Here we are again in Yosemite hiking the Upper Yosemite Falls. Its about 92 degrees today and one of the most challenging hikes from the valley floor in these conditions. Lots of steep switchbacks and exposure...

Uploaded by Michael Parker on 2018-06-11.

3,300+ feet in 90+ degrees

This hike is challenging at our pace in normal conditions but add a heat spike and then you are really put to task!

Hanging out by the merced river

Heather and I love to just walk around the valley floor with a hydroflask of light margarita and soak in the scenery.

on our way to the falls hike

Deep are quite common in the valley and are often found in the main meadow west of Curry Village.

excited to get to the top, not excited about the growing heat

The forecast today is in the low 90’s so we have sunscreen, snacks and plenty of water. So we thought…

Getting closer and enjoying the water flow

We decided to extend the hike distance and time by walking from Curry to the summit and then back. Even if I break a leg, I will not get on one of the overcrowded shuttles. I would rather crawl.

looking back at half dome, our next hike...

We have permits for Half Dome next month and are very excited to come back and crush it!

base of the upper falls

Well, it was very hot. Look at all that water, too bad we did not bring a filter this time. Decided we will order some of the filter straws when we get home.

one of the best perspective photos I have taken

This is one of my favorites of all the pictures I have managed to snap over the years. It captures two icons of the natural world in one frame.

finally to the top enjoying our reward

we spent quite a bit of time exploring near the top of the falls. After the heat of the hike and decent incline, we felt it worth it to stay a while.

the falls in full flow

I really struggle to understand how so many people have lost their lives over this waterfall by accident. Why the hell would you get close enough to make that kind of mistake?