Yosemite National Park Tour & Travel Package

Yosemite National Park Overview

From the towering granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome to the stunning Yosemite Falls and ancient giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove, Yosemite National Park is a wonder. Located in the Sierra Nevada chain in California, it’s one of the most beautiful places on earth with diverse ecosystems and a rich cultural history. Spread across 1,189 square miles (3,080 sq km) this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the cornerstone of the American conservationist movement. Yosemite’s scenery, outdoor activities, cultural heritage, and wildlife are the attractions here. Whether you’re planning a tour to Yosemite National Park, traveling on a Yosemite National Park travel package, or creating a Yosemite itinerary yourself this iconic park promises an unforgettable experience showcasing the best of America's natural beauty.

Yosemite National Park Visitor Insights

• Country: United States

• Location: California (Sierra Nevada mountains)

• Size: 1,189 square miles (3,080 sq kms)

Yosemite National Park Major Attractions

• Wawona - A historically rich area of Yosemite, Wawona is known for the Wawona Hotel, the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, and its proximity to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

• Crane Flat - A picturesque meadow, Crane Flat offers access to the  Tuolumne and Merced groves of giant sequoias and seasonal wildflower displays.

• Half Dome - Yosemite's iconic granite peak, Half Dome offers a strenuous hike with cable ascents and spectacular views over the valley.

• Yosemite Falls - At  2,425 feet (740 mt), this is the highest waterfall in North America and at its best during the spring.

• Glacier Point - From this panoramic viewpoint, see  Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the peaks of the High Sierra.

• Tunnel View - Tunnel View offers sweeping views of Yosemite Valley including El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall.

• Mariposa Grove - Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 giant sequoias,  including one of the world's largest and oldest trees—the Grizzly Giant.

Best Time to Visit Yosemite National Park

While the Yosemite National Park welcomes visitors all year round, some seasons offer a better opportunity to take in the best of the park. 

• Spring and summer are peak periods in Yosemite with overflowing waterfalls attracting large crowds. This is also the best time for hiking and in the summer, kayaking and rafting. 

• Fall sees fewer tourists in Yosemite. Snow cloaks the park in winter making it a playground for skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing.

How to Get Around Yosemite National Park?

• By Car: Driving through Yosemite National Park is a great way to see its highlights but expect large crowds in Yosemite Valley during the summer. Tioga Pass and Glacier Point Roads are seasonal and close to the first major snowfall.  Speed limits in the park are strictly enforced and the Yosemite Valley loop road is one-way, so missing a turn means taking a detour.

• By Shuttle: To curb congestion, the park service operates e free shuttle buses. 

  • Yosemite Valley Shuttle: Year-round; 7 AM– 10 PM; stops at key sights and accommodations

  • Wawona-Mariposa Grove Shuttle: Spring to fall; access to Mariposa Grove

  • Badger Pass Bus: Seasonal; Yosemite Valley to Badger Pass ski area

  • Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle and Hikers' Bus: Summer only; fee for Hikers' Bus

Glacier Point Hikers' Bus: Runs from outside the Mountain Shop along the same road as the Glacier Point Bus;  $1 fee; tickets must be purchased in advance 

• By Bicycle:  Yosemite Valley has bike trails and bicycles are available for rent at Curry Village. 

• By Trail: Most of Yosemite’s scenic attractions are accessible only by trail. The Pacific Crest Trail extends from the Sierra Nevada to the Cascades and well beyond the park's boundaries.

Things to do and adventure activities in Yosemite National Park

• Rafting: Float down the Merced River or go whitewater rafting during spring and early summer when the snowmelt creates high flows.

• Horseback Riding: Take a guided horseback ride in Yosemite Mariposa County. First-time riders can enjoy a two-hour ride while more seasoned riders can explore Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

• Rock Climbing: Experience world-class climbing on iconic routes like El Capitan and Half Dome. There are also guided and bookable climbs that you can sign up for.

• Winter Sports: The winter is perfect for downhill or cross-country skiing at Badger Pass, snowshoeing, ice skating in Curry Village, sledding, and ranger-led snowshoe explorations.

• Skydiving: For a rush, go skydiving for an aerial view of the park.

• Swimming: Swim in Sierra Lakes and the Merced River. Cliff dive or just dip your toes to cool off from the summer heat.

• Historical Sites: Explore and learn about the area’s history at historical sites like the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, Yosemite Museum, and the nearby California State Mining and Mineral Museum.

Essential Tips to Know Before Going on a Yosemite National Park Tour

• Reservations: Make an entrance reservation for peak times (April 13-October 27) and a day-use reservation for the Yosemite Firefall event in February.

• Parking: A 7-day park pass purchased at the entrance is $35. The America the Beautiful or other interagency annual passes are also accepted. You can avoid parking headaches altogether. Use the Yosemite Valley Shuttle and park in lots like Yosemite Village and Curry Village.

• Food Storage: Keep food and scented items in bear-proof lockers or locked vehicles.  Carrying or using a bear spray is not allowed in the park.

• Water: Carry at least half a gallon (two lt) of water per person on a hike, especially at high elevations to prevent dehydration. 

• Weather: Start day hikes early and end by early afternoon. Turn around if you hear thunder or see threatening skies..

• Hiking Shoes: Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes with good tread to prevent injuries and ensure a strong grip on dirt trails.

• Practice Respect: Pack out all trash including toilet paper, use reusable water bottles, and stay on the marked trails.

How much does it cost for a Yosemite National Park Tour?

There are a wide range of Yosemite National Park tour packages available. The cost of a  Yosemite National Park tour is $289 per adult with additional expenses for accommodation, meals, and visits to other attractions like the Giant Sequoias Tour. At AdventureTripr, we can create a Yosemite National Park itinerary to fit your requirements and budget.

Yosemite National Park Accommodation

• The type of accommodation you get depends on the overall package you select for your trip. If you make independent bookings, room availability and the size of your travel party will guide your options. At AdventureTripr, our Yosemite National Park tours include camping or hotel accommodations depending on your preferences. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Do I need a reservation to enter Yosemite National Park?

Answer: Yes, reservations are required for entry during peak season between April and October and on weekends for specific events like the Yosemite Firefall in February.

Question: What are the best times to visit Yosemite?

Answer: Depending on what you’d like to do, different seasons offer different attractions. Spring is the best time to see waterfalls, summer for hiking, fall for colorful foliage, and winter for snow sports. 

Question: Can I bring my dog to Yosemite?

Answer: Dogs are allowed on paved trails, campgrounds, and parking lots but not on unpaved trails or in the backcountry. Dogs must be leashed at all times.

Question: Is there cell phone service in Yosemite?

Answer: Cell service is limited and unreliable in many parts of the park, so download maps or guides beforehand.

Question: What are the accommodation options inside Yosemite?

Answer: Yosemite offers a range of accommodations inside the park including historic hotels, cabins, campgrounds, and backcountry camping. Reservations are recommended in advance.