re: Yosemite update

Pressed for time right now but will try to give a better reply over the weekend. Hopefully others will see this too and give you more thoughts, especially with respect to various hikes.

I will say this though. As much as I would hate to miss Glacier Point, I would seriously consider bumping to May. I've been to Yosemite once in the Fall and it really is different (in a good way). The gold of the aspens really struck me. However, going in May should mean the shuttle service is running (a VERY big deal for getting around) plus the waterfalls will be great (even if this winter's snow isn't great). I've been once in the summer (end of June, first of July) when there were forest fires close enough to really smoke up the Valley. It didn't bother my breathing but you really noticed the haze when taking pictures.

Speaking of pictures, get your hands on The Photographer's Guide to Yosemite by Michael Frye. He really gets into the time of day and best location to take pictures of the many sights. Amazon prices are bad right now ($30+, I paid $10 or $12 for my copies), check eBay. I also like the app Coming Light to tell me Blue Hour, Golden Hour, etc. info.