Explore beautiful sites throughout Yosemite Valley on this private, half-day walking tour!

Includes 3-day entry reservation into Yosemite during peak visitation months.

All of our trips are privately-guided to offer a unique, one-of-a-kind experience. You will have your own designated guide for your trip and will not be grouped with other travelers.

Trip Duration

4 hours; tours run from 9am-1pm and 1pm-5pm.

Trip Rates

• Minimum of 4 guests to book, maximum of 10. Please inquire if you have a group less than 4 or more than 10.
• First 4 guests are $650. $50 for each additional guest after.

About the Heart of the Valley Tour

Explore beautiful sites throughout Yosemite Valley on foot during this half-day walking tour with your private, knowledgeable guide!

Spend time on foot discovering hidden spots, capturing stunning photos, and learning about the park’s rich indigenous culture and geology. Family-friendly, dog-friendly, and great for those with limited mobility.

Sample Itinerary

9:00AM: Meet your guide at the designated meeting location (shared upon booking, or we’ll provide full service pick-up and drop-off - see below for details).

The Adventure Begins: Before we’re ready to embark on foot, your guide will go over brief expectations of your adventure, make sure everyone has the proper gear, and allow space for questions.

Exploring Yosemite's Landscape: You and your guide will become immersed in nature as you take in the views. You may see Tunnel View, Cathedral Beach, Lower Yosemite Falls & the Spider Caves, meadows & the Merced River, Camp 4, or El Cap Meadow & El Capitan on your tour.

1:00 PM: Concluding our time together, your guide can offer insights and local advice for how to spend the rest of your day or trip in Yosemite. As we say our goodbyes, you’re free to continue exploring Yosemite’s magic on your own, equipped with tailored recommendations.

Note: This is a sample itinerary, and slight adjustments may be made based on weather conditions, trail accessibility, and client desires.

What's Included + Optional Add-Ons

A 4-hour walking tour with your own private guide, a 3-day entry reservation into Yosemite, and plenty of local tips and recommendations to make your visit unforgettable.

*Transportation is not initially included as most groups elect our services in order to obtain the 3-day entry reservation that is required to enter into Yosemite National Park when the reservation system is in effect (which is included in your booking).

If you’d like to further enhance your tour, select from these optional add-ons (options carry an additional fee):

Full Service Transportation: We’ll take you to and from our designated meeting location within Yosemite Valley for your group of up to 8 people.

Locally-Sourced Trail Lunch: Delight in a delicious picnic lunch sourced from local ingredients, enjoyed amidst the scenic beauty of Yosemite Valley. Consists of a sandwich option, side item, and beverage.

Artful Discovery: Awaken your creative senses with a short reflective writing or nature journaling session as we explore.

Mindfulness in Nature: Take a mindful moment with a short, guided yoga practice or meditative moment in nature.

What’s Not Included

Park entrance fee ($35/private vehicle or free for annual park pass holders), any transportation or food (unless you elect to add-on these services), personal hiking gear, and guide gratuity.

What to Bring

We recommend each person has a small day pack or backpack where they can have the following: plenty of water, snacks/lunch for themselves, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, hat or sun cover (hat with brim and sun hoody is recommended), a windproof layer, comfortable/warm layers, sturdy walking/hiking shoes, camera/cell phone, any medications or other personal items.

Additional Info

If you don't see a time and/or date slot that work with your schedule, please contact our team and we are happy to work with you!

Email us directly: info@balancedrock.org
Call our office (open M-F, 8am-5pm PT): (209) 379-WILD

Note: Guests who arrive late will not receive additional time for their adventure and are not eligible for refunds.