Yosemite Park Winter Tours
Yosemite National Park turns into a breathtaking winter wonderland as the landscape becomes soft with snow and the crowds thin. The serenity of the granite cliffs, ancient sequoias, and towering waterfalls in winter offer a genuinely unique experience. Rush Creek Lodge’s Yosemite tours are designed to help guests explore the park during this magical time with ease.
Types of Yosemite Winter Tours
Rim of the Valley Snowshoe Adventure
Step into a postcard-perfect scene with our Rim of the Valley Snowshoe Adventure. This guided tour takes you along the park’s scenic rim, offering panoramic views of snow-covered valleys and peaks. Whether you’re a seasoned snowshoer or trying it for the first time, this Yosemite winter tour is an exciting blend of fun, fitness, and beautiful views.
Giant Sequoia Hike or Snowshoe
This Yosemite winter tour is adaptable for snowshoeing during heavier snowfall. The Giant Sequoia Hike takes you through the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias with the guidance of an experienced local explorer. Discover the secrets of these ancient giants while marveling at their resilience through centuries of winters and enjoying a lesser-traveled area of the park on your snowshoes!
Yosemite Firefall Express
Catch one of the park’s most well-known and spectacular phenomenons: Yosemite Firefall. Every February, conditions align to make Horsetail Fall light up and glow like molten lava as the sun shines through the rushing waters falling over the edge. This express tour ensures that you have one of the best vantage points for seeing Firefall and affords you the opportunity to witness and photograph this incredible event.
Why Choose a Winter Tour?
Exploring Yosemite in winter is an incredible experience, and it comes with unique challenges. Our tours make winter exploration easier and more enjoyable by providing expert guidance, ensuring safety, and offering unparalleled convenience. With knowledgeable guides, you gain a deeper understanding of Yosemite’s history, ecology, and winter wonders.
Navigating winter conditions can be unpredictable, but our tours include proper equipment, safe route guidance, and transportation, relieving the stress of icy roads and trails. Additionally, we handle all the logistics — from transportation to gear — so you can focus entirely on enjoying your Yosemite Park winter adventure.
Planning Your Winter Tour
Booking your first winter tour with Rush Creek Lodge? Expect a thoughtful, curated experience. The majority of the tours include transportation to and from the park, a knowledgeable local guide, and necessary equipment like snowshoes.
To prepare for your adventure, pack wisely for winter conditions. This includes warm, moisture-wicking clothing layers, plus a waterproof jacket and pants and sturdy, insulted footwear. Don’t forget accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves for added warmth, and a pair of sunglasses – reflection off the bright white snow can be blinding!
Book your winter Yosemite tour early to ensure your spot, especially during Firefall season. Reserving your spot ahead of time keeps you from missing out on these incredible experiences.
Essential Winter Travel Tips
Before heading out, always check road conditions on the NPS Road Conditions page for updates on chain requirements and closures. Yosemite’s winter weather can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to dress in layers and carry extra water and snacks. Rush Creek Lodge provides the perfect base for your Yosemite adventure, offering warm hospitality and easy access to the park. When exploring the park, recreate responsibly by staying on marked trails, respecting wildlife, and packing out all waste to help preserve Yosemite’s natural beauty.
Winter is a magical time to experience Yosemite’s tranquility and beauty. Whether snowshoeing along the rim, walking among ancient sequoias, or witnessing the awe-inspiring Firefall, our winter tours offer a backstage pass to Yosemite during one of the most beautiful times of year. Book your winter stay with Rush Creek Lodge now and start your countdown to an unforgettable trip!