guided tour yosemite

• Park History
• Giant Sequoias
• Rock Formations & Cliffs
• Accessibility Information
• Bear Information
• Cellular Service & Internet Access
• Food Storage Facilities
• Health & Safety
• Getting Here
• Cornell Lab Bird Tracking
• Leave No Trace
• Policies & Information
• Yosemite Lodging Experience
• History & Architecture
• Yosemite Valley Lodge
• Housekeeping Camp
• White Wolf Lodge
• Glacier Point Ski Hut
• Tuolumne Meadows Lodge
• High Sierra Camp Lottery
• High Sierra Camp Lottery FAQs
• Trip Preparation
• RV & Campgrounds
• Yosemite Dining Experience
• The Ahwahnee Dining Room
• Wawona Hotel Dining Room
• Curry Village Dining
• Yosemite Village
• High Sierra Camps
• Food and Wine Events
• Experience Yosemite National Park
• Sample Itineraries
• Backpacking
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Guided Bus & Tram Tours
• Horseback & Mule Riding
• Ice Skating
• Naturalist Walks & Programs
• Photography
• Rock Climbing
• Shopping & Supplies
• Shop Online
• Snowshoeing
• Food & Wine Events
• Holiday Events
• Upcoming Events
• Yosemite Winter Experience
• Curry Village Ice Skating Rink
• Badger Pass Ski Area Webcam
• Winter Travel Conditions
• Backcountry Ski Tours
• Cross-Country Ski Trip to Glacier Point
• Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding
• Season Passes & Discounts
• Ski School & Lessons
• Snow Tubing
• Travel Trade Group Tours
• Reunions & Socials
• Request Information
• Photos & Videos
• Email Sign Up
• Retrieve Reservations

Guided Bus Tours

• Things to Do

See it All, Guided by Experts

Yosemite Guided Bus Tours are the best way to experience all the wonders that the park has to offer. Our expert tour guides will share their knowledge about this remarkable place, with tours that focus on natural history, indigenous peoples, the first non-indigenous settlers and wildlife.

Important Information | Bus & Tram Options

Important Bus & Tram Information

A tour reservation does not include a park entrance reservation, you will need to ensure you also obtain a Peak Hours Plus entrance reservation for the date of your bus tour. Further information can be found at https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/reservations.htm .

For bus & tram options, tour availability and reservation information, please view below.

Yosemite Grand Tour

This tour is currently pending, please stay tuned for an announcement on dates.

The full-day Yosemite Grand Tour combines Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias for a memorable day in Yosemite National Park. Bring your camera for numerous photo opportunities! 

Tour Information

Tour pricing, glacier point tour.

Glacier Point Tour will run from June 15 - October 15, 2024.

Virtually every visitor who comes to Yosemite National Park spends at least some time at Glacier Point, drawn to the breathtaking views. On this four-hour tour, you’ll go from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point—a 3,200-foot elevation gain.  Be sure to bring your camera to capture awe-inspiring photos of Yosemite’s famous waterfalls and the distant High Sierra mountains. 

Tour Information:

Tour pricing:, yosemite valley floor tour.

Available year-round, the Yosemite Valley Floor Tour is approximately 2 hours long and can be enjoyed during the warm months in an open-air tram, and during the colder months from the comfort of a heated motor coach with panoramic windows. Led by park rangers and Yosemite Hospitality naturalists, you’ll get to see all of the highlights at Yosemite, as you learn about the history, flora, and fauna throughout the Park.

Yosemite Valley to Tuolumne Meadows Hikers Bus

2024 Operating Dates: June 20 - September 15 (conditions permitting)

Ticket Retrieval 

Tickets will need to be retrieved at the Yosemite Valley Lodge Front Desk at least 15 minutes prior to your tour departure time. Traffic and parking can be challenging in Yosemite Valley during the summer season, so we recommend allowing extra travel time as the tours leave promptly at the scheduled time.

The Hiker's Bus stops at many locations in Yosemite Valley and at all major trailheads along Tioga Pass, and can be flagged for pickup at any trailhead as long as the bus has enough room to pull over. Please indicate your desired pick-up location when making your reservation. If you do not see your desired drop-off location in the list of available tickets, please select the nearest available trailhead and inform the bus driver of your preferred drop-off location upon boarding.

We offer a few easy ways to book:

• Click the " Check Rates " button in the upper-right hand corner of your browser
• or Call  888.413.8869

Cancellation Policy

24 hour cancellation notice required to receive full refund. Cancelling within 24 hours of tour departure will forfeit full value.

Explore Yosemite National Park

Guided tours tailored to unleash your sense of adventure.

Custom Adventures and Outdoor Experiences

At YExplore we offer exclusive custom experiences with a local guide that help you connect to the natural world of Yosemite National Park and other premier international destinations. Please join us for an adventure of a lifetime. Every YExplore Yosemite Tour includes a vehicle reservation permit into Yosemite National Park during any reservation period.

Yosemite Guided Hikes

earn about the natural world and listen to the stories of Yosemite while we hike to some of the best photo spots in the park. Our guided Yosemite adventure hikes range from gentle half-day journeys that uncover natural beauty only seen on a particular trail to all-day treks that deliver rewarding vistas and true accomplishments. 

Half Dome Adventures

Summiting Half Dome is a major accomplishment, and our Guided Half Dome Hikes provide preparation, trail knowledge, coaching, and the benefit of added security for anyone attempting this remarkable feat.

Photography Workshops

Our unique Yosemite Photography Workshops present opportunities to take control of your camera and achieve your artistic goals in a natural setting with personalized attention from your instructor. All workshops are open to photo enthusiasts of every experience level 12 months a year.

Snowshoe Treks

Explore the quiet trails of Yosemite on a pair of snowshoes for a truly memorable experience. The winter months offer exclusive opportunities to enjoy some of Yosemite’s less frequently visited attractions from a truly different perspective.

Group Hikes

Yosemite National Park’s natural wonder is waiting to be explored on this adventure hike with your family.

International Treks

Be the change you wish to see in the world on an African Adventure that gives back to the places we visit. We partner with a trusted tour company from Tanzania who provide expert local guides to explore the Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar.

Explore Yosemite then the World

YExplore Yosemite Adventures is the leading Yosemite Tour Company offering custom guided Yosemite experiences 12 months a year. We offer Adventure Hikes, Half Dome Hikes, Nature Walks, Snowshoe Hikes, and Photography Workshops.  Every YExplore Yosemite Tour includes a vehicle reservation permit into Yosemite National Park during any reservation period.  We also guarantee smaller group sizes for a more personalized experience with our professional guides who are all local to Yosemite. YExplore is a mission driven outdoor guide service whose standards of ethics and client care are unmatched. Learn more About YExplore below.

Our unique Yosemite Photo Workshops present opportunities to take control of your camera and achieve your artistic goals in a natural setting with personalized attention from your professional instructor. Landscape, Night Skies, Yosemite Waterfalls, and Overnight Photography Backpack Workshops are just a few of the many classes we offer.

MT. KILIMANJARO & AFRICAN SAFARI

Reach the summit of Africa’s tallest mountain with us on a 10-day expedition while also exploring the Serengeti and Ngorongoro region of Tanzania on a wildlife photo safari.

MT. EVEREST BASE CAMP TREK

Nepal Trek to Mt. Everest Base Camp Explore the Everest Region of the Himalaya with us on a 22 day expedition while giving back to Sherpa communities in Nepal.

INCA TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU

xpeirence the rich culture of Peru in the city of Cusco and in the Sacred Valley then travel the Inca Trail on a four day journey of discovery to Machu Picchu.

Yosemite Adventures Blog

Yosemite Vehicle Reservation Permits

Yosemite National Park is implementing a permit reservation system in 2024. YExplore Yosemite Adventures offers Yosemite Vehicle Reservation Permits available to guests on all guided hikes and …

2024 Half Dome Permits

2024 Half Dome Permits are available from YExplore Yosemite Adventures. Book now to join us for a guided Half Dome Hike in Yosemite this summer season. …

Searching For Snow on Mount Kilimanjaro

We are all on a journey in this lifetime. Many of us are on a quest for adventure as we live for each exciting day. I recently had the opportunity to travel to Tanzania for an incredible trip to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro. …

Your Adventure Awaits

We strive to provide transformative outdoor adventures that inspire all generations to make discoveries in nature that lead to personal growth and achievement. Our commitment to small group sizes and dedication to customer care distinguish us from our competitors.

(209) 532-7014

Toll free (800) 886-8009.

Powered by: XOLA Booking Software

Yosemite Tours

Guided tours of yosemite national park and other san francisco bay area attractions.

• Most Popular

Yosemite & Giant Sequoias Tour from SF

Experience the majestic beauty of Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Falls, and the giant sequoias of Yosemite National Park on this awesome 15-hour adventure!

• Hour Glass 14 Hours
• Users All Ages

Yosemite & Giant Sequoias Tour from San Francisco

All ages welcome • 14-hour tour.

Experience the majestic beauty of Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Falls, and the giant sequoias of Yosemite National Park on this awesome 15-hour adventure from San Francisco!

Book a Multi-Day Tour

• Hour Glass 2-5 Days

Multi-Day Yosemite Tours – No Accommodation

A single day is not enough to truly experience all that Yosemite has to offer, so join us on one of our multi-day tours! It’s great fun for the whole family!

• Users Ages 18+
• Tags 1-4 People

Multi-Day Yosemite Tours – Tent Cabin Stay

Enjoy a multi-day tour of the stunning attractions in Yosemite that includes accommodation in our cozy tent cabins! We offer two to five-day experiences!

• Users Ages 12+

Yosemite Tour from San Francisco with Bug Lodge Stay

Experience the unforgettable majesty of Yosemite National Park and enjoy a comfortable stay in our lodge dorm rooms when you book this multi-day tour!

Audio Tours Available

About yosemite tours.

Yosemite tours and guided activities are a great way to see, understand, explore, and appreciate the beauty of Yosemite National Park. Our one-day tours, although short, can cover most of the points of interest. Typically, our tours cover Yosemite Valley, where you can admire Half Dome, El Capitan, and the Yosemite Falls. More comprehensive tours include a visit to one of the three giant sequoia groves in Yosemite National Park. It is best to book your tour in advance as the tickets sell out quickly during the peak season, so make your reservations today!

Yosemite Park Information

About the park.

Learn More »

Great Activities

Vacation guide, browse tours and lodging by date.

Searching available tours for . . .

Showing Tours for -

Explore Our 5-Star TripAdvisor Reviews

Denise was our guide and went above and beyond to make this tour an exceptional experience. She is very detail oriented and knows every corner of Yosemite by heart. She took us to all the important places that could be covered in a day. Yosemite is heaven on earth. The valley is so tranquil, serene and beautiful. Denise's caring, giving nature and patience make her a must-have guide on this tour.

We had a great tour guide who provided so much information about San Francisco, Yosemite and the Sequoias. The views and waterfalls were breathe taking. Memories for a lifetime. The bus picked us up and dropped us off right in front of our hotel.They stop twice for food and drinks, once on the way and once coming back. I definitely recommend this great tour!

