My wife and kids (girls 8/4) are planning to drive to Yosemite and back from Modesto for the day. Any suggestions on the biggest "bang for the buck" in only 1 day there? We wouldn't mind a couple short hikes, but obviously, we can't spend 5 or 6 hours hiking. We've never even been to California and will be trying to see the SF/Monterey/Yosemite area in 7 days.

My daughter and I did the tram tour of the Valley Floor- covered a lot of area
gives you an idea of the layout
The tours leave from the lodge, and the trail to Yosemite Falls is close by so can do a short hike after the tour

We did Yosemite in a day in 2001, round trip from Mariposa. It was a full day. Start at the entrance near the Redwoods and you should be traveling in the opposite direction of most folks which should reduce the crowds. Take a side trip to Glacier point and then spend the remainder of your time in the valley. Packing a picnic lunch will save time and money, and let you eat whenever you're hungry.

I second the recommendation for the valley tram tour. It is fun and will give you a good overview of the valley. Then you can go back and visit things you still want to see.

You might also want to rent bikes and ride around - the valley is pretty flat and has a lot of paved trails off the road, so it is great for biking with kids. You can rent kid trailers and things too.

A good short hike is to Mirror Lake at the base of Half Dome. You can hike around the lake too, but I don't remember how far it is. If the weather is warm, this is a good place for a swim since the lake is small and shallow.

There is a hike to the foot bridge at the base of Nevada Fall - that is about a mile from the trail head, uphill, but not bad. Saw lots of kids go up the trail and continue on further as well.

Yes, yes, do the tram tour. Otherwise you wil always wonder if you saw "the best". If you have time left over ask about short hikes. Have fun and enjoy.

Thanks all for the tips. The tram sounds like a winner. Our kids will definately love it.

Consider taking the valley tour at dusk, called the 'Twilight' tour. You then have a much better chance of seeing wildlife.

Also consider taking the Mariposa Grove tour (BIG trees). If you do, sit on the left side of the tram for the best view. Altho the tram does a complete circle and you'll see everything regardless, the return trip back doesn't have the taped /headphone tour to accompany it.

Definitely try to do both tours if you have the time.