Dear Redwoods Guests,

We consider you part of our The Redwoods family and your safety remains our highest priority. We are in the business of serving guests and in the midst of this coronavirus outbreak it is important that we give you flexibility when planning your stay in Yosemite National Park with us. It is equally important that we give you as much information as possible about the our procedures in order to maintain a sanitary environment when we reopen, and minimize risk of disease exposure.

So today, I wanted to personally reach out and share the important steps we are taking for you, our customers, at The Redwoods In Yosemite. Our new guidelines are focused on increased sanitation, hygiene, social distancing, employee and guest safety, and are in full accordance with the California Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published industry standards and guidance. 

Your Travel Plans at The Redwoods 

We continue our commitment to provide all Redwoods guests with flexible booking options. Given these unique circumstances we are making additional adjustments to our individual booking policies to give you extra peace of mind:

• New and Existing Reservations. All reservations affected by the international travel restrictions scheduled for arrival before June 1, 2020, can be changed or cancelled at no charge. Reservations scheduled to arrive on June 1, 2020 or after are subject to a processing fee and our standard cancellation policies until further notice. We will closely monitor any travel restrictions and extend the above mentioned dates accordingly.
• Flexible Cancellations.  Should a reservation be cancelled prior to 30 days of arrival, your deposit less a $75 processing fee will be refunded. Once you are within the 30 day cancellation time frame, cabin changes and date changes (including dropping nights) are allowed, and the deposit is refundable up to 72 hours prior to guest arrival less a $75 processing fee.

If you need to adjust any reservations please contact the The Redwoods Reservations team at 209-375-6666. If you need to adjust reservations made through another travel site (Airbnb, VRBO/Homeaway, Booking.com, Expedia, etc.) please contact them for assistance.

Guest and Employee Safety at The Redwoods

The Redwoods In Yosemite is implementing all, applicable to our business, measures and guidelines as prescribed by the State of California Governor’s Office, Mariposa County Public Health officials, the CDC, and other state, federal and local authorities. All of our employees are continuously trained to adhere to our evolving Covid-19 risk minimization policies.

• Our housekeeping staff have increased the frequency and the quality of cleaning in our public areas (including, but not limited to lobbies, door handles, public bathrooms, light switches, remote controllers, etc.).
• We have increased the deployment of one-time use gloves and antibacterial hand sanitizers or disinfectant wipes company wide.
• Our staff undergoes a health check prior reporting for duty. Each team member is required to frequently wash hands. All team members must wear face covers.
• All employees are encouraged to stay home when reporting Covid-19 symptoms.
• Employees are encouraged to keep a physical distance of at least six feet from one another and from guests.
• We highly recommend all of our guests and staff to replace face-to-face meetings with telephone calls, messages, and email.
• Our gift shop will be closed. Coffee and popcorn will not be available.
• Verbal instructions upon check-in will be replaced with a pamphlet to shorten check-in procedures and minimize guest contact. 
• At The Redwoods we will provide 3 check-in/check-out options for guest convenience and safety prior to arrival. For instance, contactless check-out is enforced by guests leaving house keys inside the home on the kitchen counter. If needed, guests should pay the remaining folio balance via phone.

What to expect when entering Yosemite National Park after reopening? (Draft Plan ONLY!!!)

•  Yosemite National Park is expected to reopen when the California Governor’s Office announces entering into Phase 3.  At this time we expect this is to happen (but not guarantee) in early June.
•  IMPORTANT: Visitors must have passes to enter, unless staying overnight in the park! We strongly recommend to print your Redwoods Cabin reservation confirmations and be able to show them at the entrance kiosks in order to be allowed entry inside Yosemite National Park!!!
• For no overnight lodging inside the park guests 1,700 Day Use (7-day) vehicle passes will be issued (initially) each day.
•  Again, anyone with reservations for lodging INSIDE Yosemite National Park, including vacation rentals, will NOT need the Day Use Pass reservation.  Yosemite is estimating 1,900 cars a day for inside lodging, employees and vendors.
• A normal 7-Day pass for Yosemite will have to be purchased on www.recreation.gov.  No passes will be able to be purchased at the entrance stations or visitor centers!  If you have an Annual or Senior Pass you will still have to reserve your passes on recreation.gov . In the beginning, you would be able to get your pass 2 to 30 days out only.
• Yosemite Valley Shuttle will not be operating this year.  YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) will be running with new schedule.  Guests riding on YARTS or on a bus tour do not need individual online Yosemite Day Use passes.
• Mariposa Grove shuttle will not be operating.  The Grove will be open to walk-in (or bicycle) traffic only (2 mile walk from the parking area).  Visitors with ADA placards will be allowed to drive into the Grove’s entrance parking area.
• Tioga Pass is on schedule to open mid-June. (weather dependent)
• Popular iconic sites like Tunnel View may have vehicle/people limitations and other precautions such as one way signs.
• Wawona Hotel and Golf Course are closed until 2021.
• IMPORTANT: THIS IS NOT A FINALIZED PLAN!  This is a draft! Yosemite National Park will issue a press release in the next week or so with the finalized working plan and we would share the approved plan with you here and on social media! 
• All current Yosemite National Park related information can be found at nps.gove/yose

