Your free time in Yosemite - Scott Dunn Suggests
Walking and biking are the most popular ways to see Yosemite, with self-guide trail maps issued at the entrance. Wardens at the visitors centre can advise on activities & the newspaper will tell you what's going on from star-gazing to wildlife talks!
Area
California
Type
Active
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Teens
Difficulty
Leisurely
Duration
Full Day
Located in Mariposa County, the park was established in 1890 as one of the first National Parks in the US to protect the lands from the encroaching gold rush. The park encompasses over 1000 square miles of scenic wild lands of the Sierra Nevada and its epic valleys and peaks range from 2,000 feet to 13,000 feet above sea level. The park is home to alpine meadows perfect for picnics, mountain forests for hiking, lakes and waterfalls, sky-scraping giant sequoias and redwood trees and plentiful wildlife from mule deer to black bears.
The park's general entrance fee is $30 per car (subject to change and dependent on season) and is valid for 7 days and these can be easily obtained at the park entrance.
Not to be missed is the sweeping view of the valley floor and towering rocks from Tunnel View, world-class climbers conquering El Capitan, walking the Meadow Loop, hiking up to Half Dome for the energetic or to Glacier Point and when the water is flowing, simply marvelling at the wonder of Yosemite Falls (Spring and Fall).
Walking and biking are the most popular ways to see the park, but the 2-hour Valley Floor tour on board an open-air park ranger guided truck (departing from outside Yosemite Lodge at the Falls) is a good way to get your bearings and see the park with minimum exertion with enthusiastic park wardens. Bikes are reserved on a first-come first-served basis from outside Yosemite Lodge at the Falls.
For cultural events in the park, visit the Yosemite Conservancy website and for activities visit the Yosemite National Park website and go to 'Things to do' for information on hiking, biking and riding.
There is also the Ansel Adams Gallery located in the heart of the park, and Yosemite Visitors' centre that makes a good starting point for your day in the park.
For other listings and activities in the park, simply ask for the Yosemite newspaper on arrival which is the best way to find out what is going on! Join a stargazing night with friendly astronomers at Glacier Point or delight the children with a talk on grizzly bears. There's always something educational and fun going on during the summer months.
The park sits within Mariposa County, which offers more than just California’s gateway to Yosemite Park. Mariposa is dotted with charming gold-rush towns. Stop in Mariposa town itself on the junction of the 140 and 49 for a taste of real gold country life. Scott Dunn can arrange a tour of the oldest working Court House in California and the old county jail! There's zip-ling in the hills and gold panning to try, making a welcome break for the kids on route in or out of the park. We rate the Charles Street Dinner House for a hearty, delicious lunch or further down the highway-49, stop in Coulterville and have a cold beer at California’s oldest saloon!
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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![Reception - The St Regis SFO]()
View AccommodationThe St. Regis San Francisco
Located in San Francisco's trendy SoMA district, St Regis San Francisco is a luxurious city hotel with a contemporary edge. Boasting stylish interiors and well-appointed lavish suites, the St Regis is perfect for families exploring the city by the bay.
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View AccommodationMontage Laguna Beach
The Montage at Laguna Beach is one of those places where you feel as if you have arrived - the service is immaculate, the ocean views to die for, and the artistic community of Laguna Beach just the place for boutique, gallery browsing and fine dining.
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![Rush Creek Pool Area at Sunset]()
View AccommodationRush Creek Lodge
Enjoy a mountain getaway at the family friendly Rush Creek Lodge, offering fresh and modern accommodation, a casual and relaxed ambience, large pool, hot tubs, daily activities and tours and sociable dining options just outside Yosemite National Park.
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![Views - Post Ranch Inn]()
View AccommodationPost Ranch Inn
Perched 1200 feet up on a ridge overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Post Ranch Inn is an architectural gem, and seamlessly blends understated rustic luxury, immaculate cuisine and astounding service.
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View AccommodationTenaya Lodge at Yosemite
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is located at the national park's South Gate, with all the creature comforts of a full-service resort, the Lodge organises outdoor adventures from horse riding, hiking and biking to winter wonderland ice skating and sleigh rides.
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![Belmond El Encanto Pool]()
View AccommodationEl Encanto
A historic Mediterranean-style Santa Barbara retreat with romantic bungalows, spa, coastal dining, and easy access to beaches, wine country, and the Channel Islands.
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![CasaDelMarEXTShutters-0064]()
View AccommodationHotel Casa del Mar
Once an opulent beach club for Hollywood stars of the 1920s, Casa del Mar oozes old school glamour and relaxed sophistication. Sitting on the golden sands of Santa Monica beach, the hotel has uninterrupted ocean views and a delightfully decadent décor.
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![Exterior]()
View AccommodationThe Ritz-Carlton San Francisco
Located near exclusive Nob Hill and close to the heart of downtown San Francisco and Union Square, the historic Ritz Carlton offers guests a timeless escape into luxury. With a cable car stop right outside it's also perfectly placed for exploring too.
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![Relax in the sunshine]()
View AccommodationCarmel Valley Ranch
Carmel Valley Ranch is nestled between the Santa Lucia Mountains and the leafy vineyards of Carmel. An ideal base to explore the Carmel and Monterey region, the resort offers both a superb chance to relax and explore.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperiencePrivate Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure
Embark on a thrilling private offshore adventure from Newport Beach in search of whales and marine life.
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View ExperienceYosemite Hiking Excursion
This morning, explore Yosemite's Mariposa Grove on a private guided hike. Marvel at giant sequoias on a tailored 4- to 5-hour trek or shorter 2-hour walk. Learn their ecology, capture stunning photos, and enjoy lunch back at your hotel afterward.
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View ExperiencePrivate Tour in Hearst Castle
Enjoy a private, half-day tour of Hearst Castle, bypassing lines for exclusive access to this opulent estate. Tailored to your interests, explore lavish rooms, gardens, art collections, and breathtaking views.
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View ExperiencePrivate Surfing Lesson
Learn to surf along the California coast with a private expert instructor. Master wave timing, pop-ups, paddling, and ocean safety, leaving confident and ready to ride like a pro!
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View ExperienceYosemite Wade Fly-Fishing Excursion
This morning, meet your Orvis-endorsed guide for a 4-hour fly fishing trip in Yosemite Valley. Learn techniques, catch and release trout, and enjoy the serene beauty of nature while honing your skills. Return to your vehicle after the adventure.
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View ExperienceAmerica's Cup Yacht Sunset Sailing Excursion
Enjoy a 2.5-hour sunset sail on an authentic America's Cup yacht. Join the crew, learn sailing, or relax as you explore the Bay, guided by expert captains. Snacks, water, and gear provided!
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View ExperienceExplore San Francisco in a Private Cable Car
Take a private sightseeing tour aboard the Powell-Hyde streetcar, enjoying stunning views of San Francisco's landmarks, from Coit Tower to Lombard Street, with a local guide.
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View ExperienceAquarium of the Pacific Behind-The-Scenes Tour
Enjoy a behind-the-scenes VIP experience at the Aquarium of the Pacific, where you'll interact with charismatic marine life like octopuses, sea otters, penguins, and seals, plus explore other exhibits.
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View ExperienceHelicopter Tour with Malibu Landing and Picnic
Fly over LA's iconic landmarks, including the Hollywood Sign and Beverly Hills, then land in Malibu for a private picnic with stunning views before returning to Burbank.
Call us on +852 3579 2478 to start planning
