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California

Seasons of Magic in Yosemite: Splendor in the Sierra Nevada

Program No. 119760MEADV-1116-60
Gain a deeper understanding of Yosemite as you explore natural wonders, visit a historic hotel and learn the story of how art helped establish one of America's first national parks.

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Filling Fast!
May 11 - May 16, 2025
Starting at
1,849
May 25 - May 30, 2025
Starting at
1,849
Jun 1 - Jun 6, 2025
Starting at
1,849
Sep 7 - Sep 12, 2025
Starting at
1,849
Nov 23 - Nov 28, 2025
Starting at
1,849
Itinerary Note

Wine and dine focus with three field trips into Yosemite. Special meals include lunch at the elegant Ahwahnee Hotel, dinner at the historic Wawona Hotel and a Thanksgiving buffet. Experience Yosemite without the maddening crowds and in the beauty of her winter coat! And be sure to pack yours, as temperatures will range from 20-50 °F and you may see some snow. Our field trip vehicles are equipped for any weather, but keep in mind that snowy conditions may lengthen travel time.

Dec 27 - Jan 1, 2026
Starting at
1,999
Itinerary Note

Celebrate the New Year with three field trips into Yosemite, lunch at the Ahwahnee Hotel and a banquet dinner at The Wawona Hotel. Experience Yosemite without the maddening crowds and in the beauty of her winter coat! And be sure to pack yours, as temperatures will range from 20-50 °F and you may see some snow. Our field trip vehicles are equipped for any weather, but keep in mind that snowy conditions may lengthen travel time.

DATES & starting prices
PRICES
May 11 - May 16, 2025
Starting at
2,179
Filling Fast!
May 25 - May 30, 2025
Starting at
2,179
Jun 1 - Jun 6, 2025
Starting at
2,179
Sep 7 - Sep 12, 2025
Starting at
2,179
Nov 23 - Nov 28, 2025
Starting at
2,179
Itinerary Note

Wine and dine focus with three field trips into Yosemite. Special meals include lunch at the elegant Ahwahnee Hotel, dinner at the historic Wawona Hotel and a Thanksgiving buffet. Experience Yosemite without the maddening crowds and in the beauty of her winter coat! And be sure to pack yours, as temperatures will range from 20-50 °F and you may see some snow. Our field trip vehicles are equipped for any weather, but keep in mind that snowy conditions may lengthen travel time.

Dec 27 - Jan 1, 2026
Starting at
2,349
Itinerary Note

Celebrate the New Year with three field trips into Yosemite, lunch at the Ahwahnee Hotel and a banquet dinner at The Wawona Hotel. Experience Yosemite without the maddening crowds and in the beauty of her winter coat! And be sure to pack yours, as temperatures will range from 20-50 °F and you may see some snow. Our field trip vehicles are equipped for any weather, but keep in mind that snowy conditions may lengthen travel time.

This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!

At a Glance

Experience the ever-changing beauty of Yosemite National Park and the expansive Sierra Nevada on an extraordinary adventure. Feel the mist of Bridalveil Fall. Delight in your first glimpse of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley from historic Tunnel View. Walk among towering sequoia trees. Led by an exceptional storyteller, hear the history of this legendary landscape and delve into its geology, wildlife and vegetation during fascinating field trips into Yosemite National Park.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Optional hiking up to three miles on gently sloping terrain. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Stand before El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls.
  • Walk trails that wind among giant sequoias, the world’s largest trees and some of the oldest living things on Earth.
  • Visit the Ansel Adams Gallery and a Native American village.

