Explore Sequoias and Waterfalls in Yosemite
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the iconic landscapes of Yosemite Valley and the majestic giant sequoias on this guided naturalist hike. This full-day adventure features dramatic waterfalls, colorful vistas, and insights into the park's geological wonders. The tour includes a leisurely 3-mile round-trip walk to a grove of giant sequoias, allowing you to appreciate their grandeur up close. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and families (ages 8+), this tour combines expert guidance with transportation, a lunch voucher, and snowshoe rental when needed for winter excursions.
- Full-day guided tour from 9am to 5:30pm with a naturalist guide
- Explore Yosemite Valley’s icons and hidden gems
- 3-mile round-trip walk to see giant sequoias
- Suitable for ages 8 and up, with a maximum group size of 9
Available options
Evergreen Route
Duration: 9 hours<br/>Lunch Voucher: You will receive a lunch voucher that is redeemable at the Rush Creek Lodge General Store before the start of the trip.
Firefall Route
Duration: 9 hours<br/>Lunch Voucher: You will receive a lunch voucher redeemable at the Rush Creek Lodge General Store before the start of the trip.<br/>Firefall Route: This trip will start at Firefall Ranch and pickup at Rush Creek Lodge before entering Yosemite National Park
Explore Sequoias and Waterfalls in Yosemite
What's included
Private transportation
You will receive a lunch voucher upon check-in. This voucher is redeemable before the trip at our General Store. This store is located on property.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
View one of the most iconic vista points in Yosemite. See Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall all from one stop.
2
Stop 2
Experience one of the tallest waterfalls in the lower 48 states.
3
Stop 3
See the crown jewel of Big Wall climbing
4
Stop 4
Experience a 3 mile round trip hike to see Yosemite's Giant Sequoias.
5
This two-in-one Yosemite Valley and giant sequoia guided naturalist hike and tour is a memorable, fun day getting to know Yosemite from an insider’s perspective. Let us do the driving while you enjoy dramatic waterfalls, a spectrum of colorful landscapes, stunning panoramic vistas and majestic giant sequoia trees.
The Yosemite Valley portion of this tour showcases the Valley’s icons as well as its hidden secrets. You’ll gain an understanding of how glaciers, rivers, rocks and erosion created this scenic wonder, and get some insight into John Muir’s legacy.
What's not included
Park Admission - This fee is waivable if you present an America the Beautiful Pass, Senior Pass, or Yosemite Vehicle Entrance Receipt.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
All groups meet at the Recreation Center at Rush Creek Lodge.
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
