Travel builds character. It defines who you are as a person. Being able to withstand rocky terrain physically and metaphorically shapes your decision making skills. It gives you confidence in your ability to navigate life. That’s why there’s no better time to travel than in your 20s. At what other age do you get to be gloriously selfish and adventurous?
There’s a quote by musician Henry Rollins that strikes a chord with young people. It urges them to get a passport, take a summer, and see other parts of the world. If you’re American, you may be unable to travel outside the country at first. That’s ok, there’s a world of adventure to be had in the U.S.A. You can start there and get the passport later.
Why Yosemite?
Yosemite National Park is a backpacker’s paradise. Stretching nearly 1,200 miles, it’s an outdoor treasure trove filled with natural beauty, photo opportunities, and experiences like none you’ve had before in your life. First protected in 1864, Yosemite sees its fair share of visitors each year and for good reason. Known for its breathtaking waterfalls, giant sequoias, and deep valleys, the Californian National Park offers the perfect setting for your first backpacking adventure.
Here are five reasons why backpacking in Yosemite National Park in your 20s is ideal:
• Over 95% of the land is designated Wilderness. What better way to experience the Great Outdoors than sleeping in the wild? In order to do so, you’ll need a wilderness permit. It’s free but in great demand so reserving one is highly recommended. The cost is $5 per confirmed reservation plus $5 per person if traveling in a group. Half Dome permits are now $8 per person. It’s a small price to pay for lodging on any trip you take.
• You’ll eat well and inexpensively. Running low on provisions is unheard of in Yosemite. In fact, stocking up on the foods you love and fuel your body while backpacking is easy. There are a number of places to buy food. The Village Store, the Ahwanee Sweet Shop, and Housekeeping Camp General Store are open during business hours as a convenience for visitors to the park. Purchase your favorite backpacking foods and enjoy them in one of the many picnic areas throughout Yosemite. You’re young so you know what it’s like to eat on a budget. Word to the wise: Don’t leave any scraps behind or you’ll attract bears at your campsite.
• You’ll gain a better understanding of what’s important in life. Void of many modern technologies, you’ll gain a healthy appreciation for the planet and its natural resources. You’ll see rock formations where glacier water slowly carved their surfaces for a period of over 3,000 years. You’ll stand beside ancient sequoias in Mariposa Grove and realize their significance for the first time. Rather than be distracted by electronic gadget, your focus is on the scenery ahead of you and the way it makes you feel. Make sure to document your experience with a digital camera (pack lots of batteries), a journal, and the writing tool of your choice. You won’t want to forget a moment spent in Yosemite. Cheryl Strayed built a career out of a solo hike down the Pacific Crest Trail.
• You’ll learn that earning a living and making a life for yourself are two very different things. Employment opportunities exist with or without you. It’s better to travel while you’re young, debt-free, and childless. Many people are under the assumption that entering the working world straight out of college is advantageous. They forget how hard it is to request time off. Money is almost always a factor. Once a person gets used to a certain type of lifestyle, they need a way to financially support themselves. Before buying a house, new car or designer suit, consider the value of a backpacking adventure. You’re likely to learn more than you did as a student, and this time around, your education is free.
• You’ll enjoy a variety of adventures that excite and amaze you. Yosemite offers plenty to do year round. Among the different activities promoted by the park is art and photography, auto touring, biking, birdwatching, camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding & stock use, picnicking, ranger and interpretive programs, rock climbing, tours, volunteering, water activities, and winter sports. You could honestly choose a different activity every day and still not do everything you set out to do in the park. Part of growing as a person is challenging yourself to try new activities. Fire up the neurons in your brain by stepping out of your comfort zone.
There are a number of compelling reasons to pack a rucksack and visit Yosemite. If anything, do it because you’re young and you can. You won’t regret the experience you have. In fact, you’ll create memories that you carry with you throughout your lifetime because of your adventure.