We will continue to update this page and our social media throughout these “new normal” times and as the situation develops. We believe that the much anticipated Yosemite National Park reopening will provide a safer way for visitors to enjoy the park and therefore we reserve our rights to amend our policies as required by the local park and county authorities, to ensure visitor & staff safety and coronavirus exposure risk minimization.

We will see you soon and don’t forget to reach out to us at 209-375-6666 or info@redwoodsinyosemite.com if you have questions.

Best regards,

Christian Mueller,  General Manager

updated on 5.25.2020

Spring in Yosemite, what it is like?

The snow has melted in nearly all of the lower elevation places, the rivers and streams are rushing, the baby animals are strolling, the flowers are in full bloom, and the mountains are calling. What better way to see the natural beauty of Yosemite than by taking a hike during this exciting time? Whether you are looking for a short and sweet hike through the meadow, along the river, or crave a more strenuous hike to visit a raging waterfall, Wawona has you covered.

1. Wawona Swinging Bridge Trail 

The Wawona Swinging Bridge Trail is a short and mostly flat .75 miles (1.2. km) round-trip hike to the swinging bridge which takes you across the scenic and wild South Fork of the Merced River. It’s beautiful, serene, and the bridge does truly swing. In addition to enjoying the wildflowers, in summer, you can also swim in the river down below, which is not nearly as busy as other water holes and beach spots in Yosemite Valley for example. While you’re in the area, don’t forget to also check out the Pioneer History Center for fun Yosemite history. 

2. Wawona Meadow Loop

The Wawona Meadow Loop is a relatively flat 3.5 (5.6 km) loop trail that starts at the Big Trees Lodge. Formerly known as the Wawona Hotel, this is one of California’s oldest hotels that has been operating since 1879. This is the only bike and leashed pet-friendly trail in the area, so bring Fido along. It’s also home to various wildflower species, and now is the perfect time to see them! 

3. Chilnualna Falls 

This is a strenuous 8.2 mile (13.1 km) hike, with an elevation gain of 2,400 feet (732 m) that leads you to one of the tallest waterfalls in the park via a series of switchbacks. It begins two miles from the Chilnualna Falls Road, in the Chilnualna Falls parking area. This hike is made up of three cascades, including some smaller ones at the bottom. It’s not heavily trafficked, so you will likely get most of it to yourself. You get bonus points in the summer for dipping in some of the secluded swim holes along this trail. 

     4. Mariposa Grove Hikes

Mariposa Grove has finally opened for the season! This area is home to wonderful trails winding through some of the world’s oldest trees, including the 1,800-year-old Grizzly Giant. Keep in mind that visitors must park in the south entrance, which is two miles away from the grove. The shuttle busses pick up visitors every 10-20 minutes. Visitors with disability placards can drive to the Grizzly Giant parking area rather than take the shuttle in. Here are a few great hikes within Mariposa Grove:

• Big Trees Loop

This is a very short and easy 0.3 miles (0.4 km) loop trail, that is wheelchair accessible, leading you to the Fallen Monarch tree. 

• Grizzly Giant Loop

This is a 2 mile (3.2 km) mile loop trail that’s rated as moderate, with a 300 (91m) elevation gain. In addition to the Grizzly, you will pass other famous trees in the lower grove like the Fallen Monarch, Bachelor, Three Graces, and the California Tunnel Tree. 

• Guardians Loop Trail 

This is a 6.5 mile (10.5 km) strenuous loop trail, with an elevation gain of 1000 ft (305 m). In addition to passing by Grizzly Giant Loop trees, the trail passes by some notable spots in the upper grove like the  Telescope Tree, the fallen Wawona Tunnel Tree and the Mariposa Grove Cabin. 

