Tuolumne to the Valley: JMT vs Forsyth Trail

[deej]

I haven't done the JMT to the valley since the 70s. Things were different then! But, my son and I have a three day weekend in front of us, and I'd like him to experience that portion of the trek, including Half Dome, if attainable. I've also hiked from Tuolumne to the valley via Rafferty Creek and Lyell Canyon, but not via the Forsyth Trail from Tenaya Lake. Does anyone have any feedback about the scenic level of the Forsyth Trail vs the JMT? Is it only about getting to Clouds Rest and then to Half Dome, or is it a nice experience all the way? Also, I've never hiked in September (mostly June through early August person), so I'm wondering about water along the way. I can't seem to find posts about this trail other than the beauty of Clouds Rest, etc. Any feedback would be appreciated. And then there is the question of - do I REALLY need to spend the night AT the station in Tuolumne Meadows the night before to even attempt getting permits via the JMT or the Forsyth Trail? I haven't been inside the Park for quite a while, apparently!

[AlmostThere]

If you got there on a weekday, probably not. All the services along the JMT and along Tioga Road start to shut down in late September in preparation for winter. I would question whether the permit station is even open, if you're talking very late September.

I suspect the rules have changed for permits since you went last -- they begin handing out next day walk ins the afternoon before, trying to alleviate all the camping on porches.

[deej]

We are heading out the weekend of the 16th. I will call the Tuolumne Station for details. Thanks, Almost There, for your feedback.

[maverick]

Don't forget, you will need a valid permit to climb Half Dome, so request it when getting your wilderness permit, this does not apply after October 11 when the cables are supposed to come down, weather permitting. Road side parking along Tioga is not allowed from Oct 15 on, so no issues there.
https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/wildpermits.htm
https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/ ... ermits.htm