Yosemite happenings in February and beyond

Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau Newsletter	February, 2013

A touch of romance from the Narrow Gauge Inn for Valentine's Day.

February is the month where we celebrate our love for someone special.

The businesses of California's Gateway to Yosemite will help you plan the perfect romantic getaway with events, specials and more. Read on to see how.

And of course, Happy Valentine's Day!

Sincerely,

Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau

In this issue

:: See Horsetail Falls

:: Entries available for Bass Lake Classic Triathlon

:: Majestic Mountain Loop

:: Wine and Chocolate Weekend

:: Birding at Eastman Lake

:: Dorsey's Hallmake earns customer service award

See the magic of a iconic Yosemite phenomenon

Horsetail Fall is illuminated by the setting sun to resemble a river of fire each February. Photo courtesy Pat Althizer

Each February, the conditions

align to create a stunning effect at one of Yosemite's seasonal falls.

Known by some as the Firefall, each February, for a few brief moments, the rays of the setting sun illuminate the waters flowing over this short-lived waterfall and create the appearance of a river of fire. Photographers hope to capture this occurrence, but one has to know where to be and when to be there.

Photographers looking to record this amazing scene can contact Pat Althizer of Photo Safari Yosemite. Small groups of seven or less photographers will be guided to the best viewing spot for the ideal photo during the the two-week viewing season. Call 559-760-6124 or email 5althizers@sti.net to book your trip.

For casual visitors looking to experience this amazing event firsthand,

Discover Yosemite is offering a special trip for the event, taking the guesswork out of the equation for you. Visit http://discoveryosemite.com/special.html to learn more about this package.

Entries up for Bass Lake Triathlon

Once the home of the first- ever national triathlon championships, Bass Lake is once again the home of a top-level event and quickly regaining its reputation as a world-class triathlon venue.

The third annual Bass Lake Classic Triathlon is slated for Saturday, June 1, and space is expected to run out. If you're a triathlete or looking to become one, entries are available at www.BassLakeTri.com. Sign up soon to ensure your space.

Tour the Majestic Mountain Loop

Roaring Falls in King's Canyon

Explore the unrivaled beauty of Sequoia, Kings Canyon and Yosemite National Parks, in as little as 3 days.

Try this itinerary for a high sierra vacation full of all the adventure you can imagine. Trek to the largest living tree, explore underground caves, hike to stunning waterfalls and discover the best vistas in all three parks. You'll enjoy snowshoeing, canoeing, hiking, swimming and more.

Do all three parks and you will have completed the Majestic Mountain Loop. Learn more at

MajesticMountainLoop.com

Wine & Chocolate Weekend on the Madera
Wine Trail

The Madera Vintners Association's family wineries proudly present the Madera Wine Trail's "Wine and Chocolate Weekend" on February 9 and 10, from 10 am to 5 pm.

You will have the chance to sample a wide variety of local wines, as you visit each participating winery on the Madera Wine Trail. On this special weekend, you will also enjoy chocolate pairings, live music, local art and delicious food.

Tickets for the two day wine tasting event are $25 in advance through February 8 only, and can be purchased online or at participating locations. Tickets may be purchased the weekend of the event at participating wineries for $30.

For more information and a full list of participating wineries, visit www.MaderaWineTrail.com.

Birding at Eastman Lake

Birding enthusiasts have

Bird of prey at Eastman Lake

the opportunity to enjoy a ranger-lead tour of Eastman Lake the second Saturday of each month through April 13.

Park Ranger Andy Steele will guide birders through the park and point out some of the rare and beautiful species that make the lake their home.

You will have the chance to see various species such as Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, American Kestrels and many more.

For more information, call Ranger Steele at 559-689-3255.

Dorsey's Hallmark earns Customer Service Award

From left, Christine Ferbrache, Dave Dorsey and Kim Vanlandingham receive a plaque honoring the excellent customer service at Dorsey's Hallmark in Oakhurst from YSVB President Max Stauffer.

The staff of Dorsey's Hallmark in Oakhurst was awarded the Excellence in Customer Service award by the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau.

"The entire staff at Dorsey's Hallmark in Oakhurst have continually demonstrated the highest commitment to both customer service and to the community. Their dedication leaves customers from locals to visitors alike feeling welcome and satisfied, while their philanthropic efforts have been of tremendous benefit for numerous not-for-profits in the region," said YSVB President Max Stauffer during the meeting.

If you have received excellent customer service throughout Madera County: California's Gateway to Yosemite, share your experience by emailing us and your nomination could be recognized as well.

Fun events and travel incentives

Businesses offer discounts and other travel incentives

Apple Blossom Inn offers picnic package

Apple Blossom Inn, Yosemite Area Bed and Breakfast

Enjoy the beauty and natural splendors of Yosemite National Park for a two-night stay at the award-winning Apple Blossom Inn. Ask for the picnic package to enjoy Yosemite National Park, luxurious accommodations and a delicious picnic lunch for a great price.

Valentine's Day Dinner and Dance

The Blue Heron in Yosemite Lakes Park is holding a Valentine's Day Dinner and Dance for $45. Dinner includes a starter of your choice of salad or one of Chef Christian Mueller's famous soups, a main course of prime rib of beef or baked lobster tail or Chicken Oscar and a flourless chocolate cake with raspberries. Reservations can be made by calling 559-658-6969.