• Mariposa Grove Trail to Wawona Point 

This is another somewhat strenuous hike that’s 7.0 miles (11.3 km) in total, with an elevation gain of 1,200 feet (366 m). In addition to the Grizzly Giant Loop trees, you pass by portions of the upper grove, including famous sequoias like Three Graces, the Gaintful Coupole, the Bachelor and the Clothespin Tree. This also leads you to the historic Wawona Point (6,800 ft.)  that has a beautiful overlook with a panoramic view. 

Looking for a cabin near the hikes? Check out our Current Specials!

All of our 120 Redwoods In Yosemite cabins are located in historic Wawona, near the South Entrance of Yosemite National Park, just a few miles from the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Relaxing and private, these fully equipped vacation homes border the wild and scenic South Fork of The Merced River, the Wawona swinging bridge and Chilnualna Falls (the second highest vertical drop waterfalls in Yosemite)! Our Event Center includes full use of the Fireside Room and adjacent deck, with audio and visual equipment and a catering kitchen. Many of our cabins are pet friendly, some feature spa tubs, and all have private decks with BBQ’s and upgraded linens for that, “Home Away from Home” experience. Come on up! Relax. Explore. Escape!

Text credit: Christina Kantzavelos, BuenQamino

Written By Christina Kantzavelos

There is still time! November is a grand time to visit Yosemite National Park. Crisp mornings and cool evenings, sunny days, chromatic views, and the chance of first snow all paint your next perfect travel picture. It is the least crowded time to visit the park, which means quieter and more intimate outdoor adventures. Plus, you can catch a last glimpse of Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadows and Mariposa Grove before they close for the season. We’ve come up with eight reasons your visit to Yosemite should be in the few remaining weeks of November. And remember to pack layers and tire chains, just in case! 

1. Explore Glacier Point Road and Tuolumne Meadows (before they close for the snow season!)

Take advantage of having access to both Glacier Point and Tuolumne Meadows/Tioga Roads before they close for the snow season. The fall really transforms each of these majestic locations into chromatic wonderlands. Plus, you get to enjoy their beautiful hikes and views in serene solitude, as neither will be as busy as in the summer. 

2. Celebrate Thanksgiving in the Park 

Enjoy creating a wonderful memory by hosting a Thanksgiving feast in the comfort of your cabin, surrounded by your family, and friends. Not in the mood to cook? Here are three wonderful Thanksgiving Dinner options in the park. Be sure to make a reservation! 

3. Visit the Grizzly Giant in Mariposa Grove

If you haven’t visited the newly restored Mariposa Grove, then you’re in for a treat. Hike its beautiful (and partially ADA compatible) trails before it closes for the snow season. Grizzly Giant has never looked more majestic with its colorful leaves! 

4. Bike in the Valley

Explore the valley via bicycle, and enjoy the crisp air, colorful leaves, and beautiful views as you bike by or stop to visit the less-crowded Yosemite valley staples. 

5. Explore the Museums in the Park

Don’t let November rains scare you! Is it too rainy or snowy to go exploring? Or, are you looking for a relaxing stroll? Then visit the Yosemite Museum in the valley, or walk through the Ansel Adams Gallery, which displays his work as well as other contemporary photographers and artists. If you’re in Wawona, be sure to visit the Pioneer or History Center, which explains the history of Yosemite National Park and how it inspired the growth of national parks across the county and the world. 

6. S’mores and BBQs! 

Is there a more delicious food group? Gather around the fire, and enjoy roasting juicy fillets and gooey s’mores with your friends and loved ones.

7. Pet Friendly Yosemite Trails to Hike and Enjoy

Take your pup on the Chowchilla Mountain road (the original road to Yosemite), or Wawona Meadow Loop Trail in Wawona. Or, you and your canine can explore Bridalveil Fall trail, Hodgdon Meadow, Glacier Point, Cook’s Meadow Loop, or even Lower Yosemite Falls. You can also bring along your fur-baby on the Mirror Lake Trail, or take the perfect holiday card photo with them in front of Tunnel View. For both you and your pet’s safety, they are not allowed in the meadows, back country, in public buildings, or on shuttle buses. Looking for a pet friendly cabin? We have you covered! 

8. Cozy Fireplaces and Hot Tubs 

Snuggle up with a mug of delicious steaming cocoa next to the fireplace in your cabin. Or relax with a soothing cup of hot tea next in your hot tub. Not much compares to spending quality time in your cozy cabin, or hot tub, especially when it’s snowing or raining outside. 

