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Tauck Alaska vacations combine sightseeing by land, ship, floatplane, paddlewheel boat, and vintage railway to fully experience the 49th state. This is the realm of bald eagles, grizzlies, orcas, alpine peaks, and glacier-carved fjords. Raft through an eagle preserve, walk through centuries-old towns, pan for gold, and meet totem pole carvers. Tauck Bridges family Alaska tour will take you on an adventure that you will never forget. Alaska cruises open your eyes and heart to the natural wonderland that surrounds you morning, noon, and night.
Tauck World Discovery:
Tauck's Hawaii features ocean-view rooms the finest oceanfront resorts on multiple islands for the ultimate Hawaiian experience! From Kauai's rainforests to Maui's waterfalls and the Big Island's dramatic volcanic landscapes, discover the uniqueness of the islands. Enjoy a special visit to Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, an old whaling town, a working ranch, and a coffee farm, with luaus, cruises, and plenty of free time to enjoy one of the world's favorite tropical playgrounds!
Tauck World Discovery:
Tauck's New England tours take you to green mountain ridges with white village steeples, quintessential harbors with tall sailboat masts, and historical icons, city and countryside. Experience a breathtaking landscape, painted with bold impressionist colors, on Tauck's fall foliage tour.The region is rich in Colonial history, featuring quaint architecture, museums with costumed interpreters, and entertaining walking tours. Learn more about the patriots of Boston, the whalers of Nantucket, or the Pilgrims at Plymouth on our New England tours with accommodations in historic hotels and popular resorts.
Tauck World Discovery:
New England
So many choices – gracious antebellum plantations, formal gardens, warm beaches, Civil War battlefields, a
Victorian island, jazz in New Orleans, a capital capitol... Tauck's
Mid-America / Southern USA trips take you to places truly intertwined with all that defines America today. Together with filmmaker Ken Burns we crafted a
Civil War themed tour (Most Hallowed Ground), The Tauck Chicago Event in October 2013, and The Tauck Jazz Event in New Orleans. And make your plans early for our premiere sporting event in May 2014 – Run For Roses: The Kentucky Derby!
Tauck World Discovery:
South / Mid USA
Western USA travel features diverse landscapes from painted canyons
to inspiring national parks, ancient cliff dwellings, the Pacific Ocean,
vineyards and chic cities. Sightsee by floatplane, jeep, trolley,
horseback, sky gondola, narrow gauge railroad, jet boat... Stay at
historic lodges inside the great national parks and great hotels in the
heart of the cities.
Tauck World Discovery:
US West
Cultured, cosmopolitan cities combine with rugged coastal scenery and quaint fishing villages on these Eastern Canada tours. They take you from thundering Niagara Falls to peaceful island cruises, from chateau-style hotels to the weathered house that inspired Anne of Green Gables. Enjoy views from the world's tallest freestanding structure, or from the top of coastal bluffs along the Cabot Trail.
Tauck World Discovery:
Eastern Canada
This is a land of jagged snow-capped peaks, glaciers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, and a grandeur that is indescribable. Our Western Canada tours explore impressive national parks and stay in legendary mountain resorts, with unique ways to sightsee including Ice Explorer, floatplane, nostalgic train, ferry steamer, jet boat, or ski gondola.
Tauck World Discovery:
Western Canada Tours
This is the heart of Europe: alpine vistas in Switzerland, Germany and Austria; preserved medieval towns and castles along the lush Rhine and Danube waterways; imperial splendors in Vienna and Budapest; cafés, bistros, and bierstubes in villages off-the-beaten-path; and architectural triumphs in grand cities of Amsterdam, Berlin, Warsaw, Prague, Dubrovnik, and more. When you embark on Central and Eastern Europe travel days with Tauck, you go far beyond traditional sights to discover the a deep and rich cultural persona.
