I am planning backpacking trip to Yosemite for one of the first two weeks in September this year. I am planning to avoid the Valley floor this visit, as I plan to return in Feb or March of 2011 for some back country skiing and a visit to the Valley when there are fewer people.
I have Jeffrey Schaffer's hikers guide, but reading through, I can't decide on which hike would be the best.
I don't have a huge pack, so with a bear canister and preparation for some cold nights, I'm thinking I have room for about four days worth of supplies. (Two of us with similar pack sizes).
We'll have a full week in Yosemite, so I'm planning on 2-3 separate hikes, 2-4 days each. I'm looking for areas most worth going to - with the fewest numbers of people possible. It's just not a wilderness experience if I'm surrounded by the hoards, as I'm used to being able to go out for 4-6 days and not see a soul (no bears to worry about around here). I understand that I'll have to be around some other people, but I would like to minimize that while taking in the views. Perhaps I have wishful thinking.
Does anyone have advice on the best places to go in early September? Again, I'd like to be able to take in some of the scenery that makes Yosemite unique while avoiding the crowds as much as possible. Again, I'm not planning to visit the valley this trip. I'm also looking for some routes that have reliable water sources for this time of year. I'd appreciate advice from those of you familiar with the area so I can firm up my plans and apply for my permits.
Thank you very much for your assistance.
![[Yosemite]](../images/yosemiteicon.png)