General Notes

The Retreat Difference: This unique, often basic and no-frills experience at a Road Scholar Retreat includes opportunities for early morning exercise, interaction with the local community for insight into local life, an authentic farm-to-table or locally sourced meal, and a live performance or event.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Oakhurst, CA
Program Concludes
Oakhurst, CA
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
15 | 5B | 5L | 5D |
Activity Level
Experience the ever-changing beauty of Yosemite National Park and the expansive Sierra Nevada on an extraordinary adventure. Feel the mist of Bridalveil Fall. Delight in your first glimpse of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley from historic Tunnel View. Walk among towering sequoia trees. Led by an exceptional storyteller, hear the history of this legendary landscape and delve into its geology, wildlife and vegetation during fascinating field trips into Yosemite National Park.)
Best of all, you'll...
  • Stand before El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls.
  • Walk trails that wind among giant sequoias, the world’s largest trees and some of the oldest living things on Earth.
  • Visit the Ansel Adams Gallery and a Native American village.
General Notes
The Retreat Difference: This unique, often basic and no-frills experience at a Road Scholar Retreat includes opportunities for early morning exercise, interaction with the local community for insight into local life, an authentic farm-to-table or locally sourced meal, and a live performance or event.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Optional hiking up to three miles on gently sloping terrain. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.
Small Group (13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (69 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
Year
2025
  • 2025
Date
May 25 - May 30
  • May 11 - May 16
  • May 25 - May 30
  • Jun 01 - Jun 06
  • Sep 07 - Sep 12
  • Nov 23 - Nov 28
  • Dec 27 - Jan 01
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Select trip year and date
2025
  • 2025
May 25 - May 30
  • May 11 - May 16
  • May 25 - May 30
  • Jun 01 - Jun 06
  • Sep 07 - Sep 12
  • Nov 23 - Nov 28
  • Dec 27 - Jan 01
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
15 meals | 5B | 5L | 5D |
5 expert-led lectures
3 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Expand All
Activity Note
Lodge check-in from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. After you have your room assignment, come to the Road Scholar table in Lyles Dining Hall to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Please call if you expect to arrive after 6:30 p.m. Following registration, we’ll gather for a get-acquainted social hour with appetizers and beverages.
Dinner:
At Lyles Dining Hall.
Evening:
Orientation. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions This is a Road Scholar Retreats program. Programming at Retreat locations includes opportunities for light morning exercise, interaction with members of the local community, a farm-to-table meal, and evening entertainment. Our program is staffed with an expert who will serve as our Study Leader and instructor. Classes at ECCO (Episcopal Conference Center Oakhurst) will be held in Lower Lyles West or the chapel, a short walk from Lyles. Transportation for off-site field trips will be by shuttle bus. Field trips to and from Yosemite are about 35 miles each way on country roads. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Next, we’ll watch a short, award-winning video from the National Park Service about Yosemite National Park. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Activity Note
Light exercise prior to breakfast (walking, yoga, etc.). Getting on/off a shuttle bus; driving about 45 miles each way, approximately 3 hours riding time. Walking up to 3 miles over the course of the day; mostly flat ground in Yosemite Valley, paved and unpaved.
Breakfast:
In the dining hall. Each full day after breakfast, we will pack our own lunches from a variety of choices. Bring your own personal, reusable water bottle.
Morning:
We will board the shuttle for Yosemite Valley (38 miles, 1 hr. 30 min.) and set out by 8:00 a.m. Along the way, our instructor will give us natural history lessons enhanced by views of geology, flora, and fauna we learned about the day before. We will first stop at Tunnel View for a renowned first glimpse of Half Dome, Bridalveil Falls, El Capitan, and Cathedral Rocks. As we view the woodlands through the conifer forest, we’ll ride down into the glacially-carved valley of Yosemite to visit Sentinel Bridge and Yosemite Valley Lodge. Even those who have been to Yosemite before will see the park’s glory with new eyes, enlightened by the passion and knowledge of our instructors.
Lunch:
In Yosemite Valley, we’ll have the sack lunches we packed this morning.
Afternoon:
Next, we will walk with our instructor on a field trip to the Ahwahnee Hotel, where we’ll marvel at the architecture, the basketry displays, and the history inherent within its walls. We will then make our way to Yosemite Village to explore the area for the rest of the afternoon before returning to campus (38 miles, 1 hr. 30 min.).
