Category: Uncategorized

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.

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.

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!

Yosemite National Park offers countless hikes for visitors to enjoy throughout the year, but adventurers searching for the best Yosemite hikes in the summer need to look no further than right here at Rush Creek Lodge and the surrounding area.

Read on for a list of some of the best Yosemite hikes in the summer! 

Best summer hikes in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite Falls Trail

Approximately 7.2 miles | Moderate 

Starting in Yosemite Valley, this trail will lead you to the majestic Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. This hike offers challenging uphill sections that reward hikers with awe-inspiring views of the valley, Half Dome, and the surrounding peaks. 

Tuolumne Meadows + Cathedral Lakes

8 miles | Moderate

One of the best Yosemite hikes in the summer is Tuolumne Meadows and Cathedral Lakes, beginning in the high country of Yosemite. The picturesque trail leads hikers through Tuolumne Meadows to Cathedral Lakes, where you can take a dip beneath the tall granite peaks. The crystal clear waters and stunning vistas make this trail an ideal summer hike. 

Yosemite Valley Explorer 

4-5 miles | Gentle to Moderate

Yosemite Valley Explorer traverses both iconic and hidden sights of Yosemite Valley. This trail takes about half a day round-trip, and showcases seasonal creeks, meadows, and unforgettable views of the park. During the summer is when you’ll see the landscape covered in its brightest green under gorgeous blue skies. 

Yosemite Overnight Backpacking Adventure

6-30 miles | Intermediate to Advanced

This overnight backpacking trip is fully customizable, making it one of the best Yosemite hikes in summer. Your Rush Creek Lodge guide will craft a unique, memorable adventure tailored to your goals. Whether you’re looking for a slow-paced overnight camping trip with the family or a 30-mile trek through the backwoods of the park, this overnight adventure in Yosemite is one of the best summer hikes. 

South Rim of Yosemite Valley Tour

10.5 miles | Moderate

This hike takes you away from summer crowds to the southern rim of Yosemite Valley. See the Red Fir groves, wildflower meadows, and historic sites that populate this less-traveled area of the park. Stop at multiple vista points along the way for stunning views of Mt. Hoffman and Mt. Conness. 

Learn more about Rush Creek Lodge’s guided Yosemite National park tours to add to your summer getaway itinerary.

New Hiking Trails at Rush Creek Lodge

Guests at Rush Creek Lodge can enjoy three onsite hiking trails, bringing the best Yosemite hikes in the summer right to their doorsteps. 

Nature Trail at Rush Creek Lodge

.5 mile | Gentle 

The Nature Trail is a leisurely and picturesque half-mile trail. Conveniently located on Rush Creek’s property, this is an ideal choice for families and individuals seeking a short, relaxing stroll. Created to showcase the natural flora of the Yosemite area, the trail is also an opportunity to learn about the nature of Yosemite Valley.

Vista Trail at Rush Creek Lodge

1.6 miles | Moderate

The Vista Trail is a moderate 1.6 mile trail that offers stunning views of the Stanislaus forest and the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The trail features lookout points with benches that encourage you to stop and take in the natural beauty of your surroundings in their brightest shades of summer green. 

Adventure Trail at Rush Creek Lodge

2.7 miles | Moderate to Advanced

The Adventure Trail is a 2.7 mile trail that begins at Rush Creek Lodge. The trail is multi-use for hikers and mountain bikers – you can rent a bike on the property or bring your own! This trail was created with adventure in mind, promising an unforgettable journey through the Yosemite wilderness on foot or by bike. 

Some of the best Yosemite hikes in summer are located right here at Rush Creek Lodge. Whether you venture off the property to tour Yosemite Valley or stick around near our Yosemite lodging, no day of trail adventures is complete until you end your day with a starlit soak in our hot tub, a dip in our 2,400 square-foot saltwater pool, or an aromatherapy massage at the Rush Creek Spa. Rest well at Rush Creek Lodge knowing you’re just steps from the action when you wake up!

Those who want hotels near Big Oak Flat Entrance have the right idea – who wouldn’t want the fastest access to Yosemite’s hiking trails, observation sites, and more?  Spend less time in the car and more time getting to know your wild side – when you’re ready to strike out on an adventure off the property, Big Oak Flat Entrance is only 1.7 miles away from Rush Creek Lodge.

Rooms, Suites, and Villas Near Big Oak Flat Entrance

Rush Creek Lodge, 1.7 miles from Big Oak Flat Entrance, offers deluxe Lodge Rooms and Suites in the Main Lodge, or Hillside Yosemite Villas located on their 20-acre property. 

Every room, suite, and villa at Rush Creek Lodge features a private balcony, feather pillows, gourmet coffee, games, books, and other touches to elevate your mountain getaway. Most rooms offer sunset views if you happen to be at “home” during golden hour. 

Rather than televisions and other electronics, Rush Creek Lodge provides games and radio streaming for in-room entertainment. Play music with Alexa, visit the big screen in the family-friendly Tavern, or stay completely unplugged – it’s up to you. 

