backcountry decisions

[kentmo]

Hi all. I'm tirelessly researching the park for the BEST backpacking itinerary possible for a handful of fit, experienced guys from the Pacific Northwest. Given the choice, what would you veterans recommend....some variation of a route from Tioga Pass to the Valley floor, or some kind of loop starting and ending in YV, and incorporating Clark Range, Illiouette Creek, etc.?

[kentmo]

OR......

Start at Tuolumne Meadows, wind through Vogelsang, Lyell Fork, Ottoway Lakes, Illilouette Creek, Panorama Point, and back to the Valley?

[balzaccom]

How many days do you have? What time of year?

If you've never been to Yosemite, then you should see the Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. But those are also the most trafficked areas. I prefer to wander in less popular areas: Illilouette Canyon is nice, The whole northwestern section of the park is pretty amazing.