Some fences are built to keep people in, some to keep people out. Some fences are built to keep people safe.
The fences I share today are of the latter kind. I love the mist trail in Yosemite but it is not for the faint of heart. After climbing some steep steps carved from the granite, one encounters this narrow portion, the last stretch up to the top of Vernal Fall. I think that few hikers would be willing to climb this portion if not for the fence.
I made it to the top first and got a shot of Jules coming up behind me.
Once at the top of the cliff, the fence continues, protecting people from fall over the edge.
Fences don't always work, though. This one is intended to to keep people out of the river where they can be swept over the edge. The Merced River doesn't look like much here but in the spring it can be a raging torrent. Last year three young people didn't heed the warnings, went beyond the fence and were swept to their death.
I am afraid even I have been known to go beyond the fence for a shot but even now with the river low I still kept well away from the water.
You can find more fences at Friday Fences hosted at "Life According to Jan and Jer.
