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
results found
Rush Creek Intermediate Yoga
Rush Creek Intermediate YogaApr, $35
As part of Rush Creek Spa’s wellness program, we are pleased to provide on-site yoga classes led by our certified instructor. Yoga at Rush Creek is an unforgettable experience with a breathtaking backdrop of mountains and sunset views.
Intermediate Yoga – Slow Flow II
This one hour class is intended for those who have practiced yoga. In this class we will explore the connection of breath to movement through modified vinyasa flow, restorative poses and breathwork.
Intermediate Effort, Ages 12+, 1 Hour
As part of Rush Creek Spa’s wellness program, we are pleased to provide on-site yoga classes led by our certified instructor. Yoga at Rush Creek…
Rush Creek Beginner Yoga
Rush Creek Beginner YogaApr, $35
As part of Rush Creek Spa’s wellness program, we are pleased to provide on-site yoga classes led by our certified instructor. Yoga at Rush Creek is an unforgettable experience with a breathtaking backdrop of mountains and sunset views.
Beginner’s Yoga – Slow Flow I
This one hour class is designed for those who are new to yoga and/or for seasoned practitioners who are looking for a slower class and slower way to tap into embodiment.
Beginner Effort, Ages 12+, 1 Hour
As part of Rush Creek Spa’s wellness program, we are pleased to provide on-site yoga classes led by our certified instructor. Yoga at Rush Creek…
Basket Weaving
Basket WeavingJan-Dec, $60 per person (age 10+)
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 THE ARTIST
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+
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…
Gemstone Bead Bracelet Class
Jan-Dec, $50 per person (age 10+)
Make a beautiful bracelet keepsake of your Yosemite adventure using a variety of real gemstone, glass, wood, and other natural material beads. Class fee includes all materials needed.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Willow Polson has been creating since she was a small child, first learning how to sew doll house curtains at age five on her grandmother’s 1930s Singer sewing machine. After attending San Francisco State University with a major in Art Education and minor in Anthropology, she has demonstrated and taught traditional arts including basketry, beadwork, embroidery, and jewelry making at a variety of historic sites across California as well as online classroom platforms such as Outschool.
Beginner Effort, Ages 10+
Make a beautiful bracelet keepsake of your Yosemite adventure using a variety of real gemstone, glass, wood, and other natural material beads. Class fee includes…
Stitch Beaded Earring Class
Jan-Dec, $50 per person (age 10+)
Learn how to do the traditional peyote stitch to start making a pair of earrings using glass seed beads. Class fee includes all materials needed so you can finish the project on your schedule –two to three colors of seed beads, bead dish/container, Nymo beading filament, nickel-free ear wires, and beading needle. Class fee includes all materials needed.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Willow Polson has been creating since she was a small child, first learning how to sew doll house curtains at age five on her grandmother’s 1930s Singer sewing machine. After attending San Francisco State University with a major in Art Education and minor in Anthropology, she has demonstrated and taught traditional arts including basketry, beadwork, embroidery, and jewelry making at a variety of historic sites across California as well as online classroom platforms such as Outschool.
Beginner Effort, Ages 10+
Learn how to do the traditional peyote stitch to start making a pair of earrings using glass seed beads. Class fee includes all materials needed…
Yosemite Alpine Adventure
Yosemite Alpine AdventureJul-Oct, $220 per adult, $180 per youth
OFFERED IN SUMMER AND FALL*
Lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and join us on an unforgettable expedition into the alpine wilderness of Yosemite. Together, we’ll explore, inspire, and forge a deeper connection to the natural world – one step at a time.
This immersive experience invites you to discover the rugged beauty and ecological diversity of Yosemite’s alpine high country. Along the way, you’ll traverse meandering streams, and ascend to breathtaking vistas that offer unparalleled views of the Sierra Nevada’s majestic peaks.
This choose-your-own-adventure excursion allows you to collaborate with your guide to design a personalized trek tailored to your interests. Hikes range from 5-12 miles along varied terrain.
