The first time I went to Yosemite I was 7. My dad and I took a road trip, just the two of us. Driving into the Valley for the first time on Highway 120 and seeing Half Dome glow in the morning light is a moment I will never forget. I remember looking at my dad and seeing his smile, then turning down the radio so he could hear me say, “I am so happy you brought me here.” On that April day, we hiked to Nevada Fall, and it is truly one of my happiest childhood memories.
Eleven years later, the summer after I graduated high school, my dad and I would find ourselves back on the Mist Trail overlooking Nevada Fall. Three days before my 18th birthday, when my parents asked me how I would like to celebrate, I begged my dad to apply for the Half Dome cables permit lottery. He agreed, likely thinking it was a small chance we would win. Twenty-four hours later, we were packing up the car to head back into the Valley for, arguably, the most iconic hike in the world.
I spent my last night of childhood sharing a bed with my dad in a motel off Highway 120. When we woke up at 3 am to start our day, my dad gave me a birthday cake–flavored PowerBar, and we made our way to the trailhead behind Curry Village.
Everyone we encountered on the trails had a similar positivity, appreciation, and gratitude to be where we were that day. The rangers checking our permits noticed it was my 18th birthday, and they made me feel so special. At the summit, I couldn’t help but let out a few tears of joy. I had never felt so simultaneously proud of myself and appreciated and loved by others.
I am so grateful for my family and our environment for providing me with peace and joy that I will never forget. Having spaces to recreate, adventure, and connect with loved ones is so important. I love Yosemite for giving me these memories with my father and for being such a special refuge for all.
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