I live within an hour and a half from the park and spend a lot of time there throughout the year. I clime and hike, and have found that the crowds thin out above 7000'. Most people treat Yosemite as though it's an amusement park, they have no understanding or respect for the Eco systems or what they are actually looking at. The part that bothers me the most is the trash they leave behind. I carry a trash bag with me on every visit and start collecting trash on the way down, most of the time I run out of space in the bag. If you do plan to visit please enjoy what I Yosemite is, one of the most spiritual and beautiful spots on the face of the earth. AND please, please if you bring it in carry it out and pick up that gum wrapper or yogurt cup! THANKS!!!