Dinner:
In the dining hall.
Evening:
We will be joined by a local expert for a presentation on fascinating aspects of the area such as natural history, human and cultural history, musical or other artistic guests, and the like.
Activity Note
Light exercise prior to breakfast (walking, yoga, etc.). Getting on/off a shuttle bus; driving about 15 miles each way, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking up to 3 miles over the course of the day; undulating ground in Mariposa Grove, paved and unpaved.
Breakfast:
In the dining hall.
Morning:
We will board the shuttle for Yosemite National Park, departing at 8:00 a.m., for Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias (12 miles, 25 min). Our instructor will guide us to the grove while examining the history of this historical grove and its majestic inhabitants.
Lunch:
In the Grove, we’ll have sack lunches.
Afternoon:
We will take another shuttle bus ride to Wawona (6.7 miles, 15 min.). Our instructor will guide us through the Pioneer History Center, The Wawona Hotel, and Hill's Studio before we return to ECCO in the afternoon (17.4 miles, 30 min.). Location will depend on weather conditions and road closures.
Dinner:
In the dining hall.
Evening:
We will gather for a presentation by a local expert.
Activity Note
Light exercise prior to breakfast (walking, yoga, etc.). Getting on/off a shuttle bus; driving about 45 miles each way, approximately 3 hours riding time. Walking up to 3 miles over the course of the day; mostly flat ground in Yosemite Valley, paved and unpaved.
Breakfast:
In the dining hall.
Morning:
We will board the shuttle for Yosemite Valley (38 miles, 1 hr. 30 min.), departing by 8:00 a.m., for a full day of independent exploration in the park to see and do what interests each of us most. We will be dropped off at Shuttle Stop #7. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Lunch:
In Yosemite Valley, we’ll have the sack lunches we packed this morning.
Afternoon:
Free time for independent exploration will continue before regrouping and heading back to campus in the late afternoon (38 miles, 1 hr. 30 min.). We’ll have some time to freshen up and relax before dinner.
Dinner:
In the dining hall.
Evening:
We will gather for a presentation by a local expert.
Activity Note
Light exercise prior to breakfast (walking, gardening, yoga, etc.). Getting on/off a shuttle bus; driving about 45 miles each way, approximately 3 hours riding time. Walking up to 3 miles over the course of the day; mostly flat ground in Yosemite Valley, paved and unpaved.
Breakfast:
In the dining hall.
Morning:
We will board the shuttle for Yosemite Valley (38 miles, 1 hr. 30 min.), departing at 8:00 a.m. Our first stop will be exploring the Happy Isles Nature Center to study the truly adventurous animal pioneers of the Sierra Nevada.
Lunch:
In Yosemite Valley, we’ll have the sack lunches we packed this morning.
Afternoon:
After lunch, our instructor will lead us on a field trip to Mirror Lake, where we will take in the beauty of Mirror Lake positioned perfectly between Half Dome and North Dome in Tenaya Canyon. We will return in the afternoon to Shuttle Stop 7 to board the bus for return to ECCO (38 miles, 1 hr. 30 min.).
Dinner:
In the dining hall. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
We will gather for a presentation by a local expert. Prepare for check-out and departure tomorrow.
Activity Note
Light exercise prior to breakfast (walking, yoga, etc.). Lodge check-out 9:00 a.m. Walking around campus.
Breakfast:
In the dining hall.
Morning:
In our last class, we will discuss present-day national park issues. Our national parks are ever-evolving entities, changing to meet human and ecological needs. With our instructor, we’ll focus on current issues and how the park service responds to them, as well as learning about plans for the future.
Lunch:
In the dining hall. This concludes our program.
Afternoon:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
15 Meals
5 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
5 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Low Fat, Low Salt, Vegetarian, Gluten Free
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
May 25, 2025 - May 30, 2025
  • May 25, 2025 - May 30, 2025
  • May 11, 2025 - May 16, 2025
  • May 25, 2025 - May 30, 2025
  • Jun 01, 2025 - Jun 06, 2025
  • Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025
  • Nov 23, 2025 - Nov 28, 2025
  • Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 01, 2026
5 nights
Location: Oakhurst
Set amid 160 lovely acres of forested oaks, incense cedar and ponderosa pine, the two ECCO lodges used by Road Scholar participants — Sanford Lodge and Beardsley Lodge — are split-level with ground-floor parking and an entrance at each level. The dining room features a full wraparound deck overlooking a pond populated by mallards, egrets, herons and one mute swan. There is a casual relaxation room for socializing, with plenty of novels to borrow. Good to know: No TVs in rooms but one in common area. Wi-Fi is available throughout. Housekeeping once a week. We will serve wine on the arrival night during the social hour afterward wine or beer is not provided or sold at ECCO. You are welcome to bring your own and we will provide corkage and glassware at no additional cost. Most meals served buffet-style; bus own table.
