So I know many of you are seasoned climbers and have climbed a lot in Yosemite. This was our first trip. I cannot begin to tell you how amazing this trip was for me.

Brief backstory: I had a reoccurring dream 4 nights in a row. The dream was that I was across from "El Cap". Each subsequent dream, I moved closer and closer until I touched the base. Woke up the morning of that dream, then purchased my ticket.

TL;DR: Dreams about El Cap=purchasing tickets

Got into SF at about noon and decided to go up to Muir Woods National Monument. I had never seen any red woods before, so this was a must do. Needless to say, it started the trip off proper. To be in the presence of these giants was nothing short of amazing.



After that, we started our drive to the valley. We got in at about 2 am. The super moon barely lighting the valley and giving me a little sneak peek of what I would witness the next morning. Pulled out our sleeping bags and go into line at around 4am. We were the first.


We decided to spend our first day exploring instead of trying to climb. We were totally assed out from the journey. So we drove around and just took in the sheer size and beauty of the valley. Ended up setting up a hammock across from El Cap. Took a nap, had some lunch, and just took it all in.


Next day we decided to hit up "After 6". There was not a single party to be seen except for the one a few pitches above. Being our first taste of the valley, it was a good one. The first pitch was an eye opener for us. Like everyone has said, this is a different type of climbing we are not accustomed to in the south east.



After our eye opening first climb, we decided to treat ourselves to an "It's-it". Everything I have heard was true. They are a gift from the heavens and much welcomed after a good days climb.


The next day we decided to hit up "Regular Route" to start the day. Such a fun climb. Again, there was not a single party to be seen except a pitch above us. At pitch 2, we were passed by a free solo climber.



We got back to camp and spoke with a climber, who was camped at the site next to us. He was a seasoned climber in the valley and offered to take us up another climb, Munginilla. As first time leaders, it was definitely taxing mentally to ensure proper placement of gear and getting used to how Yosemite felt. So we jumped on the opportunity to just follow and truly enjoy the cimb, bought him a 6 pack, and rolled out.




Overall, this trip was exactly what I thought it would be and more. 3 days in the valley isn't nearly enough. However, I'm glad I got that time there. We will definitely be back sooner rather than later. As I'm sure you all know, that place is just amazing. To finally lay eyes on half dome and el cap was inspiring to say the least.


Thank you to everyone who gave me feedback and input on the valley. Your help was greatly appreciated. I hope you enjoyed the TR from the eyes of someone for the first time. I cannot wait to get back and take on more. Climb on!