Get ready for a full day tour with an outstanding tour from Denise who has a wealth of knowledge and is an amazing tour guide. My wife and I came from Australia and witnessed 6-8 inches of snow and heavy snow falling, what an amazing experience to see snow at Yosemite! A truly amazing experience. A must do.

An absolutely incredible experience! Our guide was amazing guide with lots of interesting and funny facts and tidbits of information about San Francisco and its surroundings. Lots of history and contemporary information. It made the trip there and back fly by. Pit stops were perfectly timed, amount of time at each stop was appropriate given the amount of time we had at the park. I highly recommend this tour!

For More Information or to Book Your Tour with a Live Person call 559-642-4400

Small Group & Private Scenic Tours of Yosemite National Park

• Tours Overview

Yosemite Full Day Tour

• Full Moon at Sentinel Dome
• Horsetail Fall Hike & Tour
• Private & Hiking Tours
• Yosemite Group Tours
• Preparing for your Tour
• Cancellation Policy
• About Our Company
• Meet Our Guides
• About Our Vehicles
• Junior Rangers
• Pickup Locations
• Meal Options
• Parking in Yosemite
• Map to Yosemite
• Things to Do
• Things to Know

Guided Tours of Yosemite National Park

A small group tour of Yosemite National Park in our comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles. Picnic lunch Included. You will see Half Dome, El Capitan, Mariposa Grove*, Tunnel View, Glacier Point*, the Merced River, waterfalls* and much, much more! More information and rates .

Full Moon at Sentinel Dome Tour

Experience the sun setting in the west as the moon rises over Half Dome, bathing the valley in a mystical light. The Sentinel Dome Full Moon Tour is truly magical, and the memory of Yosemite in the moonlight will stay with you for a lifetime. This tour is offered during the summer months and includes a picnic dinner. More information and rates .

Horsetail “Fire Fall” Private Tour

Experience the magic of the Horsetail Fall’s “fire fall” which happens each year during the last two weeks of February. A favorite for amateur and pro photographers, alike! Schedule a full day private tour for chance to view this incredible phenomenon. Horsetail Fall private tours will be offered February 16-29, 2024 and is an evening tour which includes a picnic dinner. Dress warmly! More info .

Private Guided Tours of Yosemite

Let us custom design a tour just for you. It can be as simple as a tour of the highlights of Yosemite or we can take you exploring with hikes to places where you can get extraordinary views. Sunrise, sunset, photo opportunities—we can do that. For parties of 1-14 people. More information and rates .

Group Guided Tours of Yosemite

Need a special tour for your group? No matter what your group needs are, with our years of experience, you will be in good hands. We offer tours, transportation for group activities, airport and dinner shuttles and anything else your group may need. More information .

*These sights are seasonal and may not be accessible on all tours.

View Map and Mileage to Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park tours & vacations

Giant waterfalls, majestic peaks and epic hiking trails – Yosemite National Park will have you California dreamin’, that’s for sure.

Yosemite National Park is bursting with bucket list-worthy adventures. With dramatic mountain ranges, crystal clear lakes, pristine alpine valleys and some of the world's best hiking trails, you’ll get a hearty serving of nature. Our local guides will help you discover the best bits of Yosemite as well as some hidden trails and secret spots along the way. Whether you want to go rock climbing up the famous El Capitan, marvel at the ancient sequoia trees (the tallest trees on earth), follow the Mist Trail to the thundering Vernal Falls, or watch the sky turn spectacular shades of pink and purple as the sun sets over Glacier Point, one trip to Yosemite will never be enough. 

Our Yosemite National Park trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Yosemite National Park highlights

Yosemite national park tour reviews.

Filter by rating

Las Vegas to San Fran: Parks, Canyons, Valleys

Best of California's National Parks

Vegas to San Fran

Popular US National Parks

Yosemite national park travel faqs, where is yosemite national park.

Yosemite is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of central California, USA.

How do I get to Yosemite National Park?

Driving to Yosemite from San Francisco takes about four hours, and three hours from Sacramento.

Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System   (YARTS) provides a public bus service with various pickup and drop off points.

You can also catch a train from San Diego, Los Angeles, Fresno, San Francisco, San Jose, and Sacramento to Merced/Riverbank which connects with the YARTS bus service directly to Yosemite Valley.  

The closest airport to Yosemite is the Fresno-Yosemite International Airport (FAT). Other airports within driving distance of the park are San Francisco International Airport (SFO), San Jose International Airport (SJC) and Oakland International Airport (OAK). 

Getting around in Yosemite National Park

As Yosemite is so big, the best way to get around the park and access the main trails is by car.

There is a free daily shuttle bus every 10-20 mins with 19 stops throughout the Yosemite Valley, but having a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. 

What is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park?

Yosemite has a huge number of visitors during the summer months with the peak season from June and August.

The best time to visit is late spring, later summer and early fall when the park isn’t too crowded.

Winter is also a great time to visit with fewer visitors, great hiking opportunities and stunning views of the snow-capped mountains. 

What's the weather like in Yosemite National Park?

The weather in Yosemite is seasonal but it can vary greatly from year to year.

Spring is generally quite cool with sunny skies and the occasional downpour of rain; summer is consistently sunny with warm to hot temperatures; fall is still warm with cool nights; and winter is cold with frost, ice, and snow.  

What to wear during a Yosemite tour

If you go during the summer, bring t-shirts, shorts/skirts, hiking socks and boots, hiking trousers, a waterproof/windproof jacket, a sunhat, sunglasses, a daypack, a water bottle, sunscreen and insect repellent.

For winter trips, bring light layers, warm clothes, a fleece, thermal underwear/leggings, a waterproof winter coat, waterproof hiking boots/shoes, gloves, a hat, a daypack, sunglasses, sunscreen and a water bottle.

What to pack for Yosemite National Park?

There are several items that pretty much every visitor to Yosemite National Park should have. These include sturdy walking shoes, a raincoat, an extra warm layer, sunglasses, a sun hat and a reusable water bottle.

Depending on the time of year and what you're planning to do in Yosemite, you may need additional gear. If you go during the summer make sure to bring t-shirts, shorts/skirts, hiking socks and boots, hiking trousers, a waterproof/windproof jacket, sunhat, sunglasses, daypack, a water bottle, sunscreen and insect repellent.  

For winter trips bring light layers, warm clothes, a fleece, thermal underwear/leggings, a waterproof winter coat, waterproof hiking boots/shoes, gloves, a hat, a daypack, sunglasses, sunscreen and a water bottle. 

What is mobile/cell phone service and internet access like in Yosemite National Park?

Cell phones work near major tourist hubs such as Yosemite Valley, but the service can be weak and unreliable.

There is limited or no cell phone service in more remote areas of the park such as hiking trails and high-altitude viewpoints. 

What animals live in Yosemite National Park?

You can expect to see many different animal species in Yosemite including:

• American Black Bears
• Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep
• Sierra Fence Lizards
• Garter Snakes
• Northern Pygmy Owls and more.

Keep an eye out for animal tracks when you’re out hiking. 

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Exterior Maintenance, Yosemite Shuttles, and 2024 Yosemite Reservation System Information

Make a Booking

Welcome to our Yosemite 360 Tours, where adventure and natural beauty converge to offer you an unforgettable experience in one of the most iconic national parks in the world. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of Yosemite as we proudly present our curated selection of Yosemite 360 Tours.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography aficionado, or simply seeking to explore the wonders of this pristine wilderness, our diverse range of tours is designed to cater to every interest and preference. From guided hikes that unveil hidden gems to captivating expeditions that capture the park’s grandeur, each tour is expertly crafted to provide you with a comprehensive and immersive journey through Yosemite’s breathtaking vistas, towering sequoias, and cascading waterfalls.

Join us on one of our meticulously planned tours and embark on an adventure that promises to be both educational and awe-inspiring. Your Yosemite experience of a lifetime awaits – explore our tour offerings and secure your spot today!

TOUR POLICIES

Our tours are scheduled at specific times to ensure the best possible experience for our guests. These times are carefully chosen to maximize your enjoyment and safety, taking into account factors such as optimal weather conditions, and the timing of key sights. By departing at these times, we aim to provide you with the most comfortable and memorable experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty and serenity of the surroundings.

• A full refund requires 24-hour notice before the scheduled activity. • No refunds or cancellations made less than 24 hours before the activity. • Cancellations due to unsafe weather conditions will receive a full refund. • No-shows will be charged at the full price. • We do not guarantee the use of a specific vehicle. The vehicle used for your tour will be determined by factors including how many people are in your group and what vehicles are used for tours and booked that day.

Yosemite Summer Tour

The incomparable valley  

When most people think of Yosemite, they think of Yosemite Valley. This tour introduces you to the famous valley, including Half Dome, El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Fall (in season), Tunnel View, and Glacier Point (in season). A trail lunch is included in these tours.

Tenaya Shuttles

Let us do the driving!

The Tenaya Shuttles take guests directly to the heart of Yosemite National Park, where they can access iconic hikes such as Yosemite Falls, Mirror Lake, and the Mist Trail and spend the day exploring the park on their own.

Private Yosemite Tours

Experience the beauty of Yosemite with a variety of scenic locations. Immerse yourself in the park’s stunning landscapes with a guided tour tailored to your interests. A trail lunch is included as part of your adventure.

Yosemite Winter Tours

See Yosemite in the winter

Our Winter Yosemite Valley tour includes some of the most famous features of Yosemite: Wawona’s Pioneer History Center, Yosemite Valley including Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls and Valley View. On this Yosemite park tour, you will have time to explore Yosemite Valley on your own feet and using the free shuttles.

Yosemite National Park Tours & Trips

• Choose from 50+ Yosemite National Park tours
• 50+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
• 24/7 customer support

10 best Yosemite National Park tour packages

Compiled by

Melissa Yosemite National Park travel expert at TourRadar

Yosemite Escape Camping - 3 Days

Hiking sequoia, kings canyon, and yosemite, hiking in yosemite national park, yosemite & tahoe sierras - 4 days, best of western usa, yosemite falls and north dome traverse, yosemite valley basecamp tour, california dreamin': monterey, yosemite & napa (monterey, ca to san francisco, ca) (2025), california dreamin': monterey, yosemite & napa (monterey, ca to san francisco, ca) (2024), california high country adventure (9 days).

