saltydog, it is likely that stock trail was the original start of the JMT, since it was sure easier to build than the paved section to the bridge. I don't recall seeing any "no hiker" signs. It does parallel a paved road that goes up to the huge steel water tank that likely supplies all of the valley's domestic water needs.
Reno Frank: Since you are staying at Yosemite West, you could check the Chilnualna Falls hike that starts near Wawona. On the Glacier Point road, I've hiked in to Ostrander Lake. Sentinel Dome and Taft Point are near Glacier Point -- haven't hiked those, however. Winter snowshoers and xc skiers go out to Dewey Point for a nice overlook.
