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Yosemite National Park Tours

The Guided Recreation Program at Rush Creek Lodge has evolved from the expertise of the much-loved Recreation Program at our sister property, the Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite.  Our Yosemite hiking tours, camping tours, and other adventures are led by warm, personable guides who are excited to share their passion for and knowledge of Yosemite. We offer partial and full-day excursions for all experience and fitness levels, with trips varying seasonally to take advantage of current conditions. Many trips offer departures from both locations.

If you prefer to adventure on your own rather than join one of our guided Yosemite tours, our recreation team is always happy to provide guests with free planning advice and guidance. You may also check out some of our affordable adventure gear rentals such as trekking poles, backpacks, binoculars, bicycles, and more to perfectly complement your Yosemite adventures.

Whether you hike Yosemite’s scenic trails, bike on peaceful back roads, fish a clear mountain stream or savor Yosemite’s beauty on a naturalist tour, we’re here to make sure your trip is rewarding, meaningful and fun!

Activity

Effort Level

Duration

Month

Price

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Forest Bathing Tea Making (Dan W.)Forest Bathing

$50 adult, $35 child (4-15 years)

Forest Therapy is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku (translated as ‘forest bathing’ – or immersion in the forest environment). Many wonderful benefits are attributed to the practice including boosted immune function, improved cardiovascular and respiratory health, attention restoration, and reduction in stress and depression.

Beginner Effort, Ages 4+, 2 hours

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Forest Therapy is inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku (translated as ‘forest bathing’ – or immersion in the forest environment). Many wonderful benefits are attributed to the practice including boosted immune function, improved cardiovascular and respiratory health, attention restoration, and reduction in stress and depression.

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Basket Weaving

Jan-Dec, $60 per person (age 10+)

About Basket Weaving

This class guides students through how to make a traditional California Native-style one-rod coiled basket with user-friendly raffia over a paper core. Examples of traditional basket materials (willow, redbud, bracken fern root, sedge) and one- and three-rod coiled baskets will be on hand for examination and discussion, plus information about cultural practices of the Miwuk, Pomo, and Paiute. Weavers will be able to take the materials home to finish their basket in their own time.
 

About Basket Weaving

Willow Polson has been creating since she was a small child, first learning how to sew doll house curtains at age five. As a teen (circa 1980) she began to learn California Native-style basketry from Dr. Julia Parker (Pomo/Miwok) in Yosemite Valley and has been a basketmaker for over 40 years, gathering all her own materials in a traditional way. She has demonstrated and taught traditional arts, including basketry, at a variety of museums, state parks and historic sites across California. Though not Native herself, she has Native consent to teach this class.

Beginner Effort, Ages 10+

About Basket Weaving This class guides students through how to make a traditional California Native-style one-rod coiled basket with user-friendly raffia over a paper core….

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Hetch Hetchy from the DamHetch-Hetchy Wapama Falls Naturalist Hike

Jan-Dec, $135 adult, $90 youth (age 8-15)

Leave the crowds behind and enjoy a leisurely and fascinating 5 mile hike above the shores of this tranquil reservoir to the 1,200 foot Wapama Falls.

Intermediate Effort, Ages 8+, Half Day

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Leave the crowds behind and enjoy a leisurely and fascinating 5 mile hike above the shores of this tranquil reservoir to the 1,200 foot Wapama…

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Sunset Vista Happy Hour Tour (Kim Carroll)Sunset Vista Happy Hour Tour

May-Oct, $55 adult, $35 youth (age 20 and under)

On this popular two hour tour and happy hour to view the sun setting over the Tuolumne River Canyon we provide chairs, a glass of wine (or soda) and snacks for you to enjoy while you savor the serenity.

This is one of the few Yosemite sunset tours with a Happy Hour element, courtesy of the awesome guides at the Evergreen Lodge.

Beginner Effort, Ages All Ages , 2 hours, Sunset

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On this popular two hour tour and happy hour to view the sun setting over the Tuolumne River Canyon we provide chairs, a glass of…

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Stargazing at Rush Creek

Jan-Dec, $35 adult, $25 youth (age 12 and under)

Experience the night sky like never before! Up close to nature’s light show, you’ll be gazing through our 12″ aperture Dobsonian telescope with go to tracking technology. Learn about constellations, observe planets, nebulas, galaxies and other celestial wonders.

