Hubby and I are planning at trip to California in early August. Will be in the San Francisco area the end of the second week of August.

1) Is Yosemite a worthwhile trip for an overnight and some hiking?

2) I believe it is too late to stay at the park, but is it too late to get lodging in the surrounding area?


3) Any recommendations for accomodations?

Thanks!

Yosemite View Lodge in El Tovar is usually available, if not through hotel's website, then through Expedia. The area is beautiful, river and mountains.

Mariposa Lodge, Mariposa ... 45 min. from Yosemite Valley. Immaculate, cute and reasonable motel with a small pool, family-owned and run. You can catch the YARTS shuttle into the Valley, right down the street, and not have to drive, if you prefer.

El Portal is the location of Yosemite View and Faina is right it is a good choice. Don't give up on the Yosemite lodging though as cancellations always take place. Keep checking the official site to make reservations.
http://www.yosemitepark.com/Accommodations.aspx

Do not use any other site for in park lodging.

Besides expedia for Yosemite View, you can use this one:
http://www.nationalparkreservations....emite_view.htm

Do not use that one for in park lodging as you will pay more and you can make any reservations for in park lodging through the official concessionaire.

The Yosemite View Lodge is the closest hotel to Yosemite Valley, about a 13-mile drive. Actually, it's closer to the valley than some of the in-park sleeping facilities!
And, its accommodations are good.
Its number is 209-379-2681; its email is [email protected].

What I like about this Lodge the most - there is a shuttle to the valley if you don't feel like driving.

It is definitley a worthwhile trip; my husband and I did it last summer. It will leave you wanting more!

We stayed at the Yosemite Gateway Inn (a Best Western) in Oakhurst. It was about an hour drive from Glacier Point. The room was ok; nothing to write home about but after a long day in Yosemite, it was perfect! Just don't get there too late- the restaurant at the hotel closes at 9:30 and it didn't look like there was anything else in the area!