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Yosemite National Park is a natural wonderland that beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike. Maximize your time in the park and your stay at Rush Creek Lodge with this Yosemite 3 day itinerary. 

Pre-Trip Planning

Rush Creek Lodge is conveniently located off Highway 120, the main route into Yosemite from the west. Most visitors drive into the area. 

Rush Creek Lodge also serves seasonally as a YARTS stop, a shuttle service available from May 15 through September 29. YARTS passengers are exempt from any seasonal park reservation restrictions and park entry fees. The buses are clean and comfortable motorcoaches that afford you excellent views on the scenic ride into Yosemite Valley. Adult fares are just $16 round trip, and an accompanying child 5 years or younger rides along for free!

If you prefer to drive your own vehicle, Yosemite National Park charges an entry fee. Additionally, you’ll need a Peak Hour day-use reservation to drive your own vehicle into the park during peak seasons. Always check the National Park Service’s website while you plan your trip and frequently before you visit for the most up-to-date information about passes and fees, temporary road closures, and more.

Best Time to Visit Yosemite

Each season in Yosemite offers a unique charm. Check our detailed guide about the best times to visit Yosemite depending on your desired itinerary and bucket list activities. 

Yosemite Packing Essentials

Depending on when you visit Yosemite National Park, your essential Yosemite gear will vary, aside from the basics like comfortable hiking boots/shoes, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and reliable navigation methods.  

Day 1: Yosemite Valley Immersion

Morning:

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at Rush Creek Lodge Restaurant.

Join the Yosemite Valley Explorer excursion (ages 4 and up), a guided tour that takes you to the valley’s iconic landmarks, including Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome.

Afternoon and Evening: 

Return to Rush Creek Lodge to refresh by the pool or relax your muscles in the hot tub.

Savor dinner at the Restaurant or Tavern with your group and rehash your favorite parts of your first day in Yosemite.

After dark, join a guided stargazing tour (weather permitting) or gather around the campfire at Rush Creek to enjoy nightly complimentary s’mores (even tastier with no hidden resort fees!).

Day 2: Glacier Point Tour

Morning: 

Embark on a guided Glacier Point tour (ages 8 and up).

Marvel at panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra with a guided tour from Rush Creek Lodge, or strike out on your own. Be sure to visit the Rec Desk in the Guest Lounge for free planning advice and local insights on the best options for your party’s interests and abilities.

Afternoon and Evening: 

Gather around the fire pit at Rush Creek Lodge for complimentary s’mores after a refreshing shower in your Lodge Room.

Pamper yourself with Spa Day Use, a massage or other wellness treatment at our Yosemite-inspired spa. 

Day 3: Hetch Valley Valley

Morning: 

Explore lesser-traveled Hetch Hetchy Valley, which is about half the size of Yosemite Valley. Just 9 miles from Rush Creek, this is a perfect day trip in Yosemite. Home to Wapama Falls and Tueeulala Falls, and the famous O’Shaughnessy Dam, Hetch Hetchy Valley is a hidden gem in Yosemite worth the time in your 3 day trip. 

Evening: 

Enjoy a farewell dinner at Rush Creek Lodge’s Restaurant or Tavern, savoring the flavors of Yosemite’s bounty with seasonal specialties. 

Grab travel essentials for your trip home at our General Store and stop for a selfie at the famous tree ring sculpture

Reflect on the incredible memories you’ve made with your group in Yosemite National Park! 

Yosemite National Park offers a lifetime of exploration and wonder. With Rush Creek Lodge as your home base, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable 3-day adventure. Book your stay today!

Yosemite National Park is almost otherworldly, with cascading waterfalls, towering groves of giant sequoias, and iconic granite formations like world-famous Half Dome and El Capitan. These famous landscapes and challenging adventures draw nature enthusiasts from all over the world. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker and hiker or a first time visitor, Yosemite has something for you. 

Jumpt to section:

• Planning Your Trip to Yosemite
  • Best Time to Visit Yosemite
  • Getting to Yosemite
  • Where to Stay in Yosemite
  • Yosemite Park Passes and Reservations
• Yosemite Valley Must-Sees
• Beyond the Valley
• Tips for First-Timers
• Frequently Asked Questions

Planning Your Trip to Yosemite

Best Time to Visit Yosemite

For smaller crowds, the best time to visit Yosemite is during shoulder seasons: spring’s April and May, and fall’s September and October. Chasing waterfalls in Yosemite? Early spring is the best time to visit. The park’s legendary wildflower bloom sees its peak in late spring and early summer.

