Glacier Point and Yosemite Valley Small-Group Tour: Scenic Stops from Mariposa to the Valley
Spend a day on Highway 140 from Mariposa to Glacier Point and Yosemite Valley, trading foothill roads for rim-top panoramas and valley-floor icons. This small-group tour pairs easy guided walks with extended viewpoints and an included lunch.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures can swing dramatically from the valley to Glacier Point—bring an insulating midlayer and a windproof shell.
Hydrate for the day
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water per person; higher elevation and sun exposure increase dehydration risk.
Bring sturdy shoes
Short walks on uneven granite and packed dirt require closed-toe shoes with good traction.
Check road access
Glacier Point Road closes seasonally during winter storms—confirm open status before arrival.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Washburn Point (a quieter overlook near Glacier Point)
- •Swinging Bridge/Valley floor meadows for calm river reflections early morning
Wildlife
- •Black bear
- •Mule deer
Conservation Note
Yosemite manages heavy visitation with trails, seasonal road closures and education—stay on designated paths, pack out trash, and obey wildlife rules to minimize impact.
The Ahwahneechee people lived in Yosemite Valley for generations; later 19th-century conservationists like John Muir helped establish Yosemite as a focal point for the national park movement.
Photographer's Notes
- • Tunnel View (first sweeping valley perspective)
- • Glacier Point rim for top-down panoramas
- • Valley floor near the Merced River for reflections and scale shots
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provide traction on granite and comfort for short walks at viewpoints.
Insulating midlayer and wind shellEssential
Protects against chilly, windy conditions at Glacier Point’s higher elevation.
1–2L refillable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated through several hours of walking and driving between stops.
Sunscreen and wide-brim hat
High-elevation sun is intense; protect skin and eyes during open viewpoints.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what’s included?
The tour is approximately 9 hours and includes transportation, a guide/driver, entrance to Glacier Point, and a boxed lunch with sandwich, fruit, chips and water.
Can I be picked up from my hotel?
Pickup is available from select hotels within reasonable driving distance; otherwise meet at Mariposa Park and Ride (4974 Joe Howard St.). Provide pickup details when booking.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour can accommodate compact folding wheelchairs with advance notice, but participants must board the bus independently and may encounter uneven surfaces at viewpoints.
Will we see waterfalls year-round?
Major falls like Vernal and Nevada typically flow year-round, but volume varies—spring brings peak runoff while late summer is lower.
What should I wear for the day?
Layered clothing is best—temperatures are warmer in the valley and cooler at Glacier Point; bring a windproof outer layer and comfortable walking shoes.
What happens if the road to Glacier Point is closed?
If Glacier Point Road is closed due to weather, the operator may change the itinerary to other valley viewpoints or reschedule; check cancellation and refund policies at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9 hours
Location
Mariposa, California
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for most reasonably active travelers who can stand and walk short distances; not strenuous but long day on your feet.
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