While there's something to be said for taking long, arduous hikes to the top of peaks for a majestic valley view, there's also something to be said for taking casual strolls through a scenic valley for views of majestic peaks. They are both perfectly acceptable ways of appreciating nature, although the former, to some, seems more admirable or worthwhile due to the effort required for the rarer vantage points. I don't necessarily agree. It may be true that fewer eyes have beheld the sight, but difficulty seldom determines splendor.

I believe the beauty of places like Yosemite doesn't depend on the level of exertion or elevation. It depends on a person's willingness to stop and use his or her senses to experience it all. It requires patience.

Last Saturday, after eating a tasty Deg muffin, we hiked behind Yosemite Village, along a trail that starts from Lower Yosemite Fall and continues beyond Mirror Lake in Tenaya Canyon. That is, at least, what the map claimed. In reality, the trail led us only as far as Ahwahnee Meadow.

Houses stand at the western edge of the open field. One or two of the larger bungalows have picture windows providing lucky residents with an unobstructed view of Half Dome. Waking up and seeing that every morning must be incredible.

We took our time crossing the valley, stopping every now and then to take photos or to simply stop. We eventually made our way back to Curry Village to pick up the car and drive to Badger Pass, Yosemite's ski area. It would be nice to brag about hurtling myself down steep snow slopes, but the closest I came to hurtling myself down anything was the staircase to the bathroom (and even then, I descended in careful, measured steps).

• All I need is the sun and some snow to cry on cue.
• It just seems wrong (yet somewhat cool) to see people skiing in t-shirts and shorts.
• Drinking hot coffee and watching other people hurl themselves down steep snow slopes is more enjoyable, less expensive and considerably safer than doing it yourself.
• Snow causes the price of everything to rise. A Deg muffin in the valley costs $1.95. A Deg muffin in the snow costs $4.50.
• I definitely want to snowshoe in the park next winter.

On the way back to the valley, we took photos from Tunnel View and spent some time on Sentinel Bridge photographing Half Dome at sunset (those pictures in another entry). As darkness fell over the park, we made our way to Yosemite Lodge and dined at the Mountain Room Restaurant before retiring for the night.