Yosemite Guide Service, Groveland CA

Hiring John and his team at Yosemite Guide Service was by far one of the best decisions ever. His service was BEYOND expectations. From the hidden treasures of Yosemite, to the must do's and the amazing lunches. We also had a 6 year old that John entertained and showed all the highlights that a youngster would love. Trust me, not an easy task for anyone! John was flexible, kind and so, so informative. He changed plans as we wanted and listened to what we were saying about must do's. I would hire him again in a minute!

We had a wonderful hike to mono pass through the high country in Yosemite. Beautiful hike and our guide Austen was amazing! Full of interesting facts anout the area and he packed us a delicious picnic lunch. It was the highlight of our trip! John the owner helped me book the best hike to meet our needs and was readily available for any questions leading up to our trip!

Our three-day hike (my daughter and me) was initially planned for part of the High Sierra in Yosemite Park. Because of the lingering snowpack and flooded trails this summer (2023), Yosemite Guide Service suggested moving the hike to Hoover Wilderness National Forest, on the northeast edge of Yosemite. Our trip was wonderful. We camped for two nights on a lovely (and cold) lake, listening to the wind in the trees and a waterfall across the lake. The mountain vistas changed with every bend of the trail. Each lake was more spectacular than the last. Our YGS guide, David, helped us when we needed it. I am a rusty camper who hasn’t carried an overnight pack for three decades. David and I discussed where to site a tent, improvements in water purification since my day, and whether to bushwhack around a swollen stream crossing. David has the experience and wisdom to meet each hiker at their level of experience. He has a good touch with people. The whole three-day trip was well executed. We would not change a thing.

I wholeheartedly recommend Yosemite Guide Service! They prepared a 4 day and night camping trip for me and my two sons (ages 4 and 9) in July 2023. They really listened to our interests and abilities and designed a custom tour that exceeded our expectations. Our guide was knowledgeable, relaxed but passionate and most important for me-great and patient with my kids. And she made great food to boot! YGS does this work because they obviously love the park and sharing it with people.

Six of our family members took a private tour of Yosemite Valley with Yosemite Guide Service on June 19,2023. We planned to return to the park several times during our weeklong stay in the area and wanted an introduction to the park and suggestions for longer hikes. Our Guided Tour provided us with all that and more. The Econ Van we rode in was very roomy and comfortable, with big windows perfect for sightseeing when on the move.

Our tour Guide, John, was excellent. He was very friendly and accommodating. We made lots of stops, and John shared fascinating facts and myths about Yosemite at each one. He tailored the tour to the interests and physical ability of the group and ensured we saw as much as possible during our full-day tour, including stops at “hidden gems. ”

My husband and I riddled John with questions about the flora and fauna of the valley. He was very knowledgeable about the trees, wildflowers, and wildlife. We enjoyed our conversations with him.

When we stopped in the meadow under El Capitan for a delicious lunch of turkey sandwiches and kale salad, John provided binoculars so we could view the rock climbers on the cliffside. Even with the binoculars, they looked like ants on the huge granite rock.

I highly recommend Yosemite Guide Service for your next adventure.

Friday evening the 21st of April 2023 we arrived at the cottage Little Haven of Yosemite from John and Vivien, the owners of Yosemite Guide Service. They own a tiny house and have it available for rent.

The tiny house is about 21m2 in size and built in 2022, so brand new. It is fully equiped and has room for two adults in the lower section of the cabin en maybe one or two adults in the loft section but it is better suitable for children, given the height of it.
There is a kitchen, shower and a special eco toilet you realy must see and use. The dog Cedar is a brave companion and the compound and he loves to play with a ball.

On Saturday the 22nd of April, we were taken on a guided tour by Brandon. He took us in a car to a large number of great spots in Yosemite Park, The Bridal Fall, Tunnel View, the visitor center and great viewings on Half Dome and El Capitan, pointing to climbers on that rock.

Brandon was a great host in supporting us the entire day.
We can absolutely advise you to book a tour with Yosemite Guided Service or book a stay at the tiny house.

Regards,
Ron, Diny & Ellen from The Netherlands

Great starting point for a trip into Yosemite. Lovely hosts and a fantastic TinyHouse. Thanks again! Jasper & Winfried