Two weeks in Yosemite/Lake Tahoe in summer

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Two weeks in Yosemite/Lake Tahoe in summer

My wife and 18 month old daughter are flying into Sacramento in July for two weeks.  We plan to spend at least a week in Yosemite and 5 days to a week in the south Lake Tahoe area.  We like

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Forums » United States » California » Two weeks in Yosemite/Lake Tahoe in summer

Two weeks in Yosemite/Lake Tahoe in summer

posted at 1/24/2012 3:58 PM EST

ssophier

Posts: 21
First: 8/21/2007
Last: 2/6/2012

My wife and 18 month old daughter are flying into Sacramento in July for two weeks. We plan to spend at least a week in Yosemite and 5 days to a week in the south Lake Tahoe area. We like to hike, bike and drive and see the outdoors. What areas of Yosemite/Lake Tahoe are good central locations to look for lodging that provide pretty views, good access to the things we're looking for, and might be a bit easier on a family? Thanks for any and all ideas!

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Re: Two weeks in Yosemite/Lake Tahoe in summer

posted at 1/24/2012 4:54 PM EST

P.Weber

Posts: 1656
First: 5/27/2004
Last: 5/18/2012

Get your Yosemite reservations done NOW. If you want to avoid commuting into Yosemite Valley then stay there if space is still available otherwise look in Mariposa.

South Lake Tahoe is the closest to both Sacramento and Yosemite, depending where you are coming from. If traveling from Yosemite in July to Lake Tahoe, seriously consider taking SR-120 over Tioga Pass and then head north to Lake Tahoe. Mono Lake is worth a visit and you may also enjoy a side trip to Bodie (look both up). Lee Vining has motels if you want to stay in the area overnight.

Consider renting a condo for the Lake Tahoe area. North Lake Tahoe is more laid back than its South Lake Tahoe cousin. Both are fine for hiking and biking opportunities.

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Re: Two weeks in Yosemite/Lake Tahoe in summer

posted at 2/5/2012 2:27 AM EST

marilee12

Posts: 177
First: 5/9/2007
Last: 2/5/2012

I personally love North shore of Tahoe - tends to be more family oriented and in particular we enjoy the homewood. I also would say get your reservations literally today for "Yosemite if you don't have them. From the gate to the basin, it is an hour drive so if you don't stay in the park, you will be driving every day.

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Re: Two weeks in Yosemite/Lake Tahoe in summer

posted at 2/8/2012 3:36 PM EST

tahoekay

Posts: 34
First: 5/16/2005
Last: 2/22/2012

I agree with the advice you have been given. From the airport in Sacramento, you can visit either Tahoe or Yosemite first -- just choose one and you will have a great loop with much time in the mountains. As long as nobody has a tendency to get carsick, one possibility might get yourself to Hwy 49 and head south through the Gold Country to Yosemite. After your time there, you could drive east over Tioga Pass and go north on Hwy 395. There are a number of variations. From 395, we like to take Monitor Pass to Hwy 89 and north to Tahoe.

However you get there, I suggest driving around the lake and getting out on the water on a rental boat or a cruise boat -- there are several. The AAA map, Lake Tahoe Communities, is very helpful. I agree that renting a condo will allow you to prepare some of your meals and have more room for your down time. If you chose the south end of the lake (where I live), you might rent bikes from Anderson's on Hwy 89 (north of the "Y" where Hwy 50 and 89 come together). You can then ride a fairly short distance to a paved bicycle trail which will take you to Camp Richardson and Tallac Historic Area. Mr. Anderson has the little trailers in which a toddler can ride. There are also trails to beaches along this bike path.

I completely agree that you should make a decision as to when you'll be in Yosemite and make reservations NOW. I don't mind being slightly outside the park in El Portal, but even the hotels there fill up quickly.

Have fun! The high Sierra is one of the most beautiful places one can imagine and you will have some terrific adventures.

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