Yosemite Forum

Hi, I am thinking of visiting Yosemite in late July for 4-5 days from the east cost. Flights to San Fran are cheaper.

Logistically, how much more of a drive is it from there to the park? Also, I am looking for waterfalls and some half day hikes with views into the valley for photos.

Are there any overlooks into the valley that are car accessible since I do not have as much time as I would like?

For lodging, what is the closest town to the park / valley that has cheap hotels.

Purpose of trip is light hiking and photography. Travelling alone, so I am avoiding backpacking due to lack of experience.

The drive from SFO AIrport to Yosemite is about 5 hours, more in traffic. Avoid arriving around the evening rush hour.

There's plenty of waterfalls and hikes in Yosemite Valley. Here's a Park Service description of valley hikes and a link to a PDF day hike map:
http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/valleyhikes.htm

Go to Glacier Point for a view of Yosemite Valley. It's about a 1 hour drive from the Valley.

The cheaper hotels are in Oakhurst, Mariposa, and (the closest) El Portal. If you want cheaper, stay in San Joaquin Valley--Merced, for example. That's a long drive though.