Oakhurst serves as a fantastic base for exploring Yosemite and the surrounding Sierra Nevada. Its proximity to the park’s iconic landmarks makes it an ideal spot for travelers eager to enjoy nature without the hassle of city traffic. Among the many options, we particularly like the Yosemite: Full-Day Tour with Lunch and Hotel Pick-up for its comprehensive experience and the ability to relax while taking in Yosemite’s most famous sights. If off-road adventures are more your style, the Yosemite: 4X4 UTV Giant Sequoia Tour offers a hands-on experience walking among towering trees, and the Bass Lake Vista Guided UTV Adventure provides a quick, scenic escape into Sierra National Forest.
These tours cover a variety of interests and activity levels, from relaxed bike rides to exhilarating off-road drives. Whether you want a guided day of sightseeing, a private Jeep adventure, or a cycling tour, Oakhurst has options suited for every traveler’s pace and preference.
Quick Overview of the Best Tours in Oakhurst
Our list includes full-day guided trips that include lunch and hotel pickup, perfect for those who want a hassle-free experience exploring Yosemite’s highlights. If you prefer a more adventurous approach, the Giant Sequoia private Jeep tour and 4X4 UTV tours offer unique access to some of the park’s most impressive natural wonders, with options for private groups or solo adventures. For a more relaxed exploration, bike rentals allow you to see Yosemite Valley at your own pace, combining exercise with sightseeing.
Below is a detailed look at each of these top-rated tours, helping you decide which fits your style and interests.
1. Yosemite: Full-Day Tour with Lunch and Hotel Pick-up
At number one, this full-day guided tour offers everything needed for a memorable Yosemite experience, including hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour lasts around 9 hours and includes stops at major landmarks like Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Bridalveil Fall. As you travel in comfort, your guide will share insights into Yosemite’s geology, plants, and animals, making the scenery more meaningful.
What sets this tour apart is the well-organized itinerary combined with included lunch, so you won’t have to worry about finding a meal amid your sightseeing. The reviews are very positive, with a 4.6/5 rating from nearly 200 travelers, noting how smoothly everything runs and how much they appreciated the expert guidance and awe-inspiring views.
This tour is perfect for visitors who want an in-depth, relaxed day without the hassle of driving or planning logistics. It’s an excellent choice for families, first-timers, or anyone who simply wants to see Yosemite’s best with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom line: this is a straightforward, well-rated option for those wanting a comprehensive, comfortable day in Yosemite.
2. Yosemite: Giant Sequoia Private 4X4 Jeep Tour
Number two on our list is the Giant Sequoia Private 4X4 Jeep Tour, which takes you into Yosemite’s less accessible backcountry to stand among some of the world’s largest trees. The tour lasts about 4 hours and is designed for small groups, with a maximum of four people per booking. The private nature allows for a flexible, personalized experience.
During this tour, your guide will navigate rugged roads and granite plains, leading you to a secluded Sequoia grove. The highlight is walking beside ancient giants and feeling the scale of these enormous trees—some among the oldest living things on Earth. The jeep’s 4X4 capability means you’ll access areas that are typically off-limits to larger vehicles, making this a special experience.
While reviews are limited to 27, the 4.5/5 rating indicates strong satisfaction. Travelers rave about the “amazing up-close encounters with the Sequoias” and the unique access that you can’t get on larger tours. The price is higher—$820 for up to four people—but the exclusivity and adventure make it worthwhile.
Bottom line: this private tour is ideal for small groups seeking an intimate, adventurous exploration of Yosemite’s giant trees, especially if you enjoy off-road driving.
3. Yosemite: 4X4 UTV Giant Sequoia Tour
Number three is a 4X4 UTV tour that combines driving your own off-road vehicle with guided insights into Yosemite’s natural wonders. This tour is about 4 hours long and is perfect for those seeking a more active, hands-on experience. The group is up to one person per UTV, which means you get the full driving experience.
You’ll follow your guide over granite plains, including a stop at Moon Rock—an iconic, moon-like boulder—and stroll among towering Sequoias. The tour incorporates splashing through creeks and negotiating rugged terrain, making it a fun, adrenaline-pumping outing. The standout feature is the opportunity to drive an off-road vehicle in a scenic wilderness setting, which appeals to outdoor enthusiasts.
With a perfect 5/5 rating from just four reviews, this tour impresses with its personalized, engaging experience and the chance to actively explore Yosemite’s backcountry. The cost, $949 for up to one person, reflects the private, immersive nature of the experience.