Advanced Reservation Required, please contact our Recreation team at 209-379-2373 x3 or via email [email protected] for details and availability. 

Beginner Effort, 1-3 Hours

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Experience the night sky like never before! Up close to nature’s light show, you’ll be gazing through our 12″ aperture Dobsonian telescope with go to…

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Yosemite Valley Vista - Kim Carroll PhotographyWonders of Yosemite Hike & Tour

Jan-Dec, $185 adult, $120 youth (age 8-15)

One of the classic Yosemite tours, this is a full day’s adventure to see Yosemite’s icons – Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall, Half Dome, El Capitan, Tunnel View –  plus a 3-mile hike among Giant Sequoias.

*Please note that this tour visits many of the same iconic sights as our Yosemite Valley Glacier Point Tour. Please contact our Recreation team at [email protected] if you have any questions about the similarities of these two tours.

Intermediate Effort, Ages 8+, Full Day

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One of the classic Yosemite tours, this is a full day’s adventure to see Yosemite’s icons – Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall, Half Dome, El Capitan,…

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Lower Yosemite Falls Trail (Kim Carroll)Upper Yosemite Falls and Columbia Rock Hike

May, $185 (age 14+)

This 7.6 mile hike takes you to breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and picturesque views of both Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. During spring or early summer witness Yosemite Falls roaring and in full effect. This is the ultimate stair master hike so prepare yourself for a strenuous workout.

Advanced Effort, Ages 14 and older, children 14 to 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult., Full Day

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This 7.6 mile hike takes you to breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and picturesque views of both Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. During spring…

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Yosemite Valley Explorer

Jan-Dec, $160 adult, $105 youth (age 8-15)

Come to explore the hidden trails of Yosemite Valley! Our gentle to moderate 4 to 5-mile hike (or snowshoe) winds around many of Yosemite’s iconic wonders and provides splendid views of seasonal creeks, meadows, and boulders with memorable views of Yosemite’s iconic sights!

This tour showcases the Valley’s icons as well as its hidden secrets. You’ll gain an understanding of how glaciers, rivers, rocks, and erosion created this scenic wonder, and get some insight into John Muir’s legacy as our friendly naturalist guides do the driving.

Beginner-Intermediate Effort, Ages 8+, Half Day

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Come to explore the hidden trails of Yosemite Valley! Our gentle to moderate 4 to 5-mile hike (or snowshoe) winds around many of Yosemite’s iconic…

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Mt. Dana Naturalist Hike

Jun-Oct, $220 per person (age 14+)

Conquer Yosemite’s 2nd highest peak, an extinct, ancient volcano, on a strenuous 5 mile (round trip) hike that takes you through a lodgepole pine forest and up along the very steep, metamorphic rock-covered mountainside of Mt. Dana. On this hike, you will start at an elevation of about 10,000 ft and reach an altitude of up to 13,061 ft at the summit with stunning panoramic views of the jagged High Sierras, alpine meadows, and Mono Lake!

Advanced Effort, Ages 14 and older, children 14 to 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult., Full Day

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Conquer Yosemite’s 2nd highest peak, an extinct, ancient volcano, on a strenuous 5 mile (round trip) hike that takes you through a lodgepole pine forest and up along the very steep, metamorphic rock-covered mountainside of Mt. Dana.

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Glen AulinGlen Aulin Naturalist Hike

Jun-Oct, $205 per person (age 12+)

Join us for an epic adventure in the very heart of the Yosemite High Country. This 10 mile (round trip) trail to Tuolumne Fall takes you to a beautiful cascade waterfall , granite cliffs, pristine meadows, and breathtaking alpine forests. 

Intermediate-Advanced Effort, Ages 12 and older, children 12 to 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult., Full Day

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Join us for an epic adventure in the very heart of the Yosemite High Country. This 10 mile (round trip) trail to Tuolumne Fall takes…

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Rancheria FallsRancheria Falls Naturalist Hike

Jan-May, Sep-Dec, $185 per person (age 12+)

A rewarding 13 mile day hike deep into the little traveled Hetch Hetchy Valley.  Breathtaking views of the reservoir, abundant wildflowers and energizing waterfalls.

