7 Best Hiking Tours in Yosemite for Fall (With Reviews)

Fall is a perfect time to visit Yosemite National Park. While the waterfalls themselves may not flow as fully as they do in the spring, the cooler weather, fewer crowds, and fall colors more than make up for it. If you’re looking for hiking tours in Yosemite for fall, I’ve put together the best-reviewed hikes for families and groups. 

Last year I hiked the full length of Yosemite Falls Trail. Although I experienced tears and physical exhaustion along the way, the arduous journey up Yosemite Falls taught me lessons about trust and determination that I carry with me to this day. 

Thanks to our experience, I pulled together the best Yosemite hiking tours with professional guides you can take in Yosemite National Park. Perhaps if we had a guided hikes tour, I wouldn’t have ended up in tears! Truthfully, however, hiking in Yosemite is easily the best guided hiking tours the USA has to offer. 

These Yosemite National Park hiking tours are geared towards families and teenagers looking to explore at their own pace, with a light challenge on some of them. This does not include backpacking trips or overnight camping. 

Quick Guide: Best Hiking Tours in Yosemite

Fall is one of the best times to visit. I searched through the most popular hikes and tours to find ones that had availability during the full. While the Sierra Nevada Mountains and surrounding areas do not explode in the reds, you’ll still witness the famous landmarks in beautiful golds and yellows, making this best time to hike.

Top 3 Best Hiking Tours Yosemite

1. Yosemite Valley Private Hiking Tour

If you want to truly customize your experience and do something different, this Yosemite Valley Private Hiking tour is for you. 

A full-day adventure can include experiences you choose. Listed expertise items include:

• Yosemite Falls
• Bridalveil Falls
• The nose of El Capitan
• Happy Islaes
• Mist Trail
• Mirror Lake
• Royal Arches
• Secret caves

Add in other valley highlights like the Pioneer Village and cemetery, the Ahwahnee Hotel.

Your Yosemite hiking Guide carries first aid kits, water purification, toilet paper, sunscreen, and bug spray. 

“Everything was amazing, the guide Maddie was great very knowledgeable, and kind. We loved it and totally recommend it.”(Read more reviews)

As for guided hikes in Yosemite, you can’t go wrong with this one. This tour has 54 5-star reviews. Since it’s customizable, it appears as if the guides work hard to bring you to the sights you want to see.

Plus, I liked the mention of first aid kits and more included on this hike.

Important info:

• Departure Point: Curry Village
• End Point: The hike ends at the starting point
• Options: Beginner or Moderate
• Time: 8 hours
• Minimum 1 people
• Maximum 10 people
• Dates include September to November
• *note – pricing is for adults. No children’s pricing is available but this could be used as a family hike as well.
• Food: none

2. Full Day Small Group Hiking Tour

This full-day tour is tailored to the group and lets you immerse yourself in the fresh mountain air as the description goes.

This group is capped at 8 hikers and is one of the most reasonably priced for a day hiking tour on Viator. 

You will drive through the valley and stop and do short walks along areas such as Bridalveil falls, the shores of the Merced River, and Mirror Lake.

The Pohono Trail has Tunnel View, one of the most popular views in the park.

“This was a really great experience! They were really helpful when setting up the trip, and it was really educational! I learned a lot, and there were some amazing views!! (read more reviews)

While this is not a full day of just hiking, as there is transportation to the trails. It’s a good tour for catching the highlights of Yosemite hiking with an experienced guide. 

I like this one for the ease for families looking get maximize their trip to Yosemite National Park. If you don’t have a lot of experience hiking, the breaks between highlights in an air-conditioned vehicle will be welcome. 

Plus, an added benefit for families is the amount you and your children can learn. The guides are experienced in teaching about nature, botany, geology, and history. 

Important info:

• Departure Point: Chose your hotel pickup point at booking
• End Point: The hike ends at the starting point
• Options: Beginner
• Time: 6-7 hours
• Minimum 1 people
• Maximum 8 people
• Dates include September to mid-October
• *note – pricing is for adults. 
• Pricing includes pickup
• Food: Snacks included

3. Private Family Hike in Yosemite National Park

Let your family explore the awe-inspiring Yosemite landscape on a half-day tour led by a professional guide. Whether you’re looking for an easy hike or moderate trek, they offer trails tailored to suit every skill level and traverse through both Yosemite Valley and the High Country. 

