Half Dome – Yosemite Musings

For  over 2 years vehicles on California Hwy 140 out of Mariposa to Yosemite were met with 4 sharp 90 degree turns to get across the Merced. All this caused by the spring 2006 Ferguson Rockslide. It completely covered the highway and World War 2 vintage “Bailey Bridges” were erected to allow traffic to cross over then back and continue to the park. However, only vehicles 28 feet or shorter were allowed due to the tight turns. Garbage trucks from the park, tour buses and oversize vehicles had to take the long way to the Valley if arriving from the south. Mariposa traffic was impacted for 4 years. The Governator just snipped the ribbon opening the new bypass bridges. They are larger and at a shallow angle so all vehicles can now go on the highway. If you have the time, drive 140 to see the giant rockslide…. And buy something in Mariposa – they can use the business!

Unrelated thought worth quoting: “When you’re weary, feeling small, When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all; Im on your side. When times get rough and friends just can’t be found, like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down.” -  Simon and Garfunkle.

*Carpe Diem Experience – Rick Deutsch–www.HikeHalfDome.com*