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Sierra Nevada, CaliforniaHiking

Our most recommended Sierra Nevada, California Hiking

San Francisco: Yosemite National Park & Giant Sequoias Hike

1. San Francisco: Yosemite National Park & Giant Sequoias Hike

Experience both the Yosemite Valley and the Giant Sequoia Walk on this day tour. See why artists and poets have been inspired for generations by the breathtaking sceneries at the national park. Since 1890, the beautiful Yosemite National Park has been the jewel of America's National Parks, possessing some of the best-known landmarks in the world, such as the tallest waterfall in North America, Yosemite Falls. Have 5 hours to explore the stunning national park, and take in the majestic natural wonders, accompanied by a complimentary audio-guided tour. See the spectacular Half Dome and El Capitan, two of the most frequently climbed cliffs in the world. It is also home to several groves of stunning Giant Sequoia trees, the largest trees on earth. The Giant Sequoia Walk is along 1 mile (1.5 km) of paved trail with a 400 ft (120 m) incline, snow depth permitting. Marvel at these giant trees — the largest in the world. In winter, when conditions on the Tuolumne Sequoias Grove trail are snow-covered or unsafe, we substitute this experience with other attractions. On a group tour, view stunning panoramas, go on walks, and even hike a little, before returning to San Francisco. Or if you prefer, upgrade to a private tour for your group only.

From San Francisco: Yosemite Tour with Giant Sequoias Hike

2. From San Francisco: Yosemite Tour with Giant Sequoias Hike

Begin your Yosemite National Park day tour by getting picked up at select San Francisco hotels. Cross the Bay Bridge and drive through the Central Valley to the town of Oakdale where you will stop for a short break. Start your day in the park at Tunnel View. Then, go to Bridalveil Falls for a quick walk to the base of the roaring waterfall. Next, proceed onto Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. After, enjoy some free time where you will get a chance to picnic at the base of Yosemite Falls, by a river, or in a granite-enclosed meadow. Chances are high that you will see rock climbers in the spring or fall, bears in the summer, and spectacular ice formations in the winter. After regrouping, head to El Capitan, the center of the rock climbing universe. Depending on the season, you may see some climbers on the rock, but they will appear smaller than ants on the 3000-foot (914 meters) rock. Enjoy a photo stop at Valley View and then head to the Tuolumne Grove to take a one-mile (1.6 km) hike to see a grove of 1500-year-old giant sequoia trees. Please note that the hike to the sequoias may not be available during the snow season. After the hike, head back to San Francisco with a restroom stop along the way.

From SFO-Yosemite National Park-Enchanting Full Day Tour

3. From SFO-Yosemite National Park-Enchanting Full Day Tour

Explore and relish the enchanted day trip to Yosemite from SFO -something you don’t want to miss. Enjoy the great the great outdoors with both guided sightseeing and free time, ensuring you see the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s major attractions, like Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemite Valley. Travel through the Central Valley farmlands, historical Gold Country, and the Sierra Nevada foothills spend hours snapping photos of Yosemite’s stunning forests, rock formations, and waterfalls Visit Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan on a guided van tour. Enjoy free time to explore Yosemite’s other natural wonders by foot or bike. Take in a breathtaking panorama from the Tunnel View overlook for an expansive view of the Yosemite Valley. Small-group tour with a private and group options limited to 5 ensures a more personalized experience.

