We also did a
Disneyland, Monterey and Yosemite trip last year. Be prepared to feel horrible about only staying two days in Yosemite. It is gorgeous.
They do have tours that you can take. One is an open view tram that can cost some money but be a good idea for beginners. We stayed outside of the entrance at Yosemite View Lodge. It was perfect. I would say it was five minutes from the actual park gate. It is situated on the Merced River.
Inside YNP we did the following:
Hiked up Mist Trail - Amazing views, scary at times and a little hard to to if your not in shape but well worth it.
Must see Yosemite Falls. Easy walk.
Must see Glacier Point. Amazing. Simply amazing.
Must see Mariposa Grove. The giant trees are amazing. It takes about two hours if I remember correctly from the valley floor. It is a windy long drive over.
I am into photography so a stop at the ANsel Adams gallery was a must.
We ate at the Yosemite Lodge food court. It was good simple meals. Kind of like theme park entrees.
We wanted to go to mirror lake but ran out of time.
We tried to do a raft ride but it wasn't open when we were there. Must make sure you go when the waterfalls are in full force.
Must do Tunnel View. Everyone has a picture from there and it is a must do.
Here are some shots we took from our trip:
Mist Trail easy part
Tunnel View
Views as you drive into Yosemite
Upper and lower Yosemite
Walkway to Yosemite Falls
Easy walking paths around Yosemite FAlls
Mariposa Grove Fallen Tree
Mist Trail Sign
At the very top of Mist Trail
You can walk about halfway up and it is a smooth uphill walk that will take you to a bridge for exceptional views so don't think it is all hard.
Awahnee Hotel
If you get travel channel watch out for Yosemite "Americas Jewel" or something like that. It just aired yesterday but they usually show it every week or so.
If there are any pictures or questions I would be happy to answer them. I've got a picture of just about everything. We are hoping to head to Yellowstone this year.