Springtime in Yosemite & the Sugar Pine Railroad
Come along on a 5-day journey to the Scenic Sierra Mountains and witness the newness of springtime in majestic Yosemite National Park.
Book NowSpringtime in Yosemite & the Sugar Pine Railroad
Travel with us to Yosemite National Park in spring, when granite cliffs stand bright against clear skies, waterfalls rush with snowmelt, wildflowers bloom, and pine forests fill the air with a fresh mountain fragrance. This excursion blends Yosemite’s legendary scenery with memorable discoveries and welcoming mountain hospitality.
Enjoy two nights at the magnificent Tenaya Lodge, nestled among towering pines just outside the park and perfectly situated for exploring Yosemite’s iconic landscapes. A narrated Valley Floor Tram Tour brings the park’s geology, history, and landmarks into focus, followed by a classic lunch in the storied Ahwahnee Hotel, where soaring beams and panoramic windows frame the beauty of Yosemite Valley. Free time in the park allows for relaxed exploration of waterfalls, village paths, and galleries.
Along the way, discover some of California’s most unexpected treasures, including the remarkable Forestiere Underground Gardens. On a guided walk, explore an astonishing hand-carved subterranean world of passageways, courtyards, gardens, and living spaces created over a span of four decades by Baldassare Forestiere—an inspiring feat of vision, patience, and ingenuity.
Classic mountain experiences round out the journey, from a scenic narrow-gauge railroad expedition through pine forests aboard the historic Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad to a relaxed barbecue lunch beneath the towering trees. The adventure concludes at Wonder Valley Ranch Resort, where warm hospitality, hearty meals, a horse-drawn hayride, a hosted happy hour, and lively entertainment create a welcoming and memorable finale.
Your spring voyage includes an overnight stay in Bakersfield, two nights at Tenaya Lodge, one night at Wonder Valley Ranch Resort, guided sightseeing in Yosemite National Park, a historic railroad experience, a guided Underground Gardens tour, 9 meals, and more.
Tour Fare:
$1,985 per person double occupancy
$2,495 per person single occupancy
Early Booking Savings:
First 1-20 to book save $100 per person off the above fare!
Next 21-30 to book save $50 per person off the above fare
Optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) - Cancel for any reason 2 or more hours prior to your departure time to receive a full refund.
$150 per person, double or triple occupancy
$175 per person, single occupancy
Deposit and Final Payment:
A deposit of $150 per person plus optional CPP is due at time of booking.
Final balance due March 17, 2026.
Yosemite National Park
Lunch in the Famous Ahwahnee Dining Room
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
Tenaya Lodge in Yosemite
Wonder Valley Entertainment
Dalton Pond at Wonder Valley Ranch Resort
Free Activities at Wonder Valley Ranch Resort
Forestiere Underground Gardens
Horse-Drawn Hayride at Wonder Valley
5-Day Vacation
All routing and timing is subject to change without notice.
Day 1
This morning, we leave behind the familiar pace of San Diego as the promise of mountain grandeur and discovery beckons northward. Our first stop brings us into the heart of downtown Los Angeles for a visit to the iconic Grand Central Market, a lively gathering place since 1917. Beneath glowing signs and amid the hum of conversation, you'll enjoy lunch on your own, with an array of tempting choices ranging from classic deli favorites and authentic Mexican fare to creative offerings from modern artisanal vendors. After lunch, we step into the story of the American West at the Autry Museum. Here, art, history, and storytelling come together to explore the cultures, pioneers, and traditions that shaped the frontier. By late afternoon, we arrive in Bakersfield, where the wide-open Central Valley meets the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Then, gather for a hearty included dinner at the ever-popular Cracker Barrel restaurant, known for its welcoming atmosphere and classic country-style fare.
