She was stable, but she still had a fever and needed constant medical attention. She was still there when my rotation ended. By Victor Perez Only 30 minutes further south by car from Yosemite Valley is Sequoia National Park, an area that derives its name from the most massive trees on earth, Sequoias. And within this benign land that warmly welcomes visitors with a mild climate, plenty of water, and easily found wild berries and trout, is a trail heading east. At the end of this trail, up several thousand feet, is the top of the world.
Valleys become visible in all cardinal directions and birds fly at the level of feet.
Although this area is only 15 miles from the worries of the nearest road, the hike melts away anxiety and stress like the morning sun touching dewy frost. Off-trail hiking, or 'cross country travel' in hiker lingo, is undoubtedly strenuous. It usually takes twice as long to travel a given distance. The terrain can be treacherous. Rock hopping through fields of talus is often necessary.