5 nights
Location: Oakhurst
Set amid 160 lovely acres of forested oaks, incense cedar and ponderosa pine, the two ECCO lodges used by Road Scholar participants — Sanford Lodge and Beardsley Lodge — are split-level with ground-floor parking and an entrance at each level. The dining room features a full wraparound deck overlooking a pond populated by mallards, egrets, herons and one mute swan. There is a casual relaxation room for socializing, with plenty of novels to borrow. Good to know: No TVs in rooms but one in common area. Wi-Fi is available throughout. Housekeeping once a week. We will serve wine on the arrival night during the social hour afterward wine or beer is not provided or sold at ECCO. You are welcome to bring your own and we will provide corkage and glassware at no additional cost. Most meals served buffet-style; bus own table.
5 nights
Location: Oakhurst
Set amid 160 lovely acres of forested oaks, incense cedar and ponderosa pine, the two ECCO lodges used by Road Scholar participants — Sanford Lodge and Beardsley Lodge — are split-level with ground-floor parking and an entrance at each level. The dining room features a full wraparound deck overlooking a pond populated by mallards, egrets, herons and one mute swan. There is a casual relaxation room for socializing, with plenty of novels to borrow. Good to know: No TVs in rooms but one in common area. Wi-Fi is available throughout. Housekeeping once a week. We will serve wine on the arrival night during the social hour afterward wine or beer is not provided or sold at ECCO. You are welcome to bring your own and we will provide corkage and glassware at no additional cost. Most meals served buffet-style; bus own table.
5 nights
Location: Oakhurst
Set amid 160 lovely acres of forested oaks, incense cedar and ponderosa pine, the two ECCO lodges used by Road Scholar participants — Sanford Lodge and Beardsley Lodge — are split-level with ground-floor parking and an entrance at each level. The dining room features a full wraparound deck overlooking a pond populated by mallards, egrets, herons and one mute swan. There is a casual relaxation room for socializing, with plenty of novels to borrow. Good to know: No TVs in rooms but one in common area. Wi-Fi is available throughout. Housekeeping once a week. We will serve wine on the arrival night during the social hour afterward wine or beer is not provided or sold at ECCO. You are welcome to bring your own and we will provide corkage and glassware at no additional cost. Most meals served buffet-style; bus own table.
5 nights
Location: Oakhurst
Set amid 160 lovely acres of forested oaks, incense cedar and ponderosa pine, the two ECCO lodges used by Road Scholar participants — Sanford Lodge and Beardsley Lodge — are split-level with ground-floor parking and an entrance at each level. The dining room features a full wraparound deck overlooking a pond populated by mallards, egrets, herons and one mute swan. There is a casual relaxation room for socializing, with plenty of novels to borrow. Good to know: No TVs in rooms but one in common area. Wi-Fi is available throughout. Housekeeping once a week. We will serve wine on the arrival night during the social hour afterward wine or beer is not provided or sold at ECCO. You are welcome to bring your own and we will provide corkage and glassware at no additional cost. Most meals served buffet-style; bus own table.
5 nights
Location: Oakhurst
Set amid 160 lovely acres of forested oaks, incense cedar and ponderosa pine, the two ECCO lodges used by Road Scholar participants — Sanford Lodge and Beardsley Lodge — are split-level with ground-floor parking and an entrance at each level. The dining room features a full wraparound deck overlooking a pond populated by mallards, egrets, herons and one mute swan. There is a casual relaxation room for socializing, with plenty of novels to borrow. Good to know: No TVs in rooms but one in common area. Wi-Fi is available throughout. Housekeeping once a week. We will serve wine on the arrival night during the social hour afterward wine or beer is not provided or sold at ECCO. You are welcome to bring your own and we will provide corkage and glassware at no additional cost. Most meals served buffet-style; bus own table.
Participant Reviews
4.9
Based on 30 Reviews
Sort By:
Wayne Francis – Class of 2024 | Montgomery, TX
Yosemite Seasons of Magic was indeed magical! This was our first Road Scholar trip and can't wait for our next one!
— Review left September 23, 2024
Helen | Glasgow, United Kingdom
A marvellous experience overall which more than surpassed expections!
— Review left September 13, 2024
Lisa – Class of 2015 | Apple Valley, CA
This program was fun and interesting. The Leaders were great and informative. I recommend this program to anyone interested in experiencing Yosemite for the first time or as a followup to a previous experience.
— Review left September 10, 2024
Darrell – Class of 2024 | Poway, CA
