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Adventure Collective Journal

Private 2-Day Yosemite Tour with Hotel — Sequoias, Glacier Point & Yosemite Valley

Private 2-Day Yosemite Tour with Hotel — Sequoias, Glacier Point & Yosemite Valley

A private two-day Yosemite tour pairs a local guide, hotel stay, and entrance fees to deliver curated visits to giant sequoias, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Valley. Expect flexible stops, optional hikes to Vernal or Nevada Falls, and a pace tailored to your group.

Yosemite Valley, California
2 days
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Start early to beat crowds

Plan to arrive at popular overlooks (Tunnel View, Glacier Point) at sunrise or early morning—light and parking both get easier before 9am.

Prepare for elevation swings

Valley floor and Glacier Point are separated by thousands of feet; pack layers to handle 20–40°F differences and sudden wind at high viewpoints.

Footwear for granite and wet trails

Sturdy, grippy hiking shoes are important—Mist Trail and waterfall approaches can be wet and slick even in summer.

Bear-aware food storage

Carry food in sealed bags and follow your guide’s instructions—do not leave snacks in cars or on trails to avoid attracting wildlife.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Less-visited sequoia groves outside Mariposa Grove for quieter photography stops
  • Short meadow loops near Sentinel Rock for close-up views of granite and wildflowers

Wildlife

  • Black bear
  • Mule deer

Conservation Note

Stay on trails and pack out waste; the park uses bear-resistant food storage and limits roadside parking to protect meadows and wildlife.

Yosemite was home to the Ahwahneechee people and later became central to the U.S. conservation movement; the 1864 Yosemite Grant helped set precedent for national parks.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Sunrise, Golden hour (sunset), Early morning for waterfalls
Key viewpoints:
  • Glacier Point for panoramic high-country shots
  • Tunnel View for classic Half Dome and valley composition
  • Mariposa Grove boardwalk for sequoia close-ups
Subjects to capture:Granite cliffs (Half Dome, El Capitan), Waterfalls (Vernal, Yosemite Falls), Giant sequoias and meadow reflections

What to Bring

DaypackEssential

Holds layers, water, snacks, camera, and any trail essentials for short hikes.

Sturdy hiking shoesEssential

Good traction is required for granite slabs and damp trail sections like the Mist Trail.

Insulated water bottle (1–2L)Essential

Hydration is critical in dry valley air and during hikes; a refillable bottle reduces waste.

Layered outerwear (fleece + wind shell)Essential

Temperature and wind can change quickly between valley and Glacier Point—layers keep you comfortable.

Common Questions

What is included in the package?

Private transportation, a 2-day guided itinerary, 1 night hotel accommodation (first night), park entrance fees, bottled water, and a private guide/driver.

Where do pickups occur?

Complimentary private pickup/drop-off is offered from San Francisco, SFO/Oakland, Pleasanton, and surrounding Yosemite-area locations; confirm pickup point when booking.

Is the Vernal Falls hike suitable for children?

The lower sections are family-friendly for children used to walking, but the Mist Trail to the top is steep and exposed; use discretion and allow extra time.

Are roads or viewpoints seasonally closed?

Yes—Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road can close in winter due to snow; your guide will adjust the itinerary based on conditions.

Can travelers with mobility issues participate?

The tour can accommodate limited mobility by driving through valley overlooks, but vehicles are not equipped for certain disabilities—check supplier policy before booking.

Are bears or wildlife a concern?

Yes—black bears are present; follow food-storage rules, never feed wildlife, and keep distance for safety and conservation.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

2 days

Location

Yosemite Valley, California

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness: able to handle short hikes of 1–3 miles and some elevation gain; most sightseeing requires minimal walking.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Yosemite Valley?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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