“If you're there everything is so peacefull and breathtaking!!” AndreasMller, traveled in June 2019

• Hiking & Trekking
• Stay in the heart of the stunning Yosemite National Park
• Get your fix of natural marvels and cultural landmarks
• Camp overnight under the stars and roast marshmallows

“The trip was full of beautiful nature and wonderful opportunities to explore. I loved how everything was planned out.” Makenzie Tomasovic, traveled in June 2022

• Conclude with awe at San Francisco Bay
• Meet your group in Las Vegas
• Camp under the stars at Sequoia Park

“Yosemite National Park is breathtaking. As I walked along the hikes, there was so much natural beauty.” Linda Leicht, traveled in June 2021

• Mountain Hikes
• Explore vintage shops in San Francisco
• Learn Native history in Yosemite Valley
• Trek Yosemite's Mist Trail by waterfalls

“The area was absolutely beautiful, and the trip was one of the best I've been on.” Kate Hann, traveled in September 2022

• Sightseeing
• Gaze at your reflection in Lake Tahoe’s sparkling waters
• Revel in dramatic, glacier-formed cliffs at Sierra Nevadas
• Admire the rock formation of Devil’s Postpile Monument

• Stargaze in Yosemite with a naturalist
• Kayak on Lake Powell
• Explore Bryce Canyon's hoodoos

• Summit North Dome for stunning views
• Descend alongside Yosemite Falls
• Camp near Snow Creek's cascades

• Ascend the Upper Yosemite Falls trail
• Hike to Vernal and Nevada Falls
• Explore Yosemite Valley's hidden gems

• Wine tasting
• Yosemite National Park

• Taste local olive oil and visit an almond orchard
• Drive the scenic 17-Mile Drive to Carmel
• Explore Monterey's historic sites and scenery

• Coach / Bus
• Hike among the oldest trees on Earth
• Stargaze in Sequoia National Park
• Explore Yosemite's ancient sequoias

More about Yosemite National Park

Discover TourRadar

Nature-Led: Yosemite Guided Tours & Experiences

Covering 1,463 square miles, the rugged beauty of Mariposa County calls out for exploration. From the ethereal loop of Yosemite Valley’s waterfalls to eBiking the county’s labyrinth of fire roads, and from moonlit train rides to learning how to rock climb Yosemite’s signature granite, countless experiences await. Yet “knowing the ropes” can be a tricky proposition.  A tried & true approach? Booking a Yosemite tour and letting a local outfitter lead the way.

Why A Guided Tour?

Taking advantage of a local guide can result in a transformative experience where culture, history, and adventure come together seamlessly, and where “inside” knowledge of Yosemite Mariposa County’s great outdoors makes for a nature-led trip to remember. Here are the top reasons why a Yosemite guided tour makes sense.

• Tours cover a range of interests from sightseeing iconic landmarks to fishing and photography, and from wildlife viewing to history and wine tasting.
• Tours cover a range of physical abilities and fitness levels from riding in the comfort of a temperature-controlled vehicle to weeklong backpacking trips into the Yosemite backcountry.
• Some tours are ADA-approved, some are kid-friendly, and others welcome pets.
• Tours are available year-round, with some taking advantage of seasonal conditions such as whitewater rafting in spring and guided snowshoe hikes in winter.
• Costs range from value to luxury, meaning there’s always an option that fits your budget.
• Many operators will work with you to customize a private tour for individuals or groups based on your specific interests.
• Some tours provide add-ons such as free lunches, admission into Yosemite National Park, backcountry permits, and gear for use or rent.
• For driving tours, there’s nothing better than letting someone else take the wheel so you can enjoy the sights uninterrupted.

Classic Tours

It’s impossible to go wrong when touring Yosemite National Park, but there are always a few perennial favorites. The Yosemite Valley Floor Tour is a two-hour highlight reel of the Park’s geologic marvels, bouncy wildlife, and rich history. Led by park rangers and well-versed naturalists, the guided tour is available year-round via open-air tram in summer and heated motor coach with panoramic windows in winter.

Hiking & Backpacking Tours

There’s nothing like those first steps on a Yosemite trail. And having a trusted guide lead the way only makes the experience richer. YExplore Yosemite Adventures offers guided day hikes based on difficulty level (easy to strenuous), and backpacking tours from 2-6 days. Perfect for creating a new chapter in your backcountry backstory.

For outdoor empowerment, the guide-owned Echo Adventures Cooperative offers a variety of Yosemite adventures from sightseeing to summit hiking tours and fishing tours. EAC takes a socially and environmentally sustainable approach while providing gear, transportation, entrance fees, and most important of all — knowledgeable guides. Custom lunches are available for vegan/gluten-free guests.

Thrill-Seeking Tours

Where there are rocks, there are rock climbers. For epic granite-top adventures, the world-renowned Yosemite Mountaineering School & Guide Service has been teaching visitors how to climb since 1969 with group and private classes. Whether you’re ready to graduate to the big walls such as El Capitan or want to start small, this Yosemite Valley institution has you securely clipped and ready to scale. For everything from gym-to-crag to multi-pitch and family climbs, Southern Yosemite Mountain Guides (SYMG) has been operating since 1991 and was voted one of the “Best Outfitters On Earth” by National Geographic Adventure Magazine.

The ultimate in thrill-seeking tours, Skydive Yosemite offers tandem jumps with licensed & experienced pros from 10K, 12K, and 14K feet while providing stunning views of the Sierra crest as well as Yosemite icons El Captain and Half Dome.

For an airborne experience that keeps the heart rate a bit more steady, Airborrn Aviation Services takes guests up in their Cessna, “Joy”, to soar above the Park’s signature landmarks. Tours are available for 1-3 passengers (520 lbs combined max) and can be booked for sunrise & sundown for a magic hour unlike any other.

With the Merced River gracefully weaving through Yosemite Valley and then plunging the westward slope of the Sierra, Yosemite whitewater rafting is a spring rite of passage for thrill-seekers worldwide.  Several licensed tour operators offer a range of packages from half to full-day trips, with lunches and gear provided. For many these tours are life-changing, and a highlight of their Yosemite experience.

Unique Tours

In keeping with Mariposa County’s independent spirit, its unique tours are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

For a pedal assist that’s good for the environment, Yosemite E-biking is the perfect alternative to car touring as you explore Mariposa, the gateway to Yosemite. From the laid-back streets of downtown to the surrounding Gold Rush history, and from exploring its many fire roads to rock climbing some classic Sierra granite, the tour possibilities are endless. All ages & experience levels are welcome!

Trains have played an important role in Yosemite’s history so it makes sense that visitors can ride the rails in style at Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad . Located 2 miles from historic Fish Camp and the Southern Entrance to Yosemite National Park, the open-air cars are pulled by a vintage Shay steam engine as you weave through the forest and hear stories of the region’s colorful past.  Tours range from the one-hour “Logger” to the “Moonlight Special” — a ride under the stars that features dinner and campfire sing-a-long. Oh, and friendly dogs ride free! 

Tours Departing From San Francisco & Los Angeles

For visitors who’d rather not arrange a car rental or drive unfamiliar roads, several operators provide Yosemite guided tours departing from California’s major cities.

Incredible Adventures departs from San Francisco and offers day and overnight tours that range from Yosemite Valley’s greatest hits to walking among giant sequoias and winter escapes.  Extranomical Yosemite Tours picks guests up from most SF hotels and provides audio translations into eight different languages. Day trips and overnights are available, with accommodations at leading Mariposa County properties.

Serving Los Angeles, California Pacific Excursions gets eco-friendly with its Amtrak train and YARTS bus combo tour, as well as offering bus tours and private charters. Trips from 1 to 3 nights are available, not to mention one-way trips if your travel plans carry you on to forward destinations.

Yosemite Guided Tours: Where to Stay

Choosing where to stay while enjoying a Yosemite guided tour is an exercise in reverse engineering. Figure out your meeting spot for the tour, how you’ll get there from the property, and of course if the accommodations reflect your personal Sierra style. Some hotels such as Tenaya at Yosemite provide their excursions, while some tours offer ground transportation to/from where you’re staying. Be sure to ask your tour operator, and enjoy your stay in Yosemite Mariposa County!

Journey With Confidence

Yosemite’s inimitable “range of light” as captured in the dramatic photos by Ansel Adams can be found in equal measure by enjoying one of Yosemite’s many guided tours. From the tranquil snow-kissed months of winter through the flip-flop days of summer, and from photo safari tours to bird watching and wellness retreats, there is something for everyone. Check out our full list of Yosemite Mariposa guided tours and let nature be your guide!

We use cookies to help us improve, promote, and protect our services. By continuing to use the site, you agree to our cookie policy. More Information

• Adventures Hiking Appalachian Trail Camino de Santiago Dolomites Grand Canyon Machu Picchu Mont Blanc New Zealand Patagonia Switzerland Mountain Biking Croatia European Alps Cycling Cuba France Italy Japan New Zealand Tuscany Backcountry Skiing British Columbia European Alps Japan Norway Rock Climbing California Colorado Kalymnos Sardinia Utah More Activities Avalanche Education Ice Climbing Kayaking Kiteboarding Mountaineering Sailing Surfing Trail Running

Hidden Gems of Yosemite: Backpacking Tours

June through September

5 or 6 days

Intermediate to advanced

Camping (gear included in the price)

Things to know

Who’s down for an epic backpacking tour? We’re not talking about those same-old tourist attractions. We’re diving deep into the park’s hidden nooks—the kind of places that’ll make you feel like a true explorer. Take your pick: a 5-day journey through the refreshing 3,000-ft Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne or a 6-day alpine expedition in the untouched northern corners of Yosemite. Get all you’d expect from adventuring in the wild—the campfire stories, complete immersion into nature, and memories to last a lifetime. Best part? We’ve got it all sorted—experienced guides, delicious meals, gear, permits… All you have to do is show up to hike and…enjoy.

Adventure highlights

Explore the hidden areas of Yosemite and backpack in its wild northern areas or across the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne 

From granite peaks and old-growth forests, to impressive canyons and rushing waterfalls—get surprised at every turn

Don’t worry about the gear, permits, or meals and just concentrate on hiking, skill-building, and making memories

Available itineraries

Explore the hidden beauty of Yosemite's Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne on this guided backpacking tour. Discover rushing waterfalls, tranquil pools, and the majestic Tuolumne Meadows. It’s a 5-day adventure, with all permits, meals, and equipment provided. Immerse yourself in nature, surrounded by granite domes and peaks, as the pure waters of the Tuolumne River carve through the 3,000-foot-deep canyon. This trip is perfect for water lovers and those seeking to visit a less-visited area of the park.

Meet your guide in the parking area in front of the White Wolf Lodge/Campsite at 4 pm. Get acquainted with the group and gear. If time allows before dinner, we’ll explore some of the area’s hidden gems, like the tranquil meadows or nearby trails. Enjoy dinner with the group and camp at the White Wolf Backpacker’s Camp at approximately 8,000 ft (2,438 m).

After breakfast, we’ll go on a long but mostly downhill 10.5-mile hike dropping over 3,500 feet (1,067 m) into Pate Valley (4,380 ft/1,335 m) on the western end of the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne. We’ll descend through diverse terrain, from dense forests to open vistas, soaking in the breathtaking scenery along the way. Once we’ve reached your campsite, we’ll set up our tents and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Meals: Lunch, and dinner Hiking : 10.5 mi (16.9 km) Elevation : +100 ft, -3,600 ft (+30 m, -1,097 m)

Today’s journey begins after breakfast, with a hike along the Tuolumne River, gradually ascending eastward. Our group will follow the river’s winding path, offering dramatic views of granite walls and cascading waterfalls. We’ll hike approximately for 7 miles (11.3 km) to a picturesque riverfront campsite nestled within the canyon’s granite walls, across from the captivating Cathedral Creek cascades into the Tuolumne. At the end of the day, we’ll enjoy another great dinner before retreating to our tents. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Hiking : 6.9 mi (11.1 km) Elevation : +1,600 ft, -350 ft (+488 m, -107 m)

After the regular morning activities, we’ll continue our trek up the Tuolumne, passing famous spillways such as Waterwheel Falls, LeConte Falls, and California Falls. We’ll arrive at Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp (7,980 ft/2,432 m), where we’ll have time to relax along the beach below before witnessing a spectacular sunset from a nearby bluff. What a way to finish the day! 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Hiking : 6.5 mi (10.5 km) Elevation : +2,250 ft (+686 m)

After breakfast and breaking down your tents, our group will start the last hike of the adventure — departing the Tuolumne River gorge and ascending into the expansive Tuolumne Meadows (8,600 ft/2,621 m). We’ll hike for 5,5 miles (8.9 km) with breaks at prime water holes and serene lakes. Upon reaching the Tuolumne Meadows, we’ll catch a shuttle back to the vehicles at White Wolf. Expected ending time is between 12 pm-2 pm. Say goodbye to your Yosemite hiking guide, fellow hikers, and Yosemite —or continue touring on your own. 

