}); 13 Gems in Mariposa Countys Gold Rush Towns How to Get from San Francisco to Napa Valley - TripSavvy You can do that on the east or west side of the body of water, but many prefer the western route because it's more scenic, even if it does take a little longer: The easiest way to get from San Francisco to Napa using public transportation is to take the San Francisco Bay Ferry from the San Francisco Ferry Building or Fisherman's Wharf Pier 41 to Vallejo. They operated a ferry until 1852, and then they built the bridge, which is the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi. Yosemite Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in North America. * Please note the Tour Map is subject to change. Explore the Mission District with its colourful murals and famous burritos before renting a bike and cycling over the Golden Gate Bridge for iconic views back over the city. Consider these tips for making your Yosemite trip from San Francisco as smooth as possible. Thanks for all of the input! It sits over the Stanislaus river and there are some nice hiking trails on the north side and tons of picnic tables on the south side. San Francisco, Yosemite, & Napa. From there, we'll head to Yosemite for 2 days . If you want to do this drive in the winter, then check out our Yosemite winter guide. Day 3: San Francisco, Big Basin OR Monterey. 1 of 2. Yosemite to San Fran or Napa Valley - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Spend the afternoon uncovering the rest of the city - why not browse City Lights Bookstore for a glimpse into Beat Poetry history before strolling into Chinatown for some dumplings. We do enjoy wine so would definately like to take advantage of Napa. International flights (per person, based on 2 sharing), Explore the eclectic neighbourhoods of San Francisco, Taste your way through the vineyards of Napa Valley, Admire the views over Lake Tahoe and Emerald Bay, Hike your way through the lush mountains in Yosemite National Park. The area is home to Ghirardelli Square, a wax museum, shopping centers, an aquarium, and much more. Alcatraz & San Francisco Combo Tour. San Francisco to Yosemite National Park: Best Ways to Get There San Jose is the central city in the Silicon Valley region of California's Bay Area, which is world-famous for its technological innovations and successful startups. We will alert you when your requested tour becomes available! These days over 4.5 million people visit Napa Valley every year, making it one of the most popular destinations in California. Day 5: Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea. The cheapest way to get from Napa to Yosemite National Park costs only $42, and the quickest way takes just 4 hours. Your first stop is at Muir Woods National Monument, aka the Forest Moon of Endor, for a hike among the redwoods. Depending on what time your flight arrives you could get out and explore, so why not head to the harbour for a bowl of clam chowder as the sun goes down the perfect start to a Californian adventure! Yosemite & Napa Valley - Have Fun Do Good Day 2 : San Francisco - Napa. In 1846 the U.S. flag was raised over the Customs House, and California became part of the United States after the ensuing Mexican-American War. Hopefully your return flight is late in the day! In Oakdale, explore Gold Rush history and a delicious culinary scene before continuing to towns like Pinecrest, where you can paddle on a peaceful, snowmelt-fed lake or Tuolumne where youll find apple orchards producing cider. Coastal Redwood forest stroll. The kids will love the tour and tasting afterwards. You have 3 full days and about 2 half days. Coastal Redwoods Road Trip. Whatever you end up doing, we know youll love your time in Lake Tahoe. FAQ: Where are the California Traveler Articles, Written for Travelers by Travelers? Highlights of San Francisco, Napa Valley and Yosemite. Get off at El Cerrito del Norte Station and transfer to the number 29 Redwood Park and Ride Vine Bus, which will take you up to Napa. There is mobile service on the valley floor, but it may be spotty elsewhere in the park, like on Tioga Pass. Napa Valley is roughly considered to be the area from American Canyon to Calistoga at the northernmost point, with the city of Napa located near the southern part of the valley. Complete operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, is included on your e-ticket. Security Statement | Private Policy | User Agreement. All the wine youve sipped, streams youve hiked along and produce youve eaten along the way are all thanks to Sierra Nevada snowmelt. Thanks for all of the great information! If you are craving more wine in the afternoon, you can go straight to the Round Pond Estate Winery along Rutherford. You climb through pine forest into the craggy granite tippy top of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The city is also home to many public parks, gardens, and hiking trails. If you drive to Napa on your own, you may be able to see all of it in a single day or plan a longer trip. FAQ: Where are the Coastal Redwoods in California (added Oct 2013). 