by Heybooboo » Thu Jan 22, 2009 3:31 pm
LJY,
I've stayed at Tenaya Lodge and the Ahwahnee. Dollar for dollar I would choose the Tenaya. Last time I made plans to stay at the Ahwahnee they could not accomodate our family of 4 on the 5th floor like we wanted, so I canceled. Our only stay there was 18 years ago, 5th floor with balcony and a 4 year old. It was fun for our son to sit on the balcony and play flashlight tag with people on top of Glacier Pt. and climbers on Half Dome. Very pricey room, but the experience was a once in a life time, worth going in debt for. Probably never stay there again, too expensive, unless it's for a special anniversary. Tenaya Lodge has lots of family activities but you're probably not staying long enough to take advantage for that. And yes, staying there you're still an hours drive from the valley floor. Never stayed at Apple Tree Inn. Why not the Lodge or Stoneman House (motel rooms) at Curry? We've stayed at the cabins (not tent cabins) but real wood sided cabins at Curry with a common bath between them, like a duplex. Two double beds, it was a great time.
Hiking. Take the tram to Mirror Lake, nice hiking around there, easy trails, and water! What 6 year can't resist water. They should be able to make it to the bridge at the bottom of Vernal Fall, though I've never hiked with anyone with flat feet. There are some new (last couple of years) trails added to the Yosemite Falls area after the redesign. Great for all abilities, very crowded at times though, and water!
Hope this helps
Smarter than the average bear.