Tauck World Discovery:
Central & Eastern Europe
From the moving memorials at Omaha Beach to the glitz and glamour of the Côte d'Azur, Tauck's France tours combine insider expert insights with the cultural panache that defines all things Français. Tauck France tours explore colorful Provence, Loire chateaux, ancient abbeys, cobblestoned villages, Bordeaux and Côte du Rhone wine regions, the chic bouleverds of Paris, and more.
Tauck World Discovery:
Famous Irish castle-hotels and manor houses, the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, pastoral Cotswold landscapes, mystical Loch Lomond and of course vibrant London are just some of the many highlights of these Ireland and Great Britain tours. Escape to centuries past as you watch a Shakespearean performance at Stratford-upon-Avon or view the mysterious monoliths outside of Dublin; imagine yourself as royalty aboard first-class trains, steam yachts and river cruise ships.
Tauck World Discovery:
Great Britain & Ireland
The name "Iceland" belies the wondrous summertime landscapes you'll explore during this 7-night cruise... fishing villages where you'll get a glimpse of daily life along rugged shores... fjords ringed by emerald mountains... craggy cliffs blanketed with whimsical puffins and arctic terns... rainbow-hued waterfalls and steamy geysers... lakes teeming with nesting ducks... and a blue lagoon that welcomes bathers with healing waters. With so much to see and do, Iceland is not only one of the hottest new destinations for those in-the-know, it's also a very cool place to cruise with Tauck.
Tauck World Discovery:
Timeless treasures of a legendary land await you on Tauck's Italy tours. Travel from the sun-kissed hilltowns of Tuscany to the stunning Amalfi Coast, enjoying Tauck's do-it-all-for-you service, fine accommodations and special experiences you can't get on your own, like private, after-hours visits to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel – hallmarks of the best Italy tours.
Tauck World Discovery:
What do you envision as a perfect Mediterranean travel getaway? Little can compare to a small ship's approach in Bonifacio, Corsica... antiquities discovered in the gentle Sicilian countryside... the whitewashed villages of a Greek isle... the dramatic Amalfi coastline... the colorful contrasts where Europe meets Asia in Turkey... or the secrets behind the centuries-old city walls of Dubrovnik. Mediterranean travel with Tauck includes land journeys and cruises along the Adriatic and Aegean Seas, combining the relaxation of sailing with in-depth discovery via private excursions to the historical ruins of Ephesus, Carthage, Pompeii and Segesta and cultural meccas along the Spanish, French, Italian and Turkish Rivieras.
Tauck World Discovery:
Mediterranean & Turkey
Nordic legends and Viking tales come to life in Norway, Denmark, and Sweden. Viking ships and a folk museum depict early eras; medieval castles and well-preserved port towns illuminate the Middle Ages. In Russia, fortresses, palaces, and treasures of the Czars contrast with the Kremlin, Red Square, and an infamous bunker. Priceless masterpieces hang in The State Hermitage Museum; ballerinas twirl at the ballet; and onion-topped buildings command the skyline. In Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, there are medieval districts so well preserved that they are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Tauck World Discovery:
Scandinavia, Russia & Baltics
Step inside the grand Moorish palace of the Alhambra, gaze at treasures – inside and out – at the world renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, follow pilgrim's footsteps on the path of St. James to Santiago de Compostela or stroll the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Sintra and Evora, and you will understand the historical, cultural and religious passion throughout these lands and carefully woven into a Portugal and Spain tour.
Tauck World Discovery:
Spain & Portugal
Tauck's Africa tours and safaris are compelling and intriguing, from the Great Pyramids to the savannahs of the Serengeti. Adventures include hot-air ballooning over African plains, cruising the River Nile, game drives in legendary game reserves, and extraordinary game drives in Botswana. From the Cape of Good Hope to Victoria Falls, spotting the "Big Five" in the Serengeti or Kruger National Park, a walk with young lions... a visit with the meerkats... a spice tour in Zanzibar... a wine-pairing dinner in the Cape Winelands... these Tauck journeys and safaris are the best in Africa tours today!
