The Most Unique Place to Stay in Yosemite

Written By Jennifer Curnutt

Rush Creek Lodge & Spa

Yosemite National Park is one of California’s most breathtaking national wonders, shaped over millions of years by glaciers and tectonic forces. The park’s landscape if defined by dramatic granite cliffs with sheer walls, a valley bursting with wild flowers in spring, lush meadows, and crystal-clear streams. It is home to an ancient old growth forest of towering giant sequoias, incredible hiking trails, and some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world.

My only complaint with Yosemite over the years has been it’s limited options for truly unforgettable lodging. Most visitors end up camping or staying in tent cabins in Curry Village - convenient but far from unforgettable. However, all that changed less than a decade ago when the first new resort in over 25 years was built in the area just outside the park’s West entrance - Rush Creek Lodge & Spa.

Located off the beaten path, Rush Creek Lodge & Spa is a hidden gem that brings together outdoor adventure and refined luxury in a way that Yosemite has never seen before - the perfectly balanced escape.

Surrounded by towering pines, this boutique hotel is nestled in the foothills of the stunning Sierra Nevada designed with both rustic charm and luxury in mind. With a world-class spa and an impressive list of amenities, it is the premier place to stay.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Getting There

Rush Creek Lodge & Spa is located in Central California at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada in Tuolumne County. It is about a 1/2 mile from the West entrance (Hetch Hetchy entrance) of Yosemite National Park at 34001 State Highway 120 (CA-120), Groveland, California.

Closest Airports: The closest major airport to Rush Creek is Fresno International Airport (FAT), located about 2-1/2 hours away. You can also fly into the small Merced Regional Airport (MCE) which is a little closer (about 2 hours) but there are fewer flight options and fares are generally higher. Other options are Sacramento Airport or San Francisco Airport which offer more flights especially for international travelers but the drive time will be a little longer.

Driving Directions:

  • From Southern California (Los Angeles): I‑5 → CA‑99 North → Merced area → CA‑120 East; lodge is just before the west Yosemite entrance (5-1/2 to 6 hours from L.A.).

  • From San Francisco Bay Area: Take I‑80 → I‑580 → I‑205 → CA‑120 East through Oakdale, then Groveland; lodge is ½ mile before the park entrance (3 to 3-1/2 hours).

  • From Eastern Sierra (Mammoth): I‑395 North → CA‑120 West via Tioga Pass (Tioga Pass is almost always closed in the winter) (2-1/2 hours).

  • From Lake Tahoe Region: CA‑89 → I‑395 South → CA‑120 West; lodge is just outside the park (4 to 4-1/2 hours).

Climate and Weather

Rush Creek Lodge sits at an elevation of about 3,100 feet in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada where the weather can vary significantly throughout the year. Mornings and evenings tend to be chilly year round regardless. The area also recieves about 37-39 inches of rain annually as well as about 6 inches of snow, mostly in winter.

The Yosemite area experiences four distinct seasons:

  • Spring (March to May) - Temperatures range from the mid-40s to the low 70s °F with occasional showers. This is when the park’s waterfalls and wild flower blooms are at their peaks.

  • Summer (June to August) - Days are warm to hot with average highs of 85-95 °F. Evenings can get cool with lows of 50-60 °F. Rain is rare and waterfalls may be dried up.

  • Fall (September to November) - Fewer crowds, crisp air and stunnig fall foliage. Average highs are 65–80 °F with lows of 35-45 °F.

  • Winter (December to February) - Snow often blankets the ground and crowds head home, but it can get quite cold and many roads i.e. Tioga Pass, will likely be closed. Chains are usually required. Average highs are 45-55 °F with lows of 25-30°F.

Tips for Visiting

  • Before booking, message me for a DISCOUNT CODE.

  • Rush Creek Lodge is in California and on Pacific Time.

  • There is ample self parking including electric car chargers.

  • The lodge features ADA compliant rooms designed for mobility and communication needs.

  • Pets are strictly prohibited except legally recognized service animals. You can arrange for nearby pet boarding through companies like Yosemite Tails and Trails.

  • Rush Creek has a full-service recreation department that offers expert planning and trip advice, guided tours and excursions, and equipment rentals (bikes, paddle boards, and fly fishing gear).

  • You can dine onsite choosing between the resort’s restaurant, the Tavern, and the poolside bar which alternates between Southern or American BBQ and a taco truck.

  • Room service is available upon request.

  • Rush Creek is kid-friendly but also offers quiet corners and an incredibly relaxing spa making it a perfect couple’s retreat or girl’s trip destination.

  • Book early especially during peak season (late spring and early fall). If you want to stay in a villa, plan on booking 6 months in advance.