Reap the rewards of visiting one of America’s top national parks, and pause to enjoy a picturesque picnic by a tranquil lake, stream, or alpine meadows.

My favorite thing about this tour is that you can select the time that best fits your family. If your family is not early risers, there is no need to hit the trails at 7 am. Multiple times are offered throughout the day. 

David‘s knowledge of the topography, trees, birds, animals, and local history and climbing, was just what we hoped to learn about on our visit to Yosemite. His enthusiasm and care for the wilderness were evident. He accommodated two adolescents well. All around just great. (Read more reviews)

Another benefit of this tour is that it is a private small group tour with a guide, you choose the pace and when you want to stop for photos. 

Plus, your guide can include you in the photos! I know how many pictures I’ve taken over the years that do not include me. Parents, get in the photos!

Your guide is not only skilled at taking you and your family on the hike, they know the area as well. He or she will fill you and your kids with information about the wildlife, scenery, trees, and local history. One reviewer wrote, “ our guide, was completely knowledgeable about every area of the park and timed it out spectacularly”

Important info:

• Departure Point: Chosen after booking, customized to family
• End Point: The hike ends at the starting point
• Options: Beginner and Moderate hike
• Time: 4-6 hours
• Minimum 4 people
• Maximum 9 people
• Dates include September, October, and November
• *note – pricing is for adults. While this is billed as a family hike, it does not appear to discount the children’s admission.

Check Prices Here! Reserve Now and Pay later

4. Two Days Private Tour and Hike

Take your adventure even further with a 2-day private hiking tour Yosemite.

While this does not include your accommodations, essentially you are guaranteeing that you will get 2 full days of customizable hikes in both Yosemite Valley and Yosemite’s High Country and Giant Sequoias.

Speaking from experience, many people miss visiting the Giant Sequoia Trees in Yosemite National Park because they associate it what Sequoia National Park. However, Mariposa Grove was one of the highlights of our trip. 

Here you’ll also spend time visiting Tuolumne Meadows, Four Mile Trail, and Glacier Point. 

“We had never been to Yosemite and now can’t imagine trying to take it all in without the help of our guide, Malo. She was more than exceptional in showing us hikes that were gorgeous and much less crowded than other areas. She explained history, plants, and answered our endless questions with ease. She prepared a perfect picnic lunch on both days and kept us happy with snacks and water refills.”(Read more reviews)

Lunch is included on both days as well as hotel pickup. 

Individual prices reduce with more family members. It’s nearly as much for 4 as it is for 2, so don’t be dismayed by the price. 

Important info:

• Departure Point: Chosen after booking, customized to family
• End Point: The hike ends at the starting point
• Options: Beginner and Moderate
• Time:8 hours a day
• Minimum 1 people
• Maximum 12 people
• Dates include September, October, and November
• *note – pricing is for adults. 
• Food: Lunch included

Check Prices Here! 

5. Yosemite Valley Discovery Walk

#/5 or 10 (# Reviews) 

I like that this one is called a discovery walk and not a hike. While yes, this is a blog post about hiking, not everyone is up to the skill level to call themselves hikers. 

all you have to do is pick an adventure outfitter to meet your guide at or arrange for pickup in Groveland. In less than one full day, you’ll be in for an unforgettable journey through the spectacular sights of Yosemite Valley, including the iconic Half Dome, El Capitan, and more than half a dozen captivating waterfalls! 

“First time to Yosemite which our guide Brian from Echo tours covered every aspect of the park Extremely knowledgeable and informative” – (Read more reviews)

This is not listed as a private tour, so I would assume it’s a small group tour. Maximum bookings up to 9.

Additionally, from Mid-October on, it’s an all-inclusive Winter adventure with hiking into the Giant Sequoias with snowshoes and lunch included. The price is slightly more with the additional cost of lunch. If you’re choosing September or early October for your Fall hiking tour, it’s the Yosemite Valley Discovery Walk. 

