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California High Country Adventure

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Fully Guided Coach Group Scenic
Our Price From 4,986 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 975 Per Person
 Trip Length
9 Days
 Trip Starts
Fresno
 Trip Finishes
Fresno
9 Day California High Country Adventure Itinerary (Trafalgar)
Countries Explored: USA
Trip Style
Regional Explorer
Departures
Accommodation
4 Star
Max. Group Size
48
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
DCAT

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Trafalgar's 9 Day California High Country Adventure. Adventure awaits you in the incredible landscapes of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains. With destinations including Yosemite National Park, Mammoth Lakes, and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience meeting a climber in Yosemite and stargazing through Sequoia Parks conservancy. This tour is ideal for those eager to put on their hiking boots and explore—as active as you like.

Itinerary

Welcome to Fresno, your gateway to the Sierra Nevada Mountains! Settle in and unpack before meeting your fellow adventurers at a Welcome Reception. Your Travel Director gives you the rundown of this exciting, active, self-paced tour. From easy strolls to hard-charger hikes, there are plenty of options and no shortage of natural beauty. (WR) Stay: Doubletree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center

Up and at ‘em this morning for Yosemite National Park, famous for its giant, ancient sequoia trees, deep valleys, and grand meadows. Standing among these towering trees sets the tone for this week's experiences of feeling small within the vastness of nature.

After breakfast in Fresno, head to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, home to over 500 mature trees and the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite. An important historical site, you'll learn how in 1864 President Lincoln signed legislation protecting the Mariposa Grove and Yosemite Valley, for the first time in US history setting aside scenic, natural areas to be protected by the federal government, even as the country was embroiled in the Civil War. You're a part of history and your surroundings as you walk the Big Trees Loop or Grizzly Giant Loop (two miles) amongst other options. The 3,000-year-old Grizzly Giant sequoia alone is worth the trip!

After your first full day of exploring, the adventure continues as we head to our home for the next two nights, Oakhurst, situated in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. (B/L) Stay: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Oakhurst Yosemite

Explore Yosemite National Park today, famed for its giant, ancient sequoia trees, grand meadows and iconic rock formations. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet a naturalist through the Yosemite Conservancy that will delve into the dynamic history of climbing in Yosemite through fascinating stories, photographs and demonstrations. The Yosemite Conservancy is a non-profit organization that has provided over $140 million to Yosemite for more than 700 completed projects that improve trails, restore habitat, protect wildlife and inspire the next generation of nature-lovers.

Spend the rest of the day in Yosemite to appreciate this bucket list destination, and choose the hike that suits you. Hike to Mirror Lake over 2.4 miles (3.8 km) or 4 miles (6.4 km). Or hike 1.2 miles (2 km) to Bridalveil Fall to see the 620-feet tumbling falls. The day can draw to a close at Sentinel Meadow & Cook's Meadow Loop for a 2.25 miles (3.6 km) flat, easy hike through meadows with multiple views of Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. (B)

Another day of exceptional hikes begins on the journey from Oakhurst to Mammoth. Your first stop is Tuolumne Meadows where, whether it's an explosion of summer wildflowers or fiery fall colours, you'll bask in beauty. Choose between a hike to Dog Lake or a leisurely walk along Tuolumne River to Soda Springs and the Tuolumne Meadows Footbridge.

We'll then make our way through Tioga Pass (seasonal) to wildlife-rich Mono Lake and, if time allows, enjoy its one-mile (1.6 km) Tufa Trail where we'll walk among the tufa towers feeling as if we're in a cave of stalactites and stalagmites before finishing the day in Mammoth. (B) Stay: Mammoth Mountain Inn

What better way to start the day than breakfast with a view? Sip your coffee as you take in 360 degree views of the Sierras and beyond on an aerial ride up Mammoth Mountain on the Panorama Gondola. Climbing 11,053 feet to the top of Mammoth Mountain, these sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range can't be beat. The rest of the day is yours to continue your Mammoth sightseeing with another boots-on-the-ground exploration at Mammoth Lakes or a well-deserved rest. (B/D)

Departing Mammoth Lakes, at Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, you'll walk among the oldest living trees in the world. Some of these living trees are over 4,000 years old, displaying spectacular growth forms of twisted and beautifully coloured wood.