Lodge Suites at Rush Creek Lodge provide a living space separate from the sleeping quarters and include a cast iron gas fireplace, as well as expansive private decks with forest views. 

Yosemite Villas at Rush Creek Lodge are duplexes, designed with up to 6 people in mind. The Villas are spread throughout Rush Creek Lodge’s 20-acre property with private decks and Sierra sunset views.

Rush Creek also offers ADA-Compliant rooms with mobility and communication features for those who need them, including but not limited to ramp access, reserved parking, visual alarm systems, and a fully-accessible bathroom.

Activities at Rush Creek Lodge

Rush Creek Lodge offers a variety of amenities and activities that ensure every vacationer’s piece of paradise. Three biking, hiking, and nature trails guide guests through the Stanislaus National Forest at varying lengths and difficulties. Indoors boasts a world class spa that includes Warm Waterfall Coves, a Himalayan Salt Block Sauna, and more.

Rush Creek Lodge provides a full schedule of daily activities, from property-wide scavenger hunts and geode cracking to bingo and trivia. 

Ready to get out and move? Book a guided hiking tour in Yosemite National Park to visit the area’s most gasp-worthy waterfalls, Sequoia trees, and landscapes. 

Take advantage of the heated saltwater pool and aromatherapy offerings in the spa to thank your body for a job well done, and finish the evening stargazing on the Recreation Deck.

Sights Closest to Rush Creek Lodge

The sign for Yosemite National Park is about three minutes, 1.5 miles, away from Rush Creek Lodge. A photo with your group posed in front of the sign makes a great memory!

Also 1.5 miles away is Carlon Falls, and the Carlon Falls Hiking Trail. The trail follows the South Fork of the Tuolumne River, and is a relatively easy hike. 

Tuolumne Grove and Merced Grove of Giant Sequoias are 15-20 minutes from Rush Creek Lodge. Tuolumne Grove contains over two dozen mature Giant Sequoias, including one with a tunnel that you can walk through. 

Merced Grove is the smallest of Yosemite’s three Giant Sequoia groves, and the least crowded. Pack a lunch in and enjoy a meal at the trailhead before the 2-4 hour hike. 

Yosemite Valley is the most well-known area of the Park. See Half Dome and El Capitan tower over the rest of the landscape, follow the Mist Trail, and take in the overhead view of Yosemite Valley from Glacier Point, all about 40 minutes away from Rush Creek Lodge. 

During peak season, the Valley’s 7-mile loop road can be busy. Rush Creek Lodge says getting around is easiest when you park your car and use the Hybrid shuttle, walk, or ride a bike.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hotels Near Big Oak Flat Entrance

Where is Big Oak Flat Entrance in Yosemite?

Big Oak Flat Entrance in Yosemite National Park is located at 6107 Big Oak Flat Rd., Groveland CA. 

Rush Creek Lodge is just a five minute drive from Big Oak Flat Entrance and the Visitor Information Center, making it the perfect home base for your Yosemite adventure. From Rush Creek Lodge, turn right onto Big Oak Flat Road.

If your visit falls between May 15 and September 29, take advantage of Rush Creek Lodge’s official YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) stop. Hop aboard and let someone else take the wheel while you take in the views. Rush Creek Lodge recommends booking in advance to secure your spots. 

Be aware that GPS units can be unreliable in this area, and make concessions beforehand to ensure that your journey to Big Oak Flat Entrance goes smoothly. If you have questions, Rush Creek Lodge encourages you to give them a call or email before your trip. 

What Yosemite Entrance is Closest to San Francisco? 

Big Oak Flat Entrance is the closest Yosemite National Park Entrance to San Francisco. Rush Creek Lodge is easily accessible from San Francisco.

From the Bay Area, take I-80 to I-580 East. Merge onto I-205 East toward Tracy/Stockton. At I-205 East and I-5 North, take CA-120 East and follow the signs to Manteca. At Manteca, take CA-99 North and immediately exit to stay on CA-120 East. 26 miles past Oakdale, turn right at Yosemite Junction and stay on CA-120 East through Groveland. The entrance to Rush Creek Lodge is on the right, 22 miles outside of Groveland. 

From the San Francisco International Airport, take US-101 South toward San Jose. Merge onto CA-92 East and cross the San Mateo Bridge. Merge onto I-880 North toward Oakland, then merge onto I-238 East to Castro Valley/Stockton. In 3 miles, merge onto I-580 East. Follow I-580 East to I-205 East toward Tracy/Stockton. At I-205 East and I-5 North, take CA-120 East and follow the signs to Manteca.

Take CA-99 North and exit immediately to stay on CA-120 East to Oakdale. Turn right at Yosemite Junction in 26 miles and continue on CA-120 East through Groveland. Rush Creek Lodge is on the right, half a mile before the entrance to Yosemite. 

With Rush Creek Lodge’s endless amenities and activities to complement the views, you almost don’t have to leave the grounds – but when you’re ready, adventure in Yosemite National Park is at your fingertips. Book your stay at our Yosemite resort to get your mountain getaway underway!