Search - Secret Yosemite on DVD

No real secrets revealed, thank goodness!

mycarrion | The Great Northwestern USofA | 01/06/2008

(3 out of 5 stars)

"Although this video is more than the already described climb of El Capitan, it is little more than another global warming warning and message that, if not already heeded, will do little to motivate your concern. Though perhaps true, I was more than a little disappointed that so much energy was spent to build such an air of doom, rather than share the often missed "secrets" that exist in such a miraculous place as Yosemite.

The brief mention of "Shattered Air" was a little open ended, and I do recommend that you read the story of that day, and of the incredibly powerful effects of changing weather within the park before you visit. You most surely need to inform yourself before venturing out on the seemingly harmless trails.

Take it from me. I've been on top of Half Dome when a lightning storm hit(on my first trip at age 12, none the less!), and have hid below the lightning rods under shelves of slippery granite hoping it would pass. It will make you grateful to return, and will surely change your plans in the future. That is, should you plan to make a second trip. I did make more than a dozen trips up that rock, including the last which involved a wildfire below Half Dome, and being forced down the trails in the dark to avoid harm. Out of all of my experiences, one thing is sure. I wouldn't trade any of my adventures for a warm bed.

Lightning, fire, & wind. This video gives snippets of these forces, as well as rock slides (that occur often throughout the park), but in the end falls short of offering much more than has been seen before, and in a less fulfilling way. Some nice aerial shots and time lapse, but very little. Overall, this video is very disappointing when considering that it is a National Geographic production.

For a more balanced look at Yosemite I recommend:

Spirit of Yosemite
Yosemite: The Seasons; Echoes of Tenaya
Return to Balance: A Climber's Journey

My family began visiting Yosemite in 1946, and we still make several visits to the park, both high and low, many times each year. Each time we leave, it is more difficult to say goodbye.

I, for one, think the secrets need to remain secrets. Mysteries are to be sought in person, and not on video. I hope to write a book about my adventures one day should time allow. I will, however, faithfully keep the secrets I know to myself. I have only shared what I have found with family and my very best, like minded friends. Still, I draw no maps, and I give no directions. I just lead the way.

Go Climb A Rock!"