A Cozy Weekend in Yosemite | Rush Creek Lodge
Got a lot of DM’s about this lodge, so thought I would do a blog post sharing my experience staying at Rush Creek Lodge and my chill weekend itinerary in Yosemite. This resort is about a 3 hour drive from San Francisco, so it makes a great weekend getaway. Today, I’ll be sharing where to stay, what to do, what to pack, and a quick itinerary recap.
Where to Stay
Absolutely loved my stay at Rush Creek Lodge. It is conveniently located 10 min from the entrance to Yosemite Park, and has extensive amenities like a free smores kit every night, onsite hiking trails, and game rooms. There is also an onsite restaurant and tavern, so you don’t have to worry about where/what to eat. If you forgot anything essential, the general store is well stocked with trail-ready snacks, including fresh breakfast options if you are on the go.
Wearing H&M Puffer Vest, Princess Polly Top (code XOFOX for $ off), Amazon Leggings, and H&M Boots
We stayed in a Double King Villa which had a great balcony view. It was very spacious and the room decor felt very cozy. There was a fireplace in our villa as well. If you would like to see a full room tour, check out my Yosemite highlights on my IG.
If you come here, you have to check out the indoor/outdoor spa located by the pool. So relaxing and includes a sensory room, hottub, cold mist room, himalayan salt sauna, aromatherapy steam room, and heated beds. It was so relaxing and much needed at the end of the trip.
What to do
The first stop on the Yosemite loop is at Cathedral Beach Picnic Area. Put on your snow boots and walk down to the river’s edge (Merced River) to get the best view of the Three Brothers. The water was so clear and the air was so crisp. I would recommend getting here early for the best lighting.
Second stop is Bridal Veil Falls. Another easy stop that requires no hiking for this view. Had to look up why it was called this. Apparently whoever gets to name waterfalls thought that the mist that wafts off it resembled a bridal veil. Also, this has to be my favorite snow outfit ever.
Another stop right off the road at Valley View. It was bit icy here, so be careful.
Last Stop is Tunnel View, which is another easy stop on the loop. From this vista you can see El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridal Veil Falls. Area was pretty crowded, so it seems like a pretty popular spot for photos. A little more touristy vibes, but still a great way to end the loop.
Head back to the lodge to relax. Don’t forget to grab a smores kit in the evening and sit by the fire pit lounge area. All in all, it was a great relaxing stay. All the stops I mentioned above required no hiking, so very chill exploring. Would definitely consider staying here again the next time I visit Yosemite.
What clothing to pack
I went at the end of January, so it wasn’t snowing but there was still leftover snow on the ground, so my packing list is more winter-focused. Here are some key things I made sure to pack.
Swimsuit (for the spa or pool)
PJ’s or loungewear set for balcony or chillin at the cabin
Hiking outfit (for trails if you plan on doing that)
2 Coats/Jackets
2 Pairs of Leggings
Scarf, Earmuffs, Beanie
Snow boots (if you are going during the winter months)
Itinerary:
Fri - drive to Rush Creek Lodge after work (3 hr drive)
Sat - Wake up and have breakfast at the lodge, leave by 8am
- Make the Yosemite Loop Trail
- Stop at Three Brothers, Bridal Veil Falls, Valley View, and Tunnel View
- Have late lunch at the lodge and relax
- Dinner & Smores by fire
Sun - Breakfast at Lodge again
- 11AM check out and head to the onsite spa for an hour
- 1PM head back home SF (another 3 hrs)