Intermediate-Advanced Effort, Ages 12 and older, children 12 to 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult., Full Day

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A rewarding 13 mile day hike deep into the little traveled Hetch Hetchy Valley.  Breathtaking views of the reservoir, abundant wildflowers and energizing waterfalls.

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Yosemite Valley from Tunnel ViewRange of Light Yosemite Valley Tour

Jan-Dec, $160 adult, $105 youth (age 4-15)

Following the footsteps of John Muir, we visit the Valley’s most famous and impressive wonders as well as its hidden secrets, with plenty of time to stop, relax and enjoy on this Yosemite Valley Tour.

Beginner Effort, Ages 4+, Half Day

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Following the footsteps of John Muir, we visit the Valley’s most famous and impressive wonders as well as its hidden secrets, with plenty of time…

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May LakeMay Lake & Mount Hoffmann Naturalist Hike

Jun-Oct, $185 per person (age 12+)

A crowd-free hike to the geographic center of the Yosemite National Park takes you past one of the most pristine alpine lakes in the high country to 360-degree views of Yosemite’s breathtaking peaks and valley.

Intermediate-Advanced Effort, Ages 12 and older, children 12 to 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult., Full Day

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A crowd-free hike to the geographic center of the Yosemite National Park takes you past one of the most pristine alpine lakes in the high…

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Giant Sequoia Snowbomb (Kim Carroll)Giant Sequoia Hike or Snowshoe

Jan-Mar, Nov-Dec, $135 adult, $90 youth (age 8-15)

This 3-mile round trip snowshoe adventure combines the beauty of a snow covered Yosemite with the majesty of the Giant Sequoias. The stunning contrast of white snow against the reddish bark of the sequoias, the largest living species on earth, is like nothing you have ever seen.

Beginner-Intermediate Effort, Ages 8+, Half Day

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This 3-mile round trip snowshoe adventure combines the beauty of a snow covered Yosemite with the majesty of the Giant Sequoias. The stunning contrast of…

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Cloud’s Rest Naturalist Hike

Jun-Oct, $235 per person (age 12+)

Insiders will tell you that this hike is equally challenging but more rewarding than Half Dome, with a summit that provides sweeping views of Half Dome, the Cathedral Range and Tenaya Canyon. This is some of the most epic Yosemite hiking available for a day hike.

Advanced Effort, Ages 12 and older, children 12 to 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult., Full Day

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Insiders will tell you that this hike is equally challenging but more rewarding than Half Dome, with a summit that provides sweeping views of Half…

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North Dome Naturalist HikeNorth Dome Naturalist Hike

Jun-Oct, $185 adult, $120 youth (age 9-15)

This 9 mile hike takes you to a breathtaking perch on the north rim of Yosemite Valley directly across from Half Dome where you can gaze out at the surrounding cliffs, canyons, and peaks of the greater Yosemite area.

Intermediate-Advanced Effort, Ages 9+, Full Day

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This 9 mile hike takes you to a breathtaking perch on the north rim of Yosemite Valley directly across from Half Dome where you can…

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Giant Sequoia Tunnel - Kim Carroll PhotographyBig Trees Hike & Swim

Jul-Oct, $160 adult, $105 youth (age 8-15)

This popular half day trip along the historic Old Big Oak Flat Road takes you into a grove of Yosemite’s famous Giant Sequoias and ends up at one of our favorite local swimming holes for a swim and picnic lunch before heading back to the lodge.

Intermediate Effort, Ages 8+, Half Day

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This popular half day trip along the historic Old Big Oak Flat Road takes you into a grove of Yosemite’s famous Giant Sequoias and ends…

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Mono Pass Naturalist HikeMono Pass Naturalist Hike

Jun-Oct, $205 per person (age 12+)

This spectacular 7.4 mile (round trip) trail wanders through pristine Lodgepole Pine forests and alpine meadows to the edge of the timberline and places you on the crest of the Sierra Nevada, one of the nation’s most inaccessible and rugged mountain ranges. For unforgettable views of the Eastern Sierra and beyond this Mono Pass hike is the way to go!

