I think we are gonna go through Fresno. IAH to LAS to FAT. I found a lovely airbnb near Mariposa. Only thing that made me pause is the drive to/from the park. It's about an hour, but I didn't like the lodging options that were closer (and they were $$$).

I think it might be too early in the season for Half Dome. That's the trade-off of going in April - not everything will be open, but the waterfalls should be bigger (assuming the weather cooperates). I'm a sucker for waterfalls.

nosoupforyou said:

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For Half Dome, you have to get a pass - www.recreation.gov. 877-444-6777

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half dome lottery isn't until march, FYI.

i've gotten chosen twice, but haven't been able to go either time. One year, I also got Whitney and we chose that over Half Dome. Then last year, I wasn't paying attention to dates and the day I got selected was the second of school and my kid was just starting kindergarten. That said, I know they do day of lotteries for unclaimed permits.

I spent my 40th birthday at the top!

We did the lottery a few days before - didn't get it, then the next day we did get it.
Probably would have hiked it anyway and get in a fight with anyone holding me back.
Beautiful day in October!

Those pictures are awesome! I'd be up for it, but I'm pretty sure I'd have to find a new hiking partner. I think my BF would be a big NO on that!

It's a 6 mile hike to get there

Then 300 yards to the top - hang out there 30-60 mins

Then 7 miles back if you return the other way

He can skip the dome but DON'T LET HIM! He should propose to you from up there

nosoupforyou said:

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It's a 6 mile hike to get there

Then 300 yards to the top - hang out there 30-60 mins

Then 7 miles back if you return the other way

He can skip the dome but DON'T LET HIM! He should propose to you from up there

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Haha…then he for sure won't do it!