06/10/2026
We had been dreaming of visiting Yosemite National Park for many years, and last weekend that dream finally came true. To make the experience even more meaningful, we organized it as a meditation and hiking retreat.
We arrived at our campsite in Yosemite on Friday evening and settled in under the cool mountain air. Early Saturday morning, we gathered at 5:00 a.m. for collective meditation before heading out to secure a parking spot near the trailhead.
Our hike followed the famous Mist Trail, leading us first to the magnificent Vernal Fall and then onward to Nevada Fall. With the spring snowmelt flowing down from the mountains, the waterfalls were at their most powerful and impressive. The Mist Trail lives up to its name—parts of the path pass so close to Vernal Fall that hikers are constantly showered by its cool mist.
After climbing above the waterfall, we rested in the sunshine, dried our clothes, and enjoyed a snack before continuing toward Nevada Fall. Above the waterfall, we found a beautiful spot beside the river where some of us took a refreshing plunge into the icy mountain water. We then shared lunch and meditated together surrounded by the breathtaking scenery.
For our return journey, we took the John Muir Trail, enjoying spectacular views while avoiding the steeper and more slippery sections of the Mist Trail.
On Sunday, we visited a grove of giant sequoias before beginning the drive home.
A special thank you goes to Sister Laksmi, who organized the retreat. Her two children, ages 7 and 11, joined the adventure, as did Maungal Dev’s son. The children thoroughly enjoyed hiking, playing in nature, and sharing the experience with the group.
The weather could not have been better—cool nights, warm days, and clear skies. Yosemite’s beauty exceeded all our expectations. The towering granite cliffs, rushing waterfalls, ancient sequoias, and pristine mountain rivers created an unforgettable setting for meditation, friendship, and communion with nature.
We returned home refreshed, inspired, and grateful for the opportunity to experience one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
Inspired by this experience, we will be offering additional meditation and hiking retreats later this year. Details can be found in the comments.