Meals: Breakfast and lunch Hiking : 5.5 mi (8.9 km) Elevation : +700 ft (+213 m)

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure through the hidden northern reaches of Yosemite National Park. This backpacking tour is a 6-day journey into untouched Yosemite wilderness, with its granite peaks and breathtaking scenery. We’ll camp beside pristine rivers and backcountry lakes, surrounded by deep canyons and dense forests. Led by experienced guides, this trip promises an authentic wilderness experience in one of the last true wilderness areas of the Sierra Nevada. All permits, meals, and equipment are provided for a hassle-free adventure.

Meet your guide in the parking area of the Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Permit Center at noon. Get acquainted with the group and your gear while enjoying your lunch. Afterward, our group will go on a six-mile hike out of the Tuolumne Meadows, heading north towards the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne—a breathtaking glacier-cut river canyon. This mostly downhill hike meanders through alpine meadows and across massive granite slabs. We’ll set up camp at the Glen Aulin High Sierra Camp (7,980 ft/2,432 m) next to a pristine swimming hole. 

Hiking : 6.3 mi (10.1 km) Elevation : -700 ft (-213 m)

We’ll get an early start and do the regular morning activities — breakfast and packing up. Today, we’ll continue hiking along the Pacific Crest Trail. We’ll trek seven miles through the Cold Canyon before reaching an amazing vista overlooking Virginia Canyon and beyond. Then we’ll descend until we reach a campsite near Return Creek at 8,500 ft (2,591 m). We’ll set up our tents and enjoy dinner in great company.

Meals: Breakfast, l unch, and dinner Hiking : 8.0 mi (12.9 km) Elevation : +1,700 ft, -700 ft (+518 m, -213 m)

After a leisurely breakfast and packing up, continue your trek along the Pacific Creat Trail and into the Spiller Canyon. After that, your group will climb to Miller Lake. Enjoy time at this high alpine lake before setting up a camp. Spend another evening in great company, with tasty food and interesting conversations by the campfire. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Hiking : 4.5 mi (7.2 km) Elevation : +800 ft (+244 m)

Once we’re done with breakfast and packing up our stuff, we’ll ascend out of the Miller Lake basin before dropping into Matterhorn Canyon. We’ll leave the Pacific Crest Trail and continue deep into Matterhorn Canyon, surrounded by spectacular geological formations. We’ll continue hiking until we reach the camp for the night. Later, our group will proceed with regular evening activities.  

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Hiking : 8.4 mi (13.5 km) Elevation : +1,200 ft, -1,300 ft (+366 m, -396 m)

After breakfast, we’ll climb over Burro Pass at 10,600 ft (3,231 m) before descending into the Slide Canyon. We’ll climb out of Slide Canyon and over the Mule Pass (10,440 ft/3,182 m) as we exit Yosemite. We’ll proceed about 1,5 miles more past the extraordinary eastern Sierra pinnacles to camp along the shore of Crown Lake (9,450 ft/2,880 m). This is our last evening, so we’ll take a chance to celebrate a little before going to sleep. 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner Hiking : 6 mi (9.7 km) Elevation : +2,200 ft, -2,000 ft (+671 m, -610 m)

After breakfast and breaking down our tents, it’s time to continue hiking. We’ll continue our descent through the Eastern Sierras, passing lakes, rivers, streams, and small waterfalls on our way to Annett’s Mono Village Resort on the east side of Twin Lakes at 7,092 ft (2,161 m). Once there, we’ll reward ourselves with lunch, cold beverage, and/or ice cream before catching the scheduled shuttle back to Tuolumne Meadows to retrieve vehicles. Say goodbye to your Yosemite hiking guide, fellow hikers, and Yosemite —or continue touring on your own. 

Meals: Breakfast Hiking : 7.2 mi (11.6 km) Elevation : +100 ft, -2,550 ft (+30 m, -777 m)

Meet your guides

Watch our webinar

I chose the Hidden Yosemite trip and joined two other Washingtonians that I hike with regularly. What an incredible trip. First and foremost, our guides Will and Bella were awesome. They kept us well fed, educated on the history of Yosemite. Who knew that the white powder on an aspen tree could be used as sunscreen? They made the whole journey memorable. I can’t imagine a better way to experience this amazing place. A sincere thank you to Lasting Adventures and to Will and Bella!

Lasting Adventures and more specifically our guide, Zachary Naegele, made my trip to Yosemite a dream vacation! It was stress-free because every detail was covered from food and transportation to clear meeting instructions and itinerary. Zachary was a joy to have on hikes because he was knowledgeable, competent and personable. He took a hike that would have been fun and made it magical by explaining the history and ecology of the area we were hiking. He matched our athletic pace and often let us lead so we didn’t feel “pressured” to keep up as all the people in my group were not used to the altitude. His calm and confident control of the situation when I got scared trying to summit Lembert Dome was priceless and I couldn’t have asked for anyone better when I panicked! I can’t say enough good things about Zachary and Lasting Adventures. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THEM!

We went on a trip with Nolan through the Grand Canyon on the Tuoloumne. This was an epic trip mostly because we were truly in the wilderness, and Nolan knew everything about it! We learned so much about “Leaving No Trace”, how to look out for wild animals, and how to protect yourselves from them if needed (we didn’t) and lots about John Muir. We were out for 5 days and only passed about 5 people. The hiking was strenuous, but the swims in the icy tuoloumne river were a perfect pairing. The scenery was like nothing I’ve seen before, truly a magical place. With no cell phone service, constant sound of running water, awe inspiring natural beauty and good company this trip will forever leave an imprint on my heart and soul! 

This is our second trip with Lasting Adventures. The two trips couldn’t have been more different, but both were amazing. I’d recommend going out with them anytime!!

Absolutely amazing trip, would recommend it to anyone who wants an adventure, very few other hikers and absolutely stunning views, a total back to the wilderness experience

The recent HIdden Yosemite backpack trip was my first Lasting Adventures experience and first time in Yosemite National Park. I couldn’t ask for a better initial immersion into place, with two outstanding guides, Bella and Will.

The route they chose offered daily wonders that kept my soul and spirit in awe. Bella and Will generously offer playful, positive energy, species and ecology information that heightened my reception of the Yosemite wonders, fresh cooked meals (unbelievable), and an ease of time together on the trail. If you’re looking for an outstanding experience in Yosemite, I strongly recommend you connect with Lasting Adventures.

What you get on this adventure:

• Experienced, Yosemite hiking/backpacking guide(s) with extensive knowledge of the area
• A 5-day or 6-day Yosemite hiking & camping tours (depending on your chosen itinerary)
• Backpacking permits
• Required Park Reservations
• Meals during the adventure (as indicated in the itinerary)
• Personal backpacking equipment — backpacks, single-person tents, sleeping bags, pads, trekking poles, eating utensils (upon request)
• Group camping equipment
• Overnights at camping sites
• All transit during the adventure

What’s not included:

• Transportation to and from the meeting point
• Accommodation before and after the adventure — if applicable
• Travel/medical insurance — recommended
• Park entry fee
• Personal expenses before heading into the backcountry
• Guide gratuities

These Yosemite hiking tours require strong hiking experience and, preferably, some backpacking experience as well. These tours are open for people who hike regularly and are generally physically active. The Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne itinerary includes daily hiking covering between 5.5 and 9.5  miles (8.9-15.3 km)—with an elevation gain of up to 2,250 feet (685 m). Similar in difficulty is the Hidden Yosemite itinerary, with daily hiking between 4.5 and 8.4 miles (7.2-13.5 km), and an elevation gain of up to 2,200 ft (670 m).

During both adventures, all participants should be able to carry a 30-50lb backpack. Temperatures can get very high in the summer nights and it can also get pretty cold during the nights (due to high elevations). Your guides will always be by your side during hikes and will notice if it gets too strenuous for anyone in the group, making frequent breaks. They will also teach you all the necessary skills you need for backpacking.

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

• Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
• Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
• Camp sandals/shoes
• Underwear/undergarments (synthetic preferred for hiking) and long underwear
• Spare clothes for layering
• Light waterproof rain jacket, fleece/warm wool jacket, and warm synthetic jacket for mornings and evenings
• 1-2 Pairs of lightweight hiking pants and shorts
• Sunhat, beanie, bandanas/buffs, mosquito head net
• Swimwear, camp pillow and towel
• Personal medication
• Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Camera — optional (but recommended)
• Cards, small games, book and other things for entertainment at the camp — optional 

Backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, trekking poles, camp pillows, bowls, mugs and sporks are all included in the price of the trip . However, feel free to bring any of these items if you have your own. Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. Make sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast and adjust your packing list accordingly. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans. A comprehensive equipment list will be made available upon booking.

All dates listed for these itineraries remain tentative until your guides confirm trailhead permits, usually 22-23 weeks in advance. Although their success rate is high, should they not gain the exact dates through permitting, you will be contacted and offered choices including new dates and/or different itineraries. Should no alternative work, a full cancellation/refund will be granted.

Please refrain from making travel arrangements (that are unchangeable) until dates/permits are confirmed.

You can expect excellent backcountry cuisine throughout your guided Yosemite backpacking tour! Typical breakfasts might include burritos, oatmeals, pancakes, dried fruit, bagels, etc. For dinner, your guides will prepare a variety of pastas, risottos, beans, couscous, meats, vegetables, etc. Lunch will consist of trail food with fruits, vegetables, pita, bagels, salami, cheeses, hummus, trail mix, energy bars, etc. All special dietary requests (vegan, keto, gluten-free, vegetarian—you name it) can be easily accommodated , just let your guides know in advance!

Group sizes and prices:

• For these group adventures, the maximum client-to-guide ratio is 5:1. The number of participants in a group is usually between 4 and 8.
• The cost does not decrease as the group grows

Yosemite hiking & camping tours can be arranged for larger or for private groups (with a custom date). Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:

• If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
• Minors younger than 18 are permitted to join, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. Both adventures are family-friendly! 

If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

To get to Yosemite, most people fly into Sacramento International Airport which is around three hours away from the park or the Fresno/Yosemite International Airport which is also three hours away. Another option is flying into the San Francisco International Airport , just over four hours away from the park. From here, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service.