Getting to Yosemite

Yosemite National Park is easily accessible by car from all major California cities, including San Francisco. Some adventurers arriving without cars rely on bus services, while others fly into the nearby Fresno Yosemite International Airport and rent a car to get them the rest of the way to the park. Get directions to Rush Creek Lodge Yosemite.

Where to Stay in Yosemite

Explore Yosemite in style! Often called a “destination within a destination,” Rush Creek Lodge features the perfect blend of rustic sensibility and contemporary touches. Our 20-acre lodge offers 143 lodge rooms, suites, and hillside Yosemite villas with private decks for stunning views anytime and amenities designed to create an outstanding getaway for kids and adults alike. See all of Rush Creek’s lodge rooms and suites.

Yosemite Park Passes and Reservations

Yosemite National Park charges an entry fee. Additionally, you’ll need a Peak Hour day-use reservation to drive your own vehicle into the park during peak seasons. Always check the National Park Service’s website while you plan your trip and frequently before you visit for the most up-to-date information about passes and fees, road closures, and more. 

Yosemite Valley Must-Sees

Start your Yosemite trip with the unparalleled vista views at Tunnel View and Glacier Point, both offering awe-inspiring panoramic views of Yosemite Valley. If you’re looking for easy hikes and adventures, check out our list of easy hikes near Rush Creek Lodge or choose one of these highlights: 

• Nature Trail at Rush Creek Lodge: this .5 mile round trip hike is perfect for a leisurely family stroll and hikers looking to stretch their legs
• Bridalveil Fall: another easy half mile hike in Yosemite, this hike leads to the base of Bridalveil Fall and treats those who venture close enough to a refreshing spray of alpine water
• Cooks Meadow: this one mile hike in Yosemite is a simple, flat trail that rewards you with some of the best views of the Valley!

Yosemite offers more than hiking – visit the Yosemite Museum to learn about the park’s history, browse exhibits at the visitor centers, at trailheads and entrances throughout the park, or join a ranger-led program through the National Park Service to learn more about the beautiful landscape surrounding you in Yosemite. 

Beyond the Valley

Venture beyond Yosemite Valley and discover hidden gems like Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. This less-crowded area features waterfalls and steep granite cliffs. Feel the enormity of Giant Sequoias in a grove near the historic Big Oak Flat Road, and explore the wide expanses of Tuolumne Meadows, a picturesque high country setting home to sparkling lakes, scenic hiking trails, and serene wildflower meadows. 

Tips for First-Timers

Visiting Yosemite for the first time? Keep these tips handy. 

1. Be Weather Wise: the temperature and weather conditions in the park can change quickly and unexpectedly. Wear layers so you can adapt, and always bring an extra pair of socks!
2. Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water during any activity, and particularly during hikes. When at mountain elevations, plan to drink twice as much water as you would in your home environment.
3. Slow Down: Yosemite holds endless wonders, and isn’t going anywhere – prioritize what you’re most excited about, and remember that Yosemite is here to welcome you back anytime!

Your first Yosemite adventure is just the beginning! With each return visit, you’ll uncover new treasures and deepen your appreciation for this extraordinary park. Let Rush Creek Lodge be your luxurious basecamp and gateway to all the wonders Yosemite offers. Select from these packages and offers to add to your Yosemite trip!

Frequently Asked Questions about Yosemite for Beginners

Planning your first trip to Yosemite? The experts at Rush Creek Lodge have the answers to your questions about where you should go your first time in Yosemite, how long you should spend in Yosemite, and more. 

Is Yosemite for beginners?

Yosemite National Park is a bucket list destination for people across the globe. Lucky for them, Yosemite is suitable for beginners and is home to plenty of easy hikes. Guests at Rush Creek Lodge can book guided Yosemite excursions that help ensure you make the most out of your time in Yosemite. 

Where should I go for my first time in Yosemite?

Yosemite first-timers may opt for a classic Yosemite trip, seeing the iconic sights like Tunnel View and Glacier Point, Bridalveil Fall, and Cooks Meadow. A little preparation goes a long way! Choose your can’t-miss sights and experiences, and let an expert trip planner at Rush Creek Lodge’s Rec Desk help you build your ideal Yosemite itinerary. 

How many days do you need in Yosemite?

Typically, people spend two to four days in Yosemite – but you could take much longer! Check out these two, three, and four day Yosemite itineraries to help you plan your trip. 