Yosemite Valley 3-Day Camping Adventure

4. Yosemite Valley 3-Day Camping Adventure

Spend 2 nights camping in the world famous Yosemite Valley outside of San Francisco. You will travel in an eco-friendly biofueled vehicle, and all camping gear is provided to lighten your load. All you need to bring is a sleeping bag and enthusiasm for the Californian wilderness. Don't worry if you've never camped before. The camping and cooking equipment is provided, using quality tents. Everybody is expected to participate in the set-up and break-down of camp, and a professional guide will be there to ensure a positive camping experience. You will camp at comfortable campsites that have hot showers and modern facilities. Swimming is available nearby. Food is also provided, but there will be no chefs! You will get the chance to cook over campfires, and you will also be the waiters, dishwashers, and of course the guests! The fare is all-you-can-eat and very tasty, and is a mixture of chicken, beef, and vegetarian. Day 1: On the morning of your first day camping, your guide will meet you downtown at the corner of Mason and O'Farrell Streets in front of the Hilton Hotel at 08:15. Once out of San Francisco, cross the Central Valley and head through gold country on your way to the mountains. Before reaching Yosemite Valley, hike down for a picnic among the giant sequoia trees, the largest living things on Earth. Meals on the first day are not included in the tour price, but you will have an opportunity to get food en route to the park. Depending upon group interest and logistics, you may visit any of the 3 sequoia groves. The hike through the giant sequoias is pleasantly shaded and brings you right up close to these massive wooden monuments, some of which are more than 1,000 years old and measure up to 30-feet wide and 300-feet tall. Continue into the park on a 90-minute guided tour, and descend into Yosemite Valley, the most famous and photographed part of Yosemite, thanks to the work of photographer Ansel Adams. While in the Yosemite Valley, your guide will give you an orientation to the park, as well as an explanation of the itinerary and options for the next 2 days. After some free time in Yosemite Valley, head for the campsite to set up camp, ending the day with drinks around the campfire as you decide what to do with your next 2 days in the park. Day 2: Rise early and prepare breakfast and lunch, clean up camp, and head off in the van for a fun day full of hiking, sightseeing, and exploring. Usually the second day is reserved for exploring Yosemite's High Country. A group hike to May Lake and Mount Hoffman is generally the highlight of the day, depending upon snowpack. May Lake is a picturesque example of a High Sierra lake. If you want more of a challenge, you can continue past May Lake to Mount Hoffman. Located at the geographic center of the park, Mount Hoffman is a non-technical hike that rewards you with a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountain landscape. At the end of the day, head back to camp for dinner and time to unwind by the campfire. Day 3: Day 3 is a free day, where the itinerary is based on the interests of the group. Normally the tour heads back into Yosemite Valley, where you can choose one of a number of great hikes, rent a bike, or relax in the shade by the emerald green Merced River. After a full day in the park, head back to San Francisco, arriving around 21:00. In May, June, and early July, you have the option of joining a whitewater rafting trip on the Merced River, depending on snowpack. This Class III-IV adventure can be added to your Yosemite Escape adventure for only $140-$160.

Fresno: All Inclusive Premier Yosemite Tour

5. Fresno: All Inclusive Premier Yosemite Tour

Ready to experience the most iconic features of the Yosemite Valley? 1: Yosemite Valley Highlights Morning (Easy-Moderate): Tunnel View: This iconic viewpoint is a MUST STOP for all visitors. Take in the famous view of El Cap, Bridalviel Falls, Half Dome and Clouds Rest. This view is a great stop for photos! Yosemite Falls Viewpoint: Drive to Yosemite Valley and begin your day by visiting the Yosemite Falls Viewpoint. This iconic waterfall is one of the tallest in North America, and you can get a stunning view from this spot. Cook’s Meadow Loop: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Cook’s Meadow to get picturesque views of Half Dome and other famous landmarks. Lower Yosemite Falls Trail: Take a short walk (about 1 mile round trip) to the base of the falls to feel the mist and witness the power of the cascading water. Lunch Option: Picnic at one of the designated picnic areas in Yosemite Valley, or head to the Yosemite Village for dining options. Valley View: See the iconic view that Ansel Adams loved to photograph! This short stop is on the way out of Yosemite Valley with gorgeous views of Bridalviel and El Cap. 2. Afternoon Options: Glacier Point (Summer/ Fall/ Early Winter): Drive up to Glacier Point (approximately 1.5 hours from the valley), where you can witness breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Yosemite’s high country. There are also various hiking trails available at Glacier Point. Mariposa Grove: Did you know that Yosemite has Giant Sequoias too? You visit the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Take a peaceful walk among these ancient and giant trees. Vernal Falls Footbridge: This short but moderately challeging hike takes you to the footbridge of Vernal Falls which gives you a gorgeous view of the waterfall.