I can't think of a better way to have addressed this 'bucket list' adventure than this tour/program offered. I will be counting on Road Scholars to help me with other 'bucket list' educational adventures.
— Review left June 10, 2024
Richard | Baxter Springs, KS
If you have any interest in Yosemite and the natural world, I would strongly encourage this trip. A total 4 star experience!
— Review left May 25, 2024
Nancy – Class of 2022 | Mokena, IL
Yosemite National Park took my breath away! I've been to Hawaii, Alaska, Glacier NP, Banff in Canada, Yellowstone NP & Arcadia NP! Yosemite is at the top! An amazing trip with amazing guides! It's well worth the money spent!
— Review left May 19, 2024
Ellen – Class of 1988 | Bremerton, WA
Yosemite had been on our bucket list for some time. We can't imagine a better introduction to the history, geology, and natural wonders of this magnificent place.
— Review left May 12, 2024
Donna – Class of 2023 | Matheson, CO
The Seasons in Yosemite National Park was an excellent choice for my first adventure with Road Scholar. I read some of the books suggested. The pace was great. The lodging at ECCO in CA was very adequate, as was the food. I would HIGHLY recommend this program to others.
— Review left September 19, 2023
Judith – Class of 2003 | Richfield, MN
This was a beautiful program. The scenery, the walking, the guides and the food were all excellent. I highly recommend it.
— Review left June 1, 2023
Jack – Class of 2016 | Albuquerque, NM
This spectacular tour of Yosemite and all its natural treasures completed another lifetime bucket list item for me. The waterfalls, trees, wildlife (we saw several bear families!) and vistas were breathtaking. And of course, the quality of our Road Scholar tour directors and presenters was just outstanding. Bravo!
— Review left May 30, 2023
Surenda – Class of 2023 | Florence, AL
This is my first Road scholar trip and it is going to be one of many.
— Review left May 26, 2023
David – Class of 2014 | Carp Lake, MI
Program Leader Chris Cameron elevated this programs to heights seldom seen!
— Review left May 26, 2023
Jeffrey – Class of 2022 | Katy, TX
This was my first Road Scholar experience. The Seasons of Magic in Yosemite was a great way to explore and learn about this majestic treasure. The trip was rated no sweat and was great for those that have not hiked that much or in a while and at the same time gauge my abilities. I have already booked another Road Scholar trip for next summer and am seriously looking at several others rated hike at your own pace.
— Review left October 17, 2022
Patricia – Class of 2014 | Capitola, CA
This program in Yosemite National Park provided a wonderful opportunity for our family members, both children and adults of all ages from various areas in the US, to get together in a welcoming environment. We not only learned about Yosemite, but were able to visit and enjoy each others company in a wonderful facility. Wonderful program and experience!!
— Review left July 5, 2022
Audrey – Class of 2022 | Walkerton, VA
What a terrific trip! I learned so much and loved Yosemite. Great people, a great way to see one of the most breathtaking places on Earth!
— Review left June 20, 2022
Corine – Class of 2000 | Arvada, CO
This was an excellent program; well-organized, knowledgeable instructors, helpful & friendly group leader. The scenery in Yosemite National Park is totally awesome. I am so happy that I decided on this particular Road Scholar program.
— Review left April 30, 2022
Patricia – Class of 2014 | Capitola, CA
WONDERFUL PROGRAM!! YOSEMITE IS AN UNBELIEVABLE PLACE, SO MUCH TO SEE AND EXPERIENCE. THE WHOLE AREA IS AN INTOXICATINGLY GORGEOUS PLACE TO VISIT, THERE WAS NEVER A SPOT THAT WE SAW OR VISITED THAT WAS NOT UNIQUE!
— Review left November 1, 2021
William – Class of 2011 | Los Lunas, NM
I'd been wanting to visit Yosemite for 50 years and finally did it! Debbie and Chris were terrific leaders—very well informed, accommodating and fun to be around. The conference center (outside the park) was lovely with good food but it was a long daily commute from there to most destinations inside the park. Be sure to factor in your tolerance for the daily shuttle roundtrip. But overall a great program, and i would recommend it.
— Review left October 22, 2021
Henry – Class of 2020 | Seal Beach, CA
THE WEBSITE IS EASY TO USE EVEN FOR ME A NON TECHY PERSON
— Review left September 24, 2021
Margaret – Class of 2000 | Menlo Park, CA
This is a great way to be introduced to the wonders of Yosemite. The in-depth knowledge of the instructors adds to the experience. Be aware that the camp is some distance from the park and long bus rides are required.
— Review left September 10, 2021
Kerry – Class of 2017 | Flagstaff, AZ
So much magic to experience in Yosemite National Park, and so much to learn! Stunning scenery, breathtaking views of all the top spots in the park. The conference center in Oakhurst is tucked away in a nice quiet landscape. The rooms were spare but comfortable, and the food at the cafeteria was surprisingly good! The instructor was very knowledgeable about local history and culture and made our program so interesting. Excellent educational value in this adventure! I enjoyed it very much.
