Backcountry hiking/camping with kids

[mlwissne]

We are visiting Yosemite July 18-21st and want to try to backcountry hike and camp with our kids (ages 6, 8, 10). We've day hiked with them several times (up to 8 miles in a day) and are confident they can hike. HOWEVER, we've never been to Yosemite, don't have a backcountry permit (yet) and aren't sure which hikes/trails might be best for our circumstances. Such as not to buggy/mosquito-ey the entire time we're hiking, too strenuous, something interesting to look at along the hike, etc. We are thinking of Pohono trail from Glacier Point to Tunnel View. Wondering if there are other trails we should consider? We have Wed+Thu booked at a National Forest and are hoping to snag a permit Thursday or Friday and at least backcountry camp 1 or 2 nights. If we come back after one night, there appears to be the ability to "backpacker" camp the night after using a backcountry permit?

[balzaccom]

Yep, your backpacking permit allows you to stay one night before and one night in a backpacking campground after your trip...

The Pohono Trail doesn't have a lot of views, although Dewey Point is stunning. And there's really of one campsite area with water, where the trail crosses Bridalveil Creek.

And you have a large group--which makes it harder to get a permit.

I'd look at 20 Lakes Basin just outside the park out of Saddlebag Lake. No trail quotas, lots of lakes to choose from, fishing if you're interested, and a boat ride that the kids might enjoy if you can afford it .