Gloria Wadzinski

National park enthusiast, Gloria Wadzinski writes, photographs and shoots video to encourage travelers to try something new. A planner at heart, Gloria likes to be prepared for adventures so she helps other travelers by thoroughly documenting hikes, road trips and destinations, including everything they need to know to forge out safely and not miss a thing.

Gloria earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications from the University of Wisconsin, and because life is change, added additional degrees and certificates from the Western Iowa Technical College, Front Range Community College and the Art Institute of Denver. Over a 40-year career, Gloria has won national accolades including CUES Golden Mirror Awards for a children's educational program and graphic design projects, and most recently a Folio Digital Award for the relaunch of a website about the national parks of Colorado.

What is Gloria's favorite national park? The last one she visited, so the answer changes several times a year.

A restored classic Avion trailer at Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging. Courtesy photo

Hotels and Cabins Near Yosemite National Park

Don’t let your trip sound just like your neighbors’ vacation. Set it apart by staying at some of the fantastic and unusual lodging options along the way.

Hiking past Vernal Falls on the Mist Trail in Yosemite.

Starting from the Happy Isles on the valley floor, the challenging Mist Trail climbs a granite staircase beside Vernal Fall and on to Nevada Fall.

Tioga Road going over Tioga Pass in Yosemite National Park

Mountains & Landscapes

Although just about every bend in Tioga Road reveals another awesome view, here are three stops you won't want to miss on the eastern section at Tioga Pass.

Yosemite sunset from Glacier Point's View Terrace.

Mountains & Landscapes

Arguably the most spectacular view in the park is at the end of Glacier Point Road with the curved tooth of Half Dome prominently in the foreground.

Horse-drawn wagon emerging from the covered bridge at the Pioneer Yosemite History Center. Photo by Gloria Wadzinski

History and Culture

At the History Center you can ride horse-drawn wagons, walk across a covered bridge, and visit historic buildings out of Yosemite's past.