Tonight, make your way to Bakersfield for an evening of trading tales and photos. (B) Stay: Doubletree Hotel Bakersfield

Next on our tour of incredible sights and sounds is Kings Canyon National Park. Home to the largest remaining grove of sequoia trees in the world with the focal being the General Grant Tree, the third largest in the world which was proclaimed "the Nation's Christmas Tree" in the 1920s by President Calvin Coolidge. Sit back and take in the views as we travel along the Kings Canyon Scenic byway to end up at Zumault Meadow Trail, where nature's diversity is on display with powerful rock formations and roaring rivers contrasted my lush, serene meadows. (B) Stay: Wuksachi Lodge

Explore Sequoia National Park by starting the day visiting General Sherman Tree, the world's largest tree. We continue to the Giant Forest Museum where we'll have the option to hike the Big Trees Trail or Moro Rock Trail. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure using the park shuttles. Having trekked Sierra Nevada's peaks, celebrate at tonight's Farewell Dinner followed by an evening MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience where a naturalist will guide you through the constellations in a stargazing adventure. (B/D)

Say goodbye to Fresno as you return to the Fresno Airport for your return trip home. Airport arrival will be 11:00 AM, please be aware when booking your flights. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Explore Yosemite National Park, Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park
  • See El Capitain, Half Dome, Bridalveil Falls
  • Visit Mariposa Grove, Yosemite History Center, Giant Forest Museum
  • View Tunnel View, Olmstead Point, General Grant Tree in Kings Canyon National Park and General Sherman Tree in Sequoia National Park.
  • Hike Discovery Loop at Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, General Grant Loop at Kings Canyon National Park, General Sherman Tree Trail at Sequoia National Park.
  • Scenic drive Tioga Pass, Kings Canyon Scenic Byway, General Sherman Highway.

Be My Guest

  • Oakhurst: Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience Forest Bathing, an immersive practice that uses all your senses to connect with your surroundings. Meet your host Susan Madden, certified meditation instructor, labyrinth facilitator and forest bathing guide. To help you create a more peaceful life, Susan's scientifically proven practices have been shown to improve health. Begin with a simple meditation before learning the fundamentals and science behind Forest Bathing. Following the presentation, sit down to a plated meal at Tenaya Lodge for conversation and storytelling with Susan.

Make Travel Matter®

  • Yosemite National Park: Meet a climber and naturalist that will delve into the dynamic history of climbing in Yosemite. Enjoy storytelling, photographs, see the old and new climbing gear, as well as ask questions about how they help improve trails, restore habitat, protect wildlife, and inspire the next generation of nature-lovers, and more. This Make Travel Matter experience targets United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15 Life on Land improving, protecting, and conserving wildlife and/or restores natural ecosystems
  • Sequoia National Park: Meet your Local Specialist and enjoy stories and the latest astronomical news under one of California's most brilliant skies. The Milky Way galaxy spills out across the broad Sequoia sky, an explosion of stars, planets and infinite questions. Spend the hour touring constellations, galaxies, planets, and the history of human space and exploration.

Trafalgar Difference

  • Sequoia National Park: The Wuksachi Lodge in the heart of Sequoia National Park surrounded by forest and soaring Sierra peaks.

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities
  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • All transport and transfers shown
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • Optional Experiences (Additional Cost) and free time
  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.

  • 1 Welcome Reception (WR)
  • 8 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)
  • 2 Dinner (D)

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
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Brochure

USA

Trafalgar USA (2023-24)

Explore USA highlights with Trafalgar: from NYC's streets to the Grand Canyon's majesty. Meet locals, like Californian vintners and Costa Rican chocolatiers. Delve into museums, or relax on Hawaiian shores. The Trafalgar difference means seeing the not-to-miss sights and discovering some of the best nature spots USA has to offer.

Availability

The Big Tour Sale
Tuesday 25 Jun 2024
Wednesday 03 Jul 2024
Status
From: $6,125 $5,154
Save $971 Enquire
The Big Tour Sale
Tuesday 16 Jul 2024
Wednesday 24 Jul 2024
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From: $6,150 $5,175
Save $975 Enquire
The Big Tour Sale
Tuesday 06 Aug 2024
Wednesday 14 Aug 2024
Status
From: $6,125 $5,154
Save $971 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Tuesday 17 Sep 2024
Wednesday 25 Sep 2024
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From: $5,950 $5,831
Save $119 Enquire
The Big Tour Sale
Tuesday 01 Oct 2024
Wednesday 09 Oct 2024
Status
From: $5,925 $4,986
Save $939 Enquire
The Big Tour Sale
Tuesday 25 Jun 2024
Wednesday 03 Jul 2024
Status
From: $7,588 $6,617
Save $971 Enquire
The Big Tour Sale
Tuesday 16 Jul 2024
Wednesday 24 Jul 2024
Status
From: $7,640 $6,665
Save $975 Enquire
The Big Tour Sale
Tuesday 06 Aug 2024
Wednesday 14 Aug 2024
Status
From: $7,588 $6,617
Save $971 Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Tuesday 17 Sep 2024
Wednesday 25 Sep 2024
Status
From: $7,288 $7,169
Save $119 Enquire
The Big Tour Sale
Tuesday 01 Oct 2024
Wednesday 09 Oct 2024
Status
From: $7,244 $6,305
Save $939 Enquire
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Trafalgar. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Trafalgar. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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