We are planning a trip to California 6/21-7/8 and are flying in and out of LAX. We plan to spend time in LAX and San Francisco. We are deciding if we should go to Yosemite for a day or two. Doe
We are planning a trip to California 6/21-7/8 and are flying in and out of LAX. We plan to spend time in LAX and San Francisco. We are deciding if we should go to Yosemite for a day or two. Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks in advance!
If you want to hike alot, then you will need at least two days. you can see the park and walk up to the bottom of the waterfalls and get a good feel for the valley in one day. What is really nice is being in the valley at night time and seeing bear, deer, etc It is one of our favorite places, I know you will love it. Take you binocular's so that you can lay in the meadow adn watch the climbers on El Capitan. Have a great time!
Yosemite is beautiful, it's tough to get to and from. So, consider if you really really want to take the time and effort. You might find you're busy enough in SF and LA, both of which have plenty to see and do.
Following up on Phred's comment, it depends upon whether you would enjoy seeing natural areas in addition to cities. If so, you can't do much better than Yosemite as it is breathtaking. You could drive north from Los Angeles, head east to Yosemite, them west to San Francisco. If you would like to see more of California's spectacular Sierra Nevada, you can make it a larger portion of your trip if you like. For example, 1) you could do your south to north through the foothills, or 2) once in Yosemite, head east over Tioga Pass* to Highway 395. You could see Lake Tahoe and then head west to San Francisco. 395 along the east side of the Sierra between Yosemite and Tahoe is one of the great drives in North America. If you decide to pass on Yosemite this trip, the drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco along coastal California is very beautiful as well.
Have fun!
Kay
* In very rare years, Tioga Pass is not yet open in late June. However, it has been extremely dry this year so I don't think it will be an issue.
Another recent thread reminds me that, if you choose to go to Yosemite, you need to make reservations NOW. This is the case even if you will be staying just outside the park, in El Portal for example.
Yosemite is a must! One of the most beautiful national parks and places on earth. Tahoekay gives you a good plan/route. Yes, you must make reservations asap. If you're only going to be there 2 nights max, try to get Yosemite Lodge, right in the valley. Sometimes cancellations are possible - keep trying. Otherwise there are places nearby. The Ahwannee is very expensive - not worth the room cost, however, have their brunch, if possible. By the way, if you can (perhaps you're going round trip from LA or SF) drive the route 1 coast (if you've never done that) - beautiful views. Of course, Big Sur, Carmel, San Simeon are great stops.
Absolutely! You will, of course, need to drive between LA and SF. Plan an early start, then spend at least one night in the park, or two would be even better. I'd suggest breakfast one day at the Ahwahnee so that you have the day free to explore the park. Do make your reservations asap. Meanwhile, you might enjoy this interesting video, http://www.weekendadventuresupdate.blogspot.com/search/label/Yosemite.
Will this summer be a good time to visit Yosemite? I've read the lack of snow will mean little water in the waterfalls, so it may not be as spectacular as usual.
Absolutely don't miss Yosemite, plan to spend 2-3 days, and reserve a room or tent/cabin now. Plan to walk a lot - just park, take the shuttles, and walk. Don't miss anything and don't forget your camera. I think the entry is prettier from the Hwy 41 side (south) but any way you get there will be worth it. We try to go annually in June but we only live 2 hours away. Fell in love with my husband there and love it!
Absolutely visit Yosemite! 2 days would be worth it and it will leave you wanting more. Visit the Ahwahnee Great Lodge even if you don't stay or eat there it is worth walking around and taking a breather in the common rooms. Check out some of the falls, El Capitan, Half Dome, and vistas, plenty to do from car and short walks from parking lots when short on time. There is also a grove of Giant Sequoias not to be missed! Have fun and be safe.
Are you saying you have 18 days? If so, YES, go to Yosemite. Nothing like it anywhere. It's about 4 hours if you take off from Gilroy on 101, and 4 hours back to Oakland. Really gives you two full days. If you like history, there's the 49er Gold Rush sites in the area too.