What is the best way to see all of Yosemite? 

Short of moving here or taking multiple trips, the best way to see all of Yosemite in one trip is from above on an exciting Yosemite flight tour! This tour treats guests to magnificent views of the untouched wilderness as you soar over pristine alpine lakes, wild rivers, waterfalls, and stunning mountain ranges. 

There are five entrances to Yosemite National Park – so how do you know which entrance to Yosemite is best for your trip? Each entrance offers access to unique trails and sights, from waterfalls and the reservoir in Hetch Hetchy to the Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area through the Tioga Pass Entrance. Plan your perfect Yosemite trip with these tips and see what entrance will work best for you! 

Big Oak Flat Entrance

Best for seeing Yosemite’s most famous sights.

If you want to explore Yosemite Valley, the best entrance at Yosemite is the Big Oak Flat Entrance. Just minutes from Rush Creek Lodge, this entrance to Yosemite gives you access to explore Yosemite Valley’s famous sights like Tunnel View, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Falls. The valley is surrounded by bucket list climbs Half Dome and El Capitan, where hikers watch experienced climbers scale these granite summits (or undertake it themselves with the proper permits). 

You can also access Tuolumne Meadows through the Big Oak Flat Entrance of Yosemite National Park, following Tioga Road before the Tioga Pass Entrance of the park. Tuolumne Meadows holds a portion of the Tuolumne River, and is a popular spot in Yosemite for birdwatching, fishing, picnicking, stargazing, and photography. 

Hetch Hetchy Entrance

Best for encountering fewer crowds.

The Hetch Hetchy Entrance of Yosemite National Park is the best entrance for those seeking an extra peaceful experience in Yosemite. The farthest north of all the entrances to the park, the Hetch Hetchy Entrance typically has fewer crowds. There are fish in the majority of the lakes for fishing. Hetch Hetchy is also one of the best entrances to Yosemite for hiking due to the long hiking season (early spring through the fall) and access to many of the park’s hiking trails. 

Not sure where to start? Let the experts at nearby Rush Creek Lodge guide you. You can enjoy a leisurely and fascinating 5 mile hike high above the shores of the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir on the Hetch Hetchy Wapama Falls Naturalist Hike while your knowledgeable guide shares history, science, and local lore you can’t find anywhere else. Learn more about our guided Yosemite National Park tours.

Arch Rock Entrance

Best for access to the center of Yosemite National Park.

Arch Rock Entrance welcomes visitors to the park with a unique rock feature that passes over the roadway. Arch Rock consists of two house-sized boulders that form an archway large enough for visitors to drive through. You’ll be close to the center of the park and many iconic sights like Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and the Merced River when you use the Arch Rock Entrance. 

Arch Rock Entrance is a direct route to Yosemite Valley, reachable via a gorgeous 10-mile drive. You’ll be treated to views of Bridalveil Fall, Pohono Bridge over the Merced River, and the iconic El Capitan.

South Entrance

Best for seeing the Giant Sequoias in Mariposa Grove.

If you’re traveling to Yosemite to see the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, the best entrance to the park is the South Entrance. This popular place to visit in Yosemite National Park is just 8 miles from the South Entrance, giving you access to the grove without driving through the whole park. Just before the entrance, you’ll find the South Entrance Information Station – there you can grab a park map and pay your entrance fee. You can also hop the free shuttle to Mariposa Grove from the Welcome Plaza, just two minutes from the South Entrance. 

Inside the park, you can visit Wawona, a historic town that holds the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, historic buildings, and interactive experiences available during the summer. The historic town comes back to life with blacksmith demonstrations, horse-drawn carriage rides, and more.

Tioga Pass Entrance

Best for access to Tioga Lake and Glacier Canyon.

The Tioga Pass Entrance to Yosemite National Park is the best entrance for access to Tioga Lake, Glacier Canyon, and the Ellery Lake Lookout. This entrance to Yosemite is only open during the summer, and offers easy access to outdoor activities like Tioga and Ellery Lakes and the stunning Tuolumne Meadows. 

Glacier Canyon is less than a mile from Tioga Pass Entrance, and one of the most popular sights to see in Yosemite. This valley was carved by a glacier and now features stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and sparkling waterfalls. As you head deeper into the park, you’ll catch glimpses of Mount Dana’s towering peaks, see climbers scale Lembert Dome, and finally reach Tenaya Lake, an alpine lake surrounded by towering granite cliffsides.

