Centennial Photo Contest
Congratulations to the winners of our Centennial photo contest, Celebrating a Century of Adventure!
Our Grand Prize winner is Justin Doronio who captured the most votes with this precious multi-generational snapshot. We look forward to welcoming Justin and family back to the lodge for their 2-night prize winning stay, and really appreciated his heartfelt story that he shared with his photo:
“Yosemite has been a favorite camping destination for my family for generations. I’m the boy on my dad’s shoulders in the top right.
Being outdoors has always been a way to reset ourselves from our daily routine. Visiting Yosemite as a kid, I grew to love the Sierras. I’ve camped there almost every year since I was little and have explored new hikes all over the valley each time.
I even introduced Yosemite to my wife as her first camping destination. Seeing her experience Yosemite for the first time brought back many memories of my first experiences. As our love grew, the love for Yosemite also grew. We continued visiting Yosemite on a yearly basis and ended up getting married at Evergreen Lodge in 2017. We are currently planning a trip back there for the first time with our two kids to continue the love for Yosemite and the outdoors.”
Next, Austin Stevenot took a Runner Up prize with this lovely moment reflecting on the Sierra sunset from our Sunset Deck, and had this to say:
“Evergreen’s sunset viewing platform is a great place to unwind after a great day of adventure through Yosemite.”
Finally, Leslie Foster took the other Runner Up prize with this stunning view of Yosemite Valley following her admirable achievement of tackling a hike she previously would have considered unthinkable:
“Even though I grew up in California, my family never explored the national parks in our own backyard.
When I married an adventurer, my whole life changed! In February of 2015, my husband and I spent opening weekend at Evergreen Lodge and I explored Yosemite for the first time.
Having lived a sedentary and doubting life, I was fearful to tackle Yosemite Falls. I had always struggled with my weight and self-image, and I surely couldn’t do THAT! But my patient husband encouraged me and together, we conquered that hike all the way to the top.
The beauty of the Valley was incomparable, and I was overcome with awe at the beautiful creation around me. I was also overwhelmed by that singular accomplishment of making it to the top. I could do hard things, and hiking has remained one of my favorite things to do!”
We sincerely LOVED strolling down memory lane with everyone who participated.
In addition to sharing the images and stories here on this page, we’ll be displaying these gems at the lodge throughout the year.
You are welcome to share in the memories any time with this delightful gallery of stories and images shared by our guests: