• Is Yosemite National Park open year round?
Yes, Yosemite National Park is open year round and has four beautiful seasons.
• How far in advance should we make our reservations?
Due to Scenic Wonders’ unique location in Yosemite National Park and our popularity, we receive extremely high volumes of reservation requests daily for our properties during our peak seasons and unfortunately we are unable to accommodate everyone. There are many vacation rental and social websites, print media, blogs, etc. all over the world that have listed our properties. We do our very best to keep our calendar on our website updated daily. We strongly advise that you do not wait until the last minute to make your reservations. Please try to make your reservations at least six to eight months in advance to assure availability during our peak seasons or consider visiting us during our off season period (November, January and March).
• Are wedding receptions or large groups/parties permitted in any of our properties?
Sorry, no. Unfortunately, about 90 percent of the time that we have allowed wedding receptions or large groups to rent multiple properties, without fail, they turn out to be loud and uncontrollable, create excessive wear and tear on the furniture, stains on our carpets, broken chairs, broken screen doors, missing items, etc. We have been taken advantage of too many times to allow this to continue, so please beware! During our nightly patrol, if we should find any extra vehicles parked at any of our properties, other than what is allowed, or find any large group that exceeds the maximum allowable occupancy, Park Rangers or the County Sheriff’s Department will be notified for immediate eviction. Please don’t create an embarrassing situation for yourself and your family, and kindly respect our community.
• Is there a fee to enter Yosemite National Park?
Yes, a $20.00 fee is collected by the Park Rangers at the entrance gates, which is valid for seven days.
• Is there public transportation or a shuttle bus service to Yosemite West?
No. Due to our remote location there is no public transportation or shuttle bus services to or from Yosemite West. You must have your own transportation.
• Do you charge cleaning fees, reservations fees and security deposits?
NO. For your convenience we do not charge cleaning fees or Reservation fees, and we do not require a Security deposit! However a two night reservation deposit is required for all reservations.
• Do you have internet access?
Only a few of our properties now have Internet access. Due to our remote location we have just recently been able to acquire Internet access. The following homes in our group now have Internet access, Quail Crossing Lodge, Sequoias East and West, Serenity Pines For those properties in our group that don’t have Internet access, you can use the Wi-Fi Internet network at the beautiful and historic Ahwahnee hotel in Yosemite Valley, just a short drive from our location, stop by have lunch and catch up!
• Where are you located? How far are you from the main attractions?
We are centrally located in Yosemite National Park in an area called “Yosemite West” which is just south of the Yosemite Valley floor, across from the Glacier Point and Badger Pass exit off highway #41. South of us is Wawona and Oakhurst. Driving time is approximately 10 minutes to Badger Pass Ski Area, 15-20 minutes to the Yosemite Valley floor, 20-25 minutes to Glacier Point, 20-25 minutes to Wawona, and 25-30 minutes to the Giant Redwood trees (Mariposa Grove).
• What do you provide?
We provide you with dishware, cookware, silverware, blankets, pillows, linens and towels. Condiments provided are: hot chocolate, Folgers coffee and filters, sugar packets, cream packets, Lipton tea, and salt & pepper. We also provide dishwasher detergent, hand soap, toilet paper, paper towels, and free firewood for units that have wood burning fireplaces. All our properties come equipped with propane BBQ’s, and we provide the propane.
• Terms & Conditions:
For your convenience we do not charge reservation-processing fees or cleaning fees, and we do not require a security deposit. However, a two-night reservation deposit is required when you confirm your reservation. The balance due, if any, will be automatically debited from your credit card one-month prior to your arrival date. A second confirmation will be sent to you as a follow-up. We accept Visa, Master and Discover. All homes have privately owned telephones therefore, only calling cards can be used for long distance calls. Please note there are no stores or restaurants in our immediate area. Please see our location map before you decide were the best location is for you to shop. Check-in Time 4:00 P.M. Check-out Time 11.00 A.M. Property will be inspected at time of checkout. Neglectful use will result in additional charges or prosecution. Please NO pets with the exception of our pet friendly properties. Please NO wedding receptions. Please NO extra guests or you will be charged. Any extra guests that exceed our maximum occupancy zoning laws will be evicted immediately. Quiet hours in our community are 10 P. M. to 8 A.M. Snow-chains are required from November through May. California Penal Code Section 537 makes it a crime to defraud an Innkeeper. All rules are strictly enforced. Rangers will be notified of any violations.
Cancellation/Date Change policy:
For any cancellations or date changes, a 10% processing fee will be charged on the total amount of the reservation if made anytime on or before 30 days of your arrival date. If you should cancel within 30 days of arrival date, 25% of total amount will be charged. If you should cancel within 7 days of arrival date, or if you should not show up at all, 100% of the total amount will not be refunded. However, if we are able to rebook your confirmed dates to another party, the processing fee will be 25% of the total amount. No refunds will be given for occurrences beyond our control, including weather, health issues, road conditions, cancelled flights, early check-outs, or date changes. Because unforeseen circumstances may arise, we strongly recommend that you purchase trip insurance for your protection. It is a wise and affordable investment for your piece of mind. There is a link on our home page to Access America Travel Insurance Company.
• Trip Insurance?
If you have any doubt that you may not be able to make your trip for any of the reasons mentioned above, we strongly urge that you purchase trip insurance from AccessAmerica. Since we don’t require many of the fees that some competitors charge, for a very minimal cost you can insure your entire trip for a full refund if anything should happen.
• Are there any restaurants or grocery stores in Yosemite West?
There are NO food services in Yosemite West, so please try to do your shopping before you enter the Park. You can shop in our neighboring towns of Oakhurst, Mariposa, Groveland, and Lee Vining, before you enter the gates of Yosemite National Park. Our closest restaurants and markets are located in Yosemite Valley and Wawona which are both about a 15-20 minute drive.
• Where’s the nearest gas station?
The closest gas station to Yosemite West is located in Wawona (12 miles), which is South of us on Highway #41.
• Do you have Air Conditioning in any of your rentals?
There is NO Air Conditioning in any of our units, including the condominiums, except Places In Paradise which has a water cooler system that keeps the house comfortable during the few hot weeks that we experience during the summer. We provide fans, due to the weather at 6000 feet being cool most of the year.
• How about heating?
All rentals have heating.
• Do you have additional Park information?
The Telephone number for the Yosemite Park Concessions is (209) 372-1001. Telephone number for road conditions and weather is (209) 372-0200.
• Do your properties have phones?
Yes, all our properties have phones. You can make local calls free of charge, but you will have to use your own 1-800 calling card for long distance calls.
• Do cell phones work in Yosemite?
No, there is hardly any cell phone reception because we are in the mountains at an elevation of 6000 Feet.
• Do you have daily housekeeping?
Housekeeping is not provided daily — only prior to check-in. If you need additional housekeeping, please contact our manager. There will be an additional charge if
you should need this service.
• Who do I call for assistance during my stay for extra towels, etc.
Extra linen and towels are located in your room. If you need more, please contact our manager. Phone numbers are posted in your property.
(209) 372-4945 or (209) 372-4243
• Where is the ice machine?
There is an Ice machine located downstairs in the “B” building in our Condominium complex. The video room is located across from the office. You may check out videos at your leisure, at no charge.
• Are there laundry facilities at the condos?
Coin-op laundry is located in our Condominium complex, upstairs in “B” building. There is no change machine, so bring plenty of quarters.
• Is there an iron at the condos?
Iron and ironing boards are located in laundry room at condos.
• Is there a soda & snack machine?
Soda machines and pay phones are located in each building of our Condominium complex.
• Are there trash bags? Where do I leave the trash — in my unit?
Extra trash bags are found in each container. Please read instructions upon arrival of where to place your trash. Yosemite has strict rules of trash disposal due to live animals in the Park.
• What if extra guests join my group? What if my group exceeds the limit to capacity in the rental?
Extra guests are not permitted unless confirmed by Reservations prior to arrival. Our rentals are only allowed to have a certain number of guests do to maximum capacity zoning laws and fire standards. If extra guests exceed capacity, extra guests will be immediately evicted by Rangers.
• Are pets allowed?
The only properties that allow pets here at Scenic Wonders are: Christmas Cabin & Little Sport!
Our Pet Policy:
1. Pets are allowed in designated “Pet Friendly” homes only. All pets must be disclosed during Reservation Confirmation. There is a “non-refundable” pet fee of $50, which will be added on and charged to your reservation at time of confirmation.
2. A refundable deposit of $150 is due on check in (cash or check only). The $150 will be refunded to you upon check out, after a satisfactory inspection of the premises.
3. Please, no pets on the furniture or beds. If your furry friend is used to being on furniture please
notify management and they will supply you with “doggy sheets” to place on top of furniture/beds.
4. There are no fenced yards. Dogs must be on a leash at all times.
5. Absolutely no animals should be left unattended loose in the home or on the decks. If you need
to leave your pet behind please have them in a kennel inside the home.
6. Please pick up after your pets! Please keep the area around your home clean and sanitary for
future guests.
7. Accidents happen. Please notify management immediately if your pet has an accident in the
home so we can clean the area properly and promptly.
8. Please note that pets are not allowed on many trails throughout the park, please plan your trip
ahead and make sure you have arrangements to keep your pet safe (we do not recommend
leaving pets in vehicles).
9. Pet sitting & walking services may be available during your stay, contact management for more
information.
If a pet is found without authorization in any of our properties, guests will be charged a $200 cleaning fee and will be asked to remove the pet from the property. Pet kennels are located in Oakhurst or Fresno, California.
• Do your rentals have fireplaces?
Yes, most our rentals have either wood burning, electric, or propane fireplaces.
Properties with NO fireplaces are:
Cozy Cub, Little Summit, Pinetree Retreat.
Properties with WOOD burning fireplaces are: Quail Crossing Lodge, Ahwahnichi Lodge, Places in Paradise, Stoneoaks, Chateau Royal East and West, Christmas Cabin, Yosemite Vista, Yosemite View, Yosemite Pines, Sport Chalet, Little Sport, Scenic Wonders, Coyote Creek, Yosemite Escape, Hikers Hideaway, Yosemite Crossroads, Edelweiss.
