My son and his friends were planning on coming here (CA) for spring break from the East Coast. A couple of them really want to go to Yosemite since they have only heard of it and seen photographs. The issue with mid-March (10th to 17th) is that most of Yosemite will probably have snow, especially this year. Balzacom's site had a description of the Rancheria Falls hike from Hetch-Hetchy as one of the early season hikes. Since they want to backpack, I spoke with a ranger and he suggested Rancheria Falls (6.5 miles from Hetch-Hetchy) on to Tilltill Valley (~10 miles total in one day); set up tent; then next day, camp 10 miles away (what would be a decent spot?) and then come back via Beehive Meadows.
While the boys are up for backpacking and day hiking, they are not at all keen on snowshoeing with packs. Does their plan seem reasonable given the wet winter we have had (no complaining here, we need the water and snow). Or, should they be planning day hikes only? In that case the question would be lodging since there is no open campground in Hetch-Hetchy and Upper Pines is reserved. Hodgdon Meadow Campground would be another bet that would allow for day hikes in Hetch-Hetchy and the Valley.
Not sure what to suggest to them especially since some of them are coming to CA for the first time.
Thanks