Yosemite Valley Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike
Active
6h - 8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Take a tour that lets you immerse yourself in the park. Our guides are master naturalists, botanists, geologists, historians, and - most importantly - relentlessly curious! This is not just a sightseeing tour, it's a day all about learning and connection.
Your day will include a drive through the valley, stopping along the way to take in views of the iconic rock formations, hear the calls of the wildlife, and see various points of interest. Over the course of your experience, you’ll spend some time walking in the fresh mountain air. Walks will be tailored to you and may include open views, flowing waterfalls, and walks underneath massive and beautiful trees. As you breathe in the deep air, your private guide will share fascinating information about the park’s flora, fauna, and history.
Groups are capped at 8 hikers. If we don't meet the minimum number of spots booked, registrants will be offered an option to make the tour private for an additional charge or cancel for a full refund.
Available options
Yosemite Valley Full Day Small Group Tour & Hike
What's included
Park entry fees
Round trip transportation from Oakhurst
Medically trained, naturalist guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
We’ll have snacks and a selection of beverages available, but feel free to bring along any personal favorites you might crave during the day.
Detailed itinerary
1
We'll make a stop to see the historic Wawona Hotel and talk about the area's historical and ecological importance.
2
Stop 2
Take a short walk to the base of the falls and get splashed by its mist!
3
Stop 3
We’ll spend the day doing short walks along the valley floor to see the cliffs above. Many walks take us along the shores of the Merced River which goes from a raging flow in the spring to a trickle by late fall.
4
Stop 4
We’ll take a hike to the peaceful and serene lake for views of Half Dome and North Dome.
5
Tunnel view is one of the most popular views in the park (and possibly the world). We'll hike up the Pohono trail to escape the crowds and see the breathtaking view from our favorite spot. This part of the day will require some uphill hiking!
6
Stop 6
We’ll stop to take in views of the massive granite wall. We may spend some time watching climbers make their way up with our binoculars.
What's not included
Gratuity for guides - If you had a great day, a 10-20% tip is appreciated!
Please pack a lunch to bring with you. Your guide will choose the perfect spot for a scenic picnic.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
5 reviews
5★
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet at the Oakhurst Park & Ride / Oakhurst Branch Library. You'll be able to leave your vehicle here and join us in our large tour van for the day. You'll be returned to your car by about 3-4 PM. Your guide will message you 1-2 days in advance to confirm details.
Important notes
Please fill out our client info form (goodtripadventures.com/info-form). This will ensure your trip runs smoothly and save time in the van on the morning of. Your guide will message you 1-2 days in advance to confirm details.
We recommend bringing a packed lunch, reusable water bottle, sunscreen, day pack, layers to adjust to changing temperatures, camera, gratuity for your guide.
About Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including giant sequoias, granite cliffs, and waterfalls. It offers a unique blend of natural wonders and outdoor adventures, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
Top Attractions
Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, with a total height of 2,425 feet (739 meters). It consists of three sections: Upper Yosemite Fall, Middle Cascades, and Lower Yosemite Fall.
Nature
1-2 hours to explore
Free
Half Dome
Half Dome is one of Yosemite's most iconic landmarks. The granite dome rises 4,800 feet (1,463 meters) above the valley floor and offers a challenging hike and a thrilling rock climb.
Adventure
10-12 hours for the hike
Free (permit required for the cables route)
Glacier Point
Glacier Point offers one of the most breathtaking views in Yosemite, overlooking Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the high country. It's a popular spot for photography and sunset viewing.
Nature
1-2 hours to explore
Free
Mariposa Grove
Mariposa Grove is home to one of the largest concentrations of giant sequoias in the world. The grove features over 500 mature sequoias, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree.
Nature
2-3 hours to explore
Free
Tunnel View
Tunnel View is one of the most famous and photographed viewpoints in Yosemite. It offers a stunning panorama of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome.
Nature
15-30 minutes to explore
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Acorn Bread
A traditional Miwok dish made from acorns, a staple food of the indigenous people of Yosemite
Appetizer
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Elk Burger
A delicious and sustainable burger made from locally sourced elk meat, often served with local produce and artisanal cheeses
Main Course
Contains meat, gluten (if served with a bun)
Yosemite Granola
A homemade granola made with local honey, nuts, and dried fruits, often served with yogurt or milk
Breakfast
Vegetarian, can be made vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking
Rock climbing
Backpacking
Mountain biking
Skiing
Snowshoeing
Picnicking
Photography
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Yosemite for hiking, camping, and exploring the park's attractions. The weather is warm, and most facilities and roads are open.
10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F)
50°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Time Zone (PT, UTC-8)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but visitors should be aware of potential hazards and take necessary precautions
Yosemite National Park is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of potential hazards such as wildlife encounters, extreme weather, and challenging terrain. By taking necessary precautions and following park guidelines, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Important Precautions:
- • Stay on marked trails and follow park guidelines.
- • Carry plenty of water and snacks, especially when hiking.
- • Be aware of wildlife and store food properly to avoid encounters.
Getting there
By air
- Fresno Yosemite International Airport • 135 miles (217 km)
- San Francisco International Airport • 175 miles (282 km)
By train
Merced Station
By bus
Merced, San Francisco
Getting around
Public transport
The free shuttle service operates in Yosemite Valley, making it easy to explore the park's attractions without a car. The shuttle runs frequently and stops at major trailheads, campgrounds, and visitor centers.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Yosemite Valley
High Country
Wawona
Day trips
Mono Lake
40 miles (64 km) from Yosemite Valley • Half day to full day
Mono Lake is a unique and ancient saline lake located east of Yosemite, known for its striking tufa towers and diverse birdlife. It offers a unique contrast to the park's granite cliffs and waterfalls.
Hetch Hetchy Valley
35 miles (56 km) from Yosemite Valley • Full day
Hetch Hetchy Valley is a stunning and lesser-known area of Yosemite, offering a mix of waterfalls, granite cliffs, and alpine meadows. It's a great destination for hiking, photography, and nature enthusiasts.
Grove of the Ancient Giants
25 miles (40 km) from Yosemite Valley • Half day
The Grove of the Ancient Giants is a lesser-known sequoia grove located near Yosemite, offering a peaceful and less crowded alternative to Mariposa Grove. It's a great destination for hiking, photography, and nature enthusiasts.
Festivals
Yosemite Facelift • September
Yosemite Winter Wildlife Festival • February
Yosemite Valley 10-Mile Trail Run • May
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light for photography.
- Check road and trail conditions before visiting, as some areas may be closed or limited due to weather or maintenance.
- Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers, as weather and temperatures can change quickly and unexpectedly.
- Consider hiring a local guide or joining a ranger-led program to gain a deeper understanding of the park's natural and cultural history.
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially when hiking or exploring remote areas.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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