• How about firewood for the WOOD burning fireplaces?
Homes with fireplaces have complementary firewood. Condos have only propane fireplaces.
Properties with PROPANE Fireplaces: Park Place, Ahwahnichi Lodge, Alpine View, Yosemite Summit, Strawberry Creek, Sequoias, Bears Den, Little Bears Den, Serenity Pines, all Condos.
Properties with ELECTRIC Fireplaces: Sunset Hill.
• How about an outdoor Jacuzzi ?
Properties with an outdoor Jacuzzi are: Places in Paradise, Yosemite Vista, Scenic Wonders, and Alpine View.
• What about spa bathtubs?
Spa-jetting bathtubs are in rentals: Chateau Royal West, Hiker’s Hideaway, Scenic Wonders and Yosemite Whispers.
• Is there a TV or DVD in the homes?
Home rentals have: TV, DVD, clock radios, and some with stereos.
• Is there a TV or DVD in the condos?
Condo rentals have: TV/DVD, clock radios, and hair dryers.
• Is there a BBQ?
We have propane BBQs ready for use in all our properties, NO charcoal please!
• Which rentals have laundry facilities?
Rentals with laundry facilities are: Places in Paradise,Yosemite Vista, Scenic Wonders, Pinetree Retreat, Yosemite View, Hiker’s Hideaway, and the condos.
• Do any of your properties have game rooms with Ping Pong, Foosball, or Pool Tables?
Yes!
Places in Paradise Has a great pool table, and Foosball Soccer table in it’s game room.
Stoneoaks Has a combination pool table with a removable ping-pong tabletop in it’s game room.
Chateau Royal West Has a bonus playroom with wet bar, ping-pong and Foosball Soccer tables, for hours of entertainment!
• What time is check-in and check-out? What if I arrive late? Can I arrive early?
Check-in is anytime after 4 p.m. and check-out is anytime before 11 am. If you do arrive late, just go straight to the check-in office to pick up your keys. There is a 24-hour manager on the premise; if he steps away from the office, he will leave your keys outside on the bulletin board at the check-in office. Sorry, due to the size of our properties, and the complexities of cleaning and maintaining them, we cannot allow early check-ins or late check-outs. Please respect your fellow travelers vacation experience.
• When do I pay my remaining balance?
Balances due are automatically paid 30 days prior to your arrival by credit card; everyone is paid in full 30 days prior to your arrival. You do not need to call us, unless we contact you for issues with your credit card. We do not accept checks.
• Is smoking permitted?
No, smoking is not allowed in any of our properties.
• What if I have to change my arrival date or rental unit?
We do not allow last minute arrival date changes, unless you give us fair warning of at least a month; we may be able to do so months ahead of time. You may upgrade your rental at anytime, as long as it’s available. Cancellation fees will apply.
• Where is the nearest grocery store?
In Yosemite Valley at the Village Market (15 miles) or in Wawona (12 miles).
Coming in from Hwy 120 at “Oakdale.”
Coming in from Hwy 41 at “Oakhurst.”
Coming in from Hwy 140 at “Mariposa.”
• What if I bring an extra car, and my unit only allows a minimum?
Contact the manager to make parking arrangements.
• Is there a meeting area or banquet room in the area to have a family gathering?
No.
• Do you have handicap units?
Sorry, we unfortunately do not have any accommodations that fit handicapped requirements. You should be able to find lodging in Yosemite Valley; call (209) 372-0200. There are two hotels that will be able to help you, plus you’ll have less of a commute to all the main points of interest. We are located in a very mountainous terrain, and most of our properties have many stairs.
• What should I pack?
Your own personal hygiene items and groceries if you wish to cook in your unit.
• Are there Mosquitoes?
Yes. Bug repellent is advised.
• How many months ahead of time must we book our reservations?
For spring, summer and fall, it’s best to book 8 to 6 months in advance; for winter, 3 to 6 months in advance; holidays are always sold out months in advance.
• Is RV parking allowed?
No. Violators will be towed to the nearest town which is about 40 miles away.
• Can my relatives stay in their RV outside while I’m in my rental?
No. Violators will asked to leave or be towed to the nearest town which is about 40 miles away.
• Is there camping in Yosemite West?
No. Camping is allowed only in specified camping areas in the Valley, not in Yosemite West. You will need to contact (209) 372-0200.
• Do the units have satellite or cable?
Most all our units have satellite, there are a few that don’t, some people prefer that, those that do may have difficulty at times with reception due to weather patterns.
• Are there any other additional charges?
Yes – there is a 10% bed tax fee, plus a 1% tourism assessment fee, total 11% County tax, that helps pay for the management and upkeep of the Counties infrastructure and government. Please do note, that unlike some of our competitors, we do not charge cleaning fees or reservation fees, and we do not require a security deposit, unless you have pets. HOWEVER, A TWO NIGHT RESERVATION DEPOSIT IS REQUIRED FOR ALL RESERVATIONS AT THE TIME YOU MAKE YOUR RESERVATION.