— Review left January 6, 2020
George M – Class of 2014 | Kansas City, MO
My week in the Sierra Nevada was exhilarating and breathtaking. To view El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridalveil and Vernal Falls, and more from the floor of Yosemite valley at 4000 ft and then again from Glacier Point at 7200 ft was indeed magical. Our half-day in Mariposa Grove, walking, touching, smelling, listening, almost tasting the giant sequoias was a truly humbling experience. I heard outstanding presentations, both in the "classroom" and on the trails, from a passionate, articulate naturalist. The accommodations at the Episcopal Conference Center Oakhurst were excellent.
— Review left October 12, 2019
Nivedita – Class of 2017 | Albuquerque, NM
Excellent overview of a wonderful national park. Spectacular scenery from a variety of vantage points. Keep the Pace is accurately described. Shirley, our instructor was amazing! Learned a lot from her. Decent accommodations; great, healthy food. Good group of participants to enjoy the tour with. Highly recommend it!
— Review left July 2, 2019
James – Class of 2017 | Evanston, IL
Anyone who wishes to see first hand some of the very special natural assets of our great country should do the Yosemite trip. The water falls, the granite rock formations and the trees are unique not only in the USA, but in the world.
— Review left June 30, 2019
T.L – Class of 2019 | Star, ID
The lodging at ECCO is very basic, bordering on rustic. The rooms are cramped, the furniture is too small to store your clothes, the sink counter is small and part of the main room. The shower/tub combo and toilet have a door that closes. The 2 table lamps have CFL bulbs that are very dim. No food or beverages are allowed in the rooms. The main dining room has tables for 8 and meals are buffet style except for the sack lunches which you pack yourself. The daily trips to Yosemite take 1-1 1/2 hours each way on narrow, winding roads and the shuttle driver Larry did an excellent job. Even in early June Yosemite is overflowing with people and traffic, and park shuttles are standing room only if you can even get on. Our group leader, Marlene, did a great job of keeping the group together and making sure we got to see all the highlights within the park. Her extensive knowledge of the area added to the enjoyment of our trip when she suggested ideas for the free day. The other reason this trip was enjoyable in spite of the lodging drawbacks was Shirley Spencer, who spent many hours with our group giving us her charismatic and engaging narrative of all things Yosemite based on her education, years as a park ranger, and personal experiences hiking and climbing Yosemite's vast terrain. The activity level wasn't very demanding although elevations of 6,000 feet at some locations could leave you winded. Thanks to both Marlene and Shirley, we definitely learned a lot more about Yosemite than we would have on our own, and they made our first Road Scholar trip worthwhile.
— Review left June 16, 2019
Laura – Class of 2019 | Sacramento, CA
Educational and FUN, with just the right amount of learning, field adventure and the opportunity to meet people interested in that which interests me. My first Road Scholar, but certainly not my last. It's a great way to vacation !
— Review left June 14, 2019
Roseanna – Class of 2015 | Chico, CA
Our guides to the park were very knowledgable and made the visit to this beautiful place more interesting, and our leader was very helpful. The evening programs were mostly delightful; however, the first day is mostly sitting. I was ready on Day 1 to go to the park! If I go back to Yosemite, I will stay in the park; the hours on the bus were a waste of time. Also, I was not impressed with ECCO. I have stayed at Kanuga (an Episcopal retreat center in NC) -- it is an A+ facility, but alas, ECCO is not. The bed in our tiny room was comfortable with nice linens, but the property is in need of TLC. Furniture in the sitting area of the dining room was worn, dirty, and had no support. I would not stay here again.
— Review left June 9, 2019
Carol – Class of 2007 | Freeland, WA
Wonderful program. Strongly recommend Road Scholar Programs.
— Review left June 9, 2019
Elizabeth – Class of 2019 | Hingham, MA
Are the National Parks on your 'bucket list'? "Seasons of Magic" in Yosemite offers an exceptional introduction to "America's Best Idea". An awe-inspiring natural cathedral, the Park offers fascinating history, rich biodiversity, and a path to a world beyond expectation. Come and see what moved great Americans from Abraham Lincoln to John Muir to Teddy Roosevelt to preserve this remarkable resource for you and me and all who hope to experience the transcendent right here on earth.
— Review left May 4, 2019
Evette – Class of 2014 | Cotati, CA
This is a great trip. From professional staff and educators to fabulous food and accommodations. Yosemite is beautiful any time of year and to be guided by people who really love the park makes for a very special experience.
— Review left January 20, 2019





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