Yosemite overnight travel options

Question

Hello,

I managed to book accommodation for 1 night in Curry Village in September. I am trying to decide the best way to get there without driving ourselves (we are Australian and don't like the idea of driving overseas). From what I have found Extranomical tours and Grayline both offer one way travel or overnight tour options. The price is pretty similar but Grayline appears to have longer at Yosemite (arriving in the valley around 12:30pm 1 day and pick up at 3:30pm the next). Extranomical picks up at 2pm on the return day as it includes a tour of a Sequoia grove on the return to SF.

Does anyone have any feedback on what option is better? I'm leaning towards Grayline as it is basically travel there and back, giving us most time to explore on our own once we get there. But interested in feedback or something I might have missed.

Thank you

Answer

Hello,

Given your situation—staying one night at Curry Village and preferring not to drive—your assessment of the two main shuttle/tour options from San Francisco to Yosemite is very reasonable. Both Extranomical and Gray Line have their merits, but there are some differences to consider based on timing, flexibility, and sightseeing opportunities.

Here are the main points to help you decide:

Gray Line: Offers a more straightforward round-trip option. Arrival in Yosemite Valley is around 12:30 pm on the first day, and pick-up is around 3:30 pm the next day. This allows you roughly 27 hours to explore the park at your own pace without a structured tour. It’s ideal if your main goal is to maximize personal exploration time in Yosemite, hiking, and taking photos, without being constrained by a return tour schedule.
Extranomical Tours: Typically includes a stop at a Sequoia grove on the return journey to San Francisco, with pickup around 2 pm. While you get slightly less time in Yosemite itself, you gain the added experience of seeing the giant sequoias along the way back. This might appeal if you enjoy guided stops and seeing multiple highlights without organizing transportation yourself.

Other considerations:

Flexibility: Gray Line provides more free time within Yosemite itself, which is ideal for hiking to Glacier Point, visiting Yosemite Falls, or exploring the valley floor at leisure. Extranomical’s schedule is more structured with the extra stop, which might reduce flexibility in Yosemite.
Comfort: Both operators generally provide air-conditioned buses with rest stops, but check recent reviews for comfort and punctuality, as this can vary.
Group Size: Smaller group sizes may provide a more intimate experience. Extranomical sometimes offers smaller buses, which can be easier to manage inside the park.
Cost: Since the prices are similar, your choice should mainly consider time in the park vs. extra sightseeing on the return.

In summary, if your priority is maximizing time inside Yosemite to explore independently and enjoy the sunset, hiking, or photography, Gray Line is likely the better choice. If you prefer a slightly guided experience with the bonus of seeing a Sequoia grove on the way back, Extranomical would add that extra sightseeing value.

Given your note about wanting the most freedom to explore on your own, leaning toward Gray Line seems like the most suitable option for your overnight stay.