Top FAQs about Hotel Charlotte & Yosemite
Travel Tips for Planning Your Trip to California's Gold Country
How far is Hotel Charlotte from Yosemite National Park?
We're 24 miles, about 30 minutes, from the Big Oak Flat entrance, making us a convenient base for exploring the park.
Do I need a reservation to get into Yosemite National Park?
Yes, seasonal entry reservations are often required during peak times (especially spring and summer). We recommend checking the official Yosemite website before your visit.
What time is check-in and check-out at Hotel Charlotte?
Check-in is at 4:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:00 AM.
Is there a restaurant or bar on-site?
Yes! Gateway Tapas & Spirits, located within Hotel Charlotte, features fresh cuisine, craft cocktails, and draft beer, making it the perfect way to end a day of adventure.
Is the hotel pet-friendly?
Yes! We offer a limited number of dog-friendly rooms with prior notice and a small fee.
Where do I find parking?
We provide free guest parking located behind the hotel along the creek.
What are some popular hikes in Yosemite?
Yosemite offers hikes for every skill level, including:
Lower Yosemite Falls Trail: An easy, family-friendly 1-mile loop offering stunning views of Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America.
Bridalveil Fall Trail: A short 0.5-mile walk to the base of Bridalveil Fall, known for its graceful cascade and misty spray.
Tunnel View: One of Yosemite’s most famous viewpoints, offering breathtaking panoramas of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall—just a short drive from the entrance.
Cook’s Meadow Loop: A gentle 1-mile stroll through meadows with sweeping views of Yosemite Falls and the valley’s granite cliffs.
Sentinel Dome Trail: A moderate 2.2-mile hike leading to a summit with 360-degree views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and beyond.
Tuolumne Grove: A peaceful trail through towering giant sequoias, located near the Big Oak Flat entrance, perfect for a quiet nature walk.
When is the best time of year to visit Yosemite?
Spring offers stunning waterfalls and wildflowers.
Summer is perfect for hiking.
Fall and Winter bring fewer crowds and a quieter, more serene Yosemite experience with snow activities, too!
What dining options are in Groveland?
- Gateway Tapas & Spirits
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.
- Iron Door Saloon
This eclectic saloon boasts of being California’s oldest continuously operating saloon. First called the “Granite Store,” perhaps because the front and back walls are made of solid granite blocks. The aged woodwork and huge iron doors are testament to this. Steaks and burgers are their specialties! The Iron Door Saloon is absolutely worth a stop, hungry or not!
- The Grove Mercantile
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. With rotating, seasonal flavors and a loyal local following, it’s the kind of treat you’ll be glad you didn’t skip. Stop in for a scoop—and stay for the charm.
- Around the Horn Brewery
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—plus non-alcoholic options and local snacks. Whether you're relaxing after a day in Yosemite or gathering with friends, the laid-back vibe, dog-friendly patio, and friendly service make this a local favorite.
- 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.
- Two Guys Pizza Pies
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—including gluten-free and vegetarian options. Located right in Groveland, it's the perfect spot to grab a casual bite after a day of hiking, rafting, or exploring Yosemite. Friendly service, cold beer, and cheesy goodness—it’s everything you want from a small-town pizza joint.
Is there a shuttle/public transportation service to Yosemite?
Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) is seasonally available at Mary Laveroni Park
What is the weather like?
Groveland enjoys a dry climate with more than 300 sunny days each year. Summers are warm, with average highs in the 80s, while winters are mild, with daytime temperatures typically in the 50s. Snowfall is light and rarely sticks around. Because Yosemite sits at a higher elevation, we recommend bringing layers to stay comfortable during your visit.