Yosemite Winter One Day Tour from San Francisco

FAQs

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• 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.

• How can I travel around the park during my free time?

  Walking is the best form of transportation in the Valley. We do not recommend public transportation or park shuttles during your free time since you cannot be certain about getting back to the tour vehicle on time. The most popular attractions are a short distance from the drop-off point near Yosemite Valley Lodge.

• Can I use my annual pass for the United States National Parks to enter Yosemite for free?

  Sorry, but no. The entrance fee we pay to Yosemite National Park is based on the vehicle and not on the individuals, and the entrance is located at a toll gate – not on foot. Therefore, the tour cost includes the admission fee.

• Do you pick up outside of San Francisco?

  Our 1-day Yosemite tour picks up in San Jose in the South Bay and Livermore in the East Bay. If you are staying near the San Francisco airport or another location away from the downtown area, we recommend using a ride-sharing service or public transportation to the Hilton Union Square hotel. Our pickup for that location is outside the Mason Street side entrance of the hotel.

• Do you offer this tour in different languages?

  Our Yosemite tour has live narration in English, but we offer complimentary recorded audio guides in 8 languages: Spanish, French, German, Italian, Korean, Mandarin, Japanese, and Portuguese. If an audio guide is required, please specify the language when booking.

• Are meals included? Can I buy or bring my own?

  Meals are not included on this tour. We do make a stop about halfway to and from Yosemite, where you can buy food and beverages. There are a few restaurants and a food court in Yosemite Valley. They are usually crowded, so it’s a good idea to bring or purchase a picnic lunch prior to arriving in the park.

• What stops do we have for photographs?

  Your Yosemite tour will have about 5 stops for you to exit the vehicle and take some photographs although weather and traffic conditions may require your driver to alter the itinerary slightly. The usual stops are: Tunnel View, Bridalveil Falls, Valley Lodge, El Capitan Meadow, and Yosemite Valley View lookout.

• 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!