You will meet your guide at the White Wolf Campground for the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne itinerary at 4pm on Day 1 and at the Tuolumne Wilderness Center for the Hidden Yosemite itinerary at 12pm on Day 1. If arriving the day before, we suggest finding accommodation in Curry Village, Yosemite Village, Foresta, or El Portal.

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both emergency medical and travel insurance. With medical insurance, if you have an accident or medical emergency in the wilderness, you’ll avoid paying out of pocket for costly expenses. This covers everything from hospital treatments to emergency air transportation and more.

Travel insurance covers canceled flights, natural disasters and other scenarios that may interrupt your travel plans. 

We also expect you to respect local regulations and take measures to protect yourselves, your guides, and the communities you’re traveling to. 

If you need assistance selecting the right insurance for your group, let us know and we will be happy to help!

You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Secure your early bird spot with a 10% deposit! This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you will be the first one to know about any new upcoming dates. Pick your preferred dates without the risk of your bucket list adventure selling out!

• Only 10% of the total amount should be paid as a deposit upon booking. This deposit is non-refundable, but can be transferred to another 57hours adventure anytime in case the dates don’t suit you.
• Once the dates are set, you can confirm your booking by paying another 20% of the total amount.
• The final balance is due 3 months (90 days) prior to departure.

Cancellations

Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

• In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
• For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
• For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.
• For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
• For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
• For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.

Super Flexible

• For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
• For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.

Other things to do in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Grand Traverse: Backpacking Adventure

All-Inclusive Yosemite Family Backpacking Tours

All-Inclusive Yosemite Half Dome Backpacking Adventures

Adventure of the Ten Lakes: Backpacking in Yosemite

Yosemite National Park Lodging & Hiking Tour

Hiking the Best of Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park Camping & Hiking Tour

Discover Yosemite on Private Day Hikes

Backpacking the Iconic Half Dome in Yosemite

View all (47) adventures in California

Choose a currency

• USD - $ US Dollar
• EUR - € Euro
• AUD - AU$ Australian Dollar
• CAD - CA$ Canadian Dollar
• GBP - £ British Pound Sterling
• CHF - CHF Swiss Franc
• JPY - ¥ Japanese Yen
• SGD - S$ Singapore Dollar
• HKD - HK$ Hong Kong Dollar
• DKK - Dkr Danish Krone
• NOK - Nkr Norwegian Krone
• SEK - Skr Swedish Krona

• Visitor Resources
• Wineries We Visit
• Lodging Guide
• Shopping Guide
• Getting Around
• Live Web Cams
• Giving Back
• Satisfaction Guarantee
• Our Reviews
• For Partners
• Last Minute Deals
• Special Offers
• Free Cancellation

Yosemite and Giant Sequoias One Day Tour from San Francisco

Experience a 5-star guided tour of Yosemite from San Francisco. See the Giant Sequoias, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls and more!

Be moved beyond words by Yosemite’s Half Dome, waterfalls, and Giant Sequoias

The only 1-day Yosemite tour from San Francisco to deliver more than you dreamed at Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls and on a hike to Giant Sequoias.

• Skip the line. Enter Yosemite at the commercial tour group gate
• Early bird arrival increases access to popular viewing areas like Tunnel View, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan Meadow and Valley View
• The most time in Yosemite National Park—over 5 hours
• Unique Giant Sequoias hike in Tuolumne Grove (conditions permitting)
• 2 hours of free time to explore Yosemite Valley
• Fully guided by a Yosemite Park expert

What’s Included

• Pick up at major San Francisco hotels
• Park reservation and entry fee (pay at checkout)
• Park expert guide (English)
• Foreign language audios in 8 languages

What’s Not Included

• Meals or beverages
• Guide gratuity

Please note: This season’s greatest-of-all-time waterfalls have led to a surge in Yosemite park visitors. So you can have the best possible experience, our new “early bird” itinerary is designed to beat the crowds and avoid delays at the popular attractions. Please note the new earlier hotel pickup times.

Description, experience yosemite one day tour from san francisco.

Join us on this breathtaking tour of Yosemite National Park , whose towering granite peaks, cascading waterfalls and nature trails are perhaps the most stunning in the world. This award-winning tour spends the most time in Yosemite and includes a unique hike among ancient Giant Sequoias .

Your guided tour begins with a convenient hotel pick up in San Francisco. Sit back and enjoy the scenery as your guide explains how glitter in the American River sparked the California gold rush; what geological forces made Yosemite’s dramatic landscapes; and the role John Muir played in the formation of America’s first protected wilderness.

Be Blown Away by Awe-Inspiring Valley Views

After entering Yosemite National Park, we’ll make our way to a scene made famous by photographer Ansel Adams. Take a moment at Tunnel View. Capture yourself with El Capitan , Half Dome , Sentinel Dome, Glacier Point, and Cathedral Peak as your background.

Once you’ve had your fill of photographs from this perch overlooking the valley, the tour will arrange a memorable stop where you can get eye to eye with wispy Bridalveil Fall .

Have Your Own Yosemite Valley Adventure

After arriving to our stop in Yosemite Valley , you will have 2 hours for lunch and exploring on your own. The free time options include hiking to Yosemite Falls , meandering through Sentinel Meadow, checking out the Ansel Adams Gallery and more.

Take a Moment with More Iconic Monuments

Your Yosemite experience stops next at El Capitan Meadow to learn more about the world’s largest granite monolith and its climbing culture. As we are leaving Yosemite Valley, we will make our final stop at Valley View which serves up a panoramic landscape framing the Merced River, El Capitan and the imposing spires of Cathedral Rocks.

Feel the Quiet Grandeur of Giant Sequoias

The highlight of our tour is still ahead of you as we head to the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. In this beautiful grove, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with some of the largest and oldest trees on earth.

When the Tuolumne Grove trail is snow-covered or unsafe (November-March), we always spend extra time in Yosemite Valley. 

By the end of the day, you’ll have experienced some of the most incredible landscapes in the world and captured memories to last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Yosemite National Park with us.

05:20 AM to 10:30 AM - Hotel Pickup, Head to Yosemite

• Convenient hotel pickup
• Breakfast stop. Pick up snacks and lunch for the park
• Your guide prepares you for a day in Yosemite Park

10:30 AM to 12:30 PM - Admire Views of Yosemite Valley

• Enter Yosemite National Park
• Stop to photograph Tunnel View
• Marvel at the beauty of Bridalveil Fall and Half Dome

12:30 PM to 2:00 PM - Explore the Valley On Your Own

• Enjoy free time to explore Yosemite Valley
• Explore the trail to the Lower Yosemite Falls
• Have lunch (meal not included)

2:00 PM to 2:45 PM - Stops at El Capitan and Valley View

• Stop at El Capitan Meadow to spot some climbers
• Capture the Merced River among granite peaks at Valley View

2:45 PM to 4:30 PM - Hike to Giant Sequoia Redwoods

• Make the scenic drive to the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias
• Hike in the Grove of Giant Sequoias (conditions permitting)

4:30 PM to 9:00 PM - Return to San Francisco

• Descend the Sierras as you return to San Francisco
• Break for dinner
• Enjoy the ride as we return to your pickup location

Times listed are approximations. Traffic and unforeseen events can cause delays.  Please do not make flight/travel arrangements on the same day as your tour

What Our Guests Are Saying About Us

Amazing views and a smooth tour arrangement.

This tour was great! I can warmly recommend taking it on a weekday to avoid park-visiting crowds. The hotel pickup was smooth and the trip to and from the park was narrated with interesting info at a reasonable frequency. Thanks to it being a Tuesday we had very little traffic, which contributed to a very smooth trip.

Read Full Review

KCB, TrustPilot

The stops for bathroom breaks and snack opportunities were well planned, I appreciate that they stopped at outdoor shopping centers with a grocery store and a selection of not-too-pricey eateries (although we opted to bring our own cooler bag with meals and snacks). Stops for photo ops were sufficiently long to take in the scenery - the views are absolutely breathtaking on a clear day. We had a great driver (Ken) and guide (Randall) who both did a fantastic job, particularly with kind and clear reminders for participants to be back on time.

It's a great tour!

We had a female tour guide who was also our bus driver. I don't remember the name but she is excellent at her job. Entire tour she shared enough information related to the history of the place etc. It made the tour all the more engaging and entertaining. We had a female tour guide who was also our bus driver. I don't remember the name but she is excellent at her job.

Nikunj B , TripAdvisor

Entire tour she shared enough information related to the history of the place etc. It made the tour all the more engaging and entertaining. If you choose Extranomical Yosemite Tour, ask for this tour guide and no other. You will get more bang for the buck. Yosemite is magical and one day tour isn't enough. But if you are short of time and get the most from your day, choose this tour. Few things to keep in mind. Keep your water bottles and food with you. Go on weekdays for better all round experience. If you want to travel solo and website doesn't seem to allow solo booking, contact their customer support and convince them.

It was a good tour, especially if you do not have so much time

Our guide was super nice and friendly. And Yosemite is a beautiful place for nice memories. Tip: Bring some food or buy on the way. I do recommend it!

Alexander Juarez , TrustPilot

This solo trip was booked as a special trip for my birthday

Communication from the team in the office was great! The park was sublime and our guides showed us all the best spots. The tour was well paced and set out and my guide on the 2nd day was far superior. Excellent jokes, knowledge and attention to detail. I'd recommend this trip wholeheartedly.

Lacey Pitcher, TrustPilot

Beautiful day at Yosemite with Rob!

Rob, our tour guide and driver, took us to the best spots at Yosemite today! He drove safely, was very nice and had great humor. He was accommodating and even took us to viewpoints not included in the itinerary, which presented awesome photo opportunities. Rob, our tour guide and driver, took us to the best spots at Yosemite today!

490treenas , TripAdvisor

He drove safely, was very nice and had great humor. He was accommodating and even took us to viewpoints not included in the itinerary, which presented awesome photo opportunities. He seemed really passionate in showcasing Yosemite and SF in general. Overall a fantastic day out! Thank you

Just a great experience!

The driver / tour guide and his assistant Ollie were fantastic!!!! Helpful, funny, engaging and informative. Couldn’t rate them highly enough!!!! Outstanding and thank you. I fully recommend the tour to Yosemite. The tour takes the hassle out of the drive. We greatly enjoyed our tour and would highly recommend Extranomical Tours!

Michael Clarke, TrustPilot

The driver and tour guide were very friendly

The driver and tour guide were very friendly, the pre-trip information and customer service were very good, and the timing of the trip was very accurate, which made our trip very nice.

Shihying Yang, TrustPilot

Amazing trip!

My wife & I had an amazing trip with this company & our driver was the best ! Very informative & polite. Took us to many different spots so it felt like we were able to get as much of the experience with the time we had. Thank you very much !! Rob was our driver and he was top of the line ! 5 stars for Rob too !

Safari Steve, TrustPilot

We really enjoyed our trip to Yosemite Valley and the giant sequoias grove.

Everything went smoothly and on time. We were picked up very close to our hotel, which was very convenient, as we left nice and early. Our guide, Brad, was great, very kind, giving us lots of interesting info. The valley itself is just breathtaking, majestic beauty.