No matter where you start in Yosemite National Park, you’re surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and opportunities for adventure at every turn. From cascading waterfalls and granite peaks to gentle rolling meadows and meandering streams, you can see it all in Yosemite National Park – save your precious exploring time when you stay nearby at Rush Creek Lodge, just minutes from two of Yosemite’s best entrances. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Which Entrance to Yosemite is Best

Visitors to Yosemite wondering which entrance to the park is best will find different answers depending on their Yosemite itinerary. There are 5 park entrances, each offering access to unique trails and sights. 

Which entrance is the best for Yosemite?

While the best entrance to Yosemite is dependent on what a visitor wants to see and do, one of the most popular entrances to Yosemite is Big Oak Flat Entrance. Great for seeing Yosemite Valley’s iconic sights like Tunnel View, Yosemite Falls, and Glacier Point, in addition to providing access to Tuolumne Meadows and prime viewing spots to watch hikers scale bucket list Yosemite climbs El Capitan and Half Dome. 

Which is the best route to enter Yosemite?

The best route to enter Yosemite depends on where you’re going once inside the park! Arch Rock Entrance gives you access to the center of Yosemite National Park. Hetch Hetchy Entrance offers a less crowded Yosemite experience, while Big Oak Flat Entrance is the most popular and heaviest-traveled. The South Entrance is best for visitors who want to see the Giant Sequoias in Mariposa Grove, and Tioga Pass Entrance lives up to its name with access to Tioga Lake and Glacier Canyon. 

Which Yosemite entrance for Tunnel View?

You can easily access Tunnel View via the Southern Entrance of Yosemite National Park. The Southern Entrance of Yosemite is about 45 minutes from Tunnel View by car. There are several ways to explore different viewpoints of Tunnel View, but the classic landscape seen in photography dating back to the early 1930s is accessed via the Southern Entrance. 

What is the easiest drive into Yosemite Valley?

The easiest drive into Yosemite Valley is via Big Oak Flat Entrance. Just minutes from Rush Creek Lodge, this route gives you access to explore Yosemite Valley’s iconic sights like Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadows, Yosemite Falls, and Tunnel View. 

Is one day enough to experience Yosemite, or does this stunning location require an extended stay? You can check iconic sights off your bucket list, like El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall, with just a day in Yosemite – but you can truly dive into the wonders of Yosemite National Park with a longer stay. 

Yosemite in One Day

If you only have a day to spend in Yosemite, you can pack plenty into your short Yosemite trip by visiting the park’s main attractions. Leave the planning and navigation to the professionals with a guided trip from Rush Creek Lodge, where your expert guide will lead you to and through the most iconic sights in Yosemite: the cool shadows of Yosemite Valley, sparkling Bridalveil Fall, and majestic El Capitan, to name a few. 

Benefits of Staying More Than One Day in Yosemite

While you can do a speedrun of the park in a day and come away with memories of the landscapes and experiences to last a lifetime, additional days in Yosemite allow additional exploration! Spending more than a day in Yosemite gives you the opportunity to explore the park’s unique and widely varied ecosystems, ranging from the low elevation Foothill-Woodland Zone all the way up to the 9,500+ foot Alpine Zone. 

When you stay longer in Yosemite, you give yourself the flexibility and freedom to adjust your plans based on personal preferences, weather conditions, and unexpected discoveries. If you find a place you love and want to explore deeper, you can spend more time there or easily return to the location another day. A longer stay in Yosemite also affords you the privilege to capture sunrises and sunsets in the park – a truly unforgettable experience. 

Photographers and light chasers wake before dawn for a chance to capture First Light, the early rays of morning sunlight cresting over the iconic mountains that brings folks from around the world to cross the experience off their bucket list. Just as popular is Golden Hour, when the sun begins to set over the park and bathes sights like Half Dome and the Valley in a vibrant orange light called the alpine glow – so beautiful that photos of this time in the park often look unreal. 

Yosemite Activities Beyond the Main Attractions

Beyond Yosemite’s iconic main attractions, when you take an extended stay to Yosemite, you can dive deep into the park and explore the extensive trail network to discover new sights, like hidden waterfalls, peaceful meadows, and breathtaking viewpoints and overlooks. Not sure about striking out on your own? Let an experienced guide from Rush Creek Lodge lead the charge, showcasing Yosemite’s hidden gems and providing expert background knowledge about this magical location. Rush Creek Lodge’s guided tours give you access to lesser-traveled areas of the park, in addition to the classic sights like Half Dome, El Capitan, and other Valley icons, on half- and full- day excursions. 