Intermediate-Advanced Effort, Ages 12 and older, children 12 to 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult., Full Day

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This spectacular 7.4 mile (round trip) trail wanders through pristine Lodgepole Pine forests and alpine meadows to the edge of the timberline and places you…

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Yosemite Flight Tours

Jan-Dec, $249 per person

Sierra Nevada Aerial Tour

The Sierra Nevada mountains are a continuous range that forms the western “backbone” of the Americas. The wilderness is spectacular and has a rich history of gold mining and exploration. 

An air tour is a perfect way to explore this remote country quickly and provides unmatched photography perspectives. Our Sierra flight is our most popular flight, commencing at Pine Mountain Lake Airport and flying over Tuolumne Canyon, Cherry Lake, and into the Emigrant wilderness. 

The Emigrant Wilderness is a glaciated landscape of great scenic beauty. The northeastern third of the wilderness is dominated by volcanic ridges and peaks; the remaining areas consist of many sparsely vegetated, granitic ridges interspersed with numerous lakes and beautiful meadows. This tour will provide you with a spectacular view of untouched wilderness, as well as views into the famous Yosemite National Park! It’s the perfect way to get a great photo off the beaten path.

Yosemite Aerial Tour

Yosemite Tour – This tour will take you east over the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne to Cherry Lake. We will then turn southeast and enter Yosemite National Park at Lake Eleanor flying over Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. The final part of the tour will provide spectacular views of Yosemite Valley before flying west returning to Pine Mountain Lake airport.

Beginner Effort, Ages none, 1-3 Hours

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An air tour is a perfect way to explore this remote country quickly and provides unmatched photography perspectives. Our Sierra flight is our most popular flight, commencing at Pine Mountain Lake Airport and flying over Tuolumne Canyon, Cherry Lake, and into the Emigrant wilderness. 

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Tuolumne River Whitewater Rafting

Apr-Sep, Starting at $329 per adult; $305 per youth

Experience the exhilaration of the finest whitewater rafting in the state on the beautiful Tuolumne River. The “T” is known for its rocky, technical drops. Class IV & V.

Beginner-Intermediate Effort, Ages 12 and older (dependent on water levels), Full Day

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Experience the exhilaration of the finest whitewater rafting in the state on the beautiful Tuolumne River. The “T” is known for its rocky, technical drops….

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Merced River Whitewater RaftingMerced River Whitewater Rafting

Apr-Jun, starting at $132.84 per adult; $122.04 per youth

Enjoy a full or half day on one of California’s best whitewater rafting paddle-boat trips. The 11-14 miles of rafting on the Merced is typically class 3 (rated 1-5, with 5 being most challenging), with a combination of memorable rapids and peaceful floats through pristine waters and scenic canyons.  This trip is suitable for first time rafters, and depending on water levels, children over age 7.

Beginner Effort, Ages 10+ depending on conditions, Full Day, Half Day

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Enjoy a full or half day on one of California’s best whitewater rafting paddle-boat trips. The 11-14 miles of rafting on the Merced is typically…

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Private Fly Fishing Trips with Echo Adventure

Mar-Nov, $180 to $515 per person

Beginners and seasoned veterans alike can enjoy a memorable day with an expert fly fishing guide casting on scenic Yosemite waterways.

Family Fun fly fishing

Get a taste of Yosemite fly fishing on local waters during this fun half-day adventure perfect for the whole family! This basic introduction focuses less on instruction and more on the experience of fly fishing, as well as aquatic ecology and conservation with many opportunities to sustainably catch and release trout along the river banks of our favorite local spots. Boots and waders are not provided as we focus solely on Czech nymphing from the river bank! $180 per person (ages 7+), non-refundable rate; $215 per person (ages 7+), easy cancellation rate; $350 for a solo angler (age 18+), easy cancellation rate. Use the promo code Group20 for a 20% discount on 5 or more people.

Details

  • Up to 1 Mile of Walking
  • Barbless Hooks Only
  • Catch & Release
  • Boots & Waders ARE NOT Provided on this Excursion

Private Full Day Fly Fishing For Beginners and Experienced Anglers

Enjoy the best of the Yosemite area on our full day fly fishing adventure for anglers of all . Whether you want to net Brook Trout in Yosemite’s backcountry or spend your day in the iconic splendor of Yosemite Valley, our private guide can help you achieve all of your fishing goals! $260 per person (ages 8+), non-refundable rate; $305 per person (ages 8+), easy cancellation rate; $450 for a solo angler (age 18+), easy cancellation rate. Use the promo code Group20 for a 20% discount on 5 or more people.