Tauck World Discovery:
Africa Tours
The ultimate Antarctica travel experience! Cruise aboard one of Tauck's newest luxe mega-yachts, Le Soléal or Le Boréal to the majestic ice-clad continent of Antarctica after spending two nights in Buenos Aires – an exciting 10-night expeditionary voyage with on-board naturalists, oceanographers and ornithologists. Floating castles of ice glisten in the warmth of the austral sun... glacial mountains rise from the sea, framed against a radiant sky... in an instant, a bright sun illuminates a floating regatta of ice formations... Explorers throughout the centuries have been mesmerized and captivated by the ice... Today, you are that Antarctic explorer.
Tauck World Discovery:
China offers a dynamic feast of sights and sensations. Willowed landscapes, tranquil gardens, majestic rivers, fabled monuments and imperial pavilions of red and gold stand as poignant symbols of an enduring and rich historical legacy. Countryside villages and bustling cities deftly combine time-honored traditions with the ever-quickening pace of today's modern times. And the great Yangtze River, home to some of China's most priceless cultural treasures, is poised to change the course of history in this 21st century.
Tauck World Discovery:
One of the world's most diverse countries, India is an incredible array of landscapes, languages, cultures and lifestyles as well as a fascinating complex of beliefs and customs. A visit reveals a nation of many contrasts, from opulent palace hotels, shimmering white marbeled monuments like the Taj Mahal and ancient fairy-tale cities of richly-decorated courtyards, fountains and frescoed galleries... to streets brimming with old traditions.
Tauck World Discovery:
An island nation of gentle beauty boasts an intriguing mix of ancient and present day, embracing a revolution of modern technology yet remaining staunchly immersed in age-old traditions and rituals. Experiencing rich cultural traditions and venerable Japanese customs are an intricate part of Tauck's Japan tour, where age-old cultures and lifestyles flourish, inspiring the spirit as well as the senses. Get a unique look at Japan, yesterday and today.
Tauck World Discovery:
Southeast Asia is a feast for the senses – the vibrant colors, fragrance of incense and spices, sounds of daily life in the streets, and the taste of fabulous food. It is a cultural treat sunrise to sunset. Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand have shared the same tropical peninsula for centuries, but for all their similarities, each country offers a diverse tapestry of art, culture and history uniquely their own. Unique experiences, from a visit to a hill tribe village to an elephant trek, provide an in-depth look at this complex cultural mosaic.
Tauck World Discovery:
South East Asia
Choose among two-week and three-week Down Under tours that cover distances primarily by cruise ship or private charter flights, but also include jet boat, tramcar, helicopter, catamaran and sky gondola rides. With joint New Zealand and Australia travel agendas, see glaciers, geysers, fiords, outback, reefs, koalas, kiwis, historic districts, notable architecture, and native culture.
Tauck World Discovery:
Australia Travel and New Zealand
Discover one of the richest ecotourism destinations in the world on an adventurious, active Tauck Central America tour or cruise. You'll go off-the-beaten-path as you explore the tropical rainforests, dry forests, freshwater wetlands, islands, beaches and lush jungles of Costa Rica and Panama, where ecological biodiversity, exotic wildlife, and cultural national treasures are found.
Tauck World Discovery:
Central America
South America is one of the most sought-after destinations for today's sophisticated travelers – vast cultural diversity and cosmopolitan pleasures from Rio de Janeiro to Buenos Aires, Santiago and Lima; breathtaking beauty from Iguazú Falls to Patagonia and the Andes; unique cultural heritages created by influences from destinations the world over; and the Galápagos Islands, home to species found nowhere else in the world. Tauck's South America travel adventures ignite the senses and satisfy the soul.
