Hello... I'm looking for some advice on a backpacking trip I've waited until practically the last minute to plan. I'm taking my two teenage cousins on their first backpacking trip and first trip to Yosemite. I've only backpacked in the high country, but I feel like they really ought to have the Valley experience, plus I'd like to try something new.
Wilderness permits are pretty much all booked, but here's the route I'm looking at: (All three of us are in good shape, though this will be their first time backpacking, so I'm worried I'm being too ambitious)
Start at Happy Isles and take the Mist Trail to see Vernal and Nevada Falls, then continue on Panarama Trail to Illilouette. Set up camp somewhere in Illilouette area (Any tips here? Is this too far for inexperienced backpackers on Day 1?? How hard is it to set up camp here?) Stay there, take day trip the next day up to Glacier Point. Hike back out to Happy Isles on Day 3, this time going back via John Muir.
I can't seem to find any web site where this route has been taken... seems like most people go from Glacier to Happy Isles as a Day Hike. Anyway, what do you think??
Thanks for the help!!