Cloud's Rest, a classic Yosemite hike

Hike up to Clouds Rest in Yosemite. For some time now, I've wanted to do this one. A mid-telephoto lens would build a wonderful panorama of the valley. Just getting there when there were no active fires was the trick... early in the year with low risk of fire you have to hike up from the valley floor, and that is over 20 miles. Later in the year when Tioga Road opens its a good day hike but that's summer and you have to dodge fires. I think I got lucky on this one and just caught the valley with a wisp of smoke to give a hint of summer conditions, but still able to see all the features clearly. Lots of squirrels and deer kept me company on the hike, and a couple fauns danced in a meadow right near the parking lot.