Yosemite National Park Accommodation September 2014

[squaks]

Hi everyone

I am wondering if I can get some advice from everyone out there that has visited Yosemite National Park. I am going early September and want to stay in the park at Yosemite Valley. The Ahwahnee Hotel and Yosemite Lodge on the Falls seem to be the best pick. I have found availability online for both, but want to book ASAP as I know these places fill up quickly. The Ahwahnee Hotel is over double the price of the Yosemite Lodge on the Falls. Around 550 dollars per night. Is there much of a difference of location for both Hotels? Is one in a better spot than the other? I will probably never get back there and am aware its a once in a lifetime experience. I would really appreciate anyone that has been to, or have seen both properties to let me know what you thought of these hotels and what you experienced while staying there.

Cheers

Squaks

 

[YosemiteP]

Well first let me say yosemite is my favourite travel spot, somehow or other I seem to end up there every year. Usually I stay in the backcountry but I have stayed at the Ahwahnee and the lodge at the falls.
Location wise the lodge is closer to everything in terms of restaurants and buses for day trips. The Ahwahnee is on its own about 2-3km away.
However the free bus system within the park is excellent and links all of the areas in the park. As such there really is not much of difference location wise as the bus stops right outside the ahwahnee.
If price is not an issue chose the ahwahnee. If possible book one of their stand alone cabins.
Hope this helps and enjoy your stay.

 

[UP4014]

Although I've been to Yosemite 3 times, have never actually stayed there.

The village is down there somewhere.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/15264656@N02/13124462883/in/set-72157641677842773

If you don't like walking, there is view from the carpark.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/15264656@N02/13124356715/in/set-72157641677842773/

If you fell out of the car and the camera went off you still get an amazing shot.

Matt

 

[RooFlyer]

Valley map here (PDF): http://www.yosemitepark.com/Files/NPS_Map_-_yosevalley2008.pdf

Main Yosemite web page here: Visit Yosemite Park | Yosemite Information

If you can afford it, and its a one in a lifetime opportunity, go the Ahwahnee. Its a bit away out of the throng (and there WILL be a throng!), and there is a shuttle bus to get you anywhere you want to go.

Bizarre thing about Yosemite (but not alone in this regard) : pets (as in dogs & cats) are allowed in the park. Not only in the park, but in the food stores as well