Autumn at Yosemite's edge - Yosemite National Park

Sunset, Oct, 1994 by Jeff Phillips

Lesser-known options barely a mile from Wawona and popular with families are the 123 private, fully furnished housekeeping cabins, available for $78 to $335 a night through the Redwoods Cottages (375-6666).

As wonderful as its setting and architecture are, the restored Wawona Hotel (252-4848) is not for everyone. It originally opened in 1912, and today more than half of the hotel's 105 rooms still share a bath down the hall. Room rates range from $63.25 to $86.25. The hotel dining room is the only full food service in Wawona this time of year.

For a free copy of the 1994 Southern Yosemite Visitor's Guide, which lists special festivals in the region and accommodations and restaurants in the Oakhurst area, call the Eastern Madera County Chamber of Commerce at 683-7766.