Returned a few weeks ago from my trip with 2 sons (16 and 12 year old) from TM to HI via Rafferty Creek trail taking a few days off in between to enjoy scenery and relax. Weather was absolutely perfect. High 80's and 90's in Valley, perfect in back country.
Arrived at Valley and took the Yarts bus leaving at 5pm from Valley ($8 for all three of us since they did not charge for youths). Stayed overnight at the Tuolumne Lodge (tent similar to Curry Village) except they have a wood stove for heat which we needed since it was rather cool at night.
Day 1 - TM to Vogelsang HSC (i.e., Fletcher Lake) via Rafferty Creek trail. (7.0 miles)
Day 2 - Stayed in Vogelsang and spent day relaxing and after a short hike (1/2 mile one way), exploring around Vogelsang Lake. Snow was plentiful so we had to scramble around snow and ice and on way back down to Vogelsang HSC we even slid down the snowy hills using a hefty bag I brought.
Day 3 - Vogelsang to Merced Lake HSC (8+ miles) - I love the Fletcher Creek trail however, feet can take a beating on downhill rocky trail. Boys survived long day of hiking but we all slept well that night.
Day 4 - Spent day relaxing and exploring around Flectcher Creek and around Merced Lake.
Day 5 - Merced Lake HSC to LYV - This is another beautiful hike and I enjoy following the Merced River.
Day 6 - LYV to Half Dome.
Day 7 - LYV to HI
I really enjoyed this trip and have done this trip as a 5 or 6 day hike also.