Half Dome by Moonlight
October 11, 2011
It was raining when we arrived on Monday afternoon, and drippy on our canvas roof for most of the night, but by Tuesday morning, nothing but sunshine. Nothing like the clarity of the air in the mountains after a rain storm.
Explored Tuolumne Grove, a 2-mile walk up near Crane Flat, a place we’d passed for years and wondered about, but never visited. Worthwhile.
We also did another short hike up to Inspiration point. This one had some good elevation gain (4500′ to 5400′) and offered a nice view down the valley.
We drank champagne in Susan’s and Jim’s room at the Ahwahnee to celebrate their 25th anniversary, and then had a really good dinner in the Ahwahnee’s impressive dining room.
We got back in time to take a short walk.
You know, full moon illuminating granite walls. Crazy beautiful.
Life of Wry 
October 14, 2011 at 2:28 pm
A friend of mine is the costumer designer/overseer for the Bracebridge dinners at the Awahnee each December and when I saw her recently she gushed that we simply MUST come and that she would make it a point to spend time with us.
I checked on the price. Price of dinner for ONE, without the addition of accommodations at the hotel itself is — ready for this? — $450!!! (It might have been $453). I don’t care WHAT they are serving, $1,000 for dinner for two PLUS the cost of staying at the Awahnee. I think I’m going to pass on this one!
October 14, 2011 at 2:56 pm
We heard all about the Bracebridge dinners this time, as our friends have attended and loved it. As I understand it, it’s about more than just the dinner, there is entertainment, and you don’t have to stay in the Ahawahnee (which is another $450 or more)… but, I hear ya! We can’t quite bite on staying there (unless treated, which has happened a few times)… the rooms are nice, but nothing special, rather, it’s the lodge and its history and the total experience. But we spent $50 per night (I think) for heated tent cabins and they were fine… except for communal bathrooms 150 yards away, full of teenie boppers w/ muddy boots and hair dryers. Still….. can’t beat Yosemite valley for drama and gorgeousness.
October 14, 2011 at 3:47 pm
So, so beautiful….