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.