Yosemite and Glacier Point Tour from Los Angeles by Amtrak

Traveling from Los Angeles to Yosemite with a tour that includes train travel, an overnight stay, and a guided exploration sounds like a wonderful way to see this iconic park. We’ve gathered plenty of details on this experience offered by Crossroads Tours, so if you’re thinking about it, here’s a comprehensive breakdown to help you decide if it fits your plans.

What immediately catches the eye is the small-group vibe, which often means more personal attention and less time waiting around. Plus, the inclusion of round-trip Amtrak tickets offers a relaxed, stress-free way to travel between cities—something that many travelers appreciate over the chaos of driving or flying. On the downside, some reviews point out issues with the train and bus segments, so it’s worth considering how comfortable your journey might be.

If you’re after a straightforward, guided adventure that hits all the big Yosemite highlights while allowing you to relax during travel, this could be a good fit. It’s especially suitable if you’re okay with an early start and want to see key sights like Glacier Point, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

Key Points

• Convenient travel with included round-trip Amtrak tickets from Los Angeles to Fresno.
• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience and access to spots like Glacier Point.
• Full day in Yosemite with visits to iconic sites like Bridalveil Falls and Yosemite Valley.
• Overnight stay in Fresno gives you some local flavor and a restful break before the park day.
• Limited winter access to Glacier Point (open only from Spring to Fall).
• Mixed reviews about train and bus comfort—some travelers found these segments less enjoyable.

The Booking and Itinerary: What to Expect

This tour kicks off in Los Angeles, where you’ll be picked up from your hotel and taken to the Amtrak station. Once onboard, you’ll ride to Fresno, with your train ticket included in the price. We like that this takes the headache out of city-to-park logistics, letting you relax during the journey. The train ride itself can be quite scenic, and it’s a laid-back way to start your adventure.

In Fresno, you get a free evening to unwind. You might grab dinner on your own, take a walk around town, or even visit a nearby casino—whatever helps you relax before an early start the next day. Your hotel stay is included, so you don’t need to worry about finding accommodations.

The second day is when the real magic begins. Your guide picks you up early, and from there, it’s a full day exploring Yosemite. Entrance fees are covered, which is nice—no surprise costs at the park gates. You’ll visit Glacier Point if it’s open (season-dependent), offering some of the best viewpoints in the park, especially in spring and fall.

Once inside Yosemite, your itinerary includes hits like Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Falls, Sentinel Bridge, El Capitan, and Fern Springs. The guide will explain their significance, but you’re mainly there to take in the views and enjoy the moment. The stops are timed to maximize your experience without feeling rushed, but be prepared for a fairly full day.

The tour wraps up with a drive back to Fresno, followed by the Amtrak ride back to Los Angeles, completing your quick but impactful escape to California’s crown jewel.

Exploring the Highlights

Glacier Point

This spot is often the star of Yosemite tours. Open from spring to fall, it offers what many consider the most breathtaking views over Yosemite Valley. From here, you can see Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and the sprawling valley below—perfect for photos or just soaking in the vastness. One reviewer called it “among the world’s best views,” which is no exaggeration.

Yosemite Valley and Iconic Sights

The tour covers the essentials: Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Falls, El Capitan, Sentinel Bridge, and the Yosemite Chapel. These are the sights that define Yosemite’s grandeur. The guide’s insights make these stops more meaningful, and many visitors find that having a guide adds depth to the experience, especially if you’re new to the park.

The Cultural Stops

Visiting the Pioneer Village History Center and Yosemite Café adds a bit of local flavor and history, giving you a brief break from the natural scenery. These areas provide context and a chance to stretch your legs.

Travel Considerations

The entire trip is about two days, with the overnight in Fresno. The early start on day two and the full day in the park mean you’ll want to go in with rested expectations. The train ride offers the chance to relax, but reviews indicate some travelers found the train and bus segments uncomfortable or less enjoyable, so bring a cushion or plan for some downtime.

The Price and Value

For $589 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive Yosemite experience with transportation, park entrance, and an overnight stay included. When you consider the cost of train tickets, hotel, and park fees if booking separately, it’s reasonably priced—especially for the convenience of everything handled in one package.

Some reviews highlight the good value, especially since guided tours provide a lot of information and ease, which can be priceless if you’re unfamiliar with Yosemite or short on time. However, it’s worth noting that certain travelers felt the train and bus segments weren’t as comfortable, so if you prioritize comfort, you might want to prepare accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a stress-free way to see Yosemite from Los Angeles, this tour delivers. It’s particularly good for those who want a guided, structured experience without the hassle of planning every detail. Nature lovers will appreciate the stops at Glacier Point and Yosemite Falls, while history buffs enjoy the cultural sites.

However, if you tend to be sensitive to train and bus discomfort, or if you prefer a more flexible itinerary, you might find some of the travel segments less satisfying. It’s also best suited for travelers who don’t mind an early start and a packed schedule—this is not a leisurely, laid-back trip, but rather a full-day exploration packed into two days.

Final Thoughts

This Yosemite and Glacier Point Tour from Los Angeles offers a solid way to experience some of California’s most stunning scenery without the hassle of driving. The included train travel adds to the relaxed vibe, and the small-group size ensures you’re not just another face in a large tour bus. Guides like Ron and Mick receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, which really enhances the experience.

On the flip side, some travelers have noted that the train and bus segments could be more comfortable, and the early mornings and full-day schedule require some energy. Still, if you’re eager to see Yosemite’s highlights with minimal planning, this tour is a good option.

For those who want to combine comfort, convenience, and some of the best views Yosemite has to offer, this tour ticks many boxes. Just be prepared for a busy but rewarding couple of days, and you’ll leave with memories and photos that last a lifetime.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, round-trip Amtrak tickets from Los Angeles to Fresno are included, making travel between cities easy and relaxing.

Can I visit Yosemite in winter with this tour?
Glacier Point is usually closed from November to April, so if you’re visiting during winter, you might not see this particular viewpoint, but other highlights are included.

What’s the accommodation like in Fresno?
Your overnight hotel stay is included, but some reviews mention the hotel’s condition varies. It’s best to check ahead if you have specific comfort needs.

How long is the overall tour?
It’s approximately two days—one for travel and a night in Fresno, and the second for Yosemite exploration.

Are the stops on the tour suitable for children?
Children can participate if accompanied by an adult, and parents should bring necessary car seats or booster seats. The tour is generally suitable for families with older kids.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and any personal items you might need during the park visit. Also, some reviewers suggest bringing a cushion for train and bus segments.

Thinking about your Yosemite trip? This tour offers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing, comfortable travel, and the chance to see some of the park’s most famous sights—all in just a couple of days from Los Angeles. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, it might be worth considering.