Details

  • Private Instruction
  • Solo Angler adventure available
  • There is 1 – 3 miles of walking, some may be off-trail
  • Barbless Hooks only
  • Catch & Release
  • Walk & Wade
  • Waders will be provided based on conditions

Experienced Angler’s Private Half Day

Already know the basics!? Join our local guides and gain access to the best waters in the Sierra for native Rainbow Trout and wild Brook trout and trophy Brown trout. We can help sharpen your cast, share tips and techniques, or just ​provide the right fly for the right fish. $205 per person (ages 8+), non-refundable rate; $245 per person (ages 8+), easy cancellation rate; $350 for a solo angler (age 18+), easy cancellation rate. Use the promo code Group20 for a 20% discount on 5 or more people.

Details

  • There is 1-2 miles of walking.
  • Solo angler price available.
  • AM and PM trips available
  • Barbless hooks only
  • Catch & release
  • Walk & wade
  • Waders will be provided based on conditions

Private High Country Fly Fishing Adventure

Get the opportunity to catch (and release) colorful brook, brown, rainbow, and even golden trout on this amazing day spent above 8000 feet in Yosemite’s pristine high country. Perfect for the adventurous angler, we’ll take you far away from the crowds for a classic fly fishing experience on untouched, high alpine lakes and streams in search of wild trout and unprecedented views of Yosemite’s tallest peaks. $285 per person (ages 8+), non-refundable rate; $350 per person (ages 8+), easy cancellation rate; $515 for a solo angler (age 18+), easy cancellation rate. Use the promo code Group20 for a 20% discount on 5 or more people.

Details

  • Private Adventure
  • There is 1-2 miles of walking at high altitudes if you choose to enjoy Tuolumne Meadows
  • There is 2 – 6 miles of walking at high altitudes if you would like a backcountry experience!
  • Barbless Hooks only
  • Solo Adventure Available
  • Catch & Release

What’s Included

  • Private Fly Fishing Guide
  • Transportation
  • Custom Hiker’s Lunches
  • National Park Entrance Fee, If applicable
  • Fly Fishing License
  • Rod, Reel & Flies
  • Boots and Waders
  • Water Bottles, Water & Water Filter
  • First Aid & Emergency Equipment

What to Bring

  • Registration Forms
  • Layered Clothing
  • Liter of Water per Person
  • Brimmed Hat & Sunglasses
  • Sun Block & Insect Repellent
  • Camera & Binoculars
  • Hiking boots or shoes
  • Lunch

Evergreen & Rush Creek Lodges work with amazing agencies such as Echo Adventure Cooperative to provide top quality fishing experiences on the Yosemite area waterways.

Beginner-Advanced Effort, Ages 7+, Full Day

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Beginners and seasoned veterans alike can enjoy a memorable day with an expert fly fishing guide casting on scenic Yosemite waterways. Family Fun fly fishing…

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Miller's Off Road Adventures 2022 ( 1200 x 800)Off-Road Jeep Tours

May-Dec, $450 per Jeep rental

Guided Jeep Tours 

Hit the trails with your friends or family on a guided off-road adventure tour!

Explore the doorstep of Yosemite National Park during this off road adventure tour through the pristine Stanislaus National Forest where you will experience the breathtaking views and incredible wildlife of the Tuolumne River Canyon!

Tours are always kept small with no more than 4 vehicles in any group. Each Jeep has 4 doors and holds up to 5 passengers, including the driver. In the warmer months there is a mesh Bimini top and open air metal doors. Adaptive and pet friendly jeeps are also available upon request!

Not comfortable off roading yet!? No worries, our experienced drivers can take the wheel for your tour or through any difficult areas.

Beginner-Advanced Effort, Ages All welcome (booster/car seats need to be brought for young children), need to be 25+ years to drive Jeep, 3-4 hours

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Guided Jeep Tours  Hit the trails with your friends or family on a guided off-road adventure tour! Explore the doorstep of Yosemite National Park during…

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Rush Creek Boga

May-Sep, $30

Spring through Fall be sure to bring your swimsuit and join us for a fun new Boga board workout on (and in!) our heated saltwater swimming pool.  You’ll have a good laugh while getting a good workout!

