Private Guided Snowshoe Hike in Yosemite

Yosemite National Park , United States of America

Private Guided Snowshoe Hike in Yosemite

Active

(5 reviews)

3h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the winter trails of Yosemite on a snowshoe hike for a truly memorable experience in this pristine wilderness! With easy-to-follow techniques and snowshoe gear provided, this tour is suitable for beginners and experts alike. You’ll learn about Yosemite from your experienced guide, gaining in-depth knowledge of the natural history of the famous park, and you'll capture great photos of the winter landscape. Bring your sense of adventure and see what the summer crowds are missing!

Available options

Extended Snowshoe Hike

Expect to hike about six miles on a tour that lasts approximately 6-7 hours. Perfect for experienced snowshoe hikers.

Beginner Snowshoe Hike

Expect to snowshoe hike approximately three miles on a tour that lasts about 3-4 hours. Perfect for beginners and families.

What's included

Local guide

Snowshoes and trekking poles

Vehicle reservation permit into Yosemite National Park (when reservations are required)

Custom Tour Location (you must contact us upon confirmation to discuss)

Detailed itinerary

Snowshoeing offers you a way to see the park from a different perspective while enjoying outdoor winter fun and low-impact exercise. No experience is needed for this sport–if you can walk, you can snowshoe!

You’ll meet your experienced guide at the trail head where you will be provided with snowshoes, trekking poles and simple-to-follow techniques to get you out on the trail. Once you’re ready, strap on your snowshoes and follow your guide along quiet trails, experiencing the Sequoia Grove in its winter beauty. Get incredible views of snow-covered mountains and meadows as you hike, and have plenty of opportunities to stop for photos and rest breaks. Wildlife can be easier to spot in the winter landscape; throughout your hike, your guide will keep an eye out for signs of deer, coyote, bobcats, bears and other creatures that inhabit the area.

Stop 2

Choose from two options for your family or group:

Beginner Snowshoe Hike

Enjoy a pleasant half-day snowshoe hike on a relatively gentle trail in Yosemite Valley or nearby trails. You’ll be provided with basic snowshoeing instructions and the day’s program will be tailored to your experience level. This activity is perfect for beginners and families. Expect to snowshoe hike approximately three miles on a tour that lasts approximately four hours. BRING 32 oz of WATER, LUNCH & SNACKS

Extended Snowshoe Hike

Travel along some of Yosemite’s most scenic trails on a longer snowshoe hike with more dramatic elevation gains. These demanding hiking tours are perfect for experienced snowshoe hikers and will offer a different perspective on the Valley and High Country. Expect to hike about six miles on a tour that lasts approximately six hours. BRING 48-60 oz of WATER, LUNCH & SNACKS

What's not included

Gratuities

Snacks & lunch

Water

Private transportation

Park Entrance Fee

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Service animals allowed

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Please provide your hotel and contact information (phone number, email and accommodations) in the Special Requirements box at checkout. Hotel information so we may email you driving directions to the meeting location; pickup/drop-off is not included.

Please dress in athletic wear and bring water, lunch and snacks

Age restrictions: must be at least 12 years old to participate in the extended snowshoe hike and at least 4 years old to participate in the beginner level hike

Subject to favorable snow conditions. If canceled due to insufficient snow, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund

Important notes

• PLEASE BE SURE TO CONFIRM YOUR TOUR WITH YEXPLORE AFTER BOOKING!!
• Please bring 32 ounces of water for the Beginner Level and 48-60 ounces of water for the Extended level. Please bring snacks (pretzels, fruit, crackers, trail mix, granola bars, etc) and a lunch (sandwich)

This operator requires you to contact them directly prior to this tour/activity.

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.