Oakhurst, though a small mountain town, offers an abundance of scenic drives, epic nature trails, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and a rich history. With so much to see, it can be tough figuring out what to do first, so I’ve created a list of 6 must-dos for your next trip to Oakhurst, California!
A Day Out on Bass Lake
Photo by https://basslakeca.com/
Distance from Wander Yosemite Falls: 3.9 miles
Location: 39225 Marina Dr, Bass Lake, CA 93604
Hours: 8AM-8PM Sunday to Saturday
The serene and picturesque Bass Lake is a dream for a nature lover. It’s nestled in the Sierra National Forest and surrounded by towering pine trees. On the renowned crystal-clear waters, you can enjoy a day of swimming, boating, fishing, or kayaking (watercraft available for rental at Pines Resort nearby). The great thing about this place is that you can have either an eventful day on the water or just relax and take in the expanse of nature while grabbing some food from one of the many nearby restaurants.
Visit Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park
Photo by Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park
Distance from Wander Yosemite Falls: 3.4 miles
Location: 49777 High School Rd, Oakhurst, CA 93644
Phone: (559)-683-6570
Website: https://fresnoflatsmuseum.org/
If you’d like to take a break from the typical exploration of Oakhurst’s nature, visiting the Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park is a good bet. This local history center preserves a 19th-century reality of local farmers and merchants who were pivotal to California’s history.
Here, you’ll find two restored and furnished homes, school rooms, and jails, among other buildings that are all from the 19th century. The two homes have even been designated Points of Historical Interest by the State of California for their unique construction style that was prevalent in Northern California in the past.
Much of the rich history of the Sierra Nevada foothills can be found in this cultural center so if you’re ever in the mood to learn more about the area, this is a great start.
Stroll through the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Photo by Xiaoyi on Pexels.com
Distance from Wander Yosemite Falls: 14.6 miles
Location: 4726 Mariposa Grove Trail, Fish Camp, CA 93623, United States
The name says it all - you will be strolling through a grove of giant sequoia trees. This is the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite and one of the largest in the world, with over 500 mature sequoia trees. You’ll be left in awe at the splendor of these larger-than-life redwoods.
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
Photo by Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad
Distance from Wander Yosemite Falls: 8.1 miles
Location: 56001 CA-41, Fish Camp, CA 93623
Hours: 9AM-3PM Monday-Friday; 9AM-6PM Saturday; 9AM-4PM Sunday
Phone: (559) 683-7273
Website: https://ymsprr.com/
If Yosemite wasn’t magical enough as is, taking this vintage steam train ride through the woods will quickly change your mind. There are many varieties of train rides to choose from but each will have you equally as you ride through the California mountains on these open -air carriages that once carried logs.
If you’re a nature lover but just need a break from hiking the trails, this is an excellent way to explore the Sierra Mountains with the whole family.
Visit the World Famous Talking Bear
Photo by https://talkingbear.com/
Distance from Wander Yosemite Falls: 3.1 miles
Location: 40307 CA-41, Oakhurst, CA 93644
Phone: (559) 760-0160
Website: https://talkingbear.com/
Although this is not much of an all-day activity, visiting the World Famous Talking Bear is a must when in Oakhurst, as it is one of the area’s most famous and beloved landmarks. It gets its name from the fact that it not only growls, but it also gives you information about the local wildlife and nature.
Visiting this landmark is an opportunity for a quirky photo shoot with friends and family, which will act as an immortalized reminder of your time in the beautiful Oakhurst.
Guided Bus Tour of Yosemite Valley Floor at Yosemite National Park
Photo by Yosemite National Park Service
Distance from Wander Yosemite Falls: 44.6 miles
Location: Yosemite Valley, CA 95389
Hours: 8AM-9PM Monday-Friday; 7:30AM-9PM Saturday & Sunday
Phone: (888) 413-8869
Website: https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm
Though it is quite the distance to get there if you’re departing from Wander Yosemite Falls, the drive up is so worth it. If you’re coming to Oakhurst, you must visit the beloved Yosemite National Park and the best way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site is to be guided by expert minds with years of experience in the area.
Yosemite National Park’s beauty is nothing short of extraordinary. Its towering granite cliffs, such as El Capitan and Half Dome, waterfalls that cascade down with breathtaking grandeur, lush meadows, massive sequoia trees, and diverse wildlife are unparalleled. If you’re ever in Oakhurst, don’t leave without visiting this awe-inspiring landmark.
Yosemite Lakes Park Golf Course
Photo courtesy of Yosemite Lakes Park Golf Course
Distance from Wander Yosemite Falls:18 miles
Location: 42515 Artesian Ct, Coarsegold, CA 93614
Hours: 7AM-5PM
Phone: (559) 642-2562
Experience the serenity and challenge of our stunning 9-hole golf course, featuring five holes that cross over tranquil waterways. The course offers tight fairways and small greens, promising a test for golfers of all levels.
Whether you're a seasoned player or a novice, the course welcomes all golf enthusiasts to enjoy its picturesque surroundings and engaging layout.
Skydive Yosemite
Photo courtesy of Skydive Yosemite
Distance from Wander: 34 miles
Location: 5020c Macready Way, Mariposa, CA 95338
Hours: 9AM-7PM Friday-Monday; 9AM-5PM Tuesday-Thursday
Phone: (209) 372-5001
Website: https://www.skydiveyosemite.com/
Experience breathtaking skydives with incredible views of Yosemite National Park and Yosemite Valley, starting at $199. While we can't land in Yosemite Valley due to legal restrictions, we offer spectacular aerial views of iconic landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan during your jump.
Participants must be at least 18 years old with a valid government ID, adhere to USPA requirements, and land safely at the Mariposa-Yosemite Airport. Additionally, essential considerations include good physical health, a waiting period after scuba diving or giving blood, and a doctor's certificate for those on prescription medication.
Reservations require a $50 deposit, and walk-ins are accommodated if space is available.
Tip: Optimal attire includes comfortably loose-fitting garments and appropriate athletic footwear. Please dress according to the prevailing weather conditions at the drop zone. Rest assured, Everything required for the skydive is supplied by the facility.
More to Do!
There is definitely so much more to do in Oakhurst other than these 8 listed activities, but they are definitely a good start. The team here at Wander prides itself on choosing the best locations for our vacation rentals, but Yosemite and the entire town of Oakhurst, California, is truly next level.
I hope this list was helpful to your travels. We can’t wait to see where you wander next!
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