Luisa Campos, TrustPilot

El Gran Capitán, the Half Dome, all the gorgeous Falls, the meadows, the river and the forests were just beautiful. And the giant sequoias are amazing. All in all, a great unforgettable experience.

Yosemite is a magical place

Yosemite is a magical place that would best be experienced over a few days staying in the valley. However, if you have one day, then this tour is the one. It's an early start and a lot of driving, but the things you'll see and feel will stay with you. Our driver Rob was a one man show, his love of Yosemite and his knowledge about the park shine through from the minute he picks you up.

Annie Middleby, TrustPilot

Rob is an everyday guy who uses comedy and lived experiences to make this a truly memorable tour. He's also driving the bus. The stop off for groceries to keep the day running smoothly is also an efficient part of the tour. I met some fantastic people, walked miles, saw world class scenery of mountains, forests, water falls and wildlife Rob was the icing on the cake. An unexpected diamond in the rough. He makes an exhausting 17 hour day worthwhile. Well done Rob and Extranomical.

Well planned tour!

The schedule is well planned, with lots of fantastic and amazing view. The tour guide provided adequate time for us to take photos at specific destinations. It was not rush at all. The tour guide, Gino Zernitskiy is funny and passionate, his uplifting altitude really brings us to immerse and enjoy the nature with our whole heart.

Joyce Tung, TrustPilot

The schedule is well planned, with lots of fantastic and amazing view. The tour guide provided adequate time for us to take photos at specific destinations. It was not rush at all. The tour guide, Gino Zernitskiy is funny and passionate, his uplifting altitude really brings us to immerse and enjoy the nature with our whole heart. If you join this tour, you will never regret on it!

Knowledgeable Guide!

Yosemite is incredible and it was well worth it. Our tour guide, Rob, was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and genuinely cared about providing us with the best possible experience, and gave us a real feel for the Park and the region. We were well looked after and he provided us with clear instructions throughout the day.

Sarah Lees, TrustPilot

This is a great way to see Yosemite for those with limited time. I was in two minds due to the cost, but I'm so glad I went. It was an amazing day, Yosemite is incredible and it was well worth it. Our tour guide, Rob, was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and genuinely cared about providing us with the best possible experience, and gave us a real feel for the Park and the region. We were well looked after and he provided us with clear instructions throughout the day. The San Francisco tips were also appreciated as well! Thanks Rob!

Enthusiastic Day!

Our tour guide David was enthusiastic, funny and very friendly. He was always willing to help and get us to the right spots for photo ops. When in Yosemite, you’re in awe of its beauty so there is no wrong spot but we definitely appreciated his knowledge of Yosemite.

ROSALIA HARO , TrustPilot

Surpassed our expectation!

Yosemite and the Giant Sequoia Tour was incredible! Our driver, Gino, welcomed everyone warmly, shared interesting stories, was informative, and entertaining! This tour experience surpassed our expectations. We wouldn't hesitate to tour again with Gino and Extranomical.

Devin Elliott, TrustPilot

Perfect Day

I had a brilliant day-trip to Yosemite National Park from San Francisco! Tony was our bus driver and tour guide, and he did an excellent job! He was very knowledgeable regarding the Park, and he took us to all the best places for photos. We were also given several hours to explore the Park on our own. Thank you!

Tim Bird, TrustPilot

Informative guide!

The guide had lots of information to share on the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite. So, there was plenty to learn about the various places we drove through. The day was well paced and we got to see some spectacular sights.

Ray McGinnis, TrustPilot

The guided tour to Yosemite was excellent. I hadn't been, but now I know why photographer Ansel Adams took so many pictures of the stunning scenery. The guide had lots of information to share on the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite. So, there was plenty to learn about the various places we drove through. The day was well paced and we got to see some spectacular sights.

Very informative guide!

Gino was very informative and detailed in his explanation about the area so I feel like I learned a lot during the trip. He will make sure we pay attention to the main attraction that he was explaining about and some times he told us very hilarious and quirky jokes. Very fun trip I shall say!

ichbinmelle, TripAdvisor

I can't even begin to describe my feelings as I arrived in this heaven. Gino was our tour guide, very fun, very informative and very strict about time which helped us cover every single hot spot of what Yosemite could offer, every single of it. Gino was very informative and detailed in his explanation about the area so I feel like I learned a lot during the trip. He will make sure we pay attention to the main attraction that he was explaining about and some times he told us very hilarious and quirky jokes. Very fun trip I shall say! We first went to Tunnel View oh my god I was in awe. We even dropped by Bridalveil Fall, longer stop was at Yosemite Waterfall around 2 hrs and it was amazing and more than enough for me to take all the photos I needed and to bask in the Yosemite sunshine, soaking in its breeze. Make sure to have a good lunch here because after that you'll head to see Sequoias. And next, we even got to see El Capitan up close!! It was surreal oh god. Then after, we head to hike to see Sequoia. For me, the time allocated for hike in Sequoias which was just around 1hr 20mins should be stretched to maybe 1hr 30mins instead. The hike downhill was fairly okay but I gotta advise you to really sprint until you see the Sequoias since you will want to buy as much time as you can to hike back up to the tour bus. Please go see it, it's really worth it! The place was magical and felt like as if fairies live there lol I'm not even exaggerating. And also stick to your group tour mates for solo travelers as it helps so that you won't get left behind and they can help you take photos too! (Thank you to all my group tour mates for the wonderful photos and wonderful time!!).

Smooth trip!

An amazing tour with amazing tour guide Andy! The day was long, but went by smoothly with plenty of stops on the way, lots of information, and an animated and lively tour guide. I absolutely salute the organization of the day and how all activities and stops were kept running smoothly with clear and accessible information

Anya_O, TripAdvisor

An amazing tour with amazing tour guide Andy! The day was long, but went by smoothly with plenty of stops on the way, lots of information, and an animated and lively tour guide. I absolutely salute the organization of the day and how all activities and stops were kept running smoothly with clear and accessible information. The Yosemite park was stunning, I mean, with clear blue skies through the day, it was seriously hard to take a bad picture. The sequoia forest was impressive and I think lots opted to keep their energy for that hike which was indeed quite arduous coming back from due to the steep inclination (there were 2 offered during the day, a 2 hours one walking on flat terrain at the park, and the one required to go see the sequoias, both optional and much opportunities to enjoy the fresh air of the forests if not taking them); our guide was very diligent and ensured both hikes were well-described in terms of perks and difficulties and I think all had a great time. All in all plenty of time to explore, plenty of time to browse gift shops, plenty of time to exercise and follow the group into the more active parts of the day, and just enough resting time between activities. I also really appreciated that the 2 food stops of the day included the option of a grocery store, alongside interesting restaurants, and the park’s cafe.

We joined the Yosemite 1-day tour and it was just a wonderful experience. Especially the guide Gino was awesome with great experience and knowledge around the park to make flexible planning to make the day the best for everyone!

Sohei Fujimoto, TrustPilot

We joined the Yosemite 1-day tour and it was just a wonderful experience. Especially the guide Gino was awesome with great experience and knowledge around the park to make flexible planning to make the day the best for everyone! Also small points like managing the time and making sure everyone is there before the bus leaves was impressing. I really recommend if you have to join a tour for Yosemite, to choose his tour.

Excellent photo stops!

Rob was our driver/guide. He showed us some excellent photo opportunities and we even got to see the GG bridge by night. He was a great driver and we really appreciated the lovely clean windows on the bus - this makes such a difference when taking photos on the move.

Karen Fry, TrustPilot

A long but wonderful day out to Yosemite. Rob was our driver/guide. He showed us some excellent photo opportunities and we even got to see the GG bridge by night. He was a great driver and we really appreciated the lovely clean windows on the bus - this makes such a difference when taking photos on the move. A little more time at the dinner stop would have been nice but understand the time constraints.

Clever guide!

The vehicle was luxurious, equipped with wifi. And although there was a slight glitch with the break system; the expertise of our driver-&-guide solved the issue in no time. Now coming to our driver-&-guide Rob.. he made the trip more fun with insightful information, fun facts and great suggestions for photos.

Banerjee, TrustPilot

The company has a great follow-up system post booking of the trips.. they stay in touch with updates about the trip like pick-up time etc., and also happily address all queries on part of the customer with very little response time. The pick-up timings are almost always a little delayed.. and although they do try to reach out with the delay information.. the lack of internet connectivity for most tourists makes it hard to always become aware of these slight issues. The vehicle was luxurious, equipped with wifi. And although there was a slight glitch with the break system; the expertise of our driver-&-guide solved the issue in no time. Now coming to our driver-&-guide Rob.. he made the trip more fun with insightful information, fun facts and great suggestions for photos. He drove us safely through the winding roads, helped us reach our destinations on time and overall crafted a wonderful experience for us.

Entertaining trip

We had a tour to Yosemite park with Rob. He is very genuine & passionate. He looked after everyone & did commentary during the long driving to keep us entertained. A great trip with him.

QING CAI, TrustPilot

Amazing Experience!

David our guide was wonderful, keeping us all engaged throughout the tour. He makes sure to guide through the tour, accompanying us on the Giant Sequoia walk.

Alina A, , Google

Good experience. We were picked up at Hilton Union Square at 6 AM. The trip is ideal for someone who wishes to visit Yosemite but does not have the time to stay over. Through the tour the guide (In our case David) takes you to various photo points/breathtaking locations. Post that, one goes on the Giant Sequoia trail (it's a slightly uphill walk back - but should be fine even for those with moderate health) David our guide was wonderful, keeping us all engaged throughout the tour. He makes sure to guide through the tour, accompanying us on the Giant Sequoia walk. He even put on a movie on the way back showcasing a climber on the El Capitan at Yosemite. Truly cares about the customer's experience. Overall, this trip is for you if you are short on time/want a quick visit to Yosemite. However, in case you are looking to explore at a more leisurely pace would suggest you make the journey on your own.

Book With Confidence

Award-winning tours & customer service, money back guarantee, worry free cancellation, thousands 5-star reviews, award-winning tour, ½ million happy guests since 2002, what do i need to know about the giant sequoias hike.

The hike is only available when trail conditions are safe, usually April to October. The hike is a 2-mile round trip on a paved trail with a steep incline on the return. Individuals with respiratory issues or not used to strenuous exercise may skip the hike and wait in the outdoor seating area at the Tuolumne Grove stop.

What is the best time of year to visit Yosemite Valley?

Each season in Yosemite Valley offers its own advantages. Summer is the best chance for sunny and warm hikes, Fall offers peace and solitude at the popular attractions, Winter means a blanket of snow over all the rock monuments and Spring features the peak of the annual Yosemite Valley waterfall show.

Is a day trip enough time to see Yosemite?

Our incredible 1-day tour to Yosemite from San Francisco visits all the top attractions, like Tunnel View, El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls, and (conditions permitting) the Giant Sequoias. A longer, multi-day tour allows time to enjoy longer hikes, bike riding, swimming in the Merced River, the night’s brilliant stars and more.

How can I travel around the park during my free time?

