Hiking in Yosemite National Park

Follow your feet on this six-day hiking trip that shows off the very best of Yosemite National Park. Giant sequoia trees, the massive Half Dome rock, stunning views from the top of Sentinel Dome and thunderous waterfalls of the appropriately named Mist Trail – this adventure covers a lot of ground in a short time. Best of all, you get to experience Yosemite with a bit of comfort, thanks to transportation to and from the trailheads and accommodation close to the park’s entrance. But this trip is more than just pretty sights – you’ll also learn about the area’s Native American heritage and pioneer past, and about the important work being done to preserve and protect the region.

Itinerary

Day 1: San Francisco

Welcome to California! Your adventure begins in San Francisco – The City by the Bay that boasts a beautiful setting and a vibrant, multicultural heart. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe check out the vintage stores along funky Haight Street, catch the tram down to the waterfront or take an adventure cruise on the bay past Alcatraz Island.

Day 2: Yosemite National Park

This morning, leave San Francisco behind and hit the road headed for the famous Yosemite National Park. After arriving, enjoy the first walk of your trip – an easy, downhill hike at the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. The grove is home to, no surprise, a couple dozen mature giant sequoia trees, including one that’s been carved into a tunnel you can walk right through. Of course, what goes down must come back up, but your return upward climb will be rewarded once you arrive at your accommodation. While many visitors to Yosemite stay in campsites, you’ll get to unwind at a rustic mountain lodge within a short drive to the park entrance. Settle into your home for the next few days and soak up the atmosphere.

Day 3: Yosemite National Park

The Mist Trail is Yosemite's signature hike, and today you get to experience it for yourself. Starting from the east of Yosemite Valley you’ll cross the Vernal Fall Footbridge, make your way up granite stairways and zig-zag up rocky switchbacks. The trail gets you right up close to Vernal and Nevada Falls, so be sure to pack your rain gear as you’ll get sprayed! There are also incredible views scattered along the whole route, looking out across the valley toward the iconic Half Dome and rock formation and along the Merced River. In the evening, rest up back at the lodge.

Day 4: Yosemite National Park

Today, you’ll take things up a notch with a walk along Yosemite’s Four Mile Trail. Start at the base of Sentinel Rock, then make your way to the top of Yosemite Valley. A consistent, steep gradient means the trail is not a regular walk in the park, but we'll take our time. The views of the valley, El Capitan, Half Dome and Yosemite Falls from the top of Sentinel Dome are more than worth the effort. Once you’ve finished the hike, head back to your accommodation to rest up!

Day 5: Yosemite National Park

Today is slightly different, with a free morning for you to enjoy your way. Head to Yosemite Valley for more hiking on your own, or perhaps to visit local museums, rent a bike or anything else that interests you. Your tour leader will be able to help you with arrangements. In the afternoon, your group will rendezvous for an included walk with an expert guide from Yosemite Conservancy. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the important work the group does for the Native American community and preserving their culture within the park. As you walk from the historic Ahwahnee Hotel through the meadows of Yosemite Valley and past the ruins of an old pioneer village, you’ll hear Native American stories and history, and learn about Yosemite’s role in the country’s conservationist movement. Your guided walk will end at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, where your leader will be waiting to transport you back to the lodge for your final night.

Day 6: Yosemite to San Francisco

After saying fond farewells to Yosemite, you’ll head west to vibrant San Francisco. Stop in at a local restaurant along the way for a final lunch with your group, then continue on to do a walk over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Your adventure then finishes upon arrival in San Francisco at around 3 pm. No accommodation is provided for tonight, but if you do wish to spend extra time in the city, just speak to your booking agent.

Departure Dates