Don’t Wait! How to See Yosemite in 55 Hours

I love Yosemite in the fall!  We left at 1pm on Friday and got back at 8pm on Sunday.  We felt like we really “got away from it all” and experienced a good portion of what Yosemite has to offer.  Of course, it would have been ideal leave early a.m. on Friday and enjoy more time in the park.  You can see Yosemite in 55 hours!

I did not get to experience Yosemite National Park as a child. I grew up in Southern California, but not in a family of campers.

My first trip to Yosemite was with my husband and 11 month old son in November 2002.  We went again in October 2003. We moved out of state and didn’t return again until October 2007. Now we made our 4th trip in October 2011.  Each trip was only 3-5 days.  Each trip was in October/November which is great for limited crowds, but not so great for waterfalls (unless you’re lucky). So don’t wait!!  You don’t need to plan a big grand trip, just plan a bunch of short trips.

My family went swimming here!

If you go this time of year, pay special attention to:

• road conditions and closures.
• weather (essential — because it can snow).
• read the Yosemite Guide — they hand it out at the entrance, but I always wish I remembered to download it before I go.  It quite literally has EVERYTHING you need to know.

Especially for families (be aware):

• It is at altitude so the kiddos need to stay hydrated. I remember our first trip, my son’s ears were bugging him.
• The roads into the park are curvy, so beware of car sickness.
• Areas without cell service and limited gas within the park (have a full tank before entering).
• Food and groceries are available, but more expensive and restaurants have limited hours during the fall. Bring what you need and know where you are going to grab dinner before you make your trip.

Overview:

• There are many sections to the park and you won’t be able to hit them all in one short trip. In fact, it would take a lifetime to see everything and it all changes with the seasons. Just pick one place and explore your general area.  “The Valley” is the place where you’ve seen most photos.  You’ll want to spend time there just looking up and “oohing and aaaahing” at the sights.
• Again, read the Yosemite Guide to find out EVERYTHING you need to know.
• I would also highly recommend watching the sunset at Glacier Point (see photo of Half Dome, top right).  We’ve done it 2 out of our 4 visits and I just love it.
• My friend, Debi, at GoExploreNature.com posted an Insider’s Guide to Exploring Yosemite with Kids.

From my first trip. I’m in awe in the Mariposa Grove.

Entrances:

• South Entrance through Wawona/Mariposa Grove (easiest from SoCal)
• West Entrance through Merced/El Portal (about an hour longer, but scenic)
• Tioga Road entrance near Bishop (beautiful in summer and fall, closed in the winter)

Where We’ve Stayed:

• Curry Village Tent Cabins
• Yosemite Lodge at the Falls (my favorite)
• Yosemite View Lodge in El Portal (outside of West Entrance)

Other Lodging Options at South Entrance:

• Wawona Hotel
• Tenaya Lodge

Fees:

• $20 per car for 7 days

Resources:

• Road conditions and weather
• Directions to the park
• General National Park Service website for Yosemite