  • Pack layers. Like any mountain town, weather can change quickly. Be sure to bring a light weight rain jacket even in summer.

  • The entrance to Yosemite National Park is less than a mile away. Yosemite Valley is about a 45-minute drive.

  • Day use reservations are required to enter Yosemite National Park during peak season (late Spring to late Summer/early Fall). Book online in advance.

  • Rush Creek serves as an official stop for YARTS, the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation, along Highway 120 that provides transportation service into Yosemite Valley.

  • Once in the Valley, use the park’s convenient free shuttle system to get around. throughout the day.

AMENITIES

Rush Creek Lodge is a boutique hotel set amidst a pine forest complete with an on-site restaurant, tavern, poolside bar, general store, guest lounge, outdoor fire pits, and an impressive indoor game room as well as outdoor play areas, a full-size heated pool, an outdoor jacuzzi, and a world-class full service spa.

Accomodations

Rush Creek Lodge offers 143 rooms, suites, and hillside villas spread out across 20 acres of land set among pine trees and rolling hills, thoughtfully designed with modern amenities and comfort in mind.

  • Lodge King Rooms - 400 sq. ft., king bed, sitting area with sofa bed, and private balcony. Sleeps 2-4 guests.

  • Lodge Double Queen Rooms - 400 sq. ft., two queen beds, sitting area, and private balcony. Sleeps up to 4 guests.

  • Lodge Suites - 525 sq. ft., king bed, living room with sofa bed, cast iron fireplace, and expansive patios. Sleeps 2-4 guests.

  • One-Bedroom Villas - 475 sq. ft., king bed, sitting area with sofa bed, cast iron fire place, and private deck. Sleeps 2-4 guests.

  • Hillside Villas (2-Bedroom) - 625 sq. ft., king bed, sofa bed, guest room with king or 2 twin beds, sitting area, cast iron fireplace, and private deck. Sleeps up to 6 guests.

Room Amenities:

  • High speed internet

  • Alexa in-room entertainment

  • Mini-Fridge

  • Microwaves

  • Keurig coffee makers

  • In-room electronic safes

  • Air conditioning and ceiling fans

  • Fireplaces (some suites)

  • Premium linens and bedding including feather pillows and extra blankets

  • Eco-friendly bath products

  • Hair dryers

  • Irons and ironing boards

  • Private balconies or patios

  • In-room games

The Property

Central Pool Area & Outdoor Fire Pits - The property offers expansive outdoor space including a central area with a large heated saltwater pool where guests can relax in lounge chairs, unwind in shaded cabanas or enjoy two hot tubs - one dedicated to families and the other exclusively for adults.

Throughout the property are multiple fire pits that create a cozy atmosphere and nighlty complimentary s’mores.

Dining & Food Options - Rush Creek Lodge & Spa features a variety of dining options for guests.

  • The Restaurant at Rush Creek - a restaurant offering wood‑fired cuisine in a rustic yet stylish setting, complete with an open display kitchen. The menu is seasonal and locally sourced with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten‑free options. Guests can sit inside or dine al fresco on the outdoor terrace.

  • The Tavern - a relaxed pub setting with a laid-back atmosphere featuring a big screen TV, a full bar serving local craft beers, hand crafted cocktails, and a curated selection of California wines. They also offer outdoor seating overlooking the pool.

  • Pool Bar - a seasonal bar serving drinks and food alternating between Southern or American BBQ and a taco truck. It’s the ideal spot to sip on an after-dinner cocktail lounging poolside beneath the stars or relaxing by a fire pit.

  • General Store - offers essentials, breakfast items, grab-and-go snacks, and picnic supplies. The rooms and suites are equipped with mini-fridges and microwaves making it easy to store and heat up items.

Game Areas - Rush Creek Lodge features an impressive indoor game room along with a variety of outdoor games and play areas thoughfully spread out across the property. Inside the game room, guests can enjoy a pool table, foosball, bumper pool, shuffleboard, air hockey, and a treehouse play structure. There is also a comfortable guest lounge with board games, playing cards, puzzles, and books for guest use as well as areas for simply relaxing and socializing.

Around the property are dedicated play areas for the kids with small zip lines, swings, and slides. Guests can find over-sized versions of games like chess, checkers, and Connect 4 scattered throughout the property along with shuffleboard, bocce ball, horseshoes, cornhole, ping-pong, and darts.

On-Site Activities


Rush Creek Lodge offers a packed lineup of daily activities for guests of all ages including arts and crafts, nightly s’mores, stargazing, beer tasting, glass blowing, paint parties, basket weaving, cross-stitch, beading, and yoga. For those eager to explore, the on-site rental shop provides guests with bicycles, paddle boards, and snowshoes during their stay.

