Hike in the morning from Happy Isles up to the top of Vernal Falls while staying in Yosemite. We started from the shuttle bus stop, and it was flat initially before getting fairly steep. The path was paved, so we didn't have to worry about footing. We got to the bridge, crossed over, and started up the path on the other side of the river, getting to the steps by the Mist Trail. Ann made it up partway and then decided to sit and wait while I hiked up to the top of the falls. I really took the express route on these steep steps, and it really worked out my legs. The view at the top was cool, Ann was just a tiny speck down below. My leg muscles were quivering on the way down the steps, and they were complaining a little all the way back, not too much.
Total mileage = 4.0 mi
http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1185834043
Later in the afternoon, I rode my bike through the valley out to Tunnel View. Most of this ride was flat, not too much trouble with cars, although I got caught in a little bit of a traffic slowdown around the park exit. It's about a 1.5 mi climb once you get onto the 41 Hwy heading up to Tunnel View, and I was slow. However, the ride back down was fun and fast, downhill or flat for the most part, and I kept a pretty good cadence.
Avg speed = 19.1 mph. Total mileage = 15.5 mi
Avg heartrate = 148 bpm
Total elevation gain = 1120'
http://www.mapmyride.com/workout/1185834235
