America's Best Idea

Yosemite National Park

Ah, that song by Train, "Save Me, San Francisco," became my anthem when I was winding down the school year in June of 2013. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for summer, I heard it on the radio and thought, "San Francisco is calling, and I must go!" With John Muir's similar sentiment in mind, I reasoned, "Well, Yosemite isn't that far from San Francisco." I easily convinced my mom and sister to join the adventure. San Fran had been on my list for ages, especially after my mom shared her experience of visiting there in the 80's when no one wanted to visit Alcatraz. Wanting to surprise her with tickets, I found out you had to book months ahead! But fate smiled upon us—while walking around Fisherman's Wharf, I overheard a guy selling last-minute Alcatraz tour tickets bundled with a city bus tour and a bay cruise. Trusting my instincts, I bought them, and off we sailed to the rock!

Formerly a high-security prison, Alcatraz Island now welcomes visitors with guided tours of its historic grounds. Al Capone, the infamous Chicago gangster of the Prohibition era, George "Machine Gun" Kelly, a notorious bank robber, and Robert Stroud, also known as the "Birdman of Alcatraz" for his renowned bird studies while imprisoned, were all notable inmates at Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary. Beyond its notorious past, it's now a gem within the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, offering a mix of history and and eerily vibe while walking through this compound.

San Francisco's got this mix of energy and vibrancy that's really something else. The Golden Gate Bridge held the title of the world's longest suspension bridge, until 1964. Although I always thought of it being red, the bridge is actually painted in a shade of orange vermilion known as International Orange.

Haight-Ashbury takes you back to the '60s with its easy-going vibe. You've got colorful murals, vintage shops, and this free-spirited feeling that just hangs in the air.

Now, Lombard Street is a quirky one—it's nicknamed the "Crookedest Street in the World." Picture this: a really steep, curvy road lined with bright flowers.

But the real charm? Those iconic cable cars.  The San Francisco Cable Cars are one of the only moving National Historic Landmarks in the United States. They're a lively part of California's history, and no visit to San Francisco is complete without a ride on one. Back in 1995, during a volleyball tournament, I had my one and only chance to ride them. It was such an exciting experience with my team, adding a special touch to the trip!

Onto Yosemite, my 14th National Park. I reserved a spot for us at the Evergreen Lodge, nestled in the woods near Yosemite. It was a modern cabin with plenty of enjoyable activities—no TVs, but you could play lawn games, do yoga, and swim. It was the closest thing to "camping" I could arrange for my mom. When we arrived, she jokingly asked about a bellhop. None were available, but they provided us with wheelbarrows to transport our belongings. So, I ended up playing the bellhop role! I highly recommend this spot for anyone in the area; they even had a restaurant right there, making dining super easy.

Yosemite's name alone radiates strength and power. The colossal granite cliffs, the waterfalls, and abundance of trees—its natures masterpiece.

Yosemite holds captivating stories. John Muir, an environmentalist, and Theodore Roosevelt, the President of the United States, embarked on a transformative camping trip in Yosemite in 1903. Roosevelt, seeing the beauty of Yosemite, realized the importance of preserving such places. Inspired by this, he took steps to protect more lands, creating new national parks and laws to safeguard nature. This experience sparked a significant movement, encouraging the conservation of America's natural landscapes for future generations.

And let's not forget Alex Honnold, who made history by accomplishing a free solo climb of El Capitan, scaling the towering rock without using any ropes or safety gear, demonstrating incredible skill and bravery. Seeking an adrenaline rush from the comfort of your couch? Watch "Free Solo"! This documentary promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.