California Highlights Express: 3-Day Tour from Los Angeles

6. California Highlights Express: 3-Day Tour from Los Angeles

Discover the most iconic highlights of California, as well as some lesser-known gems, on this 3-day tour from Los Angeles. Drive the renowned 17 Mile Drive, explore Santa Barbara, and visit Yosemite Valley National Park or Hearst Castle. Enjoy 2 nights of accommodation and a bay cruise in San Fransisco included. Day 1: Los Angeles – Santa Barbara – 17 Mile Drive – Carmel Summer RouteDepart north up the spectacular California Coast to the first stop in Santa Barbara. Visit a Spanish Mission and learn how these religious outposts were key in the development of the entire region. Continue to Solvang, a quaint Danish community to browse in the local shops. See the spectacular California coastline up close (small vehicles will travel the southern portion of route 1 while full-size coaches will travel the 17-mile drive exclusively). Visit the town of Carmel, home to the actor Clint Eastwood. Enjoy some free time to stroll in town before departing to reach your hotel at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland Airport. Winter RouteDepart north up the spectacular California Coast to the first stop in Santa Barbara. Stop at the heart of downtown at the “state street promenade” and stroll through the exclusive shops and restaurants. Continue to Santa Barbara beaches and Stearns wharf to “walk on the water” and enjoy the beautiful view of the ocean. Finish your visit at the Spanish Mission Santa Barbara and continue to Solvang, “the Danish capital of America” a quaint Danish community at the heart of California. After your lunch break, head north through Silicon Valley before departing to reach your hotel at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oakland Airport. Day 2: San Fransisco – Bay Cruise – Golden Gate Bridge – ChinatownSummer RouteStart your tour at the Fisherman’s Wharf with a cruise in the world-famous bay. Enjoy great views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Next, return to Pier 39 for a leisurely lunch before an afternoon tour that takes in all the city’s famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union square, Chinatown, and Nob Hill. Stay overnight in Modesto. Winter RouteStart your tour at the Fisherman’s Wharf with a cruise in the world-famous bay. Enjoy great views of both the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz island. Then return to Pier 39 for a leisurely lunch before an afternoon tour that takes in all the city’s famous landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union square, Chinatown, and Nob Hill. Stay overnight at the Springhill Suites Oakland Airport. Day 3: San Fransisco – Yosemite – Los Angeles Summer RouteHead east through the farmlands of the Joaquin Valley to Yosemite National Park. Stop at El Capitan, Bridal-Veil Falls, and Half Dome. See the highest waterfalls in North America, Yosemite Falls. Then head back to Los Angeles in the evening. Winter RouteStart the day with a visit to Monterey including the wharf and Cannery Row. Continue your tour of the beautiful California Coast with a visit to the town of Carmel-by-the-sea. Then head south to the world-famous Route #1 where you'll see the spectacular California coastline up close (small vehicles will travel the southern portion of route 1 while full-size coaches will travel the 17-mile drive exclusively). Then drive back to return to Los Angeles.

Lake Tahoe: Self-Guided Driving Tour

7. Lake Tahoe: Self-Guided Driving Tour

Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! NOTE: This 88+mile-long tour covers the essentials of Lake Tahoe in 2-3 hours. Explore your way on this self-guided driving tour of Lake Tahoe. See the entire lake and all the best vistas, hikes, and swimming spots using an app that functions as a guide, audio tour, and map all in one. Enjoy a tour by local guides, creative writers, and professional voice artists. Begin your tour in Stateline on the southern shore. From there, take a clockwise loop around the lake. While driving, learn about the heated debate between California and Nevada over who technically owns the lake. Visit the summer home of a man who insisted people called his cabin the Vatican. Then, see a few more impressive homes along the shore, including some inspired by Viking longhouses. Next, visit Emerald Bay, Lake Tahoe’s crown jewel. This bay offers stunning views of the water and the mountains beyond, as well as swimming, kayaking, scuba diving, and any other water activities you could want. If you’re in the mood for a waterfall, stop by the Eagle Falls trailhead to see the only waterfall that flows into the lake. Hear the spooky tale of how Lake Tahoe’s only island, Fannette, is supposedly haunted. As you continue, learn about the Washoe tribe who lived here long before any European explorers put it on a map. Next up, see Meeks Bay, a perfect white sand beach to catch some sun. Get the scoop on a presidential visit to the lake, famous residents who occupy the houses along the shore, and learn about the lake’s origins. Pay a visit to Carnelian Bay, where boat racing used to be a big deal in the '30s and '40s. Then, say hello to Kings Beach on the north shore, a perfect picnic spot with views that will make you feel like a royal yourself. Pass by the Cal Neva Casino next, which straddles the border between California and Nevada and was once owned by Frank Sinatra. See more stunning estates along the way. Then, learn about some of the area’s wildlife. Visit the Secret Cove, a perfect spot for those looking for some secluded serenity. Nearing the end of the tour, visit a 300-foot-high vista point for perfect photo opportunities. Conclude your tour by Cave Rock, a remnant of the lake’s most ancient history.