Our Boga boards feel like a cross between a paddleboard and a Yoga mat, so you float on top of the water, tethered to the side of the pool, while we walk you through a series of movements that combine elements of strength, balance, and FUN!

Please note this is a seasonal activity. Contact the Rush Creek Recreation team for availability and details via phone at (209) 379-2425 or by email at [email protected].

Beginner-Advanced Effort, Ages none, 1 Hour

Spring through Fall be sure to bring your swimsuit and join us for a fun new Boga board workout on (and in!) our heated saltwater swimming pool.  You’ll have a good laugh while getting a good workout!

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Tenaya Lake PanoramaYosemite High Country Naturalist Tour

Jun-Oct, $185 adult, $120 youth (age 4-15)

Discover the less traveled Yosemite High Country, where we visit scenic vistas, take short walks and relax among stunning alpine lakes, meadows, rivers, granite domes and peaks.

Beginner Effort, Ages 4+, Full Day

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Discover the less traveled Yosemite High Country, where we visit scenic vistas, take short walks and relax among stunning alpine lakes, meadows, rivers, granite domes and…

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Photo of Family after a Rush Creek Paint PartyYosemite Painting Party

Jan-Dec, $45 per person

Grab your friends and family and join step-by-step instruction with our experienced and enthusiastic local artists during our Yosemite Painting Party. You’ll leave with a one-of-a-kind Yosemite creation to take home and plenty of great memories. 4-person minimum.

Offered Mondays at 7 pm at Rush Creek Lodge and Tuesdays at Evergreen Lodge at 7pm, $45 per person. Advance reservation required.

Includes: Unique souvenir painting on canvas, everything to create the painting, local painting teacher.

Beginner-Intermediate Effort, 1-3 Hours

Grab your friends and family and join step-by-step instruction with our experienced and enthusiastic local artists during our Yosemite Painting Party. You’ll leave with a…

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Horseback Ride (Kim Carroll)Horseback Riding Adventures

May-Aug, Starting from $15 per person

Choose from a wide range of exclusive horseback riding adventures through some of our area’s most highly sought-after trails.

Beginner Effort, Ages 8 and older, 1-3 Hours, Half Day, Sunset

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Choose from a wide range of exclusive horseback riding adventures through some of our area’s most highly sought-after trails.

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Taft Point and Sentinel Dome Loop

May-Oct, $185 adult, $120 youth (age 9-15)

This 5.8-mile hike takes you between two stunning lookouts (Taft Point and Sentinel Dome) that gaze over the entirety of the valley throughout the majority of your hike. Once you reach the top of Sentinel Dome, you are provided with a 360-degree view of Yosemite National Park (including Half Dome and Yosemite Falls), and Taft Point allows for some of the most picturesque views of the valley’s plunging cliffs. This hike has unlimited scenic views, but be prepared to work for them as you will overcome about 1,200 feet of elevation while you hike! Your naturalist guide will provide you with an abundance of interesting and interactive information about the wildlife, vegetation, and geology you experience while on your hike. If you are looking for a beautiful, dynamic, and iconic way to view this part of Yosemite National Park, then this is the tour for you!

Intermediate Effort, Ages 9+, Half Day

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This 5.8-mile hike takes you between two stunning lookouts (Taft Point and Sentinel Dome) that gaze over the entirety of the valley throughout the majority…

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Half Dome from Glacier PointGlacier Point and Yosemite Valley Tour

May-Oct, $185 adult, $120 youth (age 4-15)

Taking you through a wide-ranging collection of Yosemite’s most famous icons, including Glacier Point, then the tour continues with stops that may include The Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Falls, Mirror Lake, and El Capitan Meadow to spot climbers in action. Not to mention a picnic is the ever so picturesque Yosemite Valley.

*Please note that this tour visits many of the same iconic sights as our Wonders of Yosemite Tour. Please contact our Recreation team at [email protected] if you have any questions about the similarities of these two tours.

Beginner Effort, Ages 4+, Full Day

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Taking you through a wide-ranging collection of Yosemite’s most famous icons, including Glacier Point, then the tour continues with stops that may include The Ahwahnee…

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Glass Blowing at the LodgeGlass Blowing Experience at Rush Creek

May-Oct, $95 per person

Join our expert glassblower for an exciting introduction to the art of hot glass blowing, while she guides you through the necessary steps required to make your own piece of glass art. No experience is necessary for this mesmerizing 45-minute class.

