Yosemite National Park Travel Answers

You're sooo right, 24 hours would not be enough to enjoy much more than just a taste of Yosemite. But I guess a taste is better than nothing :). Yosemite View Lodge is still outside the park and would take about another 30 minutes drive to get you to Yosemite Valley (better than most), although if given a chance, I would try to get accommodations in the park itself in Yosemite Lodge at the Falls or Curry Village. But I also understand that its very difficult to secure accommodations in the park because its so in demand. By September, the falls may be down to a trickle, so you may not get classic waterfall views, but all around the valley, the views would still be amazing. I would try to get a parking spot as soon as I get in the valley and then take the free shuttle to get around so I could concentrate on the wonderful views and not worry about finding a parking spot every time I want to take in a magnificent vista (which is going to be very often. If you are driving around the valley, it will not be unusual to want to spot every 5 minutes or so just to take pictures). Go down every shuttle stop to explore a little and take small walks around. You can even take the free shuttle to Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequioas down south (If driving, it may take an hour from the valley and parking spots are a little limited down there). After that and going back to the valley, I would take the car and drive up to Glacier Point. This is a wonderful place which shows panoramic views of the major sites of the valley and the park. You cannot miss this. I like going there in the afternoon near sunset because I like to listen to the Ranger sunset talk, which is very interesting. This takes about an hour's drive from the valley so be sure to get there before sunset. I've had friends before who miscalculated and got there after dark when its difficult to see the views :) I would squeeze in at least one hike in your itinerary. I would suggest the Mist Trail which provides fabulous views. This would take about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how you pace yourself, but it is so rewarding. If you guys could wake up earlier the next day, this would be a wonderful start to your day. After the hike, I would suggest going to the High Country. A drive through Tioga Road is unforgettable (I would not want to be the driver, though, hehe. I would not want to miss the breathtaking scenery). You will mass through beautiful meadows, lovely lakes, massive granite structures - ah just breathtaking. If you had more time, it would be great to explore this wonderful area, but with limited time, a drive would have to do ;) This could also be a nice way to end your Yosemite trip :) Enjoy your trip! Maybe plan a longer one next time? :)

Here is a link to some pictures from Yosemite jcjlkrebs2.wordpress.com/201...

Keep in mind that if you are coming from Ireland, there will be a big time change - about 9 hours ahead of the time you are coming from. Although east to west is usually less problem than west to east, it may still be a problem. Also you will be driving on the other side of the road than you are used to. You may be able to leave a little later than 1 or 2, as I think the drive to Monterey is a little shorter. We used to live in the Monterey area and it has been a long time since I visited this park, but some information about the size. Yosemite National Park embraces almost 1,200 square miles. The park ranges from 2,000 feet above sea level to more than 13,000 feet. Personally I would see the Sequoia's first and go to the Valley the next morning. The Tuolumne and Merced Groves of giant sequoias are near Crane Flat, a 30-minute drive west from Yosemite Valley. These groves, each about one mile (1.6km) from parking, are reached by trails. There are 840 miles of trails and eight-miles of paved bike path in the Yosemite Valley. The park's only bicycle rental stand, at Yosemite Lodge and the signs are not prominent. The minimum time for rental is an hour, and in that time you can just about do the 8 mile circuit. Younger than 18 a helmet is required.

Thanks a mill everyone for your detailed replies/photos etc.!! S

You will not be disappointed at Yosemite. Note that while driving into the park you will go through a tunnel through the cliffs. Get ready for the most amazing view as you come out of the tunnel. It is unparalled anywhere on the planet. Also agree that you should try for accommodations within the park iteslf. My favorite is the historical Ahwahanee Hotel, and although fairly expensive it is worth it. However if not, at least try to have either lunch or dinner in the Great Dining Room there. No to be missed. Good luck. yosemitepark.com/Accommodati... yosemitepark.com/accommodati... images.google.com/images?hl=... Here is some information on the park shuttle system: nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/b... jrabold.net/yosemite/transp.... nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/u... Good luck, hope this helps.....d:o)

This is sooo helpful! Thanks a bunch! Accommodation is booked I'm afraid but with all these great tips I am sure we will make the best of those 24 hours. thanks again S

I live in the area and if it were me, I would go in via Hwy 120 see some of the park then go to the hotel. Then I would go back in the next morning, I think your ticket is good for 24 hours so it should not cost you to go back. Then I would go back out via Hwy 140 to Merced. At Merced stay on Hwy 140 all the way to Interstate Hwy 5 and then go south to Santa Nella and take Hwy 152 over toward Monterey. Get a good map or GPS to show you the way. Depending on the day of the week four hours seems a little much from SFO to Yosemite Valley going via Hwy 120. That figure is more like going to the lodge, which probably takes you out of the way and a longer route. If you want more detailed directions let me know. I ride that area a lot on my motorcycle and visit Monterey all the time.

You may want to consider taking either the "Valley Floor Tour" or the "Grand Tour". These are pay for use tours provided by the park's concessionaire. You will not have to worry about driving or missing anything. Just sit back and take some pictures :)

We're tasking a similar route in Yosemite in June. Driving down coast road fron SF and going in land to Gilroy for the night. Then heading for two nights in the Narrow Gauge Inn and Yosemite before heading off to Death Valley and the Grand Canyon. How experienced do you need to be to go for a decent hile...we are not that experienced, but will bring the walking boots. Thanks for the excellent tips

There are all level routes for hiking. Some are short and flat and my mom and dad could do them with me (back in the day) and some were for experienced hikers. Just be sure to pick the right level and distance.

Vic, There are many different trails in Yosemite for hikers of all levels, from beginner to experienced, so you could choose. Get a copy of the free "Yosemite Guide" when you arrive so you could browse on what activities and trails are open, it is widely available. June is a great time to visit, but it may also be the start of the summer season when there are so many people in Yosemite Valley. But I believe Glacier Point and Tioga Pass would be open by this time and those are spectacular places to visit, especially when looking for a great hikes away from the crowds(Tioga Pass). With limited time in Yosemite, though, and wanting a decent hike, I would go to the Mist Trail, going to and up Vernal Falls. Only about 3 miles round trip, it is listed as "moderate" so I may huff and puff a bit(I am not an experienced hiker either :), but it offers breathtaking views that is always rewarding. Oh, if you're going to be visiting several national parks (Yosemite, Death Valley, Grand Canyon, etc.), don't forget to get the "America the Beautiful - National Parks" pass ($80). You only need one for a group sharing a car, and it could save you a bunch on entrance fees. Yosemite is always a pleasure to visit. Enjoy!