Wanderlust Travel Magazine (UK)
MAKE IT HAPPEN
HOW TO GET THERE
British Airways runs direct flights from London Heathrow to San Francisco that take 10.5 hours. Once you land, hire a car from the airport for the ultimate freedom and flexibility.
Or take the Amtrak San Joaquins train from San Francisco, changing at Emeryville to reach Merced station (less than four hours). Between May and September, the YARTS 120 bus route takes you direct from Merced to Yosemite.
WHEN TO GO
Tuolumne County offers year-round adventure. Visit the High Sierra in spring to see the foothills alive with green grass and wildflowers, or go between late November and April to make the most of the snow. Comfortable temperatures make spring and autumn a great time to visit the cities in Gold Country. To see Yosemite in full bloom and for snowfree hiking, visit in June.
Alternatively, go during the winter for downhill and cross-country skiing, along with many other winter sports. Spring is an exciting time to visit Yosemite, when the melting snow means the park’s many waterfalls and creeks are at their fullest, making for dramatic, rushing flows. Be aware that the Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station is often closed due to snow from November to June.
HIT THE ROAD WITH BA HOLIDAYS
On a Fly-drive California trip with BA Holidays, you can land at San Francisco International Airport, pick up your car and be out on the road in no time. Spend your first few nights exploring the city by the bay, taking time to walk in the Golden Gate Park. Next, head north-west over the Golden Gate Bridge to Lake Tahoe to take in its 115km shoreline. Afterwards, continue your drive to Tuolumne County to explore the gold rush history of Jamestown and the hiking trails of the High Sierra, before finishing up in the dramatic landscapes of Yosemite National Park. San Francisco flights and 7 days car hire from £717pp. Book at: britishairways.com
TACKLE THE TRAILS WITH EXODUS
Embark on one of the finest hikes in North America, the John Muir Trail, with Exodus Travels. During the 22-day hike you’ll be joined by an expert guide and will walk over 330km. You will start with a climb of 4,422mhigh Mount Whitney before following the spine of California’s High Sierra, passing three national parks, alpine peaks, beautiful meadows and forested river valleys along the way. Eventually, 22 days later, you will arrive at Tuolumne Meadows with the pristine river running through flower-filled fields, backed by undulating peaks making for a fine reward for your efforts.
This 23-day trip includes accommodation, all meals, transport, listed activities and tour leaders from £2,879pp. Flights not included. Book at: exodus.co.uk
EXPLORE YOSEMITE WITH BON VOYAGE
On Bon Voyage’s 12-day Water, Wine & Wilderness tour you will travel from San Francisco into Sonoma County before heading into Yosemite National Park. As well as the famous Tioga Pass, you will enjoy sights such as Tuolumne Meadows and Hetch Hetchy, where imperious peaks loom over the reservoir. An expert guide will be on hand to show you around and ensure you don’t miss a thing.
This 12-night trip includes return flights, hotels, listed activities and a tour of Yosemite National Park with a local guide. From £2,215pp. Book at: bon-voyage.co.uk