Last month, we took a road-trip up north for our first trip to Yosemite National Park! It was a first time for all of us and I’ve been planning this weekend getaway since last Fall. Since we were traveling with another family…who also has little kids, I did a lot of research. I Googled “Traveling to Yosemite with kids,” which helped a lot. Through that search, I found the lodging site, Yosemite Pines, located in Groveland, CA – just a 30-minute drive to Yosemite’s West entrance.
Our First Trip to Yosemite National Park
Groveland, CA
Since we were traveling during the Winter Season, I opted for a Yurt. I originally reserved a campground for a tent, but the weather forecast said possible showers…so next time! The Yurt sleeps 5, and had a small refrigerator and microwave…so this was Glamping!
The kids had a hard time leaving the grounds…but who can blame them! There was a Petting Farm, a play ground structure and hiking trail. I’m so happy we stayed outside of Yosemite (I was debating whether to be inside or outside of the park) because the kids got to play and explore…and we didn’t have to worry about wildlife, a.k.a. BEARS!
We also got to explore the town of Groveland and visited the Iron Door Saloon, which is said to be the oldest, operating saloon in California (cool, right?)…and it was family friendly! And because the kids got worn out from the day…the adults got to have a lovely dinner at Fork & Love, a farm-to-table restaurant located inside the charming, Hotel Charlotte. I wish we took a picture of the kids sleeping in the booth while we dined!
Yosemite National Park
The drive to Yosemite’s entrance was beautiful and once we were in the park…the view was simply breath taking. We drove to Yosemite Valley and made a few scenic stops a long the way for photos. We only manged to do one short hike to Yosemite Lower Falls…but we’ll be back again! As the boys get older, we’ll be doing a lot more hikes. because I want to see Half Dome, up close…as well as the other summits! Since it was our first trip…we just wanted to relax and take in all of Mother Nature’s beauty. There’s so much to do and see, but with small kids…our weekend trip was perfect.
During our drive, we saw a “Snow Play” sign…so we did! I luckily packed up snow gear (Mom points)!
We had such a fun, memorable trip! We can’t wait to go back…soon!
And did you know it’s National Park Week? So from April 16-24th., National Parks are FREE admission…so its the perfect time to get out and explore!!! Go here https://www.nps.gov/findapark/national-park-week.htm and #FindYourPark.
Also on August 25, 2016, the National Park Service will be celebrating its
100th Birthday!!! Go here for more info https://www.nps.gov/subjects/centennial/index.htm
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