DDay 2
After breakfast at the Hilton Garden Inn, we continue north through California's fertile heartland. Our morning brings us to the Sun-Maid Raisin Market, home to the Guinness World Record-recognized largest box of raisins in the world. This iconic stop offers a fun glimpse into one of California's most well-known agricultural stories, along with time to browse specialty foods, gifts, and locally-inspired treats. From here, we travel to Fresno for a remarkable experience at Forestiere Underground Gardens. Led by a knowledgeable docent, a guided walking tour reveals an astonishing subterranean world of rooms, gardens, courtyards, and passageways hand-carved over forty years by Italian immigrant Baldassare Forestiere. Using only simple tools, he created this intricate complex to capture light, air, and relief from the Central Valley heat-an inspiring testament to vision, patience, and perseverance. The day concludes as we arrive at the elegant Tenaya Lodge, nestled among towering pines just outside Yosemite National Park. You'll unpack for a relaxing two-night stay and enjoy an included dinner at the lodge, a welcoming and comfortable end to a day filled with discovery.
B, DDay 3
This morning, we set out for a full day amidst the living masterpiece of Yosemite National Park. Near the West Entrance, a brief stop at one of the park's most iconic viewpoints offers a memorable first glimpse of the valley's towering granite and cascading waterfalls. Next, board the Yosemite Valley Floor Tram for a narrated tour, an easy and engaging way to experience Yosemite's legendary scenery, with expert commentary highlighting the park's geology, history, and natural wonders. Lunch served in the magnificent dining room of the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, where grand architecture and panoramic windows frame the surrounding beauty. Afterward, join your Tour Manager for an optional stroll to Yosemite's famous waterfalls or enjoy free time exploring Yosemite Village. Shops, exhibits, scenic pathways, and the Ansel Adams Gallery are easily accessible via the park's convenient shuttle system. As the afternoon winds down, return to the comfort of Tenaya Lodge, where a relaxing evening nestled among the pines awaits.
B, LDay 4
The morning unfolds at a relaxed pace at Tenaya Lodge before a late-morning departure for the Sugar Pine Railroad, a cherished Sierra Nevada landmark celebrating the region's logging heritage. Surrounded by towering pines, this nostalgic attraction gives a glimpse into the era when narrow-gauge railroads helped shape mountain life. Enjoy a barbecue chicken sandwich lunch beneath the tall pines before boarding the historic logging train for a one-hour narrated excursion through the forest. As the train winds along scenic tracks, you'll pass dense pine and cedar groves, cross wooden trestles, and follow gentle curves revealing peaceful woodland views and echoes of the area's past. Following the rail journey, we continue south to Wonder Valley Ranch Resort, known for its beautiful setting and warm hospitality. The evening includes a horse-drawn hayride around the ranch and a hosted happy hour, followed by a delicious dinner and lively entertainment.
L, DDay 5
The final morning unfolds at an easy pace at Wonder Valley Ranch Resort, with time to enjoy breakfast and take part in ranch activities before a mid-morning departure. As the journey turns homeward, we pause for a farewell lunch at Hungry Hunter Steakhouse, a longtime favorite known for its welcoming atmosphere and satisfying fare. Continuing south, a scenic stop at the Vista del Lago Visitor Center showcases sweeping views of Pyramid Lake, providing a perfect opportunity for photos and a final moment to take in California's diverse landscapes. From here, the road leads back to San Diego, where you'll arrive home carrying fond memories of new friendships, unforgettable scenery, and the lasting impressions of springtime in Yosemite National Park.
B, LB=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner
Tour Manager:* TBA
*Tour Manager is subject to change without notice.
Activity Level: Moderate
This tour involves walking on uneven terrain and inclines. Guests should be prepared for moderate distances on foot in Yosemite. Walking is mostly at your own pace at each destination. All facilities visited are ADA accessible, though ADA rooms are limited and must be requested in advance.
Highest Elevation
You'll spend two nights at a sustained elevation of 5,288 feet while staying at Tenaya Lodge. The highest elevation you’ll reach is about 6,000 feet en route to Yosemite Valley.
