San Francisco: Day Trip to Yosemite With Giant Sequoias Hike

Escape the bustling city of San Francisco and learn about the serene grandeur of Yosemite National Park. This day trip offers a chance to hike amidst the towering giant sequoias at Tuolumne Grove, capture breathtaking views of iconic landmarks, and learn from a knowledgeable guide. With convenient pickup, eco-friendly transportation, and a personalized small-group experience, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure in one of America’s most beloved natural wonders.

This experience made our article of Which San Francisco Hiking And Trekking Tours To Choose? We Rank The 5 Best.

Key Points

• This day trip from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park includes a 1.5-hour hike through the Tuolumne Grove to see giant sequoia trees.
• The tour is priced at $209 per person, with a 14-hour duration and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The itinerary covers Yosemite Valley, iconic photo stops, and a knowledgeable guide who provides insights into the park’s geology.
• The hike is considered moderate but strenuous, descending 400 feet, and participants should be prepared for the physical demands.
• Transportation is provided in a biofuel vehicle, and the group size is limited to 26 passengers for a more sustainable and personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The day trip to Yosemite offers visitors a chance to explore the park’s iconic Giant Sequoias and breathtaking natural wonders.

Priced at $209 per person, the 14-hour tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can opt for the reserve now and pay later option.

The tour includes pickup from select locations in the San Francisco Bay Area and covers the Tuolumne Grove Trailhead, Yosemite Valley, and iconic photo stops.

Guests will learn about Yosemite’s geological marvels from a knowledgeable guide and enjoy a personalized experience in a small group setting.

Itinerary and Highlights

This day trip to Yosemite packs in a variety of must-see highlights, starting with pickup locations at the Hilton Union Square in San Francisco and the Dublin BART station.

The journey includes stops at:

• Tuolumne Grove Trailhead for a 1.5-hour hike among giant sequoias

• Yosemite Valley for a break, lunch, free time, and hiking

• Photo opportunities at iconic landmarks like Bridalveil Fall, El Capitan, Half Dome, and Tunnel View

Throughout the experience, a knowledgeable guide shares insights into Yosemite’s geological wonders.

The small group size ensures a personalized experience during this 14-hour adventure.

Hiking and Physical Requirements

The day trip to Yosemite includes a moderate 2.5-mile round-trip hike to the Tuolumne Grove of giant sequoias.

The hike descends 400 feet and is considered strenuous, so hikers should wear good walking shoes and bring plenty of water.

During winter months, the giant sequoias hike may not be available due to weather conditions. Participants should be prepared for the physical demands of the hike and the changing weather in Yosemite.

The small group size allows for a personalized experience, and the knowledgeable guide provides information about the geological wonders along the way.

Transportation and Environmental Commitment

Transportation for the day trip to Yosemite is provided in a biofuel vehicle, ensuring an eco-friendly experience. The group size is limited to 26 passengers, further contributing to the tour’s environmental commitment.

Additionally:

• Yosemite Park entrance fees are included, streamlining the experience.

• The small group size allows for a personalized and sustainable excursion.

• The transportation is aimed at minimizing the trip’s carbon footprint, aligning with the tour’s environmental focus.

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Customer Feedback and Ratings

Based on 189 reviews, the overall rating for the day trip to Yosemite is an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, who earned a 4.7 rating. The transportation in a biofuel vehicle also received a solid 4.3 score.

Knowledgeable guides earn a 4.7 rating, and transportation in a biofuel vehicle scores a solid 4.3.

While the value for money was rated 4.1, reviewers highlight the small group size and personalized experience as key advantages.

Positive feedback emphasizes the guides’ expertise in explaining the geological wonders of Yosemite and the convenience of having park entrance fees included.

Pickup Locations and Departure Times

The day trip to Yosemite departs from two convenient locations – the Hilton Union Square at 6:20 AM and the Dublin BART station at 6:55 AM.

This allows travelers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area to easily join the tour. The early departure times ensure ample time to experience the wonders of Yosemite National Park, including:

• Hiking the Tuolumne Grove Trail to see the majestic Giant Sequoias

• Exploring Yosemite Valley with its iconic landmarks like Bridalveil Fall and El Capitan

• Enjoying free time for lunch and personal exploration of the park’s many trails and vistas.

Inclusions and Exclusions

Though the day trip to Yosemite includes transportation in a biofuel vehicle and Yosemite Park entrance fees, it doesn’t cover lunch.

Travelers will need to bring their own or purchase food during the breaks in Yosemite Valley. The tour also doesn’t include gratuities for the guide, which are optional but recommended for good service.

However, the tour does provide a small group experience with a knowledgeable guide who’ll share insights about Yosemite’s geological wonders.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour offers flexibility for travelers’ plans.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

To book the day trip to Yosemite, travelers can reserve their spot online and pay later.

The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy – guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

There are several benefits to this policy:

• Secure your spot with a reservation and pay later

• Cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour

• Receive a full refund if your plans change

• Avoid upfront costs if unsure of your availability

This allows travelers to book the tour with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.

The simple, hassle-free booking process makes planning a Yosemite adventure easier.

Ask Away

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the tour. The tour allows for a lunch break in Yosemite Valley, so you’re welcome to pack a meal or purchase food during the free time.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Hike?

Hikers should wear sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, and bring plenty of water. Dressing in comfortable, weather-appropriate attire is recommended for the moderate-to-strenuous Sequoia hike. Prepare to get dirty and be active on the trail.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions, but the hike is considered strenuous. Participants should be in good physical condition and prepared with proper footwear and water. The tour operator recommends checking with them if you have any fitness concerns.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Exploring Yosemite Valley?

The tour allocates free time in Yosemite Valley, allowing passengers to explore the natural wonders at their own pace. Visitors can enjoy a break, have lunch, and hike the valley during this free time period.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors Participating in the Tour?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounts for children or seniors. The price of $209 per person is the same for all participants, regardless of age.

Final Words

Explore the wonders of Yosemite’s Tuolumne Grove on a day trip from San Francisco. This moderately challenging hike through the majestic giant sequoias offers stunning photo opportunities and a knowledgeable guide. Convenience, eco-friendly transportation, and a personalized small-group experience make this $209 per person adventure a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the Bay Area.

You can check availability for your dates here: