Mariposa Grove

3-Day Itinerary: Exploring Yosemite from The Redwoods in Yosemite Cabins

Wake up in the woods, not the crowds.”
Stay in Yosemite’s quiet southern village of Wawona while exploring waterfalls, Sequoia groves, and scenic river trails. This 3-day itinerary combines cozy cabin living with snow-dusted spring adventure in Yosemite National Park.

  • 📍 Location: Wawona & Southern Yosemite National Park

  • 🗓️ Duration: 3 Days, 2 Nights

  • 🚗 Best Time to Visit: March–May (spring snow + waterfalls)

  • 👣 Ideal For: Couples, families, spring adventurers

  • 🏕️ Lodging: 95R “Little Creek Cabin” at The Redwoods in Yosemite

  • ☕ Vibe: Quiet mornings, cozy cabin life, hidden trail gems

  • 🌲 Activities: Waterfall hikes, wildlife walks, giant sequoias, meadow loops

This 3-day Yosemite escape invites you to experience the park from a quieter, more personal perspective. Based in the historic village of Wawona, you’ll enjoy peaceful mornings, scenic forest hikes, and cozy evenings at The Redwoods in Yosemite cabins. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and adventure.

From four season trails at Chilnualna Falls to a peaceful stroll across Wawona’s lesser-known swinging bridge, this trip skips the crowds in favor of hidden gems. You’ll venture into the Mariposa Grove to stand beneath ancient sequoias, and return each night to a warm cabin filled with small comforts—home-cooked meals, puzzles, and panoramic forest views.

This itinerary is designed for couples, families, or anyone craving a slower Yosemite rhythm. With nature right outside your door and iconic sights just a short drive away, you’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll leave refreshed and reconnected.

Day 1: Arrival Through Gold Country

    • Drive Hwy 88 → Hwy 49 through historic Coulterville.  Alternative routes include taking the 41 from the Central Valley into Oakhurst and into Wawona. or Taking the 120 or 140 into Yosemite Valley, then traveling south to Wawona.

    • Explore downtown Coulterville + Hotel Jeffery

    • Stop in Oakhurst: grab Fossils to Falls trail cards & dine at South Gate Brewing Co.

    • Enter Yosemite South Gate (5pm is great for no lines!)

    • Check in at The Redwoods in Yosemite – Many cabin options to choose from.  We enjoyed the  95R “Little Creek Cabin”

    • Evening walk in Wawona includes river and forest views. Stroll down to the historic stables and wooden bridge.

    • Optional stargazing from cabin deck

    • Morning:

      • Sunrise coffee on the deck

      • Short hike to Chilnualna Falls lower section. Option to Climb to the top in Summer season and vary itinerary. 

      • Easy walk to Wawona Swinging Bridge along the South Fork of the Merced River

    • Midday:

      lassen queit side california

      • Breakfast back at the cabin

      • Puzzle time, light meal prep, gear check

      • Note if you took off to the top of Chilnualna falls, your mid day is on trail snacks.

    • Afternoon:

      • Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias (1.9-mile approach) or Shuttle bus to the grove. Explore the Giant sequoias at your own pace.

      • Visit Grizzly Giant & California Tunnel Tree

    • Evening:

      • Optional walk around Wawona Meadow Loop (wildlife viewing)

      • Cozy cabin dinner & puzzle time

    • Early drive to Yosemite Valley

    • Tunnel View: almost empty on a March Tuesday! Plan your trip around your preferred season.

    • Visit Bridalveil Fall – One of the most scenic and easy stops in the Valley, Early morning makes for an opportunity for a  crowd less experience 

    • Stop at Yosemite Valley  Swinging Bridge for iconic photo ops of Yosemite Falls.

    • Find Parking near Curry Village and enjoy a Coffee, Ice-cream or great Pizza for lunch.
    • Hope on tour bus and make stops at Yosemite falls and/or Mirror Lake 

    • Scenic drive home through Hwy 41 > 49 or 120 0f back on 141, depending on home destination.

Lodging Partner

little creek cabin20250303_064001
front porch little creek cabin wawona
cabin signs wawona
coffee at wawona cabin
One of the most peaceful Yosemite visits I’ve ever had. No crowds, snow on the trails, and adventure right outside our cabin.”
a man standing on a rock overlooking a lake
Charlie Pankey
Publisher & CEO Sierra Rec Magazine

🧭 Plan Your Trip Tip: Avoid midday crowds in Yosemite Valley by leaving early and heading to Wawona in the afternoon.  Early Moring Trail time is the most rewarding and where you will find the most solitude.  Swimming Hole near Swinging Bridge, should be monitored for hazards seasonally.

Trail & Destination Links