Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite Offers Unique Cabin, Tent Experiences
 Evergreen Lodge is a Yosemite destination that blends the modern comforts of a resort, the relaxed approach of a dude ranch and the timeless warmth of a historic, 1920s lodge.
Located on the western border of Yosemite Park near the Hetch Hetchy Valley, the Evergreen Lodge is popular with couples, families, groups, weddings and corporate retreats, as well as those looking for a get-fit trip, a boys' weekend or a girlfriend getaway. Its varied outdoor recreation program offers visitors an opportunity to experience the less crowded side of Yosemite in any season.
Cabins & Cushy Camping
The lodge was originally built in 1921, and under new ownership in 2002 the property was restored and expanded. Today it offers 70 cabins, many of which feature sitting areas, private deck, and gas fireplaces. Rates start at $99 and go up to $259 for the larger family cabins.
Introduced last year is Evergreen's popular 'cushy' camping, for those who enjoy sleeping under the stars without the work of pitching their own tent. Guests arrive at their campsite to find a fully furnished, spacious tent, including comfortable airbeds, sleeping bags with liners, pillows, towels, toiletries, camping chairs and a lantern. Campers have exclusive use of Evergreen's bathhouse and access to all facilities and activities.
Varied Recreation Activities:
The resort has an expansive recreation program in the area and is the only resort in Yosemite with its own guide service. Evergreen co-owner Dan Braun, a Yosemite expert with over 30 years of wilderness experience and ten thousand trail miles logged, has crafted programs that are diverse, have broad appeal and take guests off the beaten path. Guests can choose from numerous outings, including the following:
- Naturalist Yosemite Valley and High Country Tours
- Private Fly Fishing Trips
- On-site GPS/Geocaching Adventure
- Guided hikes to North Dome and Alpine Lakes
- Biking, including the Summer Bike, Hike and Swim at Granite Gorge
- Nightly Sunset Vista Happy Hour Tours
- Rafting on the Tuolumne and Merced Rivers
- Customized adventures, including 'Half Dome in a day,' etc.
Evergreen's knowledgeable recreation staff offers trip-planning advice and guidance. They also supply complimentary materials for self-guided outings and an array of rental equipment that includes mountain bikes, mountain strollers, trekking poles and GPS units. Guests are welcome to participate in numerous complimentary activities, such as kid's crafts, campfires, horseshoe tournaments, lectures, etc. Massage services are also offered in the Evergreen's massage tent or as an in-cabin service.
Summer & Fall Packages
The Evergreen is open year-round and is a gateway to experience the best of Yosemite, including many lesser-known yet stunning places in the Park. Summer and fall packages include the Romance Package, 'Bike to Waterfalls' Package and Ultimate Yosemite Getaway. Additional fall packages include the Fresh Tracks Snowshoe Package, Thanksgiving Weekend Package and the Company Meeting & Retreat Discount. For a full description of each package, valid dates and prices, go to http://www.evergreenlodge.com/packages.html. Guests can call (209) 379-2606 or email info@evergreenlodge.com for details.
Concert Series
Each season, the Evergreen assembles a selection of live music performed in three on-site venues. Performers range from local Yosemite favorites to up-and-coming Bay Area acts to national touring bands. A full 2007 schedule is available at http://www.evergreenlodge.com/yosemitemusic.html.
Hetch Hetchy Valley
The Hetch Hetchy Valley is one of Yosemite's hidden jewels, described by naturalist John Muir as "a grand landscape garden, one of Nature's rarest and most precious mountain temples." Like its big sister, Yosemite Valley, Hetch Hetchy is impressive with its waterfalls and grandeur and offers serenity not typically found in Yosemite Valley. And since it is right in Evergreen's backyard (the Hetch Hetchy entrance to Yosemite is one mile from the Evergreen), it's perfect a day trip or afternoon excursion. Evergreen staff is knowledgeable not only of the Hetch Hetchy's history, but also of the ongoing political and environmental debate over discussions to remove the dam and restore the valley.
Events/Groups
The Evergreen features a large event hall, recreation center with a grand indoor/outdoor fireplace, general store and private campground for groups up to 50. With these event facilities, the Evergreen is ideal for groups of all types, including weddings, corporations, schools, family reunions and retreats.
Socially Responsible
Not only is the Evergreen a novel Yosemite destination, it is also one of the leaders in travel philanthropy and socially responsible business. The owners of the resort designed the business with a built-in social mission. A portion of Lodge profits funds an innovative, 'behind-the-scenes' youth development program. In the program, high-potential young adults from urban backgrounds gain work experience at the Lodge and receive career, educational and life counseling while living on the property in a supportive community and enjoying outdoor experiences that challenge, motivate and inspire them.
First Light Destinations, based in San Francisco purchased the property in 2002 and began to restore, upgrade and expand this historic lodge.
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