There is a unique sense of joy and freedom in packing one’s life in motorcycle saddlebags and spending the weekend with bare basics and the beauty of wilderness. Motorcycle camping trips are the perfect getaway, but oftentimes it becomes difficult to figure out where you should pitch your tent. After all, you don’t want to travel all those miles only to get disappointed and stressed out.
If you are looking for a popular and scenic camping site that can rejuvenate you, then trust VikingBags’s recommendation and head over to the Yosemite National Park in California. A perfect place to take a dip in plunging pools, relax beside the stunning lakes, make sense of mysterious hiking trails, and to sleep under the stars, the Yosemite National Park will leave you awe-struck and unwilling to return.
A Quick Intro of the Yosemite National Park
Located in California’s Sierra mountain range and known as “Killer” in the Miwok language, the Yosemite National Park is home to massive granite peaks, active glaciers, large cascades, beautiful wilderness, wildlife, and tranquility that our modern day life lacks. Hence, perfect for a motorcycle camping trip.
There are thirteen motorcycle friendly camping sites, and based on the availability and the season, you would have to book your place at any of these campgrounds. The most basic facilities like tap or creek water, shower, and toilets are available in the park. But Wi-Fi, electricity, and roads are not. Hence, Yosemite is the right place to experience life without distractions.
The option of backcountry wilderness is also available, but it requires a permit that is absolutely free of cost.
Yosemite National Park is nature’s flawless glacial granite sculpture. This valley overflows with beauty, magnificence, and masterpieces. When in Yosemite, there is so much to see that you would be making a couple more trips to complete the itinerary.
Here are the best attractions of Yosemite National Park.
El Capitan
The most distinguished rock of the world, 3000 feet high El Capitan is located on the North of the Yosemite National Park. The mystical quality of the El Capitan will make your heart skip a beat every time you look at it. You can park your motorcycle under tehshadow of this beautiful riock, pitch your camp on top of the El Capitan, which is easily accessible by a trail, and who knows you might just wake up to a light and pleasant snowfall.
The Golden Cascade
This wondrous park boasts a unique treasure in the form of Horsetail Falls that are located on the east of El Capitan. Most motorcyclists plan their camping trips to the Yosemite in February only to see the sunset turn the Falls to gold. Unfortunately, this stunning scene appears in winter or early spring and only the luckiest have managed to witness it with their own eyes. Others have just relied on technology.
Trying your luck for the rare Golden Waterfall moment is worth it, and even if you are unable to see the miracle, you can admire the crystal waters of the waterfall twinkling at night like stars. Either way, the Horsetail Falls of Yosemite national Park is a vision to behold.
Glacier Point
One of the most popular attractions of Yosemite is none other than the Glacier Point. Once there, you are bound to feel the adrenaline rush of being at the top of the world. Whoever wishes to take in the whole of Yosemite National Park in a single glance should head over to the Glacier Point. From here, you get the panoramic view of Yosemite Horsetail Falls, Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and other granite rock temples. In 2022, the point is closed for motorcycles due to on-going construction so you would have to hike on foot.
But in the near future, if you get the chance to ride on the Glacier Point Route, just know that it begins at the Chinquapin Junction near Wawona Road and trails off in the lush green forests. Ride your motorcycle 3200 feet above the valley to witness stunning landscapes and vistas including Nevada Waterfall, Vernal Waterfall, and all the falls in the Yosemite Valley.
Wait at the Glacier Point till the sunset hits the Half Dome. The dramatic scene of night slowly engulfing the valley increases the beauty of this point manifold.
Half Dome
The iconic Half Dome is Yosemite’s mark of identification. The granite peak is located on the east of El Capitan and is a challenging peak that only a few have managed to summit.
A round 16-mile hiking trail is the best route to enjoy the wilderness around the dome frequented by bears and otter wildlife. It is recommended to make this 12-hour hike in the daylight. If the day is inching closer to sunset and you have yet to reach the Half Dome, it is prudent to turn around and try again the next day.
Where to Ride Your Motorcycle?
We have discussed much about exploring the Valley on foot and visiting attractions. But what’s a motorcycle trip without the thrill of maneuvering your two-wheeler on daunting twisties, and sharp turns. According to motorcyclists, Yosemite looks even more beautiful on a motorcycle. Throughout the year, the valley hosts over 3 million tourists, becoming too crowded for motorcycles. However, the back roads of High Sierra peaks are the perfect place to rev your motorcycle’s engine. Hence, you can easily avoid being stuck in crowds for a peaceful and uninterrupted motorcycle adventure.
In busy seasons, avoid riding in the Valley and explore one if not all of the motorcyce trails that lead to eight dense forests. That’s not all. The vast selection of motorcycle routes leading to these forests will keep you curious for more hidden treasures.
What to Eat During Your Motorcycle Camping Trip?
To experience the true essence of a motorcycle camping trip, it is best you bring with you canned and dried foods. But, if you have a long stay planned at Yosemite Park, and your camping foods are not giving you the energy required, then you can treat yourself to hearty and filling meals.
Luckily, Yosemite is dotted with eateries and hotels so you can enjoy a heart-warming breakfast, casual lunch and a fancy dinner in a picturesque setting. Fast foods, local favorites, steaks, pastas, and seafood, the hotels and restaurants in Yosemite National Park have something for everyone.
Takeaway
Yosemite National Park is a never-ending paradise with unique landscape, wildlife, attractions, and a wide selection of motorcycle routes and camping sites.
After visiting it, most motorcyclists return to the Valley every year, and each time a different adventure or vista awaits them. If you have never been to Yosemite Valley, then this is exactly where you should head next for an intimate experience with nature.
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