TRIP TIME
8:45am-5:15pm
GROUP SIZE
Up to 6 participants. 2 person minimum. Reservations recommended. Contact Recreation Desk for availability and pricing for groups of 10 or more.
PRICE
$220 adult, $180 youth (age 12-15). Includes transportation, naturalist guide, and lunch voucher for use in our General Store. Additional $20 park admission fee per adult (waived for Yosemite Annual Pass or America the Beautiful Pass holders).
DIFFICULTY/AGE LIMIT
Participants should be able to walk multiple hours on varied terrain. Please be aware that most of the day is spent at an elevations of 8,500 feet, so please drink plenty of water the night before and throughout the day. Suitable for ages 12 and up.
MEETING PLACE
All trips meet in the Recreation Center 15 minutes before departure.
WHAT TO BRING
• Completed trip registration forms
• Small backpack with at least 32 oz water and snacks
• Proper footwear–tennis shoes or hiking boots
• Layered clothing including wind/rain jacket or fleece (High Country weather can be unpredictable and much colder)
• Bug repellant, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
• Camera and binoculars
• Swimsuit, towel (optional)
OTHER INFORMATION
• Our first-aid-certified guides carry first aid kits, permits, maps, radios/cell phones, and water filters
• Guide gratuity is not included; for exemplary service, a 10-20% tip is customary
• Prices subject to change
For more information, call (209) 379-2606 x3 or email [email protected].
* Conditions permitting. Call for additional seasonal availability.
Intermediate-Advanced Effort, Ages 12+, Full Day
A fully customizable hiking adventure to discover the rugged beauty and ecological diversity of Yosemite’s high country. Traverse meandering streams, and ascend to breathtaking vistas that offer unparalleled views of the Sierra Nevada’s majestic peaks.
You and your guide will work together to choose the trail best travelled. Hikes can range from 5 to 12-miles along varied terrain.
Hetch-Hetchy Wapama Falls Naturalist Hike
Hetch-Hetchy Wapama Falls Naturalist HikeJan-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
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…
Sunset Vista Happy Hour Tour
Sunset Vista Happy Hour TourMay-Oct, $65 adult, $40 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
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…
Stargazing at Rush Creek
Stargazing at Rush CreekJan-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
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…
Upper Yosemite Falls and Columbia Rock Hike
Upper Yosemite Falls and Columbia Rock HikeMay, $195 (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
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…
Wonders of Yosemite Hike & Tour
Wonders of Yosemite Hike & TourJan-Dec, $195 adult, $125 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
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,…
Yosemite Valley Explorer
Yosemite Valley ExplorerJan-Dec, $175 adult, $115 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
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…
Half Dome Journey
Half Dome JourneyAug-Oct, $310 per person
One of the most enduring challenges in Yosemite, this day hike covers roughly 17 miles with 4,800 feet in elevation gain from the Valley Floor to the summit of world-famous Half Dome. Our guides have secured a handful of Half Dome permits for this upcoming season.
Advanced Effort, Ages 14+, Full Day
One of the most enduring challenges in Yosemite, this day hike covers roughly 17 miles with 4,800 feet in elevation gain from the Valley Floor…
Rancheria Falls Naturalist Hike
Rancheria Falls Naturalist HikeJan-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
A rewarding 13 mile day hike deep into the little traveled Hetch Hetchy Valley. Breathtaking views of the reservoir, abundant wildflowers and energizing waterfalls.
Range of Light Yosemite Valley Tour
Range of Light Yosemite Valley TourJan-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
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…
Giant Sequoia Hike or Snowshoe
Giant Sequoia Hike or SnowshoeJan-Mar, Nov-Dec, $140 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
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…
Cloud’s Rest Naturalist Hike
Cloud’s Rest Naturalist HikeJun-Oct, $245 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
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…
Granite Gorge & Preston Falls Naturalist Hike
Granite Gorge & Preston Falls Naturalist HikeMar-May, $160 adult, $120 child 10 to 15 years
An epic day exploring one of our favorite hidden gems, stunning Preston Falls, deep in the Granite Gorge section of river downstream from the pristine Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. We’ll hike alongside the river among abundant wildflowers, enjoy lunch on the banks and take a dip in the clear, cool water before hiking back. This is crowd-free Yosemite hiking at its finest. Call or email for seasonal availability based on varying weather conditions.