45 Minutes, Ask a Question Any other places we should try to visit? San Francisco Wine Tour | United States | Gray Line Similar Tours. Driving Directions - Yosemite National Park (U.S. National Park Service) Dear irene, yes, the total fee is around $600 per person and it doesn't include your own air ticket, meals and any private expenses. A park ranger vehicle sits near the Big Oak Flat entrance into Yosemite National Park along Hwy 120, on Thursday, February 23, 2023. What is best way to fit Yosemite into San Francisco to Las Vegas drive (i am planning to complete the 7 day trip on this site to get from SF to LV including Bridgeport and Death Valley but not sure best way to include Yosemite into the trip). Breathe in the sweet pine-scented air and dangle your toes in playful mountain rivers. After a quiet morning in Napa recovering from a day of indulgence yesterday, youll drive north into the Sierra Nevada Mountains where youll find Lake Tahoe, a blue gem high up in the mountains. With the diverse natural landscapes in the region, you could easily spend 3-4 days (or a lifetime) exploring the trails, rock climbs, and attractions. In addition to being the tallest waterfall in North America, the Yosemite Falls are the seventh-tallest in the world. Witness the stunning scenes of California's Wine Country as you travel past sun-dappled fields . The One Subscription to Fuel All Your Adventures. Explore Alcatraz in San Francisco Bay Youll probably approach from the east driving past the bizarre Mono Lake, a soda lake full of strange salt formations. On arrival in San Francisco you will make your own way into the city and check into your hotel for one night. The steam trains that run along Roaring Camp Railroads' lines are authentic, dating back to 1867 and the protection of an area of redwoods known as the "Big Trees." 2 Hours, Opening Hours: Closed on 1/1/18, 2/23, 2/24, 4/26-4/28, 5/11-5/13, 6/14-6/17, 9/1, 9/8, 9/15, 9/18-9/23, 10/6, 10/25-10/28, 11/10, 11/22, 12/25, Admission (Optional): Adult $39; Child (6-12 yrs) $25; Senior (Over 65 yrs) $36, Admission (Optional): Adult $42; Child (5-11 yrs) $28|Opening Hours: Closed on Christmas Day and New Year's Day|Duration: Approx. It was one of the countrys most infamous federal prisons. All purchases are subject to re-confirmation within 2-3 business days after booking. Trip Report Eight days in San Francisco, Yosemite NP, Napa Valley and Book Now. How to Get From San Francisco to Wine Country. California road trip: from San Francisco to Yosemite and the Big Sur As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Merced is Yosemites smallest grove of giant sequoia, but its also the most secluded and its worth putting in the effort to visit. Most would suggest 3-4 full days to see SF so if want to add a day trip to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? They can either head north across the Golden Gate Bridge out of the city, or they can go first across the Bay Bridge to the east and then continue north. If you are flying into San Francisco and staying in Napa Valley, your hotel may offer a shuttle from the airport. Day 9: Napa Valley/ Sonoma OR Muir Woods. Tracy Barbutes/Special to The Chronicle Show More Show . See complete details at the, Free upgrade to bus first 3 rows seating, subject to availability, All domestic ground transportation via air-conditioned vehicle. On your Yosemite adventure,listen to an entertaining guide in your car. All passengers above age of 16 who want to join the tour need to be fully vaccinated with vaccination record card proven. Tour the famous landmarks of San Francisco, cross the bay to Muir Woods, and spend a day tasting wine in the Napa and Sonoma . Prices as travel date approaches. From the Golden City, wind your way through unpretentious wine country, orchards and historic towns on this San Francisco to Yosemite road trip. Take advantage of all of them for some sensational views. Rent a bike and cycle over the Golden Gate Bridge for iconic views, Discover world class wines in the Napa Valley, Drive past the bizarre Mono Lake - a soda lake full of strange salt formations, Lake Tahoe is a highlight of any trip to Northern California, Plan your Yosemite National Park visit wisely. This itinerary can be tailored to suit your requirements please contact one of our consultants to start planning your dream American road trip. But consider taking a beat and doing the San Francisco to Yosemite road trip at a slower pace. Hot Tip: Do you need a rental car for your San Francisco to Yosemite road trip? That being said, the most convenient way to travel to wine country is by renting or driving your vehicle. It is located near the geographical center of the Nevada mountain range. Day 4 from San Francisco to Sonoma and Napa. This itinerary includes three stops intended to show you a few interesting things along the way that you otherwise may have missed. With a day to enjoy Napa Valley, you need to get stuck right into the wonderful food and wine of the region. Suggested Overnights: Crescent City, Eureka, Benbow, Mendocino, Santa Rosa. For out-of-town visitors, the process can be painstakingly complicated, so you're really better off booking a guided tour or renting a car and driving. Today we will gather in San Francisco. Getting from San Francisco to Yosemite [by Bus, Tour, Train, Car & more] On arrival in San Francisco you will make your own way into the city and check into your hotel for one night. Yosemite National Park is stunning covered in snow With only three full days in (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? San Francisco, Monterey, Carmel, Big Sur, Sequoia NP, Yosemite NP Lake Tahoe & Napa Valley Explore the best of California