Yosemite National Park: Bicycling to the Beauty of Mirror Lake

QUESTION: What trails do you hit whenever visiting Yosemite Valley?

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By 9:15am and a cool 46°F, we’re already on bicycling along a paved path to Mirror Lake from Yosemite’s Visitor Center Parking Lot. Looking forward to being rewarded with views of Tenaya Canyon, Tenaya Creek, North Dome, Mount Watkins and more.

Between Mirror Lake and Tenaya Creek off Mirror Lake Trail

A Morning at Mirror Lake

I’ve read how in the late summer that the lake usually turns into a full meadow with no water. Here in May, we should see a good amount of water at the lake. Also, arriving in early morning light, the sun illuminated Mount Watkin and parts of Tenaya Canyon providing some beautiful water reflections with the calm water.

Discovered a Field of Cairns

Such a controversial sight as some think they are not only an eyesore but the rock piles violate the Leave No Trace ethos. Does it disrupt the environment - endangered species (plants, insects, animals alike)? Will let others decide if this is another type of graffiti or art. I simply snapped a few shots and moved on.