
Located near Yosemite National Park’s south entrance, Tenaya Lodge is so much more than a hotel. It's a destination.
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Yosemite is located southeast of the Sierra national forest, northeast California.
It's is well known for its stunning waterfalls, deep valleys, lush meadows, giant Sequoias, and of course, the famous "El Capitan," the epic rock that climbers from all over the world flock to scale. Yosemite's 1,200 square miles of park offers plenty of wilderness areas, camping, hiking, lodging, and more. It's the perfect place to escape from city life and become one with nature.
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Top Things to See and Do in Yosemite
MUST DO: Attractions & Activities
MUST VISIT: Gay-Friendly Bars & Nightlife
Yosemite doesn't have a gay scene, nor any scene other than a "nature scene." After all, it's a National Park, so the only scenes you'll be seeing are the scenic views of the Sierras. It's mother nature's way of telling you to take this time to unplug, unwind, and let nature show you the amazing sceneries it has to offer.
The best time to visit Yosemite is from June through September. This way, all of the hiking trails and parts of the park will be open to the public. It's also optimal camping weather for those of you who like to sleep under the stars.
You may ask yourself what exactly is there to do in Yosemite, and where do you start? Below, you'll find some good ideas on what to do while visiting the park.
Go Hiking - Yosemite has a lot of hiking trails with everything from an easy stroll to a more difficult hike. Whatever is your skill level or trail you choose, the view will be breathtakingly amazing.
Go Camping - Yes! You can camp in Yosemite. You can bring your camp gear with you or "glamp out" in an RV. Be one with nature and venture forth into the wilderness. The view at night is especially spectacular, and you don't want to miss it.
Go Rock Climbing - Feeling adventurous? Why not try rock climbing? Climbers from all over the world flock to Yosemite to try and scale El Capitan and the Half Dome. These jaw-dropping structures are stunning. There are other smaller rocks you can hike up or try to scale if those structures are a tad too tall for or just a bit scary. The nice thing is, no matter where you climb, you'll probably bump into another friendly rock climbing enthusiast that may offer some tips or maybe some healthy encouragement.
Yosemite Village Shops - Yes, there are shops at the Park! The shops offer an array of locally sourced honey, wine, handmade soap, and snacks from local farmers. Also, the stores carry other handy items you may want or need while camping. Check out what fun stuff you can find in the shops; it's sure to be one of a kind.
While there is no upscale "foodie" scene in Yosemite, there are events throughout the year in which chefs from all over the county come and whip up some special tastings. Also, during the Fall, select vineyards come to offer wine tastings, all in the backdrop of the Sierras.
If you happen to go during a time when there are no food events, don't fret! There are plenty of lodges in Yosemite that have restaurants with delicious meals waiting for you.
Yosemite has no nightlife, and that's OK! Instead of nightlife, why not partake in some of Yosemite's night activities? Stargazing is incredible in Yosemite. Bring a telescope to take advantage of the non-light polluted sky. Or just as stellar, stare up at the celestials and see what they have to show you.
Yosemite is a safe and inclusive place to travel. While you are there, feel free to be yourself. Everyone around you will have one thing in common, a love and appreciation for the great outdoors. Put on your best-hiking boots and take a stroll. You're in for a treat!
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