Yosemite in Winter: One Day Tour from San Jose

FAQs

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• I am a non-resident. What are my options for paying the $100 non-resident fee?

  For commercial tours, the National Park Service authorities in Yosemite will only accept payment from the operator, not individuals. The preferred method of payment is for us to collect the non-resident fee before your tour using the payment link that we will provide after you make the reservation. You also have the option of paying the fee on the tour bus with a credit card or cash but you must clarify and approve the payment method with our Guest Services staff before joining the tour. There are currently no options to pay the $100 non-resident fee inside the park.

• Can I use my annual park pass?

  U.S. Residents

  For U.S. residents, having an annual park pass does not change the tour price.
  Commercial bus tours are not subject to per-person park entry fees for U.S. residents, so your annual pass does not provide additional savings on this tour.

  Non-U.S. Residents

  For non-U.S. residents, an annual pass can make a significant difference.

  • The standard $100 per-person entry fee applies to commercial tours.

  • If you are traveling with more than two people, the $250 non-resident annual pass may be more cost-effective than paying individual entry fees. This pass covers 4 people.

  • The pass is also a good option if you plan to visit multiple U.S. national parks during your trip.

  Non-resident passes must be purchased in advance or by credit card at the entrance to Yosemite National Park (cash not accepted).

• What is the difference between this and the Yosemite and Giant Sequoias One Day Tour?

  The main difference is that the trail to the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias is covered in snow and ice, making it unsafe without special equipment. Therefore, we substitute additional free time in Yosemite Valley for you to explore. There may be other modifications to the tour route to accommodate snow, road closures and detours on Yosemite’s mountain roads.

• What should I bring?

  Winter weather in the Sierra Mountains can be dramatic and unpredictable. Since you will be spending 4-5 hours outdoors enjoying nature, we recommend that you dress in layers and wear warm, comfortable shoes or hiking boots. Bring a heavy water-resistant jacket, camera or phone, 1-liter water bottle, warm hat, sturdy umbrella (if the forecast calls for rain or snow) and some cash or a credit card for meals, snacks and souvenirs.

• Is the hike to Giant Sequoias available in the winter?

  The Tuolumne Grove hike is unsafe without special equipment when covered in snow and ice. So, we generally do not attempt it on tours from November to March, substituting additional time in Yosemite Valley.

• How long are we going to spend in the Park?

  The average winter tour spends about 5 hours in Yosemite National Park.

• Do I need any special gear since there will be snow?

  Our stops in Yosemite will be mostly flat and cleared of snow and ice. You will not need special equipment if wearing sturdy hiking boots or shoes with tread.

• Can I be picked up from a different location other than Signia by Hilton San Jose?

  At the present time, we have only one pickup location in San Jose.

• What do I need to know about the pickup in San Jose?

  A 3rd party shuttle will pick up in San Jose and transport you to Livermore to meet our tour leader and vehicle. The transfer takes 40 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.

• Where can I park my car near Signia by Hilton?

  The Signia by Hilton has a parking garage but it is a bit expensive. We suggest trying the Impark Lot #367 at 285 S Market St just a block from the Hilton pickup location.

• How will I recognize the vehicle that will pick me up?

  Look for an SUV with identification as Bay Area Airport Shuttle. If there are fewer than 6 passengers making the transfer to Livermore, we will send you a link to an Uber whose location you can track on your phone.

• Are there restrooms on the bus?

  There are no restrooms on the bus, but we plan brief stops approximately every 2 hours to keep you comfortable and refreshed. Most stops include options for snacks and a chance to stretch. If you ever need an extra stop, just let us know, and we’ll be happy to accommodate!