Planning Tips for Longer Yosemite Stays

Planning a longer stay in Yosemite? We’re happy to have you! What you want out of your Yosemite vacation will determine the best time for you to visit. Mesmerizing fields of wildflowers return every spring, making for unbeatable landscapes and breathtaking views. Snowmelt is also highest in spring, making waterfalls rush at their top capacity. Visitors say that standing near one of these magnificent falls makes you feel tiny and powerful at the same time, a unique experience called a “Yosemite Moment” that, of course, can only be experienced in Yosemite National Park. 

Summer means the most open roads throughout the park and the most terrain available for exploring, weather permitting. Fall brings vibrantly colored leaves and mild temperatures, while Yosemite winters guarantee snowshoeing and tranquil landscapes. 

When visiting Yosemite, it’s important to plan ahead – if you’re not sure where to begin, check out this itinerary for week-long trips to Yosemite and adjust it to your liking. Permits are required to access certain areas of the park, like the iconic Horsetail Falls during Firefall season, and must be reserved in advance. There are a limited number of permits available, so don’t miss out! 

Yosemite Lodging Options

Where will you spend your time when you aren’t exploring the great outdoors? Rush Creek Lodge is often called a destination within a destination, offering a range of amenities and activities that often encourage guests to stay an extra day just to enjoy the property. Rush Creek Lodge is conveniently located just outside the Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite National Park, giving you quick access to the park and letting you spend more time exploring your surroundings. 

seasonal scents

Set the tone for your wellness journey and immerse yourself in one of our seasonal scents:

• Tangerine Basil is an uplifting scent that refreshes and relaxes.
• Lavender Aphrodisia is a balancing scent that calms and soothes.
• Vanilla and Lemongrass is a comforting scent that warms and rejuvenates.

The scent you choose will be mixed into the lotion or body oil used during your 50 or 80-minute treatment, and will include a travel-sized kit of scrub, wash and lotion in your chosen scent.

Signature Scent Bundle

Whether a treat for yourself or someone close, our Signature Scent Bundle has arrived and will transport you to the Spa through scent association. The bundle includes a white wood reed diffuser and white wood bath bomb.

What does white wood smell like? Visit our Revitalizing Sensory Room where this scent is featured.

Massage special

Our 80-minute Synergy Hot Stone Massage elevates your inner senses with heated basalt river stones that soothe aching muscles and a heated Himalayan salt stone for detoxing. Aside from its many benefits, this treatment is sure to provide ultimate relaxation.

Through February this treatment is completed with a cold glass of chlorophyll water and a complimentary gift.

facial special

For a hydrating, deep cleansing treatment that provides the ideal combination of anti-aging, calming and brightening effects, look no further than our 50-minute Back to Basics Facial, featuring Eminence Skin Care products.

Through February enjoy a complimentary gift when you book this treatment.

body treatment special

Elevate your body ritual with our 80-minute Rush Creek Signature Body Scrub, a head-to-toe detox treatment that features Eminence products designed for ultimate hydration, a light hot stone massage and body cocoon to seal in the moisture.

Through February enjoy a complimentary gift when you book this treatment.

twilight special

When the sun goes down, as does the Day Use Pass price. Regularly $65, get yours for only $45 when you visit between 6-9pm daily.*

Your wellness journey begins the moment you walk through the door, where you’ll be greeted by the soothing ambiance and signature white wood scent, receive your robe and slippers, brew yourself a complimentary cup of herbal tea and be lead through a tour of the Spa before landing at the door of the changing rooms.

COMING SOON!
Twilight Socials are on the horizon, and with it are a variety of new offerings that will be included with the purchase of a Twilight Special Day Use Pass.

• Friday Refresh – after a long week, reset your skin with complimentary face wash, warm aromatherapy-infused washcloth, conditioning face mask and an enriching moisturizer.
• Saturday Bath Salts – create your own bath salt blend for your complimentary Foot Soak with a mixture of magnesium and various essential oils. When combined with warm water, your special blend is sure to promote muscle relaxation, potentially relieving soreness, and will leave your skin feeling softer.
• Sunday Aromatherapy Blending – the use of essential oils to promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. With each aroma offering a unique benefit, we will assist in curating a blend that focuses on your specific wellness journey.

