Sunrise and sunset points in Yosemite and Mono Lake

<p>I'll see my granddughter in mid October. I'll stay in Fremont. During my stay there I'll spend three days visiting Yosemite and Mono Lake. Any recommendations? I am thinking of going to Mono Lake first and spend one night over there. Then come back to Yosemite and spend one night there. I'm looking for photo opportunities, particularly the sunrise and sunset points in the two places. Also any suggestions for the accommodation, I only need a place close and clean to the park. Thanks.</p>

<p>You'll want to keep an eye on the weather to make sure Tioga Pass isn't closed or expecting snow that would close your return route to Yosemite (the detour via Lake Tahoe is a long way). Be at Mono Lake's South Tufa area well before sunrise. Drive from there to Yosemite's Tunnel View and shoot the sunset. Then drive back to Fremont. No need for an overnight. ;)</p>

<p>If you don't want to stay up that long, arrive in Lee Vining the day before your sunrise Mono Lake shoot. Get a motel (Lake View Lodge < $100/night) and a good night's rest, then do the above. If you plan to spend a night in a Yosemite motel (Yosemite Lodge = $170/night), you might want to make your reservation now.</p>

<p>Thanks, John for your info.<br>

BTW, what is the good time to shoot from Mirrow Lake, sunrise or sunset?</p>

<p>South Tufa seems to be the most popular area at Mono Lake for both sunrise and sunset pictures. Although I have some shots I took at sunset from the overlook at the gas station at the 120/395 intersection. Mid October is probably going to be just past peaking of the fall colors in the Mono lake area (often about the first weekend of October or so). As noted, the pass is probably going to be open but there could be storm activity which could impact any of the roads in that area.</p>

<p>Tunnel View is a good sunset spot as is Valley View (in the valley near the junctions , looks back across the river towards El Capitan). Glacier Point has interesting sunset views of Half Dome as well. I'd suggest trying to get reservations now for Lee Vining as well as the Yosemite area. Last time we moteled in the area we stayed in Mariposa, you might find the Lodge available or El Portal to be more convenient. Your motel location may influence how far you want to drive after sunset and if El Portal or the valley, you might be able to check in in the afternoon. You may also want to check on available services between Lee Vining and the valley for things like food service availability and hours, etc. things shut down for the season at some of the in park or even out of park locations.<br>

If you drive over the Tioga Pass first, you'll have a good idea how long it will take to get back to the valley are for stopping and sightseeing/shooting the second day getting back for sunset.</p>

<p>Just to pick up on Craig Gillette's warnings about food service availability at Lee Vining. I've booked there for alate april/early May after extracting a pretty firm committment from the motel management that we'd be able to find food. We arrived and guess what, no food available. We refused to check in and ended up staying in June Lake where there were facilities open. Not as convenient for Mono Lake, but close enough . </p>

<p>Thanks a lot, Crig and David. Your input is really very helpful! I'll try to make the reservation now.</p>