Hi all,

We're having a last minute trip to the State at the end of July, driving through California to Utah.

I really want to go into Yosemite - not to hike but just to see it and say I've been.

I know it's unlikely I'll get the day pass, so going in after 4pm is fine for us.

However: there are two options and I need your help/advice to decide!

After a night's stay in SF on 30th July, on the 31st we will drive to Yosemite. On the 2nd August we are staying ina ranch in Caliente, CA.

We either:

1. Stay in the Evergreen lodge from 31-2. Booked and free cancellation. We would then drive down to Calientem, though not using scenic route 395 as it would add too much time on. We would plan to go horse riding in Yosemite (organised through a local company) but realise we may not have much else to do in the area (though recommendations welcome).

2. We stay the night of 31st in Mariposa (would really like to see that town) and then stay the night of the 1st in, say Mammoth Lakes which would enable us to drive to Caliente on Route 395 and not have as long a journey on the 2nd AUgust.

It seems a toss up to me between 2 nights in one place, though perhaps seeing less scenery, verse 1 night in two places and having a more scenic route.

Would welcome any thoughts - especially as, if we can't get the day passes for Yosemite, are we going to be twiddling thumbs more if we stay at Evergreen Lodge.

With thanks,

James