Reservations are required for treatments and day use.

Contact the Spa at 209-379-2425 or spa@rushcreeklodge.com for more information and to book.

*Ages 16+, not valid during private events.

From stargazing and hot stone massages to snowshoe hikes and holiday celebrations, there is an array of things to do in Yosemite in winter – especially when visiting Rush Creek Lodge. Along with daily activities that change seasonally, the winter schedule at Rush Creek is packed full of mountain fun and snowy scenes. 

Stargazing 

Far from light pollution, the dark skies surrounding Rush Creek Lodge are perfect for stargazing. After watching a beautiful Yosemite sunset, bundle up and embark on a stargazing tour with the lodge’s expert Star Guides, where you’ll see the cosmos through a digital telescope with clarity like never before. Star Guides will direct you around the night sky, pointing out constellations, star clusters, and other beautiful features of the Milky Way.

Wonders of Yosemite Hike & Tour

This full day hike is a great way to spend a winter day in Yosemite. The Wonders of Yosemite trip begins with a driving tour through Yosemite Valley, showcasing beautiful snowy views of the landscape as you approach the giant sequoia groves. The grove portion of the hike is done on snowshoes during the winter, winding 3 miles total through the giant sequoias that represent Yosemite’s natural history. 

Learn more about Rush Creek’s guided Yosemite tours.

S’mores at the Lodge

Join other Rush Creek Lodge guests nightly around the cozy fire pit for s’mores! Enjoy the warmth of a well-maintained campfire and indulge in the most classic outdoor snack, a delicious melty s’more. Meet your fellow guests, warm up by the fire, and head off to bed after your mountain dessert. 

Wood Ornaments

Rush Creek Lodge offers an impressive variety of activities for guests, including the chance to decorate your own wooden ornament. Paint your ornament and take it home to hang on your Christmas tree as a reminder of your awesome Yosemite adventure! 

Giant Sequoia Snowshoe

The Giant Sequoia Snowshoe is a 3-mile hike, showcasing the beautiful giant sequoias. The largest living species on earth, seeing these gorgeous trees flanked by bright white snow is an experience you just can’t miss in Yosemite. This half-day excursion requires beginner to intermediate effort. 

Rim of the Valley Snowshoe Adventure

Venture out to one of the best overlooks in all of Yosemite with Rush Creek Lodge’s Rim of the Valley Snowshoe Adventure. You’ll snowshoe up and down forested ridges to reach Dewey Point, an idyllic outlook that provides breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley’s southern rim, El Capitan, Three Brothers, and other famous Yosemite landmarks. 

 

Heated Saltwater Pools

The pool at Rush Creek Lodge is heated and open year-round, weather permitting, as are both of the large hot tubs. Relax away tired muscles from your day of Yosemite adventuring, or turn your attention upward for sublime stargazing. 

Range of Light Yosemite Valley Tour

See Yosemite from an insider’s perspective on a driving tour of Yosemite Valley’s most famous wonders and hidden secrets. Perfect for the winter with short walks on flat, easy-to-navigate terrain, the Range of Light Yosemite Valley Tour features opportunities to take in the views from vista overlooks, bright snow and ice formations, and other classic Yosemite winter sights, supplemented by your guide with information about the Park and its natural history, wildlife, and more.  

Yosemite Valley Explorer Snowshoe

Don your snowshoes and follow one of Rush Creek’s expert guides through Yosemite’s hidden trails on the Yosemite Valley Explorer Snowshoe, one of the best things to do in Yosemite in winter. Your guide will take care of the driving so you can enjoy the views, and provide interesting facts about the area’s hidden wonders once you’re on foot and ready to explore 4.5 miles surrounding Yosemite’s most famous icons. 

Craft Classes at Rush Creek Lodge

Ready for some time away from the chill? Create a beautiful keepsake of your winter Yosemite trip in a gemstone bracelet class, stitch beaded earring class, or basket weaving class taught by traveling art educator and artisan Willow Polson. Class fees include all the materials you need to create your own masterpiece.

 

Christmas Activities at Rush Creek Lodge

December 22 – 28, 2023

If you’re joining us for the holiday season, we’re excited to provide you with traditional holiday celebrations in ways you’ve never experienced before. From live music and visits with Santa to our tree lighting and special Christmas menu, you’re in for an unforgettable Yosemite Christmas experience. 