What's Included in the Tour Fare
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Round-trip luxury motor coach transportation from pickup locations throughout San Diego County
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Professional Tour Manager throughout the trip
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Bottled waters and snacks on the coach
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1 night at Hilton Garden Inn, Bakersfield
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2 nights at Tenaya Lodge Yosemite, just outside the park
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1 night at Wonder Valley Ranch Resort
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Guided Valley Floor tram tour of Yosemite National Park
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Evening entertainment at Wonder Valley Ranch Resort
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Horse-drawn hayride at Wonder Valley Ranch Resort
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2-drink complimentary happy hour at Wonder Valley
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9 meals: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches (including one at the majestic Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite), and 3 dinners
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Luggage handling at Tenaya Lodge and Wonder Valley (not available at Hilton Garden Inn)
What's Not Included in the Tour Fare
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Travel insurance
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Room incidentals and personal purchases
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Alcoholic beverages not listed in the itinerary
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Archery, horseback riding, and other optional paid ranch activities at Wonder Valley
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Gratuities for the Tour Manager and driver
How to Book Your Reservation
Booking your reservation is easy. Simply click the Book Now button above to select your date and confirm your space online, 24/7. You can also speak to a live agent through the DayTripper reservations department during regular business hours M-F, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Deposit and Final Payment
A deposit of $150 per person is required to secure your booking, with the final balance due 45 days prior to departure.
Smartphones
Although not necessary to fully enjoy your trip, a personal smartphone can greatly enhance your tour experience. Take high-quality photos, share your experience on social media in real time, search for nearby restaurants and topics of interest, set reminders, and much more.
45-Day Cancellation Deadline
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If you purchased the Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) before the cancellation deadline, your tour is fully refundable up until two hours prior to the tour departure time (see below). If you did not purchase the CPP you may cancel your booking forty-five (45) or more days prior to the departure date to receive a refund less a $100 per person cancellation fee. Alternatively, when you cancel your booking forty-five (45) or more days prior to the departure date, we can waive the cancellation fee and transfer the full amount to another tour or a non-refundable voucher, which can be applied to any future excursion booked within one year of the original tour date. Cancellations within 45 days of departure are nonrefundable and nontransferable for any reason if you did not purchase the CPP.
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Passenger name changes, deviations, or other changes made by the passenger after the final payment deadline has passed will be assessed a $50 per person change fee plus any fees incurred by the service providers. No refunds, transfers or credits can be issued for any reason on bookings canceled after the cancellation deadline.
Optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) - Cancel for any reason and receive a full refund.
DayTripper Tours offers an optional Cancellation Protection Plan (CPP) for this tour. The CPP allows you to cancel your reservation for any reason at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time for a full refund (less the cost of the CPP). The CPP may be purchased prior to the tour’s stated cancellation deadline. To cancel your reservation, please call (619) 334-3394 during business hours to notify a reservations agent, or leave a time-stamped voice message after hours at least one hour prior to your scheduled departure time, and your refund will be processed. CPP does not cover the single supplement of the remaining traveler when a traveling companion cancels from a double occupancy reservation. The CPP is not insurance, but rather an agreed-upon cancellation fee paid in advance for the right to cancel a reservation according to the terms stated in this clause. Protect yourself even further with Travel Insurance (see below). CPP is not offered on tours that include air, rail, or cruise line transportation.
Protect Your Investment with Travel Insurance
At DayTripper Tours, we recommend you purchase insurance to help protect against unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss, or even sudden sickness or injury, all of which could impact your excursion. In today’s ever-changing travel environment, you can relax and enjoy your trip with the security of knowing those unexpected circumstances are covered by a travel protection plan. You can purchase travel insurance from any company you choose; however, for your convenience, we offer travel protection through Travelex Insurance Services (CA Agency License #0D10209). For more information and to receive a quote, click here. Please note: Your policy must be purchased on or before the date you submit your final payment for the tour in order to be eligible for the pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.
| Name | Address | Times |
|---|---|---|
| Carlsbad | La Costa Avenue Park & Ride East side of I-5, at 710 La Costa Ave, 92024. | View |
| La Mesa | Park & Ride #22 lot - 8703 Murray Dr, 91942 Narrow Park & Ride Across from Wells Fargo Bank | View |
| Mission Valley | 2005 Camino Del Este San Diego, CA 92108; Street parking only | View |
| University City | 6245 Kantor Street, San Diego, CA 92122 Street parking only. Do not enter parking lot. | View |
| From Price | Book Now | Call Back | Telephone | Favorites | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sat 05/02/26 | $1,985.00 | Book Now | Contact Us |  | |
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