Intermediate Effort, Ages Ages 10+, Full Day
An epic day exploring one of our favorite hidden gems, stunning Preston Falls, deep in the Granite Gorge section of river downstream from the pristine…
North Dome Naturalist Hike
North Dome Naturalist HikeJun-Oct, $195 adult, $125 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
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…
Big Trees Hike & Swim
Big Trees Hike & SwimJul-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
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…
Yosemite Flight Tours
Yosemite Flight ToursJan-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
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.
Tuolumne River Whitewater Rafting
Tuolumne River Whitewater RaftingApr-Sep, Starting at $389 per adult; $350 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
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….
Merced River Whitewater Rafting
Merced River Whitewater RaftingApr-Jun, starting at $132 per adult; $122 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 8+ depending on conditions, Full Day, Half Day
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…
Private Fly Fishing Trips with Echo Adventure
Private Fly Fishing Trips with Echo AdventureMar-Nov, Trips starting at $215 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!
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!
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.
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.
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
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…
Off-Road Jeep Tours
Off-Road Jeep ToursMay-Dec, $350 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
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…
Rush Creek Boga
Rush Creek BogaMay-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!
Yosemite High Country Naturalist Tour
Yosemite High Country Naturalist TourJun-Oct, $210 adult, $135 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
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…
Yosemite Painting Party
Yosemite Painting PartyJan-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…
Horseback Riding Adventures
Horseback Riding AdventuresMay-Aug, Starting from $20 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
Choose from a wide range of exclusive horseback riding adventures through some of our area’s most highly sought-after trails.
Yosemite Firefall Express
Yosemite Firefall ExpressFeb, $110 adult, $80 child 8 to 15 years
Every season the Valley brings a different aspect of the natural world to life right before your eyes. In February late afternoons, the sun hits Yosemite’s Horsetail Fall creating a famed, breathtaking ‘fire’ illusion. The natural phenomenon requires perfect conditions so isn’t a guarantee, but it gives lifetime memories when you catch it!
Beginner Effort, Ages 4+, Half Day
Every season the Valley brings a different aspect of the natural world to life right before your eyes. In February late afternoons, the sun hits…
Taft Point and Sentinel Dome Loop
Taft Point and Sentinel Dome LoopMay-Oct, $200 adult, $130 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
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…
Glacier Point and Yosemite Valley Tour
Glacier Point and Yosemite Valley TourMay-Oct, $195 adult, $125 youth (age 4-15)
Discover Yosemite’s world-famous Glacier Point overlook and some of Yosemite Valley’s iconic attractions, with stops that may include the Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Falls, Mirror Lake, and El Capitan Meadow to spot climbers in action.
*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
Discover Yosemite’s world-famous Glacier Point overlook and some of Yosemite Valley’s iconic attractions, with stops that may include the Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Falls, Mirror Lake,…
Glass Blowing Experience at Rush Creek
Glass Blowing Experience at Rush CreekMay-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
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…
California Craft Beer Tasting
California Craft Beer TastingFeb-Dec, $35 per adult 21 & over (2 person minimum)
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…
South Rim of Yosemite Valley Naturalist Hike
South Rim of Yosemite Valley Naturalist HikeJun-Oct, $210 adult age 12+
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 12+, Full Day
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 Overnight Backpacking Adventure
Yosemite Overnight Backpacking AdventureMay-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
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…
Rim of the Valley Snowshoe Adventure
Rim of the Valley Snowshoe AdventureJan-Mar, Dec, $210 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
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…
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.