I might sound like a amateur posting this here but I wanted to get some experienced opinions.
Me and a group of 4-6 first time backpackers want to plan a backpacking trip in Yosemite in late August/September. We are all in our 20's and are in great shape. We want to do a moderately difficult and rewarding trail involving the landmarks of Yosemite that is challenging but where we would still able to enjoy ourselves along the way.
After research, we are considering starting at Tenaya Lake, up to Cloud's Rest, camping near the summit then Half Dome (Maybe) and down the Mist Trail and out of the Valley. I've done my research and understand the necessities of backpacking (Bear canisters, lack of food/water, carrying only what you need) and that we will need wilderness passes which we did not reserve these ahead of time
Our tentative plan would be:
1. Arrive at Tuolomne Wilderness Center at 5 AM Friday morning to line up for FCFS passes for our group.
2. Explore the area and camp at the campgrounds,
3. Head up to CR early the next day, taking a detour to Sunrise Lakes on the way for a swim.
4. Set up camp near the summit of CR so we can enjoy the sunrise the next morning.
5. Next day head to Half Dome, and summit it if we manage to get passes or skip the summit if we don't.
6. Head down JMT/Mist Trail to Yosemite Valley and shuttle back to our cars, drive back to San Francisco.
My Questions are:
1. Does this sound too ambitious for first time backpackers?
2. Would you recommend skipping Half dome for this trip to make it more manageable?
3. Would you guys suggest a slightly less challenging but equally rewarding trail to take for first timers (like circling back to Tenaya instead of going down tho the valley)?
4. Is there another back country trail you would suggest for a 2/1 day/night?
Any suggestions for a first timer would be extremely helpful, thanks!
Edited 4 time(s). Last edit at 06/16/2017 01:41PM by tsarles.