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The Evolution of Yosemite: 5-Hour Hiking Tour

15 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 15 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Yosemite National Park, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 16 (0) days in advance.

5 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Your journey begins in the heart of Yosemite National Park, where you’ll meet your guide — a local naturalist passionate about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history — before setting off into the towering cliffs and lush meadows that make Yosemite special.

Take in Yosemite's most iconic landmarks — from the majestic face of El Capitan to the thundering roar of Yosemite Falls.

Watch the history of the park unfold with stories of ancient glaciers, indigenous peoples, wild conservationists, and awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Whether you’re wandering through the historic Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, or losing yourself in what natives called the “gaping mouth” of Yosemite Valley, every step offers a chance to reconnect with nature.

With so much to learn and experience, this guided walk is the perfect start to an unforgettable journey through Yosemite National Park.

Book now to reserve your spot and experience Yosemite like never before!

What's Included

  • Vehicle reservation permit
  • Trekking Poles
  • Kids scavenger hunt
  • Hotel pickup/drop-off
  • Food and drinks
  • Park Entrance Fees - $35 (per vehicle)
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Yosemite Valley
CA 95389, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Cooks Meadow Loop

You will meet your guide at Yosemite Village. From there they will take you on a relaxed yet thrilling hike through Cooks Meadow, where you will see sweeping views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Sentinel Rock, and North Dome, while learning all about the park's unique geologic, cultural, and natural history.
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2 hours Admission Ticket Free

Half Dome

Learn the fascinating story of how Half Dome was forged millions of years ago and miles beneath the earth. Recount the native legends of these massive granite cliffs. Stories of bravery, persistence, and the heroic tale of one of nature's smallest, and most unlikely creatures.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Yosemite Falls

The longer you stare at Yosemite Falls, the more you realize something is not quite right with this majestic waterfall. Learn how to read nature's clues, and become a bona fide nature detective, as you unravel the mystery of the tallest waterfall in North America
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Cooks Meadow Loop (pass by)

After hearing tales of forgotten heroes, bold outlaws, and indigenous peoples, you will arrive back where you started with a deep connection to Yosemite that will stay with you long after returning home.
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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • This tour is not wheelchair accessible
  • The estimated step count for this tour is 6283
  • Please Note: National Park fees may apply for international visitors. If applicable, this fee is collected in-destination and not at the time of booking.

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the The Evolution of Yosemite: 5-Hour Hiking Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (PST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-5518012P3

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
15 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 15 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
15
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
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Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 16 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Vehicle reservation permit
  • Trekking Poles
  • Kids scavenger hunt
  • Expert local guide
  • Hotel pickup/drop-off
  • Food and drinks
  • Park Entrance Fees - $35 (per vehicle)
  • Additional National Park Entrance Fee (Non-U.S. Residents Only) USD 100.00 per person

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This tour is not wheelchair accessible
  • The estimated step count for this tour is 6283
  • Please Note: National Park fees may apply for international visitors. If applicable, this fee is collected in-destination and not at the time of booking.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelers

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