Yosemite with kid plan

Question

Hi, I am planning to drive to Yosemite from Las Vegas in end of June through Tioga pass with 2 years old kid. My plan will be drive on Thursday and stay some middle location and then on Friday enter Yosemite through Tioga pass. We need help to plan on Friday and Saturday what places can be done without much hikes.Also in which area hotel or lodges good to be booked for Friday and Sat night. Within Yosemite it looks like expensive to stay. Please help to share the area and places

Answer

It sounds like you’re planning an exciting trip to Yosemite with your young child! Since you’ll be entering the park through Tioga Pass and looking for easy-to-do activities without too much hiking, I’ll provide a few recommendations that should be family-friendly and comfortable for your 2-year-old. Additionally, I'll suggest lodging options for a more affordable stay nearby.

Friday: Entering Yosemite through Tioga Pass

After entering Yosemite through Tioga Pass on Friday, you’ll want to explore areas that are easy to access by car, with scenic views and short walks. Here are some great family-friendly options:

Tuolumne Meadows: Located just inside the Tioga Pass entrance, Tuolumne Meadows offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada. It’s an excellent stop for a picnic, a leisurely walk, or just to enjoy the alpine scenery. There are easy, paved pathways around the area, perfect for a stroller or letting your little one explore the outdoors.
Tenaya Lake: A short drive from Tuolumne Meadows, Tenaya Lake is a beautiful spot where you can relax and enjoy the views. You can also walk along the shore for a very short distance, which is perfect for families with young children. It’s a great spot for a break and a snack while taking in the serene atmosphere.
Olmsted Point: This scenic viewpoint offers panoramic views of the Yosemite wilderness. The parking area is easily accessible, and the walk to the viewpoint is short and paved. It’s a good spot to take photos and enjoy the breathtaking views of the eastern Yosemite wilderness.

Saturday: Exploring Yosemite Valley

On Saturday, you can drive into Yosemite Valley to experience some of the park’s most iconic sights without extensive hiking. Here are some easy and beautiful places to visit:

Yosemite Valley Visitor Center: A good first stop in Yosemite Valley, the Visitor Center has exhibits that your child may enjoy, along with information on park activities. It’s a good base to plan your day and offers easy access to other sights in the valley.
Lower Yosemite Falls: This is one of the easiest and most accessible waterfalls in Yosemite. The walk to the base of the falls is short and mostly flat, and it’s a beautiful spot for families to enjoy. You can even bring a stroller along if it’s not too crowded.
Bridalveil Fall: Another easy, short walk that leads you to a stunning waterfall. The trail is paved and only a short distance from the parking lot. It’s a great place to take in the beauty of the park without a strenuous hike.
Sentinel Meadow & Cook’s Meadow: If you want to enjoy stunning views of El Capitan and Half Dome, these meadows are perfect for a stroll. The paths are mostly flat, and the scenery is incredible. You can either walk a short distance or just enjoy the view from the parking area.

Lodging Options: Since staying within the park itself can be expensive, here are some more budget-friendly lodging options outside Yosemite, but still close enough for easy access to the park:

Yosemite View Lodge (El Portal): Located just outside the park’s Arch Rock entrance (a short drive to Yosemite Valley), this lodge offers rooms with kitchenettes, which can be handy for a family with a young child. It’s more affordable than staying in the park and provides a comfortable base for your visit.
Rush Creek Lodge (Hetch Hetchy Area): Located a bit farther from Yosemite Valley but still within driving distance, Rush Creek Lodge offers cozy cabins, some of which have kitchenettes. It’s a more peaceful area and less crowded than the main Yosemite Valley, making it ideal for families looking for a quieter retreat.
Evergreen Lodge at Hetch Hetchy: This is another great option if you want something outside the busy Yosemite Valley area. The Evergreen Lodge offers family-friendly cabins and is known for its excellent service. It’s a bit of a drive from Yosemite Valley, but if you’re looking for a quieter, nature-filled experience, this is a great choice.
Wawona Hotel (South Entrance): For a more classic Yosemite experience, you can stay at the historic Wawona Hotel near the south entrance. It’s a charming option with a quieter atmosphere and still offers easy access to Yosemite Valley.

Additional Tips: - For your 2-year-old, make sure to bring plenty of snacks, water, and some outdoor toys to keep them entertained during stops. - Always check road conditions before your trip, especially for Tioga Pass, as it may still be closed due to snow depending on the season. - Early mornings are generally the best time to visit popular spots like Yosemite Falls or Bridalveil Fall to avoid crowds and get the best views.

In summary, Yosemite offers many beautiful spots that are easy to access without much hiking. Consider Tuolumne Meadows, Tenaya Lake, and Yosemite Valley for family-friendly activities. For lodging, there are options like Yosemite View Lodge and Rush Creek Lodge just outside the park for a more budget-friendly stay. Enjoy your time in this incredible national park!

Yosemite with kid plan

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