Yosemite national park is one of those places you have to visit in order to appreciate its majestic pull. Although it’s not North America’s biggest park but it is definitely one of the countries best. Here are our top 6 activities for a family adventure when visiting Yosemite.
1. Expert Led activities
We cannot emphasise this enough – having an expert by your side will make the park really come to life. Our guides aren’t only phenomenal at hiking around the park – knowing each nook and cranny of the must-see Half Dome for example – but most importantly they are extremely well versed on what it takes to keep little minds and feet from tiring. Their energy and passion will ignite each person, old and young, who comes within a bear’s whisper of them.
We also arrange guided programs depending on your family’s interests. Favourites include photography, stargazing, mountaineering and young ranger programs. Half days, full days and overnight back-packing experiences are all on offer.
2. Exploring on two wheels
Within Yosemite there are 12 miles/19km of designated bike trails, rent a couple of bikes and go exploring. Biking is one of the easiest ways to ensure your family see all the highlights Yosemite has to offer. And as the Valley is flat it is a great option for the whole gang.
3. Indian Culture
The site of Mariposa Town was home to the Southern Miwok Indians who lived in central California for generations before the European settlers arrived. Visit the grounds of the former Indian village of Wahhoga and hear from one of their ancestors as he tells you about the little-discussed brutal chapter of Yosemite history
4. Wet and Wild
In spring, enjoy Whitewater rafting in the Merced River Canyon. For younger children we recommend you go upstream where large rafts will take you for a gentler ride down the river. We can arrange an afternoon picnic for your family to enjoy on the bank of the Merced River. Watch the children swimming in the river with the Half Dome in the distance…. bliss
5. Family adventuring
Ziplining, horseback riding, rappelling, roping lessons and gold panning can all be organised within the park. For children (and adults) we can get you booked into a super cool mountaineering school. The rock-climbing guides will get you to the highest peaks in Yosemite. They know the cliffs like the back of their hand and can enhance everyones experience, from pros to the complete novice.
6. Sleep overnight in an Airstream
Glamping is a wonderful way to enjoy a night under the stars, in a custom designed luxury Airstream. Really connect your family with the beautiful environment and get completely immersed in your surroundings. Inspired by the wanderlust of camping and the great American road trip, it’s an experience the family won’t forget.
Whatever age, ability or interests your family have, Yosemite awakens your sense of outdoors adventure. It’s a place you really have to experience to fully understand how enchanting and special this part of our world is. Yosemite really should be on your family’s adventure radar, give us a call to see how best to fit it in to your California itinerary.