Walking is the best form of transportation in the Valley. We do not recommend public transportation or park shuttles during your free time since you cannot be certain about getting back to the tour vehicle on time. The most popular attractions are a short distance from the drop-off point near Yosemite Valley Lodge.

Can I use my annual pass for the United States National Parks to enter Yosemite for free?

Sorry, but no. The entrance fee we pay to Yosemite National Park is based on the vehicle and not on the individuals, and the entrance is located at a toll gate – not on foot. Therefore, the tour cost includes the admission fee.

Do you pick up outside of San Francisco?

Our 1-day Yosemite tour picks up in San Jose in the South Bay (make the reservation here), and Livermore in the East Bay. If you are staying near the San Francisco airport or another location away from the downtown area, we recommend using a ride-sharing service or public transportation to the Hilton Union Square hotel. Our pickup for that location is outside the Mason Street side entrance of the hotel.

Do you offer this tour in different languages?

Our Yosemite tour has live narration in English, but we offer complimentary recorded audio guides in 8 languages: Spanish, French, German, Italian, Korean, Mandarin, Japanese, and Portuguese. If an audio guide is required, please specify the language when booking.

What should I bring with me on tour?

The weather in the Sierra Mountains can be unpredictable and you will be spending 4-5 hours outdoors enjoying nature. We recommend that you dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes or hiking sandals (not flip flops). Bring along a light water-resistant jacket, camera or phone, 1-liter water bottle, hat and sunscreen, sturdy umbrella (if the forecast calls for rain), and some cash or a credit card for meals, snacks and souvenirs.

Are meals included? Can I buy or bring my own?

Meals are not included on this tour. We do make a stop about halfway to and from Yosemite, where you can buy food and beverages. There are a few restaurants and a food court in Yosemite Valley. They are usually crowded, so it’s a good idea to bring or purchase a picnic lunch prior to arriving in the park.

What stops do we have for photographs?

Your Yosemite tour will make 5-6 stops for you to exit the vehicle and take some photographs although weather and traffic conditions may require your driver to alter the itinerary slightly. The usual stops are: Tuolumne Grove of Sequoias, Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall, Valley View, El Capitan Meadow, and Yosemite Valley View lookout.

What can I do during my free time in Yosemite Valley?

Nice and easy hikes through Cook’s Meadow or to Lower Yosemite Falls or the Swinging Bridge can all be done during your free time. On clear days, biking to Yosemite Village, Mirror Lake or the Ahwahnee Hotel are great choices. Finally, the Ancel Adams Gallery is a wonderful showcase of the artist’s work. We do not recommend taking the park shuttle since the timing of the return trip can be unpredictable.

Other Popular Tours

Exclusive Muir Woods, Napa & Sonoma Valley Wine Tour

The only wine country tour to combine three Napa & Sonoma Valley wineries with a morning excursion to San Francisco’s stunning Coast Redwood forest – Muir Woods.

Muir Woods Redwood Forest and Sausalito Morning Tour

This is the only Muir Woods tour with guided audio narration inside the park. Walk under the world’s tallest trees, then enjoy charming Sausalito.

• Skip to global NPS navigation
• Skip to this park navigation
• Skip to the main content
• Skip to this park information section
• Skip to the footer section

Exiting nps.gov

Alerts in effect, mariposa grove of giant sequoias, park footer, contact info.

209/372-0200

Stay Connected

• Cabins & More
• Packages & Offers
• Holidays & Events
• General Store

Guided Excursions

• Daily Activities
• Plan Your Trip
• Property Map
• Meetings & Retreats
• Yosemite Weddings
• Gatherings & Social Events
• Designed for Impact
• Youth Program
• First Light Resorts
• Evergreen History
• Reviews & Press
• Media Inquiries
• Yosemite Jobs

(209) 379-2606

Reservations.

Your Backstage Pass to Yosemite!

Adventure Travel Begins Here

Yosemite Tours, Guided Trips & More - it's like having your own backstage pass to Yosemite! Let our professional guides take care of the driving and elevate your adventure with all sorts of fantastic insider tips and tricks.  Choose from dozens of Yosemite excursions that include everything from driving tours of the Park’s most iconic spots to more adventurous hikes, biking, snowshoeing, fly fishing, overnight backpacking and even airplane rides over the Park!

Guided Tours

Explore the wonders of Yosemite with these guided tours

Hiking Yosemite

From easy walking tours to more advanced alpine hikes, we've got it all

Rafting Adventure!

Get ready to get wet in Yosemite

Snowshoeing in Yosemite

Experience Yosemite's winter wonderland!

Above & Beyond

Yosemite Flight Tours, Fly Fishing, Jeep Tours, & So Much More...

See All Excursions

See all of the guided trips we offer

Keep In Touch

For the latest specials, news and updates from Evergreen Lodge subscribe below!

An Incredible 4 Day Yosemite National Park Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: September 16, 2024

Categories California , Road Trips , USA

Like it? Share it!

“We entered a tunnel, this was it! I could barely contain myself because I had seen enough videos of this tunnel to know what was waiting for us on the other side. This was Tunnel View!”

I had been dreaming of visiting Yosemite for YEARS and it has finally happened. Dave and I spent 4 wonderful days hiking and camping, watching sunsets and sunrises at the most incredible viewpoints and swimming in the most beautiful places I could have imagined.

There is SO much to see and do that planning a trip to Yosemite National Park can be intimidating. That’s why I have put together this guide on how to spend 4 days in Yosemite. We visited during Summer, but this 4 day itinerary can also be used for a Spring or Fall trip.

This guide includes information on where to stay, what hikes to do, where to swim, which viewpoints to check out and more!

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links that may earn us a small commission should you decide to click through and make a valid purchase (at no extra cost to you). Thanks so much for your support!

Planning Your 4 Day Yosemite Itinerary

Table of Contents

📍 Where is Yosemite: California ✈ Where to Fly into: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – Find FLIGHTS here! 📆 When to Visit: Best time to visit Yosemite is late Spring / Summer / Fall 🛌 Top Places to Stay in Yosemite National Park: Yosemite Valley Lodge ⭐⭐⭐ 8.4 rating The Ahwahnee ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 8.6 rating 🚗 Rental Car : KAYAK is our go-to for the best rental car prices! 🚐 Rental Campervan: Rent a campervan from AVANTI Reservations and Fees: $2 park day passes are required on some days between April 13 and October 27 . Park Permits: America the Beautiful Pass required Park Hours: Yosemite is open 24/7 , however certain restaurants and shops etc close during certain hours and parts of the park close during different times of the year. Where are the showers if camping: Showers are located only at the Curry Village Pool Shower house

A Quick Summary & Map of Your 4 Day Yosemite Itinerary

Don’t have time to read the entire blog post? That’s okay! Here is a quick summary of everything I recommend doing and seeing while you are in Yosemite National Park. You can use the map below while you are on your trip to make sure you don’t miss any of the spots I mention in this guide.

Click here to open the map in Google Maps!

• Arrive in Yosemite
• Do the Cooks Meadow Trail
• See the viewpoints in Yosemite Valley

Hike to Taft Point for sunset

Hike to vernal falls, mirror lake trail.

• Check out Yosemite Village

Enjoy sunset at Tunnel View

Sunrise at glacier point, hike to upper yosemite falls, check out the lower yosemite falls, go swimming or river rafting.

• Hike the Mirror Lake Trail
• Hike to Bridal Veil Falls

Go for a swim

Snap a photo at washburn overlook, hike to sentinel dome for sunset, things to know about yosemite national park before you go, 📍 where is yosemite national park.

Yosemite National Park is located in California, USA. It’s about a 3.5 hour drive from San Francisco Airport to Yosemite.

✈ How to get to Yosemite

The best way to get to Yosemite is to fly and then drive the rest of the way. There are a few different airports within close proximity to Yosemite. We chose to fly into San Francisco rent a campervan from Avanti . We then camped in Yosemite National Park but there are also a few hotels located in the park and also outside of the park if you don’t want to camp.

From San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

Driving Time: 3.5 hours

San Francisco International Airport to Yosemite National Park is a 3.5 hour drive.

From San Francisco, you can either get a car rental , or you can book a San Francisco to Yosemite transfer and then make use of the park transport once you are there.

From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

Driving Time: 5 hours

From LAX to Yosemite National Park, it is a 5 hour drive.

From elsewhere in the world

If you are just visiting Yosemite, I recommend flying into San Francisco (SFO) as the fastest way to get to Yosemite. If you wanted to cut down on driving, you could then get a connecting flight to Fresno Airport (FAT) , which is just over a 1 hour flight from SFO.

🥾 Travellers Tip: Instead of driving yourself to Yosemite, why not book a tour!

🎫 National Parks Pass

To visit Yosemite, you will need to obtain a National Parks Pass such as America the Beautiful . The America the Beautiful pass is $80 and lets you visit as many USA national parks as you want for a whole year!

😉 If you don’t have an America the Beautiful pass: You can purchase a day pass on entry to the park which is $35 per vehicle.

👉 Yosemite Day Permits

A reservation is required to enter Yosemite National Park during certain times throughout the year. The cost to reserve is only $2 per day and you can do so at recreation.gov.

You will find the specific dates below for 2024 .

A reservation is required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on some days from April 13 through October 27, 2024, for those driving into the park between 5 am and 4 pm as follows:

April 13 through June 30: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and on holidays (May 27 and June 19). A reservation is not required on other days.

July 1 through August 16: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm every day.

August 17 through October 27: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (September 2 and October 14). A reservation is not required on other days.

📆 Best time of the year to visit Yosemite

Summer in Yosemite can be extremely hot. I would know because it’s the time that we chose to visit. We were there smack bang in the middle of a heatwave and it was almost unbearable in the middle of the day.

The good thing about Summer is that if it does get too hot, there are plenty of places to jump into the water to cool off. This quickly turned into one of our favourite things about our trip to Yosemite!

Summer is also the most popular and therefore the busiest time of the year to visit Yosemite. If you hate crowds I would probably avoid visiting in the Summer. It reminded me of a natural version of Disney World.

Fall is the best time for photographers to visit Yosemite , although the weather can be a little less predictable than during the Summer.

Yosemite has big-leaf maples, black oaks and other trees that turn bright shades of orange, yellow and red during Fall. The best time to visit Yosemite to see the Fall colours is around mid-October.

Although the colours are stunning, the waterfalls will likely only be a trickle or completely dried up so if you are going to see the famous Yosemite Falls, I would recommend visiting during Spring or early Summer.

Fall also means less crowds!

It snows in Yosemite in Winter which means that parts of the park close due to inaccessibility.

Closed sections of the park include: The road to Glacier Point Tioga Road  The road to Mariposa Grove The Yosemite Falls Trail just past Oh My Gosh Point The Mist Trail

One of the exciting things about visiting Yosemite in Winter is that you can go iceskating at the rink at Curry Village! From the rink you have views of Half Dome.

Then in February, the annual Firefall happens which is a popular event amongst photographers.

Spring is the best time to see the waterfalls in Yosemite because they will be at their strongest with the snow melting. If you are visiting Yosemite in Spring, I recommend going in late Spring to try to get there after the snow has melted and the roads have all opened back up.

