Yosemite
 

Heading to Yosemite to hike the Half Dome...any great places to carb up before hand and also any great places to rent bikes? Thank you for any ideas!

You should start hiking Half Dome at first light or earlier in order to get it done at a reasonable time. I don't think anything is really open at that time. I'd buy food for the hike the day before.

You can rent bikes at Curry Village - they are single-speed cruisers.

I assume you have a permit?

I was thinking the night before.....we will be on the trail at 5am!

Yep... we sure do have a permit!

Ok - next question - where are you heading to Yosemite FROM so that we can give you places on your route? Recommendations in Groveland wouldn't be helpful if you are coming up from LA :) And... I assume you are looking for good, hearty meals, like pastas and steaks, right?

Pack some Starbucks Via's & oatmeal for the morning. 5am should be good. Pre-buy all your snack food because nothing will be open before you hit the trail.
Keep an eye on the weather however sometimes they will close the peak if there is threat of lightening.

if you want a real treat get reservations for a delicious dinner at the Awahnee (dress code for dinner) to celebrate conquering the beast; ask for a table by a window. This is worth the $$$.

Layer up & have a killer time!