Explore Like a Local
Things to Do Near Yosemite - Groveland's Hidden Gems & Outdoor Adventures
Tucked in the heart of Groveland, CA, Hotel Charlotte is your cozy home base for adventure in every season. Just 30 minutes from Yosemite National Park, we’re the perfect vacation destination for guests who want to explore iconic landscapes, charming Gold Rush towns, and hidden gems of the Sierra Nevada. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, rafting wild rivers, or strolling through downtown with an ice cream cone in hand—there’s something here for everyone.
Yosemite National Park
Awe at Every Turn
No visit to Groveland is complete without a day—or three—spent exploring the natural wonders of Yosemite National Park. Hike through towering sequoia groves, gaze up at granite giants like El Capitan and Half Dome, and feel the spray of iconic waterfalls like Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall.
With 1,200 square miles of protected wilderness and 750+ miles of trails, there’s always more to discover—from wildflower-filled valleys in spring to snowshoe adventures in winter. For an immersive experience, consider booking a guided walk or photography tour through Yosemite Conservancy, Yosemite Hospitality, or The Ansel Adams Gallery.
Insider Tip: The park is busiest in summer—arrive early or visit in the late afternoon to avoid crowds. Or consider a “quiet season” visit in fall or winter for peaceful hikes, wildlife sightings, and even snow play in a Yosemite winter wonderland.
Adventure's Just Outside Your Door
The Tuolumne River
Whitewater & Wilderness
Craving adrenaline? The Tuolumne River delivers. Just outside Groveland, this dramatic Sierra river offers some of California’s most exhilarating Class IV whitewater rafting. With granite gorges, steep drops, and wilderness views, it's a true bucket-list adventure. Outfitters offer single- and multi-day trips during the rafting season (typically April through early summer).
Hotel Charlotte is the perfect bookend to your river adventure. Many rafters stay with us the night before their trip to rest up and enjoy a good meal, then return afterward to relax with a beer in the garden and a restful night’s sleep.
Prefer something more serene? The Tuolumne is also known for its outstanding fly fishing. Cast a line in peaceful stretches of river framed by forested banks, and enjoy the meditative rhythm of the water. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just learning the ropes, it’s a deeply relaxing way to take in the Sierra landscape.
Stroll Through History
Take a self-guided walk down Main Street, where 19th-century storefronts now house eclectic shops, galleries, and eateries. Visit the Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum to learn about the area’s Indigenous, mining, and ecological history—or just pop into a local boutique for handcrafted gifts, trail-ready provisions, and charming souvenirs.
Don’t miss the Iron Door Saloon, California’s oldest continuously operating saloon, and the Old Groveland Jailhouse, a stone relic from the town’s Wild West days. Once used to hold rowdy miners, the old jail has since been lovingly transformed into a pocket garden—a peaceful little corner right next to the Tesla charging station, where past and present quietly meet.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Yosemite Adventures
Hetch Hetchy Valley - Skip the crowds and head to one of Yosemite’s most under-the-radar gems. This ruggedly beautiful area offers spectacular hikes (like the trail to Wapama Falls), fewer tourists, and views you’ll never forget.
Carlon Falls – A stunning waterfall hike just outside the park entrance, with year-round beauty and far fewer crowds than Yosemite Valley.
Rainbow Pool – A popular swimming hole tucked into the forest along Highway 120—perfect for a refreshing summer dip.
Fantastic Onsite and Local Dining Options
Gateway Tapas & Spirits
Onsite Dining
We have a fantastic spot to eat right on site! Gateway Tapas & Spirits, nestled within the historic Hotel Charlotte in Groveland, California, offers a delightful culinary experience that perfectly complements your Yosemite adventure. This charming restaurant serves a variety of fresh, flavorful tapas and handcrafted cocktails in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you're returning from a day of exploration or seeking a cozy spot to unwind, Gateway Tapas & Spirits provides the ideal setting to savor delicious dishes and refreshing drinks.
Local Dining
Nearby Dining Options
This eclectic saloon boasts of being California’s oldest continuously operating saloon. Steaks and burgers are their specialties! The Iron Door Saloon is absolutely worth a stop, hungry or not!
A fresh take on the classic general store, The Grove Mercantile is a locally loved shop just around the corner from Hotel Charlotte. In addition to a beautifully curated mix of artisan goods, trail snacks, and Yosemite-inspired gifts, you’ll also find a delightful selection of house-made ice cream crafted with care and creativity.
Just five minutes from Hotel Charlotte, Around the Horn Brewing Company is Groveland’s go-to craft brewery, offering small-batch beers brewed with care and creativity. Set in a beautifully repurposed barn with stunning views of the Sierra foothills, the brewery features a rotating selection of IPAs, lagers, sours, and seasonal specialties.
Top of the Trail Tea and Coffee
Open bright and early, Top of the Trail offers custom roasted coffee, a fine collection of teas, and a selection of yummy baked goods along with grab-and-go wraps and specials.
A local favorite with a laid-back vibe, Two Guys Pizza Pies serves up handcrafted pizzas loaded with flavor and generous toppings. Whether you're craving a classic pepperoni or something a little more adventurous, their menu offers something for every pizza lover.