From Vegas to San Francisco: 7-Day National Park Tour

8. From Vegas to San Francisco: 7-Day National Park Tour

Join this action-packed 7-day adventure leaving the bright lights of Vegas to take in the world-famous National Park destinations nearby, whether you decide to lodge indoors or camp outside.  Day 1: Zion National Park & Bryce National Parks  Cut by the Virgin River, Zion Canyon is an impressive mix of white, pink, and red Navajo sandstone cliffs. This is a photographer’s paradise. Stroll around the Emerald Pools trail, enjoy the Temple of Sinawava, Weeping Rock and visit the interpretive Human History museum. After a full afternoon in Zion, you will head to Bryce Canyon. Bryce is distinctive due to geological structures called hoodoos. These red, orange, and white spires provide spectacular views for park visitors. Day 2: Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon & Monument Valley  Head on over to Lake Powell with an optional visit to Antelope Canyon and enjoy the spectacular scenery on the way to the Navajo Indian Tribal Land. Hop aboard a 4X4 jeep and enjoy an included Navajo guided tour of Monument Valley. Day 3: Grand Canyon National Park South Rim Follow the mighty Colorado River through the Painted Desert to one of the seven natural wonders of the world - The Grand Canyon. Stroll along the rim, take a hike into one of the deepest and most diverse canyons on earth or simply relax in one the rim cafes and admire the magnificent view before heading back to the bright city lights of Las Vegas. Camping guests will stay in a hotel in Las Vegas. Day 4: Death Valley National Park Heading to California this morning you will embark on a guided tour of Death Valley National Park. Enjoy photo stops and short walks at Zabriskie Point, Artist’s Palette, Badwater Basin Salt Flats, Furnace Creek Visitor Center, Devil’s Golf Course, and the Mesquite Sand Dunes. After a picnic lunch, you will drive through spectacular scenery to the old Gold Rush Historic town of Bishop for your night stop. Day 5: Tioga Pass* to Yosemite National Park Crossing the Tioga Pass this morning provides an extremely scenic route passing by highlights such as Olmsted Point, Lake Tenaya, Tuolumne Meadows, and Mono Lake en route to Yosemite Valley. * Weather permitting- In the event that the Tioga Pass has closed this tour will route through Lake Isabella instead of Bishop. Day 6: Yosemite National Park - Full Day Spend a full day exploring the walks offered in the park. There are countless walks ranging from easy to strenuous or opt for a guided tour with your expert guide to the premier panoramas such as Bridalveil Falls, Lower Yosemite Falls, views of Half Dome and El Capitan. Day 7: Yosemite to San Francisco Today you will journey to City by the Bay-Your 7 day adventure concludes with a fully guided city tour of this vibrant city.

From Vegas: Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Rockies 11-Day Tour