on this Northern Cali Loop . One that allows them to stay on Highway 29 and takes them to the region's western side, and another that will take them along the valley's eastern end on Highway 121 Napa. Alternatively, you may use. Depending on what time your flight arrives you could get out and explore, so why not head to the harbour for a bowl of . What was once a lush valley is now a reservoir holding water for the city of San Francisco. Even today, there are still cultural ceremonies held there. During the summer months, there are four entrances to Yosemite National Park. The options are endless well (limited with time restrictions I suppose) we plan to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Enjoy a multi-day tour of the stunning attractions in Yosemite that includes accommodation in our cozy tent cabins! more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. This granite cliff on the north side of Yosemite Valley in Yosemite National Park is world-famous as a challenge for rock climbers. 38 Best Stops Between Napa and Yosemite National Park Visitors can tour many of the more than four hundred vineyards and wineries that dot the area. Yosemite Valley Loop Trail: 11 miles (full loop), 7 miles (half-loop). We've been offering travelers a safe, eco-friendly, reliable way to connect with nature since 1993. Yosemite National Park has nearly 1,200 square miles of towering granite, alpine lakes and ancient sequoia trees. However, this is the slowest option. Discover a down-to-earth wine, beer, ice cream and caffeine tasting scene and sun you can count on, 45 minutes from San Franciscos Fishermans Wharf. Visit San Francisco and camp in Yosemite National Park. Why The Napa Valley Is One Of The World's Premier Wine Regions. a Gray Line customer. I recently published an extended guide to planning Redwoods road trips that includes this itinerary in greater detail. This trip is a great way to experience California at its best! AirBorrn Aviation / Yosemite Airways offers affordable scenic flights with views of El Capitan, Half Dome and more. This San Francisco to Yosemite road trip itinerary will take you from the Bay Area to the park in one day, stops included. . In 1986, the Tunnel View became a National Historic Place. Day 1: San Francisco to Wine Country. Check out some impressive numbers of Napa Valley: More than 400 wineries; Home to more than 150 restaurants; More Michelin stars per capita than any other wine region in the world FUN FACT: For all its (worthy) success, only 4% of California's wine comes from Napa Valley. California Dreaming: From Yosemite National Park to Napa and Sonoma Valley. Going to Napa Valley from San Francisco can be enjoyable from the trip to the destination if you do a little research, book your schedules, study the routes and traffic situations and plan your time. The boutique vineyards and the premium wines combine with the dramatic views of the valley to form a truly idyllic setting just on the doorstep of San Francisco. Napa Valley is a little . Discover the top eight things to do in these quaint towns from boating to Gold Rush-era experiences. 7 nights from 3,499 per person. Based in Napa Valley, Jess has extensively covered California wine country for numerous national . Trips. Driving along Conzelman Road provides a shorter scenic detour. You can usually find more choice and less expensive room inventory just outside of the valley. 16 San Francisco Bay Sunset Cruise by Luxury Catamaran. Specialties: Incredible Adventures is an outdoor travel company that specializes in sightseeing and adventure tours from San Francisco to Yosemite, Napa & Sonoma Wine Country, Silicon Valley, Tahoe and Whitewater Rafting! To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. This breathtaking stretch of coastline along California's Monterey Peninsula takes visitors through a maze of beautiful scenery, unique wildlife, and amazing mansions. California Wine Country: The Complete Guide, How to Travel From San Francisco to Lake Tahoe By Train, Bus, Car, and Plane, How to Travel from Sacramento to San Francisco by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane, How to Travel From San Francisco to Yosemite by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane, The 9 Best Day Trips From Napa and Sonoma, How to Travel From San Francisco to Las Vegas by Bus, Car, and Plane, Getting Around the San Francisco Bay Area: A Public Transit Guide, How to Travel From San Diego to San Francisco by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane, How to Travel From San Francisco to New York by Plane, Train, Car, or Bus, How to Travel From Cancun to Cozumel by Bus, Car, Ferry, and Plane. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Michelin Guides, Hemispheres, DuJour, and Forbes. Or check out Destination Delivery: Have an RV delivered directly to a campground or parking site to camp in style without having to get behind the wheel. Yosemite snow totals smash 54-year-old record Few valleys are as famous around the world as Napa Valley, with its stunning setting and Mediterranean climate. Terms and Conditions. Get our travel tips Delivered to your inbox. To do a trip to Yosemite -- wow that is 8 plus hours of driving and too little time to actually see the amazing valley. Napa, as well as Oak Knoll and Yountville. For a longer one, from the Golden Gate Bridge, drive along Highway 1 to Stinson Beach, where you can enjoy the scenic route of the coastline. Take the ferry from Vallejo Ferry Terminal to San Francisco Ferry Building Gate E. Take the bus from San Francisco to Merced. It was also a thriving gold town during the mid 1800s. Three Sonoma and Napa valley tastings. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in Yosemite National Park, Cruise to Alcatraz Island, the infamous prison in San Francisco Bay. Signing up for a guided tour is usually the lowest-priced way to tour Napa Valley, but you may be stuck in a crowd of 30 people or more and won't have any choices about where you go or when you stop. Yosemite is one of the wonders of Nature. Happy trails! After that, they will witness the sign for Highway 37, which is for Exit 33. Aunindita Bhatia is a professional content writer based in India. Napa Valley is renowned for quality wine and excellent food and is always worth a stop. This option will take one on Highway 101 North across the Golden Gate Bridge. $1399. Include specific info about your trip. Find the largest alpaca farm in the state, stay in a classic Airstream trailer, take a scenic flight over the park plus ten more things to do in this charming historic county. Hop between sunlit vineyards and gourmet restaurants and then head to the mountains, where Lake Tahoe sits in the middle of the Sierra Nevada. Check Major Road Closures in CA via this official Map. Thoughts on a few great places to consider? 12-15 People. Coastal breezes keep the city cool and huge fog drifts can sweep over the Golden Gate Bridge during the summer meaning winter is usually more reliable with clear days and moderate temperatures. The Mariposa grove is the largest in the park and is conveniently located just 10 miles from Fish Camp. 5 Things that Are Greatand 1 That Isnt, 12 National Parks Near San Francisco (Under 3 Hours of Drive-time), The Best Time to Visit Big Sur: Season by Season Guide. San Francisco To Yosemite National Park Road Trip - 10 stops Mandatory Fee (pay the fee in cash to the tour guide): $115 per passenger including Cable Car, San Francisco in-depth tour, Berkeley University, Yosemite National Park, Napa Valley/17 Miles/Stanford University transportation fee and fuel surcharge. San Francisco to Napa Valley [BEST Ways to Get There] The cheapest way to get from San Francisco to Yosemite is by a series of buses and a train. The Yosemite 1-day private tour is limited to the Yosemite Valley sights and attractions, which represent only 1% of the Yosemite National Park . But the Parks Service also offers aguided bus tourto Glacier Point. It's not exactly cheap and, surprisingly, wine is not included unless you opt for a special package, but it is a luxury experience and the only way to see Napa by rail. By car, journey through towns like Livermore where youll find a laidback wine region, with grapes nourished by that snowflake. There are many picnic spots, beaches and swimming holes dotting the river. The previous record was 40 degrees on Feb. 24 in 1891. Here's what to know about each of the two options. It never quite became a ghost town, which is why some of the on-site buildings managed to survive. We booked a room at the Inn on Randolph! San Francisco is the most popular city on the route it's 4 hours from Yosemite National Park and less than an hour from Napa. Road Trip Route: San Francisco, Yosemite, and Los Angeles This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Road Trip from San Francisco to Redwood National Park (note that the Glacier Point road will be closed for repaving during the 2022 season). 120 on the way to Yosemite, Oakdale holds its heritage close. Park your car in a Yosemite gateway town and take the YARTS bus into Yosemite Valley. From local artisan producers and farmers to Western culture, The bridge at Wapama Falls in Yosemites Hetch Hetchy Valley, Photo by Kim Carroll Photography courtesy of Everygreen Lodge, Alcatraz Island is a National Park Service site, down-to-earth wine, beer, ice cream and caffeine tasting scene, this town is a great place to spend some time on the way to the park, www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/oakdale/oklca/hoteldetail, listen to an entertaining guide in your car, plus ten more things to do in this charming historic county, Stay in a Modern Airstream at AutoCamp Yosemite. With world class wine comes top notch food The French Laundry Restaurant has been voted best in the world many times and while youll struggle to get a table here without booking months ahead, there are plenty of other excellent eateries to pair your new favourite wines with. The South Bay consists of Silicon Valley cities like Santa Clara, San . When you make it to Yosemite, be sure to visit the Hetch Hetchy area, where less than 1% of park visitors ever venture. Live Bay Area weather updates: Massive trees fall onto homes in Santa Affiliated to the Alameda County, Berkeley is home to UC Berkeley, which is the world's most famous institutions of higher learning. SF requires at least 3 nights. If you're driving, it takes between four and seven hours, depending on the route you choose and the traffic intensity. Day 4: Big Sur. Summer is awesome, but busy. If you are planning a day trip to Napa Valley, this itinerary will help you get the most out of your time going to and arriving at wine country. If you take the train inland, youll pass through one of the countrys