Midpines

Question

Hi there we will be leaving San Francisco tomorrow morning with our two teens ages 16 and 13 and travelling to Midpines for 2 nights and then onto Carmel. Could anyone suggest an itinary for me. I think they'll do a short hike without too much of a moan. Thanks in advance

Answer

Driving from San Francisco to Midpines is roughly a 3.5 to 4-hour journey, so leaving early in the morning is a great idea to maximize your first day in the Yosemite area. Midpines is a small community located just outside the southern entrance to Yosemite, making it a convenient base for exploring the park.

Here’s a suggested itinerary that balances sightseeing, short hikes, and travel to Carmel:

Day 1 – Arrival and easy exploration: Leave San Francisco early, stop for a quick breakfast along the way. Once in Midpines, check into your accommodation and get settled. Consider a light walk or picnic at nearby Merced River for a relaxing first afternoon. This is also a good chance to stretch your legs after the drive.
Day 2 – Yosemite National Park highlights: Enter Yosemite National Park via the Big Oak Flat or Arch Rock entrance (depending on your route). Key stops suitable for teens and short hikes include:
- Bridalveil Fall: A short paved walk leads to the base of the waterfall – very manageable for all ages.
- Yosemite Valley Visitor Center: Learn about the park’s natural and cultural history.
- Lower Yosemite Fall Trail: An easy 1-mile loop to see Yosemite Falls from the bottom – perfect for a family hike.
- Cook’s Meadow Loop: Offers iconic views of El Capitan and Half Dome without strenuous hiking.
Lunch/Dinner Options: Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park or have a meal at one of the Yosemite Valley dining spots. Early dinner back in Midpines is recommended for a restful evening.

Day 3 is your travel day to Carmel, so consider starting with a shorter morning activity before heading out:

Morning: Stop at Tunnel View for one last iconic Yosemite photo opportunity.
Optional Short Hike: Sentinel Dome or Taft Point – both are moderate hikes offering amazing views but can be adjusted to how much your teens want to walk.
Drive to Carmel: The journey will take around 4–5 hours depending on stops. You can stop along the way in Mariposa or Groveland for a coffee or lunch.

This itinerary provides a balance of nature, short hikes, and travel. For the hikes, the key is to pick trails under 2 miles or with minimal elevation gain to avoid complaints from your teens while still experiencing Yosemite’s iconic scenery.

Additional tips:

Start hikes early in the morning to avoid crowds and midday heat.
Bring plenty of water and snacks for short hikes.
Check current park conditions and any road closures on the official Yosemite National Park website before heading out.

Overall, the pace is moderate, giving your family the chance to enjoy the park without feeling rushed while keeping the teens engaged with scenic spots and manageable walks.

Midpines

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