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 888-225-6666. 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
Covid19 WARNING!
Though The Redwoods In Yosemite has taken enhanced health and safety measures for our guests and employees an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists when staying in any vacation rental.
COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control, senior citizens and guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable.
By staying in one of our cabins you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.
Please follow these important CDC guidelines:
How to Protect Yourself & Others
Know how it spreads:
- There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).
- The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.
- The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks.
- These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
- Some recent studies have suggested that COVID-19 may be spread by people who are not showing symptoms.
Everyone Should:
Wash your hands often!
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Avoid close contact
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick, even inside your home. If possible, maintain 6 feet between the person who is sick and other household members.
- Put distance between yourself and other people outside of your home.
- Remember that some people without symptoms may be able to spread virus.
- Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people.
- Do not gather in groups.
- Stay out of crowded places and avoid mass gatherings.
- Keeping distance from others is especially important for people who are at higher risk of getting very sick.
Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
- You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.
- Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities.
- Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
- The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.
- Do NOT use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker.
- Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing.
Cover coughs and sneezes
- If you are in a private setting and do not have on your cloth face covering, remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
- Throw used tissues in the trash.
- Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
Clean and disinfect
- Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
- If surfaces are dirty, clean them. Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.
- Then, use a household disinfectant. Most common EPA-registered household disinfectants will work.
Monitor Your Health
- Be alert for symptoms. Watch for fever, cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.
- Especially important if you are running essential errands, going into the office or workplace, and in settings where it may be difficult to keep a physical distance of 6 feet.
- Take your temperature if symptoms develop.
- Don’t take your temperature within 30 minutes of exercising or after taking medications that could lower your temperature, like acetaminophen.
- Follow CDC guidance if symptoms develop.
Let’s keep each other healthy and safe!
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 888-225-6666 or info@redwoodsinyosemite.com if you have questions.
Best regards,
Christian Mueller, General Manager
Updated: 5.29.2020
Dear Redwoods Guests,
As of March 20, 2020 at 3PM Yosemite National Park is closed to all park visitors until further notice. This closure will be enforced 24-hours a day/7-days a week and there will be no access permitted to Yosemite National Park.
Please read the full Yosemite National Park Service Message here.
At The Redwoods we have postponed, rescheduled or cancelled all group events taking place at The Redwoods in the next 21 days.
All Redwoods staff are instructed for compliance with the above mentioned guidelines and park restrictions.
Regarding Your Travel Plans at The Redwoods
We commit to providing 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:
- We will continue to waive booking fees and offer full refunds during the park closure.
- New and Existing Reservations. All reservations affected by the travel restrictions scheduled for arrival before May 31, 2020, can be changed or cancelled at no charge. Reservations scheduled to arrive on May 31, 2020 or after, are subject to our standard cancellation policies until further notice.
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.
Per Mariposa County Public Health:
This is a perfect time to follow guidelines to protect both ourselves and others, especially those most at risk, such as older adults and people with medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease.
Take action and practice good prevention steps:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing, or having been in a public place.
- Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Monitor yourself for symptoms: fever, dry cough, and shortness of breath. Call your health care provider if you are concerned about symptoms.
The Redwoods In Yosemite will continue to closely monitor developments and respond appropriately.
Sincerely,
Christian Mueller
General Manager
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.
- 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.
- 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!
- 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!
- 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.
- 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!
- 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!
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
- 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!
Tioga Pass Road aka Highway 120 makes way for perfect summer and early fall adventures in Tuolumne Meadows. After a heavy winter, the waterfalls are still strong, and there is even some snowmelt on some of high country trails. We have a list to plan your perfect day of trail hiking, whether you’re just looking for a short and sweet stroll or something to test those limits. The best part? Even with its popularity, and short season, Tuolumne tends to be much less crowded than Yosemite Valley (cue prayer hands).
Check out the free Tuolumne Meadow Shuttle if you’re planning to knock out a few trails in a day.
Cathedral Lakes (7-8 miles/Moderate)
Part of the John Muir Trail, this is a gorgeous and very popular scenic hike surrounded by peaks like Cathedral Peak (hence the name) and by Echo and Tresidder Peaks, all standing at 10,000 ft in elevation. The reason Cathedral Lakes is plural is that there is a detour for Lower Cathedral Lake, as well as Upper Cathedral Lake. Lower Cathedral Lake is a more popular destination, but why not visit both?
Tenaya Lake (2.5 miles/Easy)
Get ready for postcard views on this hike, featuring one of Yosemite’s most beautiful and picturesque lakes surrounded by granite domes and peaks. A naturally beautiful hike, its short length and ease makes it popular for good reason.
Elizabeth Lake (4.6 miles/Moderate)
Have you caught on to Tuolomne’s lake theme yet? This hike isn’t as popular as Tenaya Lake, likely because of its steep uphill beginning. However, it’s just as picturesque. The lake is surrounded by evergreens and large gorgeous granite like Unicorn Peak.
Glen Aulin (13 miles/Strenuous)
Alright, so this one isn’t a lake, however, it is a trail that guides you to beautiful Tuolumne Falls and White Cascade. It’s also popular because it’s part of the Pacific Crest Trail and is a gateway to the Grand Canyon of the Tuolumne. Yes, Tuolumne Meadows has it all.
Gaylor Lakes (2 miles/moderate)
Easily one of Yosemite’s most underrated hikes. A steep climb rewards you with spectacular views of Dana, Mammoth, Gibbs and other mountains as well as Dana Meadows. In addition, it has five lakes that seem untouched, picturesque, almost like a Hollywood backdrop. If that’s not enough, there’s even an abandoned 1870’s mine that sits above Gaylor Lake.
Mono Pass (8 miles/moderate)
This trans-sierra trail takes you through wet meadows and rushing creeks, providing you with amazing views of Bloody Canyon and stunning Mono Lake. Not nearly as crowded as other trails in the area.
Lyell Canyon via the John Muir Trail (8 miles/Easy)
A pleasant hike that passes through the Lyell fork of the Tuolumne River, as well as the bridged Rafferty Creek and Ireland Creeks. At the eight-mile mark, you are awarded with the Kuna Creek’s cascade. Looking for something shorter? You can walk ½ hour each way to and from the Twin Bridges. Keep in mind, this trail can get muddy and you will likely run into some Pacific Crest Trail and/or John Muir hikers.
Dog Lake (2.8 miles/Moderate)
No, there are no puppies to be found here. Though, there is a still mountain lake, bordered by evergreens and granite mountains. You’re already en route to Lembert Dome, why not continue forward and get a beautiful view of Tuolumne Meadows?
Lembert Dome (2.8 miles/Moderate)
Lembert Dome does not feature a lake or cascade, but it does offer some fantastic views of Tuolumne meadows. If you stay straight at the junction it will lead you to Dog Lake, making it a solid four miles. It may get windy, so hold onto your hats. And as always, stay off domes during chances of thunderstorms.
Soda Spring and Parsons Lodge (1.5 miles/Easy)
Also located in the same parking lot as the Lembert Dome and Dog Lake trailheads. The third hike of the day is a charm, right? This trail takes you to springs that spew cold bubbling water right out of the ground. This is where your carbonated beverages come from. Kidding. And there is an enclosure to ensure you don’t try testing the carbonation levels.
Looking for a home base for your hikes?
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 (free shuttle access to grove when you stay with us!). 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!
Written By Christina Kantzavelos