9. From Vegas: Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Rockies 11-Day Tour

Go on a multi-day trip from Las Vegas to San Fransisco. Choose to camp or stay in hotels. Make your experience even more memorable with a private guide. Day 1: Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park Take a beautiful drive to a 10,000-foot summit through Cedar Breaks. Arrive at Bryce Canyon National Park in time for a delicious rim-side picnic lunch. Then, enjoy a full afternoon of hiking. Day 2: Bryce Canyon to Salt Lake City Go north to Salt Lake City, Utah, home to the tabernacle choir. Spend the afternoon exploring Mormon Pioneer history. Even if you choose the camping option, you will stay in a hotel this night. Day 3: Grand Tetons National Park See the Grand Tetons Mountain Range, which rises above a scene rich with abundant wildlife, pristine lakes, and spectacular mountain peaks. Day 4: Yellowstone National Park Discover the crown jewel of the National Parks and spend two days exploring this huge and fascinating area with your expert tour guide. Explore the mountain wilderness, home to grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of buffalo and elk. Day 5: Yellowstone National Park Continue exploring Yellowstone and go on hikes ranging from easy to moderate and 2 to 5 miles in length. See more spectacular volcanic features. Your guide will tailor hikes to your group's abilities and interests. Day 6: Yellowstone National Park and Rocky Mountains Get up close and personal with some wildlife with a fun and educational visit to the Yellowstone Grizzly Bear and Wolf Discovery Center in the morning. Three major canyons offer great walks and views. Day 7: Snow Canyon and Las Vegas Explore the trails and dunes of beautiful Snow Canyon State Park. Your day concludes in Las Vegas in the late afternoon, leaving you plenty of time to explore this fun city by night. Even if you choose the camping option, you will stay in a hotel this night. Day 8: Death Valley National Park Heading to California in the morning, you will embark on a guided tour of Death Valley National Park. Enjoy photo stops and shorts walks at Zabriskie Point, Artist’s Palette, and Badwater Basin Salt flats. Day 9: Tioga Pass to Yosemite National Park Weather permitting, crossing the Tioga Pass in the morning for an extremely scenic route. Pass by highlights such as Olmsted Point, Lake Tenaya, Tuolumne Meadows, and Mono Lake en route to Yosemite Valley. In the event that the Tioga Pass is closed, this tour will route through Lake Isabella instead of Bishop. Day 10: Full Day at Yosemite National Park Spend a full day exploring the walks offered in the park. There are countless walks ranging from easy to strenuous. You can also opt for a guided tour with your expert guide to the premier panoramas such as Bridalveil Falls, Lower Yosemite Falls, and capture views of Half Dome and El Capitan. Day 11: San Francisco Head to the City by the Bay and complete your adventure with a fully guided tour of this vibrant city. Stops include Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, Haight/Ashbury, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Your tour will finish at around 5:00 PM.

Yosemite National Park: App-Based Audio Guided Driving Route

10. Yosemite National Park: App-Based Audio Guided Driving Route

You can begin this tour from any of Yosemite’s four entrances. No matter the entrance you’ll be using, start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app that will function as your personal guide, audio tour, and map all in one. Note: This 40+mile-long tour covers the essentials of Yosemite in 5-6 hours. From your chosen entrance, you’ll head toward the center of the park. As you drive along the GPS-marked route, you’ll hear about the history of this beautiful park, how it came to be, and the presidential visit that defined its early days. You’ll also get a crash course in the wildlife you might find here and how to spot them! Soon, you’ll reach the Loop Road, which contains the park’s top attractions. First you’ll see Bridalveil Fall, an astonishing waterfall plunging 620 feet to a pool below. Next is Cathedral Beach, offering immaculate views of the imposing cliff El Capitan. Then, you’ll pass the Four-Mile Trail, a famous path which climbs over 3,600 feet along its length. After that is the Yosemite Valley Chapel, a historic church dating back to 1879 which still holds services today! Past that is another historic building: the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center, once home to the storied Sierra Club. Next up is Yosemite Village, a great place to stop for snacks and shops. Beyond the village you’ll find Cook’s Meadow Loop, a relaxing stroll offering perfect waterfall views. You’ll get a great look at Yosemite Falls, a dizzying tall waterfall which puts Bridalveil Fall to shame, clocking in at over 2,400 feet! More adventurous travelers will also find a hiking trail which leads up to the top of those same falls. You’ll pass a trio of mountains called the Three Brothers next, before getting a good look at one of Yosemite’s most famous cliffs: El Capitan. Here, you’ll learn about both the conservationist responsible for preserving this impressive landscape in the first place and the daredevil climber who scaled El Capitan’s towering surface without any safety gear! Finally, you’ll arrive at Hanging Valley Viewpoint, offering sweeping views of Bridalveil Fall and the Merced River. The tour will conclude here, but there are plenty of optional stops left to explore, including a grove of giant sequoias and tons more waterfalls and overlooks! The GPS pins make it easy to customize your visit to Yosemite and visit all the spots you most want to see!

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Frequently asked questions about Sierra Nevada, California Hiking

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What people are saying about Sierra Nevada, California

Great tour, Roman was our guide and he did a fantastic job. The tour was just like it was described. Unfortunately due to weather conditions we could not go to the Sequoias, but still lots to do, and some large trees.

I forgot the name but Bob/Rob a tall guy, incredible skilled driver, provide us amazing facts, all time was fun, amazing, Yosemite completely Worth it, with just walking over there, thanks!!!

It was just amazing . The best part of our awesome US trip. Yosemite is out of the world and the guide in the tour was beyond excellent. A must see

The travel is a little bit long but it is completely recommendable to another person. Yosemite is one of the best places to visit in the USA.

I had a great trip. No words can describe how wonderful. Really love itttt