moderate
3 days
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness, comfortable with walking several miles daily over varied terrain.
Discover Yosemite’s stunning landscapes and historic charm on a private 3-day tour, complete with cozy Cedar Lodge accommodations. Experience nature and history from San Bruno like never before.
All Ages
Customize your multi-day tour to Yosemite National Park from San Francisco with a stay at the charming and rustic Cedar Lodge. Take all the free time you’d like to enjoy the park’s wilderness, towering granite cliffs, Giant Sequoias and awe-inspiring waterfalls. Let our travel consultants and expert guides will introduce you to the many summertime and wintertime activities so don’t miss the history, geology and wildlife that make Yosemite Valley the jewel of the U.S. National Parks. Travel and Hospitality Awards named this the best Yosemite tour from San Jose for its jaw-dropping natural beauty. The tour has earned more 5-star guest reviews because it is the only tour to include the Giant Sequoias among the attractions in Yosemite Valley.
Your tour begins on the first day with a pickup at your San Francisco hotel. As we leave the City, you'll hear about the rich history and fascinating people that have made San Francisco what it is today. You'll head through the East Bay and into the San Joaquin valley as you hear about the Gold Rush, California's prolific agricultural life, and get a glimpse of the Sierra Mountain foothills as you pull in for your first rest stop approximately half-way to the park. Refuel with coffee and snacks and get ready to be amazed!
After leaving the rest stop you'll climb the foothills and enter Yosemite National Park. The first stop within the park is at the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias! Get ready for a challenging hike to witness these ancient and amazing giants towering over the park at heights of up to 275 feet (84 meters) tall!
After your stroll among the giants, you'll head down into the Valley for the rest of your day. Keep those cameras ready! Your guide will be pointing out scenes you won't want to miss, and won't be able to forget!
Your free and unguided time begins after taking YARTS to check into the Cedar Lodge (bus fee not included).
On your return day, head back over to Shuttle Stop 7 where we dropped you off on day 1, and head back to San Francisco, reminiscing on your perfect trip in the heart of all that nature has to offer.
Approximately 7 hours on the first day Meet the bus at 3:30 PM on the last day to return to San Francisco
Outbound Day
6:30 AM – 11:00 AM
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Unguided, free time in Yosemite (activities not included)
Return Day
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
5:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Carry at least 2 liters of water per person each day to stay energized during your walking tours.
Temperatures vary greatly between day and night; layering helps you stay comfortable throughout.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat as the California sun can be intense, especially on exposed trails.
This private tour fills quickly; booking well in advance ensures availability and preferred lodging.
Yosemite’s history includes Native American tribes who lived in the area and early conservation efforts that helped establish the national park.
Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the park’s delicate ecosystems and preserve its beauty.
Provides necessary support and traction on varied trails.
Protects you from spring showers and changing weather.
spring specific
Keeps you warm during cool mornings and evenings.
fall specific
Ideal for carrying water, snacks, and gear comfortably.