Michael & Kristin
Things To Do
Mist Falls Trail
This is a quintessential Yosemite hike. June is a great time to see waterfalls in Yosemite because of the snowmelt. Mist falls is 3 miles roundtrip (but you can go much further on it).
Cook's Meadow Loop
This short, easy walk (1 mile) offers stunning views of Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Sentinel Rock. Trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible
Carlon Falls Trail
Carlon Falls Trail is super close to Rush Creek Lodge (about a 4 minute drive). Hang out at the day use picnic area or hike the 3.8 miles round trip to the falls. You can visit this waterfall without going through a manned entrance gate. The falls are inside the park, but the trailhead isn't.
Cloud's Rest Trail
This is my favorite hike in Yosemite. It is a little over 14 miles roundtrip and very challenging, but so worth it! At the summit, you'll find 360-degree panoramic views.
Glacier Point Vista
This vista point provides panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. It's particularly popular at sunset. You can hike from there, or just drive up to see the views.
Half Dome Trail
This is an iconic, but very challenging (and dangerous), hike in Yosemite. You NEED a permit for this hike. Half Dome is 14 to 16 miles round trip and you will be gaining 4,800 feet elevation, with the last section being a climb up cables on bare rock. Along the way, you'll see outstanding views of Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Half Dome, and--from the shoulder and summit--panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra. Most hikers take 10 to 12 hours to hike to Half Dome and back; some take longer. If you plan on hiking during the day, it's smart to leave around sunrise (or earlier) and then have a non-negotiable turn-around time. For more information on Half Dome permits, see this link: https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/halfdome.htm
Rush Creek Spa
Pamper yourself after a day of adventures and indulge in Rush Creek's 5,000-square-foot spa. The brand new indoor/outdoor spa is filled with innovative elements inspired by the natural beauty and power of Yosemite. Amenities include an Aromatherapy Steam Room, Himalayan Salt Block Sauna, Cool Mist Shower, Sensory Room, and Warm River Rock Beds.
Whitewater Rafting
Enjoy a full or half day on one of California’s best whitewater rafting paddle-boat trips. The 11-14 miles of rafting on the Merced is typically class 3 (rated 1-5, with 5 being most challenging), with a combination of memorable rapids and peaceful floats through pristine waters and scenic canyons.
Fly Fishing
Beginners and seasoned veterans alike can enjoy a memorable day with an expert fly fishing guide casting on scenic Yosemite waterways.
California Craft Beer Tasting
Sample a variety of state-local craft beers right here at Rush Creek Lodge while learning what makes each one unique! You’ll taste a flight of different styles of California-brewed beers and learn about techniques used to produce each one and the breweries that made them.