Guided Tours

Rush Creek Lodge provides a long list of guided tours and excursions led by knowledgeable guides including national park driving and hiking tours, whitewater river rafting adventures, stargazing tours, snowshoeing excursions, scenic flight tours, guided fly fishing, off-road jeep tours, horseback riding, and more.

THE SPA AT RUSH CREEK

The Spa at Rush Creek Lodge is a sancturary for relaxation and self-reflection offering a seamless blend of sophistication in nature designed in the essence of Yosemite’s grandeur - rushing waterfalls, warm granite rock, smooth river rocks softened with time, scents of eucalyptus and lemon grass, and mineral hot springs. Covering 5,000 square feet, it mirrors the natural beauty of Yosemite through its design and architecture, evoking a sense of calm that must be experienced to fully appreciate.

Day passes provide you with 4 full hours of access to enjoy the Spa including:

  • Sensory meditation room

  • Aromatherapy steam room

  • Warm waterfall cove

  • Himalayan salt sauna with cold neck towels

  • Cool mist room with alternating cold and warm showers

  • Granite mineral hot tub and waterfall

  • Heated zero gravity stone chaise lounges

  • Open air outdoor lounge

  • Complimentary tea bar, towels, and water

Guests can also book a wide range of spa services including:

  • Signature Massage with Swedish techniques, hot stones, and chakra crystals

  • Deep Tissue Massage - intense therapeutic massage

  • Synergy Hot Stone Masasage

  • Hand, Foot and/or Scalp Massages or Cocoons

  • Collagen Eye Mask, Gel Face Mask with Roller, and

    Hair Mask

  • Chakra Energy Balancing Stone Treatment

The Spa provides complimentary plush robes, comfortable slippers, an endless supply of towels, water and tea service, and state-of-the-art locker rooms with complimentary products in case you forgot something. There is also a cute gift shop with all kinds of fun items as well as wellness products that can be used there or at home.

The Spa offers full bar, drink, and food service from the resort’s on-site restaurant and tavern delivered right to you.

You can find more information about the Spa including helpful tips for visiting and more info on services here.

SUSTAINABILTY EFFORTS

Rush Creek Lodge & Spa is deeply committed to sustainability. It’s a Certified B Corporation with environmental initiatives like water reuse systems, solar power, EV charging, and a youth employment program. A B Corp designation reflects a dedication to balancing profit with positive impacts on the environment and community and is an honor bestowed only on those meeting rigirous standards.

Here are some of Rush Creek’s environmental intitiatives and ways it strives to be a steward of our planet:

  • Local Sourcing - prioritizes purchasing from regional farms and artisans, hiring local staff, and using native plants for landscaping.

  • Greywater System - one of Californi’as most comprehensive commercial greywater systems, reusing over 3 million gallons of shower and laundry water each year.

  • Energy Conservation - solar panels, low-flow fixtures, high efficiency lighting, energy efficient appliances, and construction with sustainable materials.

  • EV Charging - on site eletric vehicle charging stations.

  • Waste Reduction - grass roots recycling program, and eco-friendly packaging and cleaning products.

  • Environmental Education - educating guests and staff about conservation awareness.

THINGS TO DO IN YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK WHILE VISITING

There is no shortage of things to do in Yosemite National Park during your visit to Rush Creek Lodge & Spa.

Mariposa Grove - The Mariposa Grove is Yosemite’s largest old growth forest featuring over 500 towering giant sequoias. Take a walk among the giants and stand in awe at Grizzly Giant, one of the oldest living organisms on Earth towering over 200 feet tall, then visit the California Tunnel Tree where visitors have been walking through its carved out trunk since 1895. Other highlights include the famous Bachelor and Three Graces and the Mariposa Grove Museum where you can learn more about this remarkable forest.

Tunnel View - perhaps the most stunning scenic overlook of the entire park located just outside the Wawona Tunnel on Hwy. 41.

This spot welcomes visitors with panoramic, sweeping views of Yosemite Valley including some of its most iconic landmarks - El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome. It will leave you breathless as the view draws you into the quiet stillness of the park. It is one of those few places that humbles you, making you feel ever so small and insignificant in the world much like standing at the edge of the ocean.

Hetch Hetchy Reservoir - Located less than 17 miles from Rush Creek Lodge & Spa in a more remote section of northwest Yosemite is the stunning Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. The reservoir sits within a glacial-carved valley with bright blue water, stunning steep granite cliffs, and waterfalls.

