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Yosemite Stories

In this episode (179) – Yosemite Stories . . .

Have you ever Googled Yosemite Stories? If so, you will learn how Galen Clark and others lobbied to protect Yosemite Valley from development, ultimately leading to President Abraham Lincoln’s signing of the Yosemite Grant in 1864. How John Muir was instrumental in expanding the park’s boundaries, and many more.

However, I would like to share a “not so famous” story after our recent visit—an experience from the ever-changing landscape of people who visit there and their grand expectations.

When you arrive in Yosemite valley and get settled, the sublime way to enjoy the park is to stroll. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells. For those who refuse to walk (and let me say there are a lot) or there comes a time when you can’t walk anymore - thankfully, they have free shuttles that take you to the most popular destinations: Yosemite Village, El Captain Meadow, Yosemite Falls, Curry Village, among others.

The buses begin at 7:00 a.m. each day during the fall season and run about every 30 minutes. Be patient; according to one driver, after COVID, they went from 69 to 16 full-time drivers.

It was day two of our 2022 adventure. We decided to catch the first shuttle out of Curry Village to Degnan’s Deli for breakfast. Now at that hour, you have the bus to yourself; no one seems to ride that early. After a few stops, the bus driver asks, “Where are you going?”

“Degnan’s Deli.”

So I walk to the front and begin conversing with the driver.

“This bus is quiet this morning; where is everybody?”

“Yes, not many early riders.”

“How long have you driven the Yosemite shuttle?”

“Fifteen years.”

“I’ll bet you’ve seen a few weirdos?”

“Oh, yeah - I could write a book about all the strange requests we get from folks. This time of year, it’s not so bad, but summer tends to wear on your patience.”

“Can you give me an example?”

What follows has to be the all-time zinger; I laughed until I cried.

“Of course - it was summer heat; the park was extremely crowded, with lots of lines of very impatient people. This lady steps up on the bus and approaches me, and as serious as a trip to the emergency room,” she asks,

“Is this the bus that will take me to the top of Half Dome?”

“Now you must understand that as public servants and park employees, we do our best to ensure everyone enjoys their time in Yosemite. And with the best intentions, try to lighten the mood with humor.”

With disgust and a scowl, this woman would have nothing of it.

“Are you making fun of me,” she barked.

“Not all, ma’am; this bus does not go to the top of Half Dome, I’m sorry.”

“Huh, then I’ll just have to wait and take the next bus, young man - let me off!”

Ok, I get it - this is 2022, and yes, in our I want it now, smartphone age of convenience, entitled folks expect you to fulfill their every request. But I’m sorry to get to the top of Half Dome; it’s a full day’s climb (8,842 ft.) and requires plenty of technical expertise. Take a hike, lady!

Of course, the driver did not say that, but it was just one of those memorable Yosemite stories from that driver on our way to breakfast.

The moral of the story; while visiting Yosemite or any National Park, be sure to take time to observe the habits of others. Also, given the opportunity, take the time to chat with your driver. It doesn’t take long to realize some of the crazy expectations people have. And, remember, a little humor goes a long way.

I’m Patrick Ball; thanks for listening. I’ll see you in the next episode.

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