Important info:

• Departure Point: Chosen after booking, your hotel
• End Point: The hike ends at the starting point
• Options: Beginner and Moderate, if there is snow, snowshoes are provided
• Time: 7 hours
• Minimum 1 people
• Maximum 9 people
• Dates include September, October, and November
• *note – pricing is for adults. Hotel pickup included
• Food: snacks and bottled water

6. Private Tuolumne Meadows Hiking Tour

Unleash your inner explorer and discover the stunning beauty of Yosemite’s Tuolumne Meadows on a full-day, unforgettable outdoor journey. Join an experienced guide in the morning, where you will customize a plan tailored just for you. 

Choose to embark on a leisurely hike up to the magnificent summit of Lembert Dome, marvel at the breathtaking views of Dog Lake, and stop at Soda Springs. 

All along your journey, you will be fully equipped with your guide’s provided necessities including a water purification system, first aid kits, and much more. 

Take time to break for a picnic lunch and snacks. Proceeds from this tour support local Yosemite youth summer programs.

“WOW~ Our tour of such an unexpectedly beautiful area was enriched by the daylong conversation and touring with Will. We saw varied areas including a lake, a stream, and a rock dome, some wildlife, and exceptional views (and he could name just about every peak within view). (Read more reviews)

This customizable Yosemite hiking tour supports a summer youth camp. The guides are part of the camp as well, so you know they are going to be great with families. 

Once again this is a private tour and is customizable to your skill level.

Important info:

• Departure Point: Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center
• End Point: The hike ends at the starting point
• Options: Beginner and Moderate
• Time: 8 hours
• Minimum 1 people
• Maximum 12 people
• Dates include September, October
• *note – pricing is for adults, *note – pricing is for adults. Pricing varies by group size. The price per person reduces with more people. (same price for 2 as it would be for 4)
• Food: Lunch included

7. Yosemite Day Hike from Glacier Point including Panorama Trail

This full-day hike covers Illilouette Falls, Nevada Falls, and Vernal Falls. This moderately strenuous 8.5-mile hike covers spectacular views of Half Dome.

After a 1-hour shuttle ride to Glacier Point, you’ll be gein your hike on foot to the valley floor. During your ride, you’ll learn about Yosemite National Park from your expert guide. 

This is a small group tour, so you may travel with other hikers. However, the tour maintains a 1:6 guide-to-hiker ratio, ensuring you get a truly personalized experience. 

“Our full-day hike all through Yosemite was incredible. Janna our guide was a 5 Star! Knowledgeable, professional, helpful, and courteous. Can’t get any better. Next year, we plan to come back to Yosemite…and we’re picking Lasting Adventures!” (read more reviews)

You’ll view Half Dom from Glacier Point as well as Yosemite, Nevada, and Vernal Falls, You’ll pass by Vernal Falls on the Mist Trail, one of the most popular hiking trails in the park.

Note that in 2022, the Glacier Point Tour was modified as there was limited to no access to Glacier Point Road. Please check in advance for 2023. 

From there you’ll hike the Panorama Trail which gives you the best views of Half Dome.

Important info:

• Departure Point: Yosemite Valley Lodge
• End Point: The hike ends at the starting point
• Start time: 9:00 am
• Time: 9.5 hours
• Minimum 1
• Maximum 8 people
• Dates Through Mid-October
• *note – pricing is for adults. Pricing varies by group size. Price per person reduces with more people
• Bring your own food and water bottles

FAQs:

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

I’d recommend one of the lodges or hotels as many of the tours offer pick-up from popular places. However, if you have a car or rent a car, you can drive yourself into the valley and opt to stay in a VRBO. 

Inside Yosemite National Park

Ahwahnee Lodge – Iconic Yosemite Lodge in the Valley

Yosemite Valley Lodge – Modern lodge with balcony rooms to enjoy the views all night long. 

Curry Village Glamping Tents – Next to Yosemite Valley – Rated 9.5 for location 

Near Yosemite National Park

Yosemite View Lodge – nestled in the mountains along the Merced River, in El Portal

Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite – Gorgeous views and kid-friendly

Final Thoughts: 7 Best Hiking Tours in Yosemite for Fall

If you have limited time in Yosemite, then I’d highly recommend one of these tours. You’ll get a knowledgeable guide and many times a customizable experience. Especially if you do not have transportation, having a tour that picks you up and explores areas such as the Valley loop trail, is worth the extra cost. 

Do you like to do National Park Hiking? If you want to explore more day hikes in the California National Parks, check out my road trip guide to discover the best itinerary for the California National Parks. 

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