Looking for a cabin to get cozy in for November?

Our 120 Redwoods In Yosemite cabins are located in Wawona, at the Southern entrance of Yosemite, just a few miles from the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Relaxing and private, these fully equipped vacation cabins border the wild and scenic South Fork of The Merced River, the Wawona swinging bridge and Chilnualna Falls (the second highest vertical drop waterfalls in Yosemite)! Our Event Center includes full use of the Fireside Room and adjacent deck, with an audio and visual equipment and a catering kitchen. Many of our cabins are pet friendly, some feature spa tubs, and all have private decks with BBQ’s and upgraded linens for that, “Home Away from Home” experience. Relax, explore, escape!

Yosemite National Park brings in over four million visitors each year!  Since 4 million yearly fans can’t be wrong, there are many reasons to want to visit Yosemite, and plenty of reasons to stay within the park boundaries during your next visit. During peak season, we expect large crowds, heaps of cars, traffic delays (sometimes 1-2 hours), busy attractions, and limited parking and lodging. Here are five reasons why staying in Wawona will allow you to spend less time in your car, and more time enjoying what this great park has to offer… 

1. Avoid the Morning Wait at the Southern Entrance 

Waiting for any attraction is as certain as taxes, and the wait for the entrance to Yosemite can begin up to two miles before you reach the Southern Gate, or other entrances too. After finally driving up to the entrance, why would you want to squander  extra waiting in your car? If you’re already in the park, the morning wait is one less thing to worry about, so you can spend your precious vacation time wisely. 

2. How To Spend Less Time Spent Driving in the Valley 

If you’re staying closer to Yosemite Valley (in the heart of the park), you have easier access to the park’s free shuttle. Once in the valley, we strongly encourage you to take the free bus rides or book a valley tram tour for example. The shuttle runs from 7 AM – 10 PM daily, and provides access to all of the valley’s hot spots. The more people who opt for the use of the shuttle, the less traffic within the park. It takes about 35-40 minutes, a 26 mile drive, from Wawona to Yosemite Valley.  Renting a bicycle is also a great option!

3. Wawona Walking Distance Perks 

Staying in Wawona means you are within walking distance to two local markets, a restaurant in a historical national landmark such as the The Wawona Hotel, gas station, The Pioneer History Village, Thomas Hill Studio, Wawona Stables, barn dancing, stagecoach rides, river walks, swim hole hikes and dips, waterfall access, golfing, a beautiful library, a laundry facility, (deep breath!) and the Mariposa Grove. Basically, you have access to all of these perks from your private home rental nestled in a historic, mountainous, small town inside a national park. 

4. Access to the Mariposa Grove Shuttle from Wawona 

If you’re a guest at The Redwoods, then you’re entitled to a free Mariposa Grove Shuttle from Wawona (park and ride at the Wawona General Store near the gas station) to the newly reopened Mariposa Grove Plaza, from where another quick 5 minute bus/shuttle takes you inside the giant sequoia grove.  

5. Fall asleep underneath the Redwoods or lay on a meadow stargazing

There is nothing more serene than staying away from the city buzz, to fall asleep underneath a clear sky in the shade of the Redwoods. You can see just why Theodore Roosevelt had his breath taken away when he first arrived here. There is nothing like enjoying the early mornings, sunset, and evenings in the tranquility of Yosemite’s spectacular natural beauty, so grab the blanket and a picnic basket, and find your spot under Wawona’s starry skies this summer and fall!

Have we convinced you to plan your next stay within the Yosemite National Park?

All of our cozy Redwoods cabins and spacious vacation homes are located in Wawona, at the Southern entrance of Yosemite, just 6 miles from the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias (don’t forget the free shuttle access). Relaxing and private, our fully equipped vacation homes and cabins border the wild and scenic South Fork of The Merced River, the Wawona swinging bridge and Chilnualna Falls (the second highest vertical drop waterfalls in Yosemite)! Our Event Center includes full use of the Fireside Room and adjacent deck, with an audio and visual equipment and a catering kitchen. Many of our cabins are pet friendly, some feature spa tubs, and all have private decks with BBQ’s and upgraded linens for that, “Home Away from Home” experience. Relax, explore, escape! 

Find your cozy cabin or spacious vacation home here!

Text collaborator: Christina Kantzavelos, BuenQamino