Memorial Day Weekend Trip: Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks

We traveled to Yosemite, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Parks over Memorial Day Weekend. We had a wonderful time together as a family being out in God's creations. The trees, rivers, waterfalls, mountains, blue skies, and fresh mountain air were so exhilarating. Everytime I'm out in nature I feel a sense of peace. I find more time to reflect on the purpose of life and the things I can do to become a better person. I really enjoyed spending quality time with Dave and the kids. If you've never been to Yosemite I highly recommend a trip there. An amazing place!

Nicole

We camped at a KOA in the Southern end of Yosemite the first night of our trip. I was excited to get a picture with a sign that says "Yosemite." I've been eagerly awaiting this trip since moving down to CA. I've always wanted to come here and experience the majestic views.

Yosemite-Tunnel View

After paying the fee to get into the park there is about a 30 minute drive down to Yosemite Village. During one point of the drive you go through a tunnel. At the other end you come out and discover the majesty of El Capitan and Half Dome Rock.

Family portrait-Yosemite

The waterfalls in Yosemite were outstanding!

I love this picture of a river in Yosemite that we stopped to explore. So peaceful and calming.

Yosemite

What a beautiful view! I can't describe the wonderful feelings I had while in Yosemite park. A heavenly gift sent from above for us to enjoy.

The children loved camping in the Eurovan. Waking up in the forest surrounded by beautiful trees was a nice change from daily urban life.

Kings Canyon National Park

We also spent time exploring Kings Canyon National Park. The Kings river was very impressive. A beautiful place to visit.

Fishing with Dad

Jesiah loves to fish with Dave whenever he get the chance. The girls thought fishing with sticks was just as fun.

Dave, Jesiah, Katherine, and Keira in front of one of our many waterfall hikes in Yosemite National Park. This year the snow run off created extremely fast and powerful waterfalls.

Katherine is really into posing for pictures these days.

Jesiah and Katherine had so much fun making fire. Jesiah was a good helper to Dave collecting twigs and small branches to get and keep the fire going.

Keira and Kat up in the pop top watching morning movies. "This sure beats sleeping in a tent."

VW Eurovan

For those of you who don't know this is our new van. Purchased in January 2011 the Eurovan is our kids new favorite vehicle. All inclusive with sleeper poptop, table for coloring and eating snacks, mini fridge, queen fold out bed, and lots of storage. If you look close enough you'll see Jesiah up in the top.

Snow

Who would have thought that over Memorial Day weekend you would camp in snow? Well, we ran into a pretty good snow storm and the kids had a blast.

Inside Crystal Cave

We took a fun hike inside Sequoia National Parks Crystal Cave. The tour was about 30 minutes long. The kids enjoyed looking at all the amazing structures inside.

General Sherman's Tree

The middle tree in this picture is the largest tree in the world located in the Sequoia National Forest. I wasn't able to capture the whole tree in height because it is sooo big!

Keira in Crystal Cave