Need Help with Yosemite

“Some friends and myself are heading to Yosemite on Aug 29th straight from the airport. We are all experienced Arkansas Backpackers. We have a reservation for a car camping site but we were wanting to backpack we are a little overwhelmed with how much there is to see a the park so we are seeking some advise. We also don't know how hard it is go get a permit. So if anyone could help please. Thank you! Three men are in our group.”

“You could spend at least 3 days in the Valley and see most but not everything.
Permits shouldn't too big of a problem the day of your hike but might have to be flexible.
One day needs to be set aside for Cathedral Lakes trail and one LONG day for Half Dome.”

“http://www.nps.gov/archive/yose/wilderness/

Be sure to leave time to adapt to the high elev.”

“Hike up to the top of Yosemite Falls, and camp in the vicinity of where the water drops over the falls. You might see some people doing the Lost Arrow, and you will have incredible views of the falls and the valley. its a trail all the way. Being from AR, the hike will be a serious change of pace in terms of verticality.

Alternatively, hike up the Mist Trail and camp in the Little Yosemite Valley, and climb Half Dome if you have time.”

“Wear a good sunhat.”

“IMO, if you want to backpack skip the Valley and head up to the Tuolumne Meadows area. One of my favorite spots is Young Lakes.

Here's my website with trip journal,photos, and a map: The Backcountry.”

“http://www.yosemitefun.com/images/yosemite_park.htm

This is a great site. It has a "plan" to see most of Yosemite in 3 days. It helped me out.
last edited: 7/30/07 6:53:22 PM”

“Unfortunately, in late August the waterfalls in the valley will not not be very spectacular. This year the snow pack was not that great so the snowmelt went faster.

So, after a quick look at the valley, I would suggest heading for the back country. The previous suggestions are good.”

“your not going to see it in three days, skip the crowds, go to the back country,start at Tuolumne Meadows, hike up to Glen Aulin (Nice Falls) or go south down Lyell Canyon”

“For a nice backcountry jaunt, head up towards Tioga and hike in to Cathedral Peak, a good exciting class 3 scramble.”