New Year’s Eve Activities at Rush Creek Lodge

December 29, 2023 – January 2, 2024

Spend your New Year’s Eve at Rush Creek Lodge! Treat yourself to a delicious dinner by Executive Chef Lemens, a sparkling champagne toast, and late-night fun in the Tavern to ring in the new year right.  

Frequently Asked Questions about Yosemite in Winter

Deciding whether to take on Yosemite in the winter brings up a host of questions. Let the experts at Rush Creek Lodge answer your most frequently asked questions about winter in Yosemite! 

Is Yosemite worth visiting in winter?

Of course! Yosemite is worth visiting anytime, including the winter. You can take a snowshoe hike to access less-traveled parts of the park and see breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscapes, experience festive mountain holiday celebrations, stargaze from your private balcony at Rush Creek Lodge, and more. 

What not to miss in Yosemite in winter?

Christmas Week at Rush Creek Lodge is a can’t miss Yosemite winter event. In addition to unforgettable views of Yosemite’s iconic landmarks blanketed in snow, winter in Yosemite brings magical mountain experiences like campfire s’mores, stargazing, snowshoeing, and chef-curated dining. 

What to do in Yosemite when it snows?

There are plenty of fun things to do in Yosemite when it snows. Embark on a snowshoe hike guided by one of our expert naturalist guides and see the Park’s most famous landmarks in their wintery beauty, gather around the fireplace with a classic board game in your Yosemite villa, or even visit our Yosemite spa for a dip in the Warm Waterfall Coves to contrast with the cold outdoors. 

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At Rush Creek Lodge, you’re just minutes from the best things to do in Yosemite in the winter. From expert-led snowshoe hikes to relaxing soaks in our heated granite waterfall mineral hot tubs, an amazing Yosemite winter experience is at your fingertips when you choose Rush Creek Lodge. 

If you’re ready for a challenge, Yosemite National Park is the place to find one. From less-traveled Hetch Hetchy to the famous Taft Point and Sentinel Dome Loop, the best moderate hikes in Yosemite are at your fingertips thanks to Rush Creek Lodge’s expert guided Yosemite hiking tours.

Read on to see our 10 favorite moderate hikes in Yosemite! 

Hetch Hetchy Wapama Falls Naturalist Hike | 2.2 Miles Each Way

This moderate hike covers 5 miles of Hetch Hetchy, 2.2 miles each way. Hetch Hetchy is typically less crowded than Yosemite Valley, and boasts similar beautiful views complete with mountain domes and waterfalls. Once you reach Wapama Falls, you’ll have the opportunity to relax by the water or continue past the falls for a little more adventure before hiking back to the lodge. 

The Hetch Hetchy Wapama Falls Naturalist Hike departs from Rush Creek Lodge’s sister property, Evergreen Lodge. Participants should arrive at the Evergreen Lodge Recreation Center 15-20 minutes before departure. 

Giant Sequoia Hike or Snowshoe | 3 Miles Round Trip

This half-day Giant Sequoia Hike or Snowshoe is one of the best moderate hikes in Yosemite. The giant sequoias in Merced Grove are incredible any time of year, but the year round accessibility of this hike means you can snowshoe through the rarely-traveled landscape seen by few visitors when snow blankets the grove in winter. Snowshoe rental is included in this hike’s fee. 

The sequoia grove portion of this tour requires a 3 mile round trip hike or snowshoe. Participants should be comfortable walking or snowshoeing up to 3 miles in varied terrain, at elevations up to 6,000 feet. 

Wonders of Yosemite Hike and Tour | 3 Miles Round Trip

The Wonders of Yosemite Hike and Tour is a full day, moderate hike in Yosemite. The trip begins with a driving tour of Yosemite Valley, where expert guides from Rush Creek Lodge will do the driving so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery. You’ll see rushing waterfalls, majestic giant sequoia trees, and stunning vista views on your way to the giant sequoia groves. 

This moderate hike in Yosemite will take you on a 3 mile round trip hike through the giant sequoias that were an integral part of Yosemite’s beginnings as a National Park. During the winter and early spring, this moderate Yosemite hike turns into a snowshoe adventure – snowshoe rental is available through Rush Creek Lodge.  

Yosemite Valley Explorer | 4-5 Miles

Get to know Yosemite Valley on the Yosemite Valley Explorer hike, one of the best moderate hikes in Yosemite. Rush Creek Lodge’s expert guide will show you Yosemite Valley’s hidden trails as you traverse 4-5 miles around many of the area’s iconic wonders. 