All take-home glass pieces need overnight annealing (a cooling process) and will be ready for pick up the next day.

Advance reservation required, please contact the Recreation Desk for availability and details.

Beginner Effort, Ages 8 and older, children 8 to 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult., 45 Minutes

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Join our expert glassblower for an exciting introduction to the art of hot glass blowing, while she guides you through the necessary steps required to…

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South Rim of Yosemite Valley Naturalist Hike

Jun-Oct, $185 adult, $120 youth (age 9-15)

Skip past the summer crowds and take a hike with our fun and informative naturalist guides along the lesser-traveled southern rim of Yosemite Valley.  See Yosemite’s icons and 1,200 square miles of splendid scenery in a whole new light on this unusual Yosemite Valley Hiking Tour.

Intermediate-Advanced Effort, Ages 9+, Full Day

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Skip past the summer crowds and take a hike with our fun and informative naturalist guides along the lesser-traveled southern rim of Yosemite Valley.  See…

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California Craft Beer Tasting (Kim Carroll)California Craft Beer Tasting

Feb-Dec, $35 per adult 21 & over (2 person minimum)

Sample a variety of state-local craft beers while learning what makes each one unique! You’ll taste a flight of different styles of California-brewed beers and learn about techniques used to produce each one and the breweries that made them. See Recreation Desk for availability.

Beginner Effort, Ages 21 & over (2 person minimum)

Sample a variety of state-local craft beers while learning what makes each one unique! You’ll taste a flight of different styles of California-brewed beers and…

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Yosemite Overnight Backpacking Adventure

May-Oct, Contact the Recreation Desk for Pricing

Fully customizable private overnight backpacking trips in Yosemite National Park with our experienced naturalist guides range from 6-30 miles (over two days) and highlight some of the most iconic and the least visited areas of Yosemite!

Create the ultimate Yosemite adventure with our private, all-inclusive backpacking trips personally designed to fit your needs and expectations. Whether you are looking for a relaxing overnight adventure for your family or a rugged 30 mile back country experience, our passionate and skilled naturalist guides can deliver! Our intimate knowledge of Yosemite and the surrounding areas allows us to craft an adventure that is unique, memorable and customized to fit your exact goals. Our two day trips along the Tuolumne River and through Yosemite’s High Country, Hetch Hetchy or the rim of the famed Yosemite Valley can focus on various outdoor activities and are suitable for all experience levels.

Intermediate-Advanced Effort, Ages 12+, Overnight

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Fully customizable private overnight backpacking trips in Yosemite National Park with our experienced naturalist guides range from 6-30 miles (over two days) and highlight some…

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Rim of the Valley Snowshoe HikeRim of the Valley Snowshoe Adventure

Jan-Mar, Dec, $205 per person (age 12+)

Snowshoe to one of the finest overlooks in all of Yosemite: Dewey Point. You will see incomparable views of El Capitan, Yosemite Valley, Three Brothers and other famous Yosemite landmarks. Our guides share their intimate knowledge of the Park and make sure your snowshoe experience is a fun, inspiring adventure and a truly highlight of your stay!

Intermediate-Advanced Effort, Ages 12 and older, children 12 to 16 years old must be accompanied by an adult., Full Day

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Snowshoe to one of the finest overlooks in all of Yosemite: Dewey Point. You will see incomparable views of El Capitan, Yosemite Valley, Three Brothers…

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For more information or to reserve a trip, please email us at [email protected] or call us at (209) 379- 2373.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Yosemite offer guided tours?

Rush Creek Lodge’s guided Yosemite National Park tours are the best way to explore Yosemite National Park. Our personable tour guides are excited to share their knowledge of Yosemite with you on one of our many hiking tours.

What is the best way to visit Yosemite National Park?

The best way to visit Yosemite National Park is by car. Once you’re in the park, there are several areas where you can park, stretch your legs, and explore by foot. Learn more about Yosemite Valley, Hetch Hetchy Valley, and see the latest travel alert updates.

Can I enter Yosemite without a reservation?

Unless you plan to camp overnight, a reservation to enter Yosemite is not required. See the latest travel alert updates.