Tauck World Discovery:
South America
Explore ancient Egypt's treasures, from the Pyramids to the magnificent temples to the tombs of the pharaohs, and cruise along the River Nile with Tauck's expert Egyptologists. Discover the diverse cultures and traditions that have shaped Israel since antiquity and continue to define life today. Travel along Jordan's historic King's Highway from the shores of the Dead Sea to astounding Petra. Tauck combines authentic cultural connections, insights from local experts, our signature sightseeing and memorable experiences for our guests only to ensure that each journey is enriching and inspiring.
Tauck World Discovery:
Middle East
Just 90 miles from the Florida Keys and unlike anyplace else in the Americas, Cuba has been "close to home but far away" for decades. But now you can meet face-to-face with Cuban residents from different professions – artists, musicians, students, educators, farmers, artisans, entrepreneurs, community leaders and more – through Tauck's People-to-People educational exchange travel to Cuba. Share thoughts, gain knowledge, and connect with the country's deep cultural heritage – rich in historic architecture, music, art and Latin and Afro-Cuban traditions.
Tauck World Discovery:
Crafted by Tauck and Ken Burns At his first breathtaking view of Yosemite in 1869, young John Muir had a life-changing moment – a surge of euphoria as he wandered, overwhelmed in the great natural beauty of a landscape unlike anything he had seen before: "We are now in the mountains," he wrote, "and they are in us... filling every pore and cell of us." As a self-made naturalist, philosopher, geologist, author, inventor and conservationist, Muir spent his life studying in "The University of the Wilderness," translating his intense passion for nature into books that inspired a movement to protect "Nature's temples." Follow Muir's path on Tauck's compelling Yosemite tour that traces his trajectory from San Francisco to the Sierra Nevada, embracing Muir Woods, Sequoia National Park and his beloved Yosemite, experiencing the powerful beauty of glacier-carved mountains, soaring redwood and sequoia forests, and the story of why they remain for us exactly as he found them.
Our knowledgeable travel specialists are here to answer your questions and help book your next trip - call us today at
Monday – Friday: 8:00am – 9:30pm, EST
Saturday: 9:00am – 5:00pm, EST
Sunday: 12:00 Noon – 5:00pm, EST
From South Africa: 0800-990-476
From other countries: Contact Tauck in the U.S. at (203) 899-6500
Please fill in the form below to view your free Tauck eBrochure!
Arrive San Francisco
Your Yosemite tour begins at The Westin St. Francis at 5:30 PM. A transfer is included from San Francisco International Airport to The Westin St. Francis, the elegant "Grand Dame" of Union Square, close to the city's main attractions – with a cable car stop at the front door. Join us this evening for a welcome cocktail reception and dinner.
The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square
Muir Woods and The Presidio
Head across the city for a visit to the Presidio, a former Army base and now a National Historic Landmark rich with history; the base was home to the "Buffalo Soldiers," the African-American cavalry troops who earned their fighting reputation in the Indian Wars, and were among the U.S. troops who served as the earliest caretakers of the national parks. From here, a short drive over the Golden Gate Bridge finds you under the green canopy of Muir Woods, a coastal redwood forest preserved as a national monument. These towering ancient trees, some 20 stories high, are among the last remnants of a fog-shrouded primeval forest that once blanketed the northern coast. A self-guided tour along its winding walkways takes you through a shaded, misty world of slanted cathedral light, dense flora, and tranquil running streams – a place to feel the awesome power (and silence) of some of the tallest living things on the planet. After lunch in picturesque Sausalito, hop aboard a ferry for the return trip to San Francisco. Dock at the historic Ferry Building terminal with its famous clocktower and its arcade of shops and cafés along the Embarcadero. The remainder of the day is free.