Rush Creek’s friendly naturalist guides will take care of the driving while you see the Valley’s icons and hidden secrets. When it’s time to go on foot, participants should be comfortable walking up to 5 miles on varied terrain at elevations up to 6,000 feet. This moderate hike in Yosemite may be a snowshoeing trip in late fall and winter. 

May Lake + Mount Hoffman Naturalist Hike | 5.5 Miles

May Lake + Mount Hoffman Naturalist Hike with Rush Creek Lodge will take you to the geographic center of Yosemite National Park. At May Lake, you’ll see the picturesque Mount Hoffman in double as the lake reflects it. 

The journey farther into the park leads to Mount Hoffman, a lesser-traveled area of the park that will show 360-degree views of Yosemite National Park. This moderate Yosemite hike is available through Rush Creek Lodge during the summer and fall. 

Taft Point and Sentinel Dome Loop | 5.8 Miles

This moderate Yosemite hike covers the area between two iconic lookouts, Taft Point and Sentinel Dome. At the top of Sentinel Dome, you’ll be treated to a 360-degree view of the park featuring Half Dome and majestic Yosemite Falls. Taft Point’s draw is the picturesque views of the valley’s plunging cliffs, providing some of the most spectacular sights in Yosemite. 

Participants should be ready to gain about 1,200 feet of elevation on this 5.8 mile hike. Beginning at around 7,300 feet, hikers will carefully reach up to 8,114 feet before the loop turns for descent. 

Mono Pass Naturalist Hike | 7.4 Miles Round Trip

The Mono Pass Naturalist Hike is a moderate hike in Yosemite National Park, leading you to the top of Mono Pass for unbeatable views of the park’s eastern side and boundary. Sierra Nevada is one of the nation’s most rugged and least-accessed mountain ranges, and this hike places you on the crest for an unforgettable experience. 

This full-day hiking trip features sights like Mount Gibbs, Kuna Peak, and Mount Dana. Participants should be comfortable hiking up to 7.4 miles on varied terrain at elevations between 9,700 and 10,600 feet. 

North Dome Naturalist Hike | 9 Miles Round Trip

Embark on a full-day trip to the North Rim of Yosemite Valley with the North Dome Naturalist Hike. One of the best moderate hikes in Yosemite for Half Dome views, this hike takes you to an impressive vantage point to look out over Half Dome and the surrounding canyons and peaks. 

Starting from the Tioga Road trailhead, you’ll follow your naturalist guide through old growth forests, keeping an eye out for local wildlife, and be met at the end with views from North Dome that some call the most spectacular on earth. Participants should be ready for up to 5 hours of hiking. 

Glen Aulin Naturalist Hike | 10 Miles Round Trip

Journey to the heart of Yosemite High Country for this moderate hike, the Glen Aulin Naturalist Hike. This trail covers 10 miles (5 miles each way) of breathtaking Yosemite High Country. Tuolumne Fall is stunning, a high cascading waterfall surrounded by granite cliffs and meadows full of wildflowers. 

This is a 6-8 hour hike, but you’ll be rewarded with time to swim in the refreshing High Sierra waters if the weather allows. The views of the Tuolumne River and surrounding alpine forest from the top of the falls is unmatched. This hike is available through Rush Creek Lodge from June – October, conditions permitting. 

Rancheria Falls Naturalist Hike | 13 Miles Round Trip

This moderate 13-mile hike in Yosemite’s Hetch Hetchy, the Rancheria Falls Naturalist Hike, takes you deep into the less-traveled Hetch Hetchy Valley. Your naturalist guide will take care to point out local flora and fauna, flourishing in the quiet forest that surrounds Hetch Hetchy Valley. 

The Rancheria Falls Naturalist Hike operates from our sister property, Evergreen Lodge. Participants should arrive at the meeting place, the Evergreen Lodge Recreation Center, 15-20 minutes prior to departure. Please allow yourself 15-20 minutes to drive to Evergreen Lodge from Rush Creek Lodge. 

Learn more about these moderate Yosemite National Park hikes. Sometimes less steps equals more sights. See our list of easy hikes in Yosemite.

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Yosemite National Park is the place for you if you’re ready for moderate level hiking trails. You’ll be rewarded for your work with unbeatable views of Yosemite that you just can’t get without some effort – a moderate hike in Yosemite means breathtaking views and unparalleled experiences. Ready to take on the trails? Book your stay with Rush Creek Lodge today!