Backpacking Suggestions April 26-28?

[sososowhat]

I'm looking for suggestions for backpacking routes which are beautiful & likely to have minimal snow April 26-28. I'll be with my 18 year old daughter. We're both strong but light on backpacking experience. It's been years since I've been to Yosemite.

Also, my understanding is that I won't need to get a permit in April. Is this correct?

Thank you in advance for any advice you might have!

-Alexis

[balzaccom]

Your choices may be limited by snow, high creeks, and open trails. You might look at a trip along the North Rim of the Valley, from Yosemite Falls to Snow Creek Falls, for example. Remember that even with light snow coverage, the trail may not be visible, so you'll have to hone your navigation and map skills...

[Grzldvt]

Funny, reading the post, my first reaction was the North Rim. Going this time of year, pretty much anything yo do is a climb out of the Valley. I have had trouble with snow covered trails as you get past North Dome and head towards Snow Creek. Navigation skills are needed.

[AlmostThere]

You absolutely need a permit, all year. In winter it is self registration. You need to check the website to see the date that changes to quota period/reservations and walk ins.

You also absolutely must have a bear canister. This year, the bears are up early and active because there was so little snow.

Going up toward Little Yosemite and Merced Lake will be less strenuous than either Snow Creek or Upper Yosemite Falls. There is still snow in the 7000+ elevations and Glacier Point (and all trailheads along it) are closed.

[sososowhat]

Thank you all for your help!

Bear Canister & self-registration: check.

Is there a route you might suggest which keeps one at/under 7000 feet, or any trails which are likely to be easy to follow? Also, is there an iPhone GPS App which would be sufficient to navigate with, or is there even coverage throughout the park? I can read a map, but it's been a long time since I've had to rely on those skills.

I found a four-day North Rim trip described here: http://www.trimbleoutdoors.com/ViewTrip/368705 which looks pretty awesome. What would you think of this one for us (assuming we can do four days instead of three)?

[atomicmonkey]

Tom harrison Maps has a great iPhone app. It has most of the trails at Yosemite and is a great planning aid. I have not hiked with it, i am still a little old school with paper/compass. I can't imagine it not being ok as long as you have GPS signal (no cell service needed)and battery power.

[AlmostThere]

Relying on electronics for navigation is asking for it, IMO - SAR rescues as many people who take GPS units as not, and phones and tablet batteries are notorious for running out of juice and leaving you stranded. Take a map.

There isn't a lot under 7000 in the park that will allow you to backpack in it. You may be able to do either of the rims with minimal snow involvement. Or drive all the way out to Hetch Hetchy. The road just opened. You'll get the permit at the gate.