The Central Valley and on to Sequoia National Park
Before there was a National Park Service, the job of policing and protecting the national parks belonged to the U.S. Army. At Sequoia and Yosemite, the parks' guardians were the Buffalo Soldiers, who rode out every spring from the Presidio, crossing 300 miles on horseback to the Sierra Nevada. Drive a route that follows the Buffalo Soldiers' path across the agricultural Central Valley. Stop in Fresno for lunch, then board a motor coach for the 7,000-foot climb to Sequoia National Park. Your destination is remote Wuksachi Lodge® on the park grounds. This afternoon, an expert from the Sequoia Field Institute describes how John Muir found and documented the "Giant Forest" in 1875, a perfect introduction to the park. Tonight at the lodge, a naturalist guides you through the spectacular constellations that fill the night skies.
Wuksachi Lodge®
Land of giants and Moro Rock in Sequoia National Park
Begin the day with privately guided walks among ancient Giant Sequoias soaring to the height of skyscrapers; your first walk is in the Giant Forest Grove to see the General Sherman Tree, estimated to be over 2,500 years old (and still growing). Next up is a walk along the "Big Trees Trail" at Round Meadow with an interpretive naturalist guide who will give you some amazing insights into the unusual ecosystem of the Giant Sequoias. Lunch today is at a private barbecue at Wolverton Meadow, where a living-history re-enactor tells stories of mountain life in the late 1800s. Travels inside Sequoia National Park are via small 10-passenger vehicles, accompanied by a guide; you'll hear stories of early park "personalities" such as John Muir, Charles Young and Stephen Mather, as well as climb the 400 steps to the top of Moro Rock for stunning views of the park and the peaks of the Great Western Divide. The rest of the day is yours to explore as you wish.
Arriving in Yosemite National Park
Depart Wuksachi Lodge this morning and head over to Fresno and the south entrance to Yosemite National Park. Your Yosemite tour begins with a film by Ken Burns describing Muir's passion for the Yosemite Valley, and his activism to preserve it for future generations. Later, have lunch in at Wawona® Hotel, an inn that was once a stagecoach stop. Here you'll meet a National Park Service ranger for a Tauck Exclusive -- a private lecture on the unique history and legacy of Yosemite National Park. Next, visit Glacier Point for a stirring view of the Valley, overlooking Half Dome and a panorama of glacier-formed peaks; on this spot in 1903, John Muir stood with Teddy Roosevelt during a private tour of the area that persuaded the President that Yosemite should be under federal protection as a national park. This evening, settle into your room at The Ahwahnee®, a historic masterpiece of stone, timber and soaring stained glass windows in the heart of Yosemite; dine at your leisure.
The Ahwahnee®
A day well spent in Yosemite, "Nature's Grandest Temple"
Yosemite "is the grandest of all the special temples of Nature I was ever permitted to enter," wrote Muir, who regarded such settings of awesome natural beauty as sacred places with restorative powers, "where the galling harness of civilization drops off and wounds heal, ere we are aware." Discover the park's power to move your spirit on a guided Yosemite tour in a special open-air vehicle, with opportunities to explore on foot. The afternoon is yours to enjoy the park at your own pace. Optional activities are available (some at additional cost), including bicycling, a hike over the footbridge at Vernal Falls, and a visit to the Yosemite Indian Cultural Museum and Village. Lunch and dinner are on your own today.
Through the Central Valley back to San Francisco
Our Yosemite tour days conclude this morning; depart Yosemite for the return trip to San Francisco, first visiting the Mariposa Museum, then driving across the populous Central Valley with a stop for lunch. Filmed narratives by Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan weave together the past seven days of history and nature, with insights you won't get anywhere else. One of the stories you'll hear relates to Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, a glacial
valley that Muir fought unsuccessfully to save; in the 1920s, the
federal government allowed its river to be dammed, turning the valley
into a reservoir for the city of San Francisco. Today, a campaign
continues, joined by the Sierra Club (which Muir founded) to remove the
dam and restore the valley to its original state. "Mountain parks," Muir
argued, "are useful not only as fountains of timber and irrigating
rivers, but as fountains of life..." an idea that remains controversial
to this day. Arrive late afternoon at The Fairmont San Francisco, a Beaux Arts-style, premier hotel on Nob Hill – it's listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Join us tonight for a farewell cocktail reception and dinner; the setting may be a long way from the Sierra Nevada, but Yosemite can never be left behind (and may be as close as your glass of tap water...).
