Yosemite Village, California - Yosemite Falls hike and Awahnee Hotel

Yosemite valley floor from halfway up the falls hike

We went during the start of the summer season in order to catch the falls when it still had a lot of water in it. The downside is that this season brings LOTs of tourists, so the valley floor can feel a bit like disneyland on a bad day. On the positive side, the valley is SO gorgeous that it's worth the crowds, and most of the hikes a distance from the valley are away from most of the crowds.

The Falls hike is a pretty significant one. It took us about 5 hours round trip, and we certainly didn't carry enough water (and there isn't much along the trail.) we got back and then checked into the Awahnee (we splurged for one night, the rate was over $300!) The room was clean and we took a great nap on the comfy bed before getting ready for dinner in the lodge.

In the morning we walked around the valley floor and up to mirror lake before heading out. I'd like to return to the Awahnee at christmastime - it must be beautiful then, and less crowded!