most productive agricultural regions. Find more information at www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/oakdale/oklca/hoteldetail, Highway 120 (Big Oak and Hetch Hetchy entrances). An A+ company rated by BBB; Chat with us! We have 7 days and would like to stay in Napa for a few days and maybe visit Yosemite and Carmel. There is travel time involved as well. After the side trips, you can head directly to St. Helena for your very first wine tasting at V. Sattui. On the return trip, you can take the faster route, Highway 101, and pass through Sonoma County, one of the best wine regions in the United States. Each section suggests four things to do. Its also a great spot to do some fishing or hiking although a lot of visitors end up relaxing on the tiny beaches that hug the shoreline. Your Scenic San Francisco to Death Valley Road Trip, Your Highway 395 Road Trip Itinerary: Everything You Need to, The Essential Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary, Is Big Sur Worth Visiting? Or course, you could also skip the ferry and travel from San Francisco to Vallejo along the BART Train or along another bus route, depending on where in the Bay Area you're coming from. Getting from San Francisco to Yosemite Valley-where a lot of the magic and action takes place-will take about 3 hours and 45 minutes (186 miles). Multi-Day Yosemite Tours - Tent Cabin Stay. Visitors to the park wont want to miss any ofthese following heart-stopping vistas, all easily accessible from paved roads throughout the park. Spring has the best waterfalls, but will also still have snow on the ground. Top 4 Ways to Get From San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Health monitoring within 14 days from the tour end for all passengers including driver and tour guide. Go on Thursday, not on the weekend. The point offers a superb view . Towering granite rocks, mighty waterfalls and placid valleys give Yosemite all the aspects of a "land of the gods". Monthly average prices. Yosemite in a Day Tour From San Francisco. Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more. The Yosemite Falls tumble down in three separate sections. Theres a reason why so many songs have been written about San Francisco. Northern Cali Loop |The American Road Trip Company Prices vary, depending on where they go and how big the tour group is. After spending the day enjoying San Francisco, youll drive to Napa Valley, just an hour out of the city where you will check into your hotel for two nights. All of our holidays are tailor-made to your requirements by an expert Travel Specialist. Look at lodging reviews; B&Bs are usually under Specialty Lodging. Today Napa Valley has over 400 wineries (particularly prized for Cabernet Sauvignon). That's when the average price for a train ticket is expected to be just $14 - the lowest of the year. One of the things to consider is the season, but there is always something to do in Napa Valley any month of the year. 4-Day San Francisco to Las Vegas, Hoover Dam, Barstow Outlet and Yosemite National Park Tour - LA OUT $725.00 $688.75. Northern Yosemite is the higher elevation portion of the park and there are yet more stunning hikes and views in this part of the park. Located in northwestern Silicon Valley, this famous research institution is not just one of the best schools in the United States, but one of the top universities in the world. Theyre growing more than almonds and peaches in the Central Valley (although if you do this drive in the spring, be sure to stop for thelovely almond blossoms). Jess Lander joined the food and wine team at The San Francisco Chronicle as wine reporter in 2022. After a day swimming and kayaking through the lake, drive from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite National Park hiking, climbing and looking out for wildlife that roams the hills. With only 7 days & 6 nights, I think that the best use of time for your choices is SF (3 nights, get car when you leave) - Napa / Sonoma (2 nights) - Carmel / Monterey (1 night.) All that personal attention means you might pay more than you would for a big group bus tour, but if you're traveling with several other people, the price difference grows smaller. If you're in the mood for a little rest and relaxation, Napa Valley is also home to many of the best spas in California and it's here where you can get an authentic Calistoga mud bath. Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco Photo: Getty Images. Awesome California National Parks Road Trip You Need to Do - 2TravelDads From local artisan producers and farmers to Western culture, this town is a great place to spend some time on the way to the park. Here are four top things for you to add to your must-do list. It covers an area of 35 square kilometers. If you are looking for an overnight stop I would recommend one of two options. Amtrak. 1 night San Francisco; 2 nights Napa Valley; 2 nights Lake Tahoe; 3 nights Yosemite Day 1: Arrival in San Francisco. How long you spend in the Napa Valley really depends on your interest in wine. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-46693958', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Napa valley, I think that would be fine. While wine has been growing there since the nineteenth century (and Prohibition didn't help), premium wine production only started in the 1960s, and it only really took off in the 80s and 90s.