Yosemite traffic worth it for 2-3 days?
 

Hi! I'm planning somewhat last minute 1st anniversary Cali trip week of July 4th. We were wanting to visit Yosemite for a couple of days but after reading so much on the nps site about up to 3 hours of delays and minimal parking, be there by 9am, etc. I'm wondering if it's worth it for that short amount of time or if there is any expert advice for offer that we can take advantage of? I'm able to find a few accommodations but would take recommendations there too. Will spend majority of trip in Carmel but considering approaching Yosemite straight from SFO on arrival day (a Saturday).

I appreciate any help!

July 4th is AMAZINGLY crowded in YNP. And will be more so this year since the waterfalls are running at max plus everyone will be pretty much confined to the Valley (Tioga Pass and the back country is still closed). IME it will be a zoo.

>>I'm able to find a few accommodations but would take recommendations there too.<<

Where? Many properties advertise being 'near' the park but area 90 mins to 2 hour drive from Yosemite when there is no traffic and much longer over a holiday.

(Cali is a city in Colombia -- I'll assume you mean California ;) )

Meant to add >>Yosemite traffic <B>worth</B> it for 2-3 days?<<

Yosemite is always 'worth' it -- but it is a matter of the hassle factor. IF this will be your one and only <u>ever</u> opportunity to visit the Park -- then sure, and just prepare to fight the crowds. But just about any other period with more lead time would be better.

Yosemite is always worth it. 1) stay inside the park to avoid the lines waiting to get into the park 2) spend only 1 day in the valley seeing waterfalls, hikes etc Use the buses in the valley-you can get more places, they are free 3) spend a day at Tuolome (sp?) meadows- this is less crowded but still gorgeous 4) your last day could be Glacier Point or checking out other sights in the park

>>3) spend a day at Tuolome (sp?) meadows- this is less crowded but still gorgeous <<

Tioga Pass and Tuolomne meadows are not accessible and there is no estimated opening date yet.

>>Tioga Pass and Tuolomne meadows are not accessible and there is no estimated opening date yet.<<

Meant to add that what isn't covered in snow is flooded.

Such great insight, thank you! It shouldn't be our only chance but it would have served as a very special highlight of our trip.

I can find night by night at Majestic but wildly priced and others in the park like Yosemite Valley Lodge if we'll be flexible on which days. I've read about the areas being closed but after reading your logical point of everyone being confined to valley... not sure if that's the best time for us to experience the park. Taking notes on the 3 day suggestions.

>>I can find night by night at Majestic but wildly priced <<

The Ahwahnee (most Californians refuse to call it the 'Majestic') may be 'wildly priced' - but that is just what it costs. It is an historic building and you pay for the location and history.

If you actually can get into the Yosemite Lodge at the Falls (another 'Name issue') for your time frame jump on it. But plan on arriving in the park in the morning before the traffic gets insane. Then park your car at your hotel and rent bikes to tour the Valley. The shuttle buses will be running but likely VERY crowded.

In crowded summer, the Ahwahnee (yes, I'm a Californian AND the lawsuit has not been settled) offers much more privacy because it's in a far corner of the Valley. The architecture is stunningly beautiful. We like the cottages and also rooms in the main hotel with balconies.

That said, the Lodge is nicely decorated, more reasonably priced and we like Tamarack, Aspen, and Dogwood buildings because they are smaller and at the periphery.

If you go, don't miss breakfast at the Ahwahnee. Ordering a la carte is more cost effective and neither DH or I are in love with buffets even when they aren't more expensive. Dinner is very expensive --we don't think it's worth the price UNLESS there is a very special event, then arriving in light and watching the lighting of the room change as it turns to dark is quite magical.

Two tips: keep calling for cancellations, get up and out REALLY early for hiking and walking, then nap in hot crowded afternoons.

Oh--Ahwahnee also has air conditioning and room service. We often split meals to save money.

Thanks everyone! We're going for it. Yosemite post-July 4th. The Yosemite Valley Lodge. Watching for tour cancellations and will try to schedule breakfast at Ahwahnee. Thanks again! Researching maps and trails. :)

. . . And Tioga Pass is supposed to open tomorrow @ 8AM (fingers crossed)

Tioga Pass is open.

The buffet at the Ahwahnee is a poor value and they don't replenish it. I p. Don't fret if you don't get in. The food is typical food service quality. Try to order something that is hard to mess up.

Hi!

I just wanted to thank everyone again for the responses.

We had such a beautiful time in Yosemite. We bought the book someone here recommended for easy day hikes which was helpful. It was tremendously crowded and considering how everything is booked out through almost September, I can't imagine it being much different throughout the summer. It was just too crowded to have us eager to return but if I had a better hiking plan and was ready for tent life for awhile, I think a more organic experience on the edges would be more fun.

We did buy groceries to take in (pb, bread, granola bars, boxed almond milk and cereal...) which was really handy. The Yosemite Valley Lodge is very central but the photos online aren't accurate. Broken windows and filthy floors but clean bedding and the bathroom was very nice! No AC made it hard to cool off. But a view of Yosemite Falls out your back patio is a once in a lifetime treat.

If you're looking for parking after 6 or so in the evening, you'll find spots. Anytime before then is tough-going.
We took the glacier point tour and it is stunning. We saw a bear! We hiked around the falls and one of the meadows. The shuttle is incredibly convenient and we enjoyed Half Dome camp at sunset.

We had lunch at the Majestic Yosemite Hotel Bar and it was a delicious chicken salad sandwich on the patio of the bar area. We peeked into the dining room which was lovely. Food at Yosemite Valley Lodge dining hall wasn't great but the coffee "shop" was a pleasant surprise. Half Dome Village had a buffet restaurant with a small salad bar we enjoyed one night.

Great anniversary trip! Thanks again to everyone and sorry for tardy report. :)

Oh yeah!!! And a highlight of the trip was pulling out the binoculars to watch climbers on El Capitan!!! So incredible. :)