Welcome to California! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight in San Francisco – known as the city by the bay, boasting a beautiful setting and multicultural heart. If you arrive early, maybe check out the vintage stores along funky Haight Street, catch the tram down to the waterfront or take an adventure cruise on the bay past Alcatraz Island. After your meeting, maybe find a local restaurant and get to know your fellow travellers over dinner.
This morning, hit the road headed for Yosemite National Park. When you arrive, set off on your first hike of the trip – a short downhill hike through the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. The grove is home to a couple dozen mature giant sequoia trees, including one that’s been carved into a tunnel that you can walk right through. After your hike, head to your accommodation – a rustic mountain lodge in the heart of the National Park.
The Mist Trail is Yosemite's signature hike and today you get to experience it for yourself. Starting from the east of Yosemite Valley you’ll cross the Vernal Fall Footbridge, make your way up granite stairways and zig-zag up rocky switchbacks. The trail gets you right up close to Vernal and Nevada Falls, so be sure to pack your rain gear as you’ll get sprayed! As you hike, take in the panoramic views across the valley toward the iconic Half Dome and rock formation and along the Merced River. Tonight, maybe rest up back at the lodge or find a local restaurant for dinner – your leader will have the best recommendations.
After breakfast, set off along Glacier Point Road to Sentinel Dome. Hike through red fir forest to the top of the dome and take in the beautiful views over the valley and high country from the summit. Then, continue along the southern rim of Yosemite Valley to Taft Point and the Fissures. Here, there are some amazing views of El Capitan and the Cathedral Rocks. Spend some time looking for local black bears before heading back through the mixed conifer forest, where you’ll finish today’s hike. The rest of the night is free for you to explore the park at your own pace.
This morning is free for you to explore Yosemite National Park at your own pace. Maybe head to Yosemite Valley for a solo hiking adventure or wander through a local museum and learn about the region’s history. This afternoon, set off on a walk from Yosemite Conservancy. As you walk from the historic Ahwahnee Hotel through the meadows of Yosemite Valley and past the ruins of an old pioneer village, you’ll hear Native American stories and learn about the important work the group ds for the Native American community and preserving their culture within the park. After your hike, travel back to Yosemite and maybe head for dinner with your group – a great way to celebrate a trip well-travelled.
Say goodbye to Yosemite, as you head west to San Francisco. Stop in at a local restaurant along the way for a final lunch with your group, before walking over the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Your adventure then finishes when you arrive in San Francisco this afternoon. If you’d like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
