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Yosemite too crowded?

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Old Aug 2, 2016 | 08:47 PM
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Default Yosemite too crowded?

I'm in the preliminary planning stage for next summer's road trip. One of the options we're considering is the Yosemite area, which I've never been to.

We did Tahoe last year and it was crowded as expected but not so bad that we didn't enjoy the riding (except for the construction on the west end of the lake loop).

I've heard horror stories about hour-long long lines getting in and out of the park. I'm definitely not into that. When I was at the Grand Canyon a couple of years ago we just got up early to beat the crowds, just wondering if that works at Yosemite as well.

We'd probably only spend a day or two in the park and the rest of the time exploring the area. It looks like there's a lot of good riding there.

Any input from those who have ridden there would be appreciated.
 
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Old Aug 2, 2016 | 08:50 PM
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Yes, early in the morning and late in evening will beat the crowds. That and try to avoid weekends, especially Saturday. Once the kids go back to school the crowds lighten up too.
 
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Old Aug 2, 2016 | 08:51 PM
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It's not too bad mid week, but I would avoid summer weekends. Getting there early helps. Don't miss Glacier Point.
 
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Old Aug 2, 2016 | 09:08 PM
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Def include Yosemite. Time it so it's good for you. There are a lot of other good places to visit on both sides of the Sierra. As your thoughts become clearer, share them with us and you'll get feedback.
 
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Old Aug 3, 2016 | 08:22 AM
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Thanks that's what I was thinking. We'll probably come in on a Monday and stay until Friday. We're thinking about basing out of Groveland or Mariposa.
 
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Old Aug 3, 2016 | 08:45 AM
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If you are going to set yourself down in Groveland or Mariposa for several days, there are some really nice long one day rides you can take from there. One is over Tioga Pass and then you have a number of choices as to how to spend the rest of that day. One nice choice is to ride of Sonora Pass one way and Tioga in the other direction. Ebbets Pass is a nice ride, too. Another is to ride the Kings Canyon/Sequoia National Parks roads.

And I will be riding the roads around Medford, OR next week, your territory.
 

Last edited by Michael Psycle; Aug 3, 2016 at 10:53 AM. Reason: typo
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Old Aug 3, 2016 | 08:53 AM
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There's great riding here. We usually head into the mountains to beat the heat this time of year.
 
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Old Aug 3, 2016 | 09:52 AM
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Originally Posted by duckbagger
Thanks that's what I was thinking. We'll probably come in on a Monday and stay until Friday. We're thinking about basing out of Groveland or Mariposa.
I'm in Groveland. Are you going to stay in a hotel? They are kind of expensive in Groveland although there are some cheaper alternatives around.
 
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Old Aug 3, 2016 | 10:09 AM
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The traffic in the valley is ludicrous during busy days - especially weekends but any day during the summer will be pushing the comfort level at best. If no youngsters are involved, I'd suggest either right before summer or right after - have the place to ye self!
 
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Old Aug 3, 2016 | 05:44 PM
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I don't know exactly when you should go, but try to go during the snow melt. This will allow you to view some splendid waterfalls. Also take a really quality pair of binoculars so you can pause and watch the rock climbers. If you ever wonder if your crazy, just look at the rock climbers.
 
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