Unlike Yosemite Valley, here you will find solitude away from the crowds and pristine lonely wilderness with sweeping views across the water. Depending on the time of year, hike to the stunning Wapama Falls dramaticallly cascading nearly 1,100 feet down into three distinct falls or the Tueeulala Falls with a 600-foot fall. Note the falls may be dry by late Summer.

Trail Information:

  • Wapama Falls (5 miles round trip) - moderate hike with sweeping views of the water best done during Spring and early Summer.

  • Tueeulala Falls (4 miles round trip) - moderate hike to a seasonal waterfall that is along the way to Wapama Falls.

  • Rancheria Falls (13 miles round trip) - long day hike or great for a backpacking trip with river access, stunning views, and wildflowers.

  • Lookout Point (2 miles round trip) - less traveled route with beautiful views through a steep, rugged trail.

Yosemite Falls - Yosemite Falls is divided into three sections - lower, middle and upper Yosemite Falls. You can choose to hike just part of it or all of it. If you decide to do the entire trail to the top of the falls, it’s about 7.2 miles round trip, strenuous, and climbs approximately 2,700 feet in elevation.

Trail Routes:

  • Columbia Rock (1 mile one way) - For a short hike, head up the switchback trail about a mile to Columbia Rock with incredible views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley then head back.

  • Middle Yoesmite Falls (2 to 2.5 miles one way) - Past Columbia Rock, the trail becomes much steeper heading up to Middle Cascasdes with partial views of Middle Yosmite Falls.

  • Upper Yosemite Falls (3.6 miles one way) - this part of the trail is strenuous with guardrails but worth the hike as it provides stunning views and a peek 2,400 feet down the waterfall itself.

Bridalveil Fall - Bridalveil Fall plunges 620 feet down a granite cliff, creating a misty cascade. A short paved path winds through a grove of evergreens to the base of the falls where you can feel the cool spray of the water, and hear its thunderous roar. The waterfall’s delicate mist often catches the sunlight resembling a bride’s veil from which the Fall derived its name. For those seeking a longer hike, there is 11.5 mile loop that takes you to open meadows with views of the Merced River and El Capitan.

Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls - Mist Trail is one of Yosemite’s most breathtaking hikes taking you to two of its tallest waterfalls - Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. The trail is lined with towering pines, moss-covered rock, and wildflowers. As you approach the footbridge at Vernal Falls, you will feel the spray and hear the rushing water ahead. Here, you will find beautiful views of the river and valley below. If you keep on to Nevada Fall, you will be greeted with a stunning cascade of water plunging 600 feet down the granite cliff.

  • Vernal Fall Footbridge - 1.6 miles round trip.

  • Vernal Fall Summit - 3 miles round trip, 1,000 feet.

  • Nevada Fall Summit - 7 miles round trip, 1,900 feet.

El Capitan Meadow - El Capitan Meadow is the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch. Located in the heart of Yosemite Valley, the wide-open grassy area provides a peacful setting where you can soak in the incredible views of El Capitan in the distance. It’s located along Northside Drive in Yosemite Valley just a short drive or shuttle ride from Yosemite Village.

Stroll the Boardwalk at Cook’s Meadow - The wooden boardwalk at Cook’s Meadow is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll to one of Yosemite’s most beautiful meadows. Here you can see three of Yosemite’s iconic landmarks - Half Dome, Sentinel Rock, and Yosemite Falls. The trail is flat, paved, and only a half mile round trip. After reaching the meadow, continue about a half mile further to Sentinel Bridge where you will find some of the most stunning reflections of Half Dome off the pristine water below.

Catch a Sunset at Glacier Point - Glacier Point is an ideal spot to catch the sunset. The main overlook provides stunning panoramic views of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, Vernal Fall, and Nevada Fall. As the sun starts to dip below the horizon, the surrounding peaks will light up in striking shades of crismon, orange, pink, and purple putting on a specatular show.

If you’re feeling adventerous, consider hiking to Glacier Point via the Panorama Trail. This challening 17 mile round-trip hike will take about 4-6 hours each way, but the effort is worth it. Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, and Glacier Point as well as Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, and Illilouette Fall.

Mirror Lake - An easy hike to a seasonal lake that, when full, perfectly mirrors Half Dome off calm, pristine waters. The paved trail is about 2 miles round trip, out and back, making it a perfect hike for families. If you’re up for more of an adventure, you can take a full 5-mile loop around the lake winding quietly through the trees offering even more stunning views of towering granite cliffs. By late summer, the lake often dries up into a marshy meadow but it’s still worth visiting especially in the softer light of dawn or the golden hour glow of sunset.

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Jennifer Curnutt
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