Planning a trip to Yosemite? Skip the park’s lodging lottery and explore the charming gateway communities just outside the entrance. Discover historic saloons and boutique hotels to scenic train rides and whitewater rafting—plus memorial options in the serene Yosemite Gateway Memorial Forest.
Things to Do in Yosemite
Tucked between California’s Gold Country and Yosemite National Park, the Yosemite Gateway communities offer the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventure—with authentic charm, welcoming hospitality, and none of the park’s crowds.
Yosemite National Park
Just minutes away, explore nearly 1,200 square miles of dramatic waterfalls, granite cliffs, giant sequoia groves, and alpine meadows. Hike to Vernal Fall, climb Half Dome, or simply marvel at El Capitan from the valley floor.
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
Step back in time aboard a restored logging locomotive for a scenic steam train journey through the Sierra forest.
Horseback Adventures
Explore mountain trails on horseback with guided rides through Yosemite Trails Horseback Adventures and other local outfitters.
Whitewater Rafting
Challenge the Merced River’s Class III and IV rapids for an adrenaline-pumping Sierra experience.
Museums & Gold Rush History
Discover the region’s rich past at the Mariposa Museum & History Center, or try your luck panning for gold in Jamestown, one of California’s original Gold Rush towns.
Wine Tasting
Sample local wines at Butterfly Creek Winery and other foothills wineries producing excellent vintages from this unique elevation and climate.
Bass Lake Recreation
Just south of the park, this popular lake offers swimming, boating, fishing, and waterside dining.
Where to Stay in Yosemite
Hotel Charlotte
Historic 1918 boutique hotel in downtown Groveland with vintage charm and contemporary comfort.
Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite
Modern mountain luxury with heated pools, a tavern, and easy park access.
Firefall Ranch
Contemporary cottages and villas with restaurant, wine room, heated pool, and striking design near the park’s northwest entrance.
Where to Eat in Yosemite
Charlotte’s Tavern
Pre-Prohibition elegance meets farm-to-table cuisine in Hotel Charlotte’s atmospheric restaurant and bar. Perfect for a special evening out.
Iron Door Saloon
alifornia’s oldest continuously operating saloon (established 1852!) serves up hefty steaks and juicy burgers beneath weathered woodwork and behind those famous iron doors. Kids love hunting for the elf that moves to a new hiding spot daily—find it and win a prize!
Mountain Sage Coffee
Award-winning coffee in a welcoming space with a beautiful plant nursery out back and stunning photography by local artist Robb Hirsch adorning the walls.
Two Guys Pizza Pies
Family-owned pizzeria with fresh salads, hearty calzones, baked subs, and—of course—delicious pizza. Indoor and outdoor seating available.
Kevin and Randi’s Old Fashioned Meat Market
Stock up on premium deli sandwiches, local cheeses, and picnic supplies before heading into the park. The locals’ secret for trail lunch.
Did you know? At Everis, we offer Complete Cremation Arrangements and Memorial Trees in the Yosemite Gateway Memorial Forest. Talk to a Guide today to arrange cremation online today and spread the ashes of your loved one in the Yosemite Gateway Memorial Forest.
Yosemite Gateway Memorial Forest
Yosemite Gateway Memorial Forest offers a meaningful way to return ashes to the earth within a protected forest sanctuary.
Yosemite Gateway Memorial Forest spans 170 acres in the Sierra Nevada—just 30 miles from iconic Yosemite National Park, featuring breathtaking mountain views and a rare mountain meadow ecosystem.
What Makes Yosemite Gateway Memorial Forest Special:
- Near Yosemite National Park – Scenic 45-minute drive with spectacular Sierra Nevada vistas
- Rare Mountain Meadow Ecosystem – Ponderosa pines, sugar pines and incense cedar
- Historic Orchard – Features 150-year old fruit orchard
- Wildlife Corridor – Important corridor to native wildlife
- Accessible Location – Easy drive from Bay Area, Central, and Southern California
Memorial Options Available:
- Memorial Trees (dedicated trees for families and pets)
- Spreading Groves (shared peaceful areas)
- Custom Memorial Markers
- Guide-led or self-led nature memorial ceremonies