Spring is a great time of the year to visit Yosemite to avoid the crowds before they start again for the Summer months.

🛌 Where to Stay

When choosing your accommodation in Yosemite, first you need to choose whether you are camping or staying in a hotel or cabin.

Top Yosemite Hotels

If you want to stay inside the park, the Yosemite Valley Lodge is right in the middle of everything and is within walking distance to many of the trails and cafes and restaurants. The is also The Ahwahnee which is a beautiful hotel with an outdoor pool and onsite fine dining restaurant and a bar.

Both of these hotels are located in Yosemite Valley.

The Best Yosemite Campgrounds

There are a few Yosemite campgrounds to choose from but I recommend trying to get a site at the Lower Pines Campground which is located in Yosemite Valley along with the Upper Pines and North Pines campgrounds.

We stayed at the Wawona Campground which is about a 1 hour drive back towards the entrance of the park and which we decided was a mistake because we did a hell of a lot of driving back and forth.

You can book the Yosemite campground on the recreation.gov website .

🚿 Campers Tip: There are no showers in any of the campgrounds, however, there is one located at the Curry Village Shower house.

🗺 The 5 Yosemite National Park Entrances

When we did our road trip to Yosemite, we entered from the Highway 41 entrance, which passes through Fresno but there are 4 other entrances to choose from. If you are coming from San Francisco, I recommend the Highway 41 entrance. This entrance is also open all-year-round.

South Entrance – Highway 41 – best for travelling from San Fran and the way we came. Tioga Pass Entrance – East – best entrance if you are coming from the Lake Tahoe area, Las Vegas or Death Valley. – closed during Winter from October to May Arch Rock Entrance – Highway 140 – West Hetch Hetchy Entrance – CA Highway 120 from the west (Northern-most entrance) – may close due to snow Big Oak Flat Entrance – Highway 120 from the east – closed during Winter from November to May

How to Spend 4 Days in Yosemite National Park

Before we get into the 4 day Yosemite itinerary, I want to highlight that the park is super busy, especially on weekends and during the Summer months. I recommend aiming to reach your first destination (unless it is for sunrise) by 8am to beat the crowds and get a parking spot.

You can also park in one of the parking spots in Yosemite Valley and catch the shuttle so that you don’t lose your spot for the day. There are parking lots with shuttle stops at Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village (the showers are also here if you are camping) and the Yosemite Valley Welcome Centre.

Arrive in Yosemite and grab lunch

On your arrival to Yosemite, if you haven’t stopped for lunch along the way, there are a few places in Yosemite Valley where you can get food.

The Base Camp Eatery is great if you are looking for something easy, otherwise you also have the options of the Mountain Room , Curry Village Pizza Patio and Bar the Meadow Grill and more .

Do the Cook’s Meadow Trail

Distance: 1.6km / 1 mile | Elevation: Flat | Time: 30 minutes

The Cook’s Meadow Loop is an easy trail in Yosemite starting from the Yosemite Valley Visitors Centre or the Lower Yosemite Falls shuttle stop (shuttle stop #6). Along the way, you will see views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Sentinel Rock.

You can also park at various other spots along the trail. We took the above photo a few hundred metres from the parking lot that we parked at which was the Sentinel Bridge Parking area.

Stop at the viewpoints in Yosemite Valley

Driving time from Cook’s Meadow Trail: 5 minutes

There are lots of different viewpoints that you can stop at when driving around the park. These include:

• El Capitan Meadow
• Yosemite Valley View
• El Capitan Viewpoint
• Sentinel Bridge
• El Capitan Picnic Area where you will see Horsetail Fall from (FireFall)

Driving time from Yosemite Valley: 50 minutes – 1 hour

Distance: 3.7km / 2.3 miles | Elevation: 108m / 354 ft | Time: 1-1.5 hours

Taft Point is one of the best sunset spots in Yosemite and our favourite hike and photo spot. We loved it so much that we went back and did it a second time because the photo opportunities there are endless. The hike itself is quite short and not too hard, but the mosquitoes just before sunset along the trail were relentless!

Make sure you wear bug spray and cover up to try to hide from them. Oh and walk fast and don’t stop because they WILL get you!

Distance : 800m / 2,624 ft | Time : 15 minutes

Glacier Point is one of the best sunrise spots in Yosemite National Park, however, don’t expect to have it to yourself. We watched the sunrise at Glacier Point one morning and were shocked to see as many people there as you would normally expect at an epic viewpoint at sunset. I thought our photos from this morning were ruined because there were sooo many people in them, but luckily I was able to remove them in Adobe Lightroom. 😉

From the parking lot, the views from Glacier Point are a little walk away. You will be able to see Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls .

Driving time from Glacier Point: 1 hour

Distance: 5km / 3.1 miles | Elevation: 345m / 1,131 ft | Time: 2-2.5 hours

Vernal Falls is one of the best waterfall hikes in Yosemite. We are devastated that we missed it. We tried to get to the parking lot but it was already full by the time we had our after sunrise nap and so we couldn’t get in.

Therefore, I recommend heading straight to the Vernal Falls before napping if you need to rest after getting up for sunrise. Personally I would choose the Vernal Falls hike over Upper Yosemite Falls if you only had time for one. I’ve heard that the views from Vernal Falls are better.

See Bridalveil Falls

Driving time from Vernal Falls: 20 minutes

Distance: 1.3km / 0.8 miles | Elevation: 35m / 114 ft | Time: 20-30 minutes

Bridalveil Falls is a really easy hike to the falls from the parking lot and it is also one of the few dog friendly trails in Yosemite. This is a popular trail so don’t expect to get away from the crowds here but it is a beautiful waterfall so I think it is worth it.

There is also a place where you can fill up your water bottles next to the toilet block at Bridalveil Falls. We used this a few times. It was great!

Check out Yosemite Village and Curry Village

In Yosemite Village, you will find a village store, a museum and art gallery and a deli. If you are looking for somewhere to have lunch, I recommend heading over to Curry Village or the Yosemite Lodge Food Court.

Driving time from Bridalveil Falls: 4 minutes

Tunnel View is one of the best spots to watch the sunset or the sunrise in Yosemite and the best part, you don’t need to hike! This does mean that the viewpoint is constantly packed because it is SUCH a great view but you can still get a good photo.

Tunnel View is one of the most classic photo spots in Yosemite and it’s what I think of when I think of Yosemite. We cooked our dinner in the parking lot just before sunset and then ate it at the viewpoint while watching the sun go down.

Distance: 10.6km / 6.6 miles | Elevation: 992m / 3,254 ft | Time: 5-6 hours

Upper Yosemite Falls is best done in the early morning because it is a tough climb up to the falls with lots of elevation. We made the mistake of starting the hike way too late when it was already super hot and ending up giving up and turning back just after we reached Oh My Gosh Point which is where the above photo was taken.

Make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks on this hike. You will need it! It’s a steep one!

Driving time from Upper Yosemite Falls:

Distance: 1.9km / 1.2 miles | Elevation: 17m / 55 ft | Time: 25-30 minutes

Lower Yosemite Falls is a much easier hike and is great for the whole family, including dogs and it is wheelchair and stroller accessible. It will only take you 20-30 minutes in total and is flat the entire way.

Driving time from Lower Yosemite Falls: 15 minutes

You can rent a raft from Curry Village Raft Rental and float down the Merced River or you could check out on of the beautiful swimming spots in Yosemite to cool off after your morning of hiking.

Distance: 7.1km / 4.4 miles | Elevation: 92m / 301 ft | Time: 1.5 – 2 hours

The Mirror Lake Trail leads you is a moderate but fairly flat hike which takes you to one of the famous photography viewpoints in Yosemite National Park. Sadly, we missed out on this one as well because the parking lot was full and then it was also just so so hot so we didn’t feel like hiking.

I recommend starting the hike early so that you get a parking spot and aren’t hiking during the hottest part of the day.

Driving time from Mirror Lake Trail: 20 minutes

If you are visiting Yosemite in Summer, you should definitely go for a swim in the park! There are lots of beautiful spots for a dip in the river. Swimming in the river was one of our favourite things to do while we were in Yosemite. We were there in a bit of a heat wave so it felt incredible to cool off in the water while soaking up the views surrounding us.

Driving time from your swimming spot: 50 minutes – 1 hour

Washburn Overlook is close to the Sentinel Dome trailhead so it’s worth a stopover. The viewpoint does not involve any hiking to get to but is right next to the parking lot.

Driving time from Washburn Overlook: 2 minutes

Distance: 3.5km / 2.2 miles | Elevation: 140m / 459 ft | Time: 1-2 hours

I recommend grabbing dinner to go and eating it at the viewpoint or making a cooked dinner to eat beforehand. The Sentinel Dome hike starts from the same trailhead as Taft Point. The hike is pretty easy, especially for how incredible the views are. From the viewpoint, you will be able to see all of the way down into Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls, Nevada Falls and Half Dome.

Sentinel Dome is also home to one of the former most famous trees in the world, the Jeffrey pine, which is now fallen.

Commonly Asked Questions

How many days should you need in yosemite.

There is so much to see and do in Yosemite that you could probably spend 2 weeks there. However, 3 to 4 days is the perfect amount of time for a first trip in my opinion. It all depends on how much you have on your list to see and do.

Are 4 days enough in Yosemite National Park?

4 days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Yosemite to see all of the main viewpoints and to do a couple of the best hikes.

What to pack for Yosemite?

• Day backpack
• casual jumper
• Hiking boots or trail runners
• Summer dress
• Trackies for van life pjs

Can you swim in Yosemite?

Can you swim in Yosemite?! Don’t get me started on how incredible the swimming spots in Yosemite are!

Is Yosemite Dog Friendly?

Yosemite is partially dog friendly. Dogs are allowed (on leash) on a few of the trails and are allowed in the park itself but not all trails. The following Yosemite trails are dog friendly:

• Lower Falls Trail
• Wawona Meadow Loop Trail
• Bridalveil Fall Trail
• Sentinel Meadow – Cooks Meadow Loop Trail
• Mirror Lake Paved Trail

Do you need a car to get around Yosemite?

We explored Yosemite by car but you don’t need to have a car to get around Yosemite because there is a shuttle service. Learn more about the shuttle service here.

Are there bears in Yosemite?

Yosemite is home to Black Bears, however, you are not allowed to use bear spray in Yosemite National Park. To avoid bumping into any bears, make sure you are loud on the trails and if you go on any less popular trails, hike with 2 or more people.

How many visitors does Yosemite get each year?

Yosemite National Park gets over 3.5 million visitors each year which is nuts!

What is the best Yosemite 1 day tour from San Francisco?

There is a really great Yosemite National Park tour which starts from San Francisco. The tour takes you to some of the best and must-see spots in Yosemite National Park such as Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Bridalveil Falls and Tuolumne Grove.

🌲 Book a 1 Day Yosemite Tour from San Fran here!

You might also enjoy:

• The Best 2 Day Lake Tahoe Summer Itinerary
• Dreamy Places to Paddle Board in Lake Tahoe
• The Ultimate 15 Day California Road Trip Itinerary
• Where to go Swimming in Yosemite

📌 Like it? Pin it!