Bottom line: a top pick for active travelers who want to steer their own UTV and enjoy Yosemite’s wild side.
4. Bass Lake Vista Guided UTV Adventure Tour
Next, the Bass Lake Vista Guided UTV Adventure Tour offers a shorter, 2-hour off-road ride suitable for families or those new to off-roading. Priced at $506 for up to 4 people, it provides a quick but scenic escape into Sierra National Forest.
You’ll drive over the famous Moon Rock granite plains and stop at viewpoints overlooking Bass Lake, one of the most picturesque spots in the area. The guide will lead you through winding forest paths, and you’ll get to splash through creeks along the way. The tour emphasizes the natural beauty of the Sierra and is designed to be accessible for most fitness levels.
Rated 5/5 from 2 reviews, this tour is praised for its friendly guides and well-maintained UTVs. It’s a great choice if you want a compact adventure that combines scenery, light activity, and a touch of adrenaline.
Bottom line: ideal for a quick, family-friendly off-road outing with fantastic lake views.
5. Yosemite: Devils Peak 4X4 Sunset Jeep Tour with Local Guide
Number five is a sunset Jeep tour that takes you deep into the wilderness to Devil’s Peak at 6,900 feet. The 3.5-hour experience is perfect for those who want an evening adventure, ending with spectacular sunset views over Yosemite’s mountains.
The tour includes a climb to the top of Devil’s Peak, where you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas and learn about the history of the forest lookout tower. The guide will share stories about the area’s natural history and the importance of these remote lookout sites. As the sun sets, you’re encouraged to relax around a campfire, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the clear sky for stargazing.
While reviews are not available, the experience’s focus on sunset scenery, combined with the small-group Jeep ride, makes it a memorable way to see Yosemite’s mountain ranges from a different perspective.
Bottom line: a great choice for romantics or anyone interested in a scenic, evening adventure with spectacular vistas and a touch of storytelling.
$749 per group up to 4
6. Yosemite Valley Area: Standard Bike Rental
Finally, for those who prefer exploring at their own pace, the Yosemite Valley Standard Bike Rental offers an 8-hour window to see the park’s iconic sights by bike. With well-maintained, top-quality bikes, you can traverse Yosemite’s flat, scenic valley floor.
The rental includes assistance in choosing the right bike for your needs and options to rent bike racks for ease of transport. Rated highly across review platforms, the shop has been voted the best bike shop in Central California, with all reviews being 5-star. This flexibility allows you to customize your route, stopping at landmarks like El Capitan or the meadows, and even packing a picnic lunch.
While this isn’t a guided tour, it’s perfect for independent travelers eager to experience Yosemite’s landscape at their own rhythm. The price, $65 per person, offers excellent value, especially for a full day of sightseeing.
Bottom line: excellent for active travelers who want the freedom to explore Yosemite Valley on two wheels, with reliable bikes and local expertise.
$65 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Oakhurst
Picking between these options depends on your interests, budget, and activity level. If you prefer a comprehensive guided experience, the Yosemite: Full-Day Tour with Lunch and Hotel Pick-up is a solid choice—especially if you value comfort and storytelling. For a private, intimate adventure, the Giant Sequoia Private Jeep Tour offers exclusive access to ancient trees.
Active travelers may lean toward the 4X4 UTV Giant Sequoia Tour or the Bass Lake Vista Guided UTV, which blend adventure with stunning scenery. If you want to explore at your own pace, renting bikes for the day allows for flexible, self-guided sightseeing with minimal cost.
Consider your time frame and fitness level; the bike rental suits those who prefer independence, while off-road tours cater to adrenaline seekers. Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, to secure your spot in popular tours like the private Jeep or sunset excursions.
Final Thoughts
Oakhurst offers a diverse array of tours that help you see Yosemite’s highlights in ways that suit different interests and activity levels. For a relaxed, comprehensive day with logistics taken care of, the Yosemite: Full-Day Tour with Lunch and Hotel Pick-up is hard to beat. Want a more adventurous, intimate experience? The Giant Sequoia Private Jeep Tour or 4X4 UTV give you access to the park’s backcountry and giant trees.
For those seeking independence, the Bike Rental provides a flexible way to explore Yosemite Valley at your own pace, while the Sunset Jeep Tour promises a memorable evening with stunning views and storytelling.
Booking early can help ensure you don’t miss out on these popular tours. Whatever your style, Oakhurst makes it easy to experience Yosemite’s grandeur in a way that fits your travel dreams.