DAY 1: The Yosemite Experience
Degnan's Kitchen
Degnan's Kitchen (shuttle stop #4) is a convenient destination for breakfast options to kick-start your day. Degnan's Kitchen serves hot breakfast sandwiches, pastries, freshly baked donuts, handcrafted coffee/espresso drinks and a variety of grab & go options.
Hiking
Winter hiking in Yosemite provides serene hiking opportunities full of snow-capped granite peaks and spectacular views. Hike the Mist Trail to the footbridge (moderate: 1.6 miles, 1-1.5 hours round trip) to see one of the most en-captivating views of Vernal Fall. Another great winter hike is the short trail to Lower Yosemite fall (easy: 1 mile, 30 minutes round trip). The trail is wheel-chair accessible, pet-friendly, and great for visitors of all ages!
Ice Skating
As the day winds down, head to the iconic Curry Village Ice Rink (shuttle stop #14 & #20) offering stunning views of Half Dome. The rink's outdoor fire pit is perfect for watching skaters on the ice and making tasty s'mores.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
An exquisite fine dining experience. Featuring 34-foot, floor-to-ceiling windows that take in the surrounding views and wrought iron chandeliers suspended from the sugar pine timbers and timeless dining room is fit for royalty and is a must see for visitors.
DAY 2: Badger Pass Ski Area
Basecamp Eatery
Basecamp Eatery offers international, Italian, and classic american menus. Be sure to fuel up your afternoon with a specialty coffee from Starbucks inside Basecamp.
Badger Pass Ski Area
Head to California's original ski area to enjoy downhill ski & snowboarding, backcountry ski tours, snowshoeing, snow tubing and cross-country skiing. this affordable family ski area offers gear rentals, lessons, and season passes.
Getting there; don't stress about the drive up the mountain. Sit back and enjoy the views on the free shuttle service from Yosemite Valley lodges. View shuttle schedule.
The Skiers Grill located in the day lodge serves breakfast, lunch and snacks.
Mountain Room
Visit the Mountain Room (shuttle stop #8) at Yosemite Valley Lodge to enjoy perfectly cooked steaks, delicious seafood, and fresh vegetarian options.
Day 3: The Final Experience
The Ahwahnee Dining Room
Dining at The Ahwahnee offers delicious breakfast options such as eggs benedict and three-egg omelet. Also offered, is the breakfast buffet with oatmeal, waffles, pancakes, fruit and more traditional breakfast options.
Save a little time for exploring this historic hotel, an art gallery in itself. Designed to highlight its natural surroundings, the stunning interior design includes stained-glass windows, immense natural-stone fireplaces and Native American design elements. This National Historic Landmark will leave you in awe as you start your final day in Yosemite.
Valley Floor Tour
Kick-off your first day in the park with the Valley Floor Tour. It's a great was to see the valley while learning about the incredible history, flora, and fauna throughout the park. This 2-hour tour is enjoyed from the comfort from a heated bus with panoramic windows. The bus makes multiple scenic stops along the way that are perfect for photo opportunities.
Mountain Room Lounge
Enjoy a casual, sit down dinner at the Mountain Room Lounge. The menu offers lighter fare such as sandwiches, salads and multiple nacho options. Wine, beer, cocktails and desserts are also available.
Before You Go
On your last night, take a walk through the woods with the Yosemite After Dark adventure or go on a cosmic voyage with the Glacier Point Starry Night Skies tour! On the tour, an Interpretive Naturalist will guide you along unpaved trails and share their knowledge with you on a variety of topics ranging from nocturnal animals and their unique adaptations, to night time navigation, to Yosemite’s fascinating plant life and herb lore. Through the Starry Night Skies tour, you’ll learn about the moon, the Milky Way, constellations, comets, meteors, and the folklore that follows!
If you’re lucky enough to be in Yosemite during a winter full moon sign up for a Full Moon Snowshoe Walk with the Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area, available select dates in January and February. A naturalist guide will take you on a snowshoe walk with the full moon above reflecting off the snow below. This is a magical time in Yosemite and an unforgettable experience, don’t miss out!
