by Phil » Fri Jun 03, 2016 11:11 am
Hi again Erin,
I wish I had more info, but even Aramark doesn't have a daily schedule available yet. Service is scheduled to begin 06/10/16 though, dependent on conditions. They told me to call back on the 8th or 9th, but since you'll be in the Valley, maybe try to swing by the reception desk over at Curry Village Lodge and see if they have a printed schedule before those dates. For now, I would try to get an approximation from last year's schedule that I posted for you as a general guideline. It shouldn't be too far off, if not right on. That's the best we seem to have right now. That price of $14.50 one-way from highsierratopix might be right or not, but it is going to now become a fare instead of free. Aramark seems a little slow to ramp up. They better get it together. If/when you need to call, the best phone number is: 209-372-1240
The mosquitoes swarming you is the problem, not so much the biting, if you're using protection. I don't know how it compares to Minnesota, but it can get pretty freaky, and they definitely don't relent. Hence, the head nets that at least keep them out of your face and ears. It'll start about a minute after you get out of the car, all the way up the trail, in camp, all evening until it gets cold, rains, you build a smoky fire, stop exhaling CO2, or you seek refuge in your tent. Then you'll do it all again the next day, and the next, and the next....constant companions. It is the #1 topic of conversation for anyone you might meet on the trail this time of year...ask someone about water sources and they'll default to the mosquitoes automatically. Sorry, it's only the first week of June, and that's just the way it is.