Experience Yosemite Valley: Private Tour and Roosevelt Cookout Along the Merced River
Discover Yosemite Valley through a private guided tour that blends iconic sightseeing with a riverside cookout. Swim in the Merced River and savor a locally sourced dinner in an unforgettable natural setting.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring sturdy walking shoes
Trails around Yosemite Valley feature varied terrain including dirt paths and rocky sections; supportive footwear ensures comfort and safety.
Carry reusable water
Yosemite’s 4,000-foot elevation can dehydrate you faster—pack a reusable water bottle and stay hydrated during the tour.
Prepare for temperature changes
Afternoons can be warm but evenings cool quickly; layering clothing helps you stay comfortable from hike to cookout.
Book pickup in advance
Pick-up times are fixed and coordinated; arrange your pick-up ahead to avoid delays and streamline your experience.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias, a quieter alternative to Mariposa Grove
- •Less frequented Merced River swimming spots near the cookout area
Wildlife
- •Black-tailed deer
- •Peregrine falcons soaring off granite cliffs
Conservation Note
Tour operators hold B-Corp certification ensuring environmental stewardship and worker-owned business practices support sustainable tourism.
Yosemite Valley was inhabited by the Ahwahneechee people before becoming a focal point for the U.S. conservation movement led by John Muir in the late 1800s.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bridalveil Fall Trailhead
- • Merced River cookout site
- • El Capitan overlook from valley floor
What to Bring
Comfortable hiking shoesEssential
Needed for walking uneven valley trails comfortably.
Swimsuit
Optional for swimming in the Merced River during warmer months.
Layered clothingEssential
Adjust clothing to handle warm days and cool evenings.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Helps maintain hydration at elevation throughout the day.
Common Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and accommodates all ages with mostly easy walking and relaxing stops.
Are vegetarian or other dietary options available?
Yes, vegetarian and other dietary requests can be accommodated with advance notice.
Do I need prior hiking experience?
No prior hiking experience is required; the walking portions are easy and paced to the group.
Are swimsuits and towels provided for the river swim?
Swimsuits and towels are not provided, so bring your own if you plan to swim.
Is transportation included?
Yes, private vehicle transportation with pick-up and drop-off from selected locations is included.
Do I need a park entrance pass?
The tour price includes national park reservation and entrance fees, but guest vehicles entering independently may require a separate pass.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Groveland, California
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all physical fitness levels; moderate walking with occasional gentle inclines.
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