The Fairmont San Francisco
Journey home
Tour ends: San Francisco. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from The Fairmont San Francisco to San Francisco International Airport. You should allow two hours for flight check-in. If you wish to stay longer in San Francisco, ask about additional hotel nights.
Small Group Departures
– Select small group departures, averaging 24 Tauck guests, are priced from $4990 per person double; specific dates apply – select "Small Group" in the pull-down menu above for complete pricing.
Special Solo Traveler Savings – on select special departures you save $200 on the single room price; specific dates apply – select "Singles Departures" in the pull-down menu above for complete pricing.
• Explore the incredible landscapes of Muir Woods, Sequoia and Yosemite national parks, from the famed Giant Sequoias and redwoods to mountains, lush forests, amazing waterfalls...
• Visit the Presidio, a former army base that was the home of the Buffalo Soldiers, African-American cavalrymen who played a key role in the history of the national parks
• Discover the night sky over Sequoia National Park as a naturalist guides you through the spectacular constellations that are visible in the absence of "light pollution"
• Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as detailed
• 17 meals (7 breakfasts, 5 lunches & 5 dinners), gratuities to local guides, service charges, admission fees, taxes and porterage
Airfare is additional.
Tauck Guests enjoy complimentary Internet access in guest rooms!
Reigning over Union Square from a landmark location in the heart of the city for over a century, The Westin St. Francis San Francisco on Union Square welcomes guests with an ambiance of elegance, charm and grace. Marble columns, ornate balconies and impressive woodwork harken back to the genteel world of yesteryear while 21st-century amenities ensure an enjoyable stay, to include Westin's signature Heavenly Beds and Heavenly Shower. Keep up with your exercise routine in the urban sanctuary of the WestinWORKOUT with an array of fitness equipment or treat yourself to a pampering treatment at the Spa. In a city renowned for culinary delights, this hotel sets the standard with the MICHAEL MINA Restaurant, The Oak Room Restaurant & Lounge and Caruso's. Sip a creatively handcrafted cocktail and sample gourmet finger food at the Clock Bar, created by Michelin chef Michael Mina.
Crafted with cedar and stone in 1999 and highlighted by stone fireplaces and natural woods, the Wuksachi Lodge® enjoys a spectacular forest setting surrounded by mountains in the heart of the park, just minutes from Sequoia National Park's most popular attractions. When you arrive, you could be surprised by who (or what) you might find sitting there… or wandering along a path with you! Enjoy dining on Sierra Alpine cuisine in the rustically elegant, yet cozy, Wuksachi Dining Room amid soaring windows that seem to bring the wonder of the forest right inside… and perhaps choose something from the extensive wine list or sample a specialty mountain-themed cocktail from the bar. Be sure to go outside after dark for some stargazing… and prepare to be amazed at how bright and plentiful the stars are when there is no ambient ground light to mute your view of them. You'll enjoy the lodge's remote location, yet all the modern
amenities and guest services of a AAA-rated three-diamond hotel.
Completed in 1927, The Ahwahnee® design uniquely blends an array of influences – including Art Deco, Native American, Middle Eastern and Arts & Crafts Movement; these elements can be seen in a variety of places, from the stenciling, to the woodwork, lighting fixtures, china patterns... Some of the hotel's best-loved aspects are its grand public spaces featuring giant stone fireplaces, massive hand-stenciled beams, rich tapestries and elegant stained glass. The hotel sits in the heart of Yosemite National Park, and shines as the park's distinctive AAA® Four-Diamond hotel. Known for its magnificent façade, and architecture, The Ahwahnee was specifically designed to highlight its natