While Zumwalt Meadow is a bit of a drive from Fresno, it’s worth it. And you can stop at General Grant Grove and Boyden Cavern on the way to break up the drive.
-Mikey
Hike Local: Kings Canyon – Zumwalt Meadow Trail
Category: California
Hike Fresno: Mount Stevenson
This is a series I am doing here on The Fresnan; I hike somewhere around Fresno, and then I post about it. Is that cool? Yeah? Good good. I am trying to do more personal posts here, but still have a tie to life in Fresno. This is that kind of content.
I went up to Mount Stevenson above Shaver Lake. Wanted to have a quick drive up four-lane and do a quick morning hike. This fit. I have lived in Fresno a lot of my life, and I have never heard of this mountain or who the crap is Stevenson. I am sure he was a cool dude.
Really, I just wanted to hike somewhere and then go get lunch at the Hungry Hut.
Review of the Mount Stevenson Trail
I enjoyed it. It bums you out, though, you see what the fire has done to it and know how much nicer it used to be. There are still trees left, but you can tell there were way more so it bums you out.
The trail is also a service road for Cal Edison and the radio towers up there. That I didn’t like either as I prefer a traditional hiking only dirt trail, but it was okay otherwise.
If you go in the Summer, go early as it gets hot. There is little shade.
The top of the ridge is the best part as to the East you can look out at Shaver Lake and the Eastern Sierra. On the West side of the ridge, you look out over the San Joaquin Valley all the way to the Coastal Range (if the air is clear enough).
A nice hike for a morning run up the hill. I may do it again in the Spring when there are more flowers; I probably won’t bother with it otherwise.
Before you go, bring plenty of water, some sunscreen, and maybe bug spray (but I didn’t encounter many).
Video of my hike:
Why The In-N-Out Owner Moving From California, Fries Me Off
The fries at In-N-Out suck. They just do. But they are unique to In-N-Out. I have always enjoyed them for that. They may not be great, but they are all In-N-Out’s.
The uniqueness of In-N-Out: The vibe, restaurant setup, California chain, simple food menu, super friendly staff, the secret menu, and yes, the fries.
Sadly all that is tainted because the nepo baby owner, Lynsi Snyder, (who didn’t come up with a damn ass thing that In-N-Out is successful for) has decided California is too lame and is creating an office in Tennessee so she can move her family there because California is “SOOOO harrrd guuuuyyyyz”
“Raising a family is not…easy here. Doing business is not easy here.” says the billionaire nepo baby.
Dude, California MADE you! You became iconic because of us. You are rich as shit because we bragged about you to everyone not in California. Brought all the people visiting to your dad’s restaurant.
I had always admired In-N-Out for being at or near the top of pay for fast-food workers. It seems that was dad’s policy, not the nepo do nothing daughter’s. She would rather move somewhere whiter where she can pay employees less. Let’s be real.
It always comes back to more when you are so rich you don’t know what else to do.
“That’s just business!” some will say. I say that is just bullshit. It’s just fucking greed.
Disrespectful to the people (Californians) who got you where you are today. So little is respected anymore.
How hard could it be to live your life out as a billionaire in the greatest state in the country? Dear God.
The basket of fries pictured above was the first time I went to the Blackstone & Nees In-N-Out. My go-to is Blackstone & Ashlan. I can’t say I will never go to an In-N-Out again because of this betrayal; that would be unrealistic.
But I will hate myself a little bit when I do. Just like Lynsi should be doing right now.
One Day Trip To Yosemite From Fresno
Best Options For a One-Day Trip To Yosemite From Fresno!
You’re in Fresno and loving it I am sure *wink*. But sometimes you want to visit one of the most beautiful places on the planet, Yosemite, but still want to get back to Fresno by the end of the day. What do you do?
What to Do During Your One-Day Trip to Yosemite
Even though your time in Yosemite will be limited, you can still visit some of the park’s most iconic attractions.
First, remember that it currently costs $35 to get into Yosemite when you arrive between 6 AM & 2 PM (it’s free the rest of the time – it’s card only at the gate too. Or you can pick up an America The Beautiful pass that gets you into any National Park and more, all year long here at REI.com.
Also remember: Reservations are required to get in during busier times of the year. Check this site for Yosemite entrance reservations.
With that, here are a few must-see one-day spots you should aim for if you’re runnin’ up that hill from Fresno (linked to Google Maps location):
1. Tunnel View
Start your day by taking in the breathtaking panoramic view of Yosemite Valley from Tunnel View. This lookout provides an incredible vantage point of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome. It’s a great place for photos and a perfect introduction to the park’s grandeur.
2. Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, and it’s especially impressive in the spring when snowmelt fuels its flow. You can take a short walk to the base of the falls or enjoy the view from several points around the park.
3. Glacier Point
If time permits, head to Glacier Point for some of the most stunning and accessible views in Yosemite (heck, the whole country, really). You have the opportunity to look down on most of Yosemite Valley. Plus stunning views of Half Dome, El Capitan, and into Yosemite’s back country. It’s a bit of a drive, but the view is worth it.
Heads up: Glacier Point Road (the way in) is often closed during the Winter.
Check Yosemite road conditions by calling 209-372-0200 and by checking this page.
Pro Tip: Arrive early (like, by 7 AM) if you want to park without problems. It’s a pretty big lot but it still can fill up by late morning.
It is also wheelchair accessible. A gift shop with snacks is the only retail of any sort there. And there are bathrooms.
Here is a video I made of me hiking the Panorama Trail from Glacier Point:
4. Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
If you have extra time, consider visiting the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, home to some of the oldest and largest trees in the world. The Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree are particularly popular.
This is also the best option if you have very little time but want to see something significant in Yosemite, as it is the first thing you can do after passing through the South Gate entrance on 41. Worth noting, this is often closed in the Winter, so check here to see – pretty sure you can always hike in though. There is a shuttle that brings you the rest of the time.
How to Get to Yosemite from Fresno
To make the most of your one-day trip, planning your route is important. That said, I am a wing-it kind of person and since you’re coming from Fresno, you have some freedom to wing. Anyway, here’s a quick guide to getting from Fresno to Yosemite:
- Route: The most direct route to Yosemite is Highway 41 (aka “up the hill”), which will take you through the South Entrance (also known as the Arch Rock Entrance). This is the easiest and quickest way to reach the park from Fresno.
- Drive Time: The drive is 1 to 2 hours, depending on traffic, where in Fresno you’re coming from, and weather conditions, so plan it out to get your full day in the park; leave early. Be sure to check the road conditions before your trip, especially in the winter months. Side note: Yosemite is big so drive time estimates are loose.
- Best Time to Visit: While Yosemite is beautiful year-round, spring is considered the best time for a day trip because that is when the waterfalls are at their peak and most trails are open. But that (and Summer) is when Yosemite is at its busiest. Again, the number one tip to avoid crowds is to get in the park early (when the Sun is coming up early).
Tips for a Successful Day Trip to Yosemite
Arrive Early: Since you’ll have limited time, getting an early start is key. Arriving early ensures you have a full day of exploration and gives you the best chance to avoid the busiest crowds.
- Pack Essentials: Even if you’re just going for a day, pack a backpack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera. Layers of clothes too, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. Thunderstorms can even pop up when you think there is no way.
- Be Mindful of Time: With so much to see, it’s easy to get caught up in the beauty of Yosemite. However, remember that you’ll need to head back to Fresno in the evening. Set a time to leave the park so you’re not rushed on your way home. You can even have time to stop for dinner in Oakhurst at one of my favorite places, South Gate Brewing.
Stay The Night Instead!
I know you’re trying to get back to Fresno (hey, I don’t blame ya) but you may want to stay, the top three suggestions on where to stay inside Yosemite for the night:
- Yosemite Valley Lodge – Great for families, my go-to. Worth noting, there is no AC so it does get hot in the Summer trying to sleep.
- The Ahwahnee – Good, if you’re trying to impress your date. Classy buffet. Amazing place, really.
- Curry Village – When you want it cheap and can rough it slightly.
More options for booking a place to stay in Yosemite can be found here. And through the below Trip.com search bar, it will pull up some local hotels for you if you put “Yosemite Valley” in as the destination:
Yosemite Hiking and Hanging Essentials
I decided to put a list of items you might like to have with you while you’re in The Park (as locals call it). Some things you might find you need while you’re in Yosemite:
- Hydration Backpack.
- Mosquito repellent.
- Small waterproof flashlight.
- Water filtration system.
- Emergency whistles.
- A dry bag like this, or like this one.
- Sun hat.
- A paper map of Yosemite – They do give you one at the gate if you come through during gate times. But really, it’s not detailed enough, especially if you go hiking or over to Tuolumne Meadows. Even in the Tuolumne Meadows visitor center, I couldn’t find the right map to buy. So get this pack.
- Insulated water bottle.
- Food fit for trail life.
- Bear canister or odor-proof bags. You do NOT want a bear busting into your car looking for the food you left out.
- Sunblock.
- Lanterns and cooking equipment.
- Laird Superfood – in case you need to fuel up.
Get Stoked, You’re Going To Yosemite!
A one-day trip from Fresno to Yosemite offers a convenient escape to one of the most stunning national parks in the world. Whether you’re admiring the view from Tunnel View, hiking to Yosemite Falls, or marveling at the ancient giant sequoias, the memories you create will last a lifetime. While a single day doesn’t allow for an in-depth exploration, it’s the perfect way to experience Yosemite’s highlights without straying too far from home. Start planning your adventure today, and let the beauty of Yosemite make a positive change in your life.
Sunset Over Fresno State
Just a dopey windshield pic at Bullard & Chestnut. I was too lazy to pull over and take the picture like a man [lol]. I do love a good Fresno sunset though.
Sundown At Bullard
I was wandering the Bullard track and campus last night and took a few quick and unplanned shots
I dunno, cool enough and all, but I might look into a Skill Share class on iPhone photography.