Yosemite Milky Way Graphic Hoodie

Hiking the Yosemite Upper Falls Trail in a Yosemite Milky Way Graphic Hoodie

If you’re planning to hike the Upper Falls Trail in Yosemite National Park while wearing the Yosemite Milky Way Graphic Hoodie, you’re in for a treat with this versatile piece of outdoor apparel. Below, I’ll outline how this hoodie aligns with the demands of such a hike, based on its features, fit, and performance.

Overview of the Hoodie

The Yosemite Milky Way Graphic Hoodie is part of a series featuring photographic art of U.S. national parks, with this design showcasing the Milky Way over Yosemite National Park. Beyond its stunning aesthetic, it’s a high-performance garment designed for outdoor activities like hiking. Here’s what makes it a great companion for the Upper Falls Trail:

Key Features for Hiking

• UPF50 Sun Protection: The Upper Falls Trail in Yosemite can expose you to significant sun, especially in open sections or during summer months. With a UPF50 rating, this hoodie offers excellent protection against harmful UV rays, keeping your skin safe during long hours outdoors.
• Lightweight and Stretchy Fabric: Made from a 150gr., 4-way stretch fabric (85% polyester, 15% Spandex), the hoodie is lightweight and flexible, allowing unrestricted movement—crucial for navigating the trail’s steep switchbacks and rocky terrain.
• Moisture-Wicking and Quick-Drying: Hiking the Upper Falls Trail is strenuous, with a 2,700-foot elevation gain over 7.2 miles round-trip. You’ll likely work up a sweat, and this hoodie’s moisture-wicking properties will pull sweat away from your skin, while its quick-drying nature ensures you stay comfortable even after a break at the misty falls.
• Built-In Neck Gaiter: The internal neck gaiter in the hood provides additional sun protection for your face and neck—perfect for windy or sunny conditions at higher elevations. It’s a free bonus feature that adds versatility without extra bulk.
• Thumb Hole Cuffs: These keep the sleeves in place and protect your hands from sun exposure, which is handy when scrambling or using trekking poles.
• Easy Care: After a dusty, sweaty hike, you can machine wash it warm and tumble dry it low, making cleanup a breeze.

Sizing Considerations

The SunPro Hoodie is designed with a loose fit to enhance airflow and sun protection in warm temperatures—ideal for Yosemite’s often sunny climate. Here’s how to choose your size:

• Loose Fit (Recommended for Hiking): Pick your regular size for a generous fit that promotes ventilation. The longer arms and torso, combined with the high Spandex content, ensure comfort and stretch without feeling restrictive.
• Tighter Fit: If you prefer a snug fit or plan to layer it under a jacket (e.g., for cooler early mornings), consider sizing down.

For reference, someone who is 5’11” and 175 lbs. wears a size Large, finding it generously roomy. This loose fit has proven comfortable in temperatures up to 95°F in humid places like Florida and Brazil, suggesting it can handle Yosemite’s warmer days effectively.

Suitability for the Upper Falls Trail

The Upper Falls Trail is one of Yosemite’s iconic hikes, offering stunning views of Yosemite Falls but demanding physical effort. Here’s how the hoodie matches up:

• Warm Weather Performance: Summer hikes in Yosemite can get hot, and the hoodie’s lightweight, breathable fabric and loose fit are designed for airflow, making it ideal for temperatures from moderate to high.
• Sun Exposure: The trail has exposed sections, especially as you climb. The UPF50 rating and neck gaiter provide comprehensive sun protection, reducing the need for extra sunscreen on covered areas.
• Comfort on the Move: The 4-way stretch fabric and thumb hole cuffs ensure you can move freely, whether you’re climbing steep inclines or resting at the top.
• Moisture Management: Mist from the falls and sweat from exertion won’t bog you down, thanks to the hoodie’s wicking and quick-drying properties.

Final Thoughts

The Yosemite Milky Way Graphic Hoodie is an excellent choice for hiking the Upper Falls Trail, blending style with practical features like sun protection, moisture management, and comfort. Or hiking anywhere else. Its loose fit and stretchy fabric cater to the physical demands of the trail, while the UPF50 rating and neck gaiter shield you from the elements. Just plan your purchase ahead of time due to the May 1st, 2025 ship date, and you’ll have a reliable, eye-catching layer for your Yosemite adventure!