Need help deciding on backcountry trails (7 days total)

[lou123]

My wife and I are going to Yosemite for the first time in late June and need to apply for backcountry permits. We are both completely lost/overwhelmed on which trails to do, and would appreciate any advice (apparently the John Muir Trail is full for the year). We are coming from San Francisco and have 7 days total to backpack, and some things we are looking for:
-avoiding cold conditions
-intermediate trails
-not be around too many people
-scenic and chance to see bear(my wife's dream)

If any one could suggest a good start and end trail (doesn't necessarily have to be the full 7 days) that would be great!

[balzaccom]

WE've got a whole list of good hikes in Yosemite on our website in the destinations section. If you want to avoid crowds, it's pretty easy in Yosemite--just avoid the most popular destinations, including: Half Dome, Little Yosemite Valley, Ten Lakes Basin, Cathedral LAkes, and Young Lakes.

Look at Mono Meadows to Lower Ottoway Lake, or Nelson Lake though Lewis and Fletcher Creeks...lots of options there that won't connect you with many people and will give you great scenery.

[lou123]

Thanks balzaccom -- the website has some good information!

Another question if you don't mind. If we wanted to end the hike at Happy Isles trailhead (so that we go through Panorama Trail/Vernal Falls), could you recommend a good starting point that would give us more isolation? Thanks!