Discounts on Bass Lake Vacation Rentals

Treat your Sweetheart to a week or weekend at Beautiful Bass Lake. Spend the days enjoying the beauty of Bass Lake and your evenings cuddled up by a warm fire.

Take a 17 mile trip up the road and enjoy the Winter Wonderland that Yosemite National Park offers. Our homes range from cute and cozy to large and luxurious. And now you can take advantage of our Off Season rates starting as low as $100 per night. Make beautiful Valentine's for your sweetheart. Call 866-914-3888 to book now.

Pageant Applications available for Chowchilla Madera County Fair

Applications for the 2013 Chowchilla-Madera County Fair Pageant that will be held on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 will be available beginning February 1, 2013. Residents of Madera County are eligible to apply for one of the three categories: Miss Madera County, Little Miss Madera County, or the Tommyhawk Contest. Winners of the pageant events will represent Madera County at Chowchilla-Madera County Fair and other community events in 2013. Application packets are available at the Chowchilla Fairgrounds office at 1000 S. 3rd Street as well as online at www.ChowchillaFair.org. Completed applications must be submitted to the Chowchilla-Madera County Fairground's office by 5:00 p.m. Friday, March 8, 2013.

Valentine's Specials at Crab Cakes

Crabcakes in Oakhurst has created a special Valentine's Day Menu featuring a prime rib of beef or lobster ravioli for $55 per couple, New York Steak or Lobster Pasta for $75 per couple or the "Sweetheart Special" featuring Filet Mignon and Lobster Tail for $95 per couple. Dinners include Sweetdreams Desserts and more. Reservations are required by calling 559-641-7667.

Erna's Elderberry House highlights romance on Valentine's Day

Erna's Elderberry House, the renowned five-star restaurant, has a multitude of special events happening around the Valentine's Day holiday. The 30th Annual Valentine's Epicurean Dinner is Sunday, February 17. The six course meal will feature innovative and delicious new culinary creations paired with the elegant surroundings of the estate and harp music performed by Laura Porter. Information on other events are available at http://www.chateausureau.com/events.html.

Have your Holiday gathering at Hampton

The Hampton Inn in Madera is promoting their "Heart Special" featuring a stay in a Jacuzzi Suite, a rose petal adorned bed, box of chocolates, wine or apple cider and a dozen roses for $175 for a stay between Feb. 9 and 17. Guests must call 559-661-0910 to book.

Haven Of Rest B&B Valentine's Day package
A Haven of Rest in Oakhurst is offering a one night stay in the Orchard View Suite with full candlelight breakfast served in-suite with roses and card, a box of chocolate and a bottle of wine or sparkling cider with spa robes for luxurious lounging for $278

Holiday Inn Express: Royal Romance Package

What could be more romantic than arriving to a Jacuzzi Suite to find a bottle of champagne and delicious chocolates on the bed waiting for you? After a night of romance you will enjoy a hearty hot breakfast-in-bed. It's a perfect way to rekindle the flames. For couples who prefer, sparkling cider will be provided in lieu of champagne. We would love to help set the mood and are willing to work with you to fulfill any special requests. Please contact us at 559 665 3300 if you would like to add any other special touches to your romantic getaway. This package must be reserved 3 days in advance and once booked there will be no refunds or changes to the package, which includes the room and its amenities.

Narrow Gauge Inn offers showcases Valentine's Day Package

The Narrow Gauge Inn, located in Fish Camp just a few minutes south of Yosemite National Park, has an all-inclusive Valentine's Day package including a queen room for two, champagne and chocolate covered strawberries, rose petals on the bed, a continental breakfast basket delivered to your room and complimentary hot beverages and banana bread for only $119.

Make your Valentine's Day special at The Pines Resort

Surprise your loved one with a Special Valentine's Day Getaway at The Pines Resort and take advantage of several great specials which include discounted rates, dining specials and the inclusion of special romantic gifts on your room. For a full list of options, visit http://www.basslake.com/specials-packages/index.cfm.

Quady Winery gearing up for the Big Game

Get your wine in time for Super Bowl XLVII (February 3rd)! Visit Quady Winery January 27th from 12 - 4pm for pointers on pairing Quady wine with some of the most popular Super Bowl appetizers and entrees. Please call 800-733-8068 for more details.

www.QuadyWinery.com

Valentine's Day Dinner Special at the River Creek Cafe

The River Creek Cafe in Ahwahnee is offering a special Valentine's Day Dinner including jumbo shrimp cocktail, roasted pork tenderloin roulade, and chocolate lava cake for desert for $29.95.

Winter Special at The Redwoods in Yosemite

Yosemite This Winter ~ *One FREE Night!

December 1, 2012 - March 23, 2013

20% off your 1st night stay
20% off your 2nd night stay
50% off your 3rd night stay
*4th night FREE!

Offer is not valid with any other discount or during holiday periods. Not valid on existing reservations. Offer expires March 23, 2013. Call 866-470-3720 or visit www.RedwoodsInYosemite.com

Sweet deals for your sweetie at The Tenaya Lodge The Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is also offering couples a romantic stay. Packages include one night's accommodation in a spa suite, bottle of champagne and strawberries, breakfast in bed for two on February 15 starting at $369.

Planning on visiting? You can book your stay right on our website! Visit http://www.yosemitethisyear.com/where-to-stay, browse our properties and book your stay right there on the site!

You can also book your room on our Facebook page now as well.

Sincerely,

Jarrod Lyman
Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau