Like many others I'm sure, I've been eagerly watching the road and snow reports in hopes that our planned trip out of Tuolumne Meadows on July 18th will become a reality. I saw the latest news that CalTrans and Yosemite have met from both ends of Tioga Rd at the gate, so I'm feeling more confident at the moment that everything will be clear and safe in 5 and a half weeks. Tell me if this is just wishful thinking. I am aware that the trail conditions may be snowy, wet, muddy, icy, mosquito infested. We are willing to trade for July in PHX.
Our permit res is from Cathedral Lakes, 3 nights, and out at Happy Isles. Originally, I wanted to take Cathedral Lakes, cross over to Sunrise Lakes, do Cloud's Rest and head back out through LYV to Happy Isles. With the snow and ice, I'm guessing Cloud's Rest is going to be out. Also not really interested in climbing Half Dome. So my question to this forum is, given our permit restrictions, what would be your suggested trip plan to get the most out of the 4 days we have in the park. The logistics of planning around our work schedules, our kids' college and sports and general teenage drama has me thinking that future family trips like this may be few and far between, so I want to maximize this adventure. I would love to hear your favorite itineraries and preferred campsites. Thanks!