John Wayne Worthy: VC Trip Day 2

One of the cowboys yells "Timmmmeeee to get uppppp!!!"

I wake after what was perhaps the shortest night of rest in my life. At one point, I was convinced I felt a bear (really it was just Spirit Deer trying to exit the tent for a bathroom break), and slithered over to the Green Lady's sleeping bag only to startle her awake. It turns out that after Kidd's warning, all 4 of us were less than thrilled with our night's rest.

We go outside, where we see mules lined up and saddled. In the distance we see a loading dock where workers are mounting our gear to more mules. Kidd makes us a quick breakfast of fried eggs & tortillas (which may just be the best breakfast I have ever eaten), and we get ready for our ride.

Kidd the sweetheart helps South get ready

A mean pack of cowgirls ready to ride

The 5 of us begin our ride following Lindsay, our guide for the day. She is a young cowgirl, confidently riding her horse as we trail behind her on mules (which I learn are sterile animals- a cross between a male donkey and a female horse). Mine is a calm spirited animal named Clyde, who, other than constantly bowing his head to eat grass, is rather easy to control. South does not have such luck. Her mule, "Siggy" is less than cooperative- bowing his head, moving off the trail, stopping at random spots and holding up the crowd.

We weave through what is some of the most beautiful country I have ever seen: forests of pines, lakes of crystal blue and green hues, snow capped mountainsides, meadows full of flowers that only high elevations could produce (delicate, soft, colorful flowers). We cross over an 11,300 ft pass, and descend using stone steps (perhaps the least favorite part of the journey for the mules). As a backpacker I am accustomed to looking down as I hike so as not to slip on any loose terrain; I soon discover that one of the great pleasures of mule riding is being able to look up and get the 360 degree view of everything. I am able to focus on the scenery more than ever; a true gift.

Some of the many lakes we pass

Entering Yosemite

South and Lindsay cut through a meadow

The ride is long (4.5 hours) and dusty, and I stupidly forget to bring a bandanna. It turns out these little garments actually serve a very important role in shielding allergens away from the face; not so great if one is prone to allergies and sinus infections. By the time we get to camp we are all exhausted, and I am feeling a bit under the weather.

We opt for the easiest meal possible- spaghetti with homemade sauce I made ahead of time. We are all delighted with the dinner that South so awesomely cooks (everything tastes better at 9,000 feet), and we set up what will be our home for the next 3 nights. A few silly games around the fire and some laughs, and we head to bed.