3.5 Day Backcountry trip in May

[BellaDzaster]

Hi,

I am trying to surprise my boyfriend with a fully planned 3.5 day backcountry trip in Yosemite in May - preferably the first week. Any tips on which trailheads to go in/out of? We're both in good shape (he's an avid mountain biker) but I don't want something so strenuous we don't enjoy it. Any tips are appreciated.

Thanks!

[dan]

Here's a few suggestions:

1. Tuolumne Meadows to Yosemite via Sunset Lakes, John Muir Trail, optional hike to Half Dome, and end up in Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley.
Take the Hiker's Bus or YARTS to reach the trailhead from the valley.

2. Tuolumne Meadows up Lyell Canyon to Vogelsang

3. North Rim area of Yosemite Valley. Reach it from the Tioga Road and head south to the top of Yosemite Falls. Hike along east to North Dome or Half Dome for Day Hikes. You can also start in Yosemite Valley and hike up the Yosemite Falls Trail or Snow Creek Trail.

[AlmostThere]

Of course, depending on when Tioga Pass opens - most years it doesn't until early June. This year it may very well open early, if the spring storms fail to deposit significant snow.

[BellaDzaster]

Thanks so much! I'm going to try to get #s 1 & 2. Much appreciated.

[balzaccom]

I don't think that either of those trails is going to be much fun in early May. They will probably be under a few feet of snow...even this year.

[AlmostThere]

Nothing like miles walked in melting snow. And ice. That late, melting stuff tends to turn into sheet ice.