Geology Tour - Reflections

Half Dome reflects in the Merced River. Photo by Jennifer Aldred.

Quick Facts

Amenities

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Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

Looking upstream from Sentinel Bridge you can often see Half-Dome's reflection in the Merced River. This picturesque view may seem timeless, but in fact it is just a quick snapshot in time. Yosemite's landscape is the result of millions of years of change, and that change continues today. Even at this moment, that granite giant is slowly wearing away from the forces of water and wind, and sometimes falling away catastrophically. Some of that material makes up the sediment particles in the riverbed before you slowly drifting along in the current and sometimes sweeping away in floods. Take a moment to reflect on the natural processes that continue to shape the awe-inspiring landscape around you. Thanks for joining me today. I hope you have enjoyed learning about the living geology of Yosemite National Park.