Yosemite, California
Don't miss the shortcut...
- More about your Oliver Guide: Caroline Kesmodel
- Trip type: Family, Mountains
- Activity level: high
- Ideal length of trip: 3 nights/ 4 days - We went in late August, great weather and missed crowds. End of October was surprisingly cold, and some crowds.
to & from
- Don't count on GPS as it can be inaccurate and you will lose cell coverage at many points.
- Definitely print your directions old school and depart before 3PM.
- Don't miss the shortcut (just past Moccasin, take Right on Old Priest Grade Road.) A serious incline…but shaves 20 minutes off the drive. If you miss it, stay on 120.
- Keep your gas tank full, once near Yosemite gas stations are few and far between.
Where to Stay
There are only two main resorts we preferred. Both owned by a Tiburon family.
Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
34001 California 120, Groveland, CA
1 209-379-2373
Rush Creek, the newer of the two, opened 2017. Evergreen Lodge is a more rustic experience, yet still a great find. Both properties have pools, spas, exercise classes, onsite dining, s’mores/fires, live music, playrooms and guides for hikes. We preferred Rush Creek for the newer rooms and amenities– such as AC, new pool, hot tubs, 2 great dining spots, cute market and amazing playroom, treehouse and game room. None of the rooms have TVs, but there is satellite radio and lots of games/books provided. Pack accordingly if you need screens, hotspots, etc. Wifi is limited. We liked a room overlooking the pool.