~10 days, late May

[inr]

I'm just starting to try and figure out a trip for late May (week of the 23rd). I'm not so familiar with Yosemite back country and was looking for some route suggestions. We are looking for 10 days or so, but open to a bit longer or shorter, and don't mind doing a little snow camping.
Are any of the roads definitely going to be closed at this time?
And what is the predicted snow level for late May?
Any input is appreciated.

[sierranomad]

Another poster here, bill-e-g, has more first-hand knowledge of snow levels throughout the year. He hasn't posted in a few days, so maybe he's out enjoying a trip.

But here's my 2 cents to at least get you started:

The Tioga Road will be closed, and Glacier Point Road may be closed. THis cuts down considerably on your options. Hetch Hetchy backcountry is low elevation (around 7,000') compared to Tuolumne Meadows area, and maybe a good place to look at. But it may be a bit early for HH, too. There is some wonderful scenery back in there. If this is your first time to Yosemite I would suggest that you spend a few days in the Valley.

Hope this helps.

[inr]

Thanks a lot. I appreciate it.
Its not my first time in Yosemite. I just haven't been backpacking there in a while, and never this early in the season.

[bill-e-g]

Can almost guarantee the roads are still gonna be closed then.
Well, at least you won't be able to park overnight.
10 days it a lot. Do a couple of trips. Go up the Merced maybe and explore.
Go to Hetch Hetchy.

It really won't matter. It's all beautiful. Just go.

[inr]

would hiking into the grand canyon of tuolumne from hetch hetch be doable at this time of year? would snow be a problem for that trip? what about the river flooding the trail?
thanks again

[AlmostThere]

Snow, who knows, the way things are going it might be snowing again in early May! But even if things melt by late May - all that melting snow can make creek crossings suicidal.

[bill-e-g]

I assume you mean GCT from over Racheria Mtn.
If you go that way you have to cross the Piute.
There are large logs across the river... but it may not be for you.
No idea. It's a long haul into the GCT anyway you go from HH.
Definitely expect snow going over Rancheria Mtn. or if you
go by Harden Lake.
If you detail your route exactly I can comment further.
Last weekend there was 100% snow above 6kt.

[QITNL]

>Last weekend there was 100% snow above 6kt.

Just got back from the valley. Snow report: melting fast!

[bill-e-g]

It might be melting fast... but there is a LOT of snow up there.
Unfortunately I was on the wrong side of the plane but here is
the Sierra looking south to Kings Canyon (flying at 30K b/t Yose and
Kings) (Owens Valley on the left):

[sierranomad]

That is one cool shot!!

[AlmostThere]

Wow. I may have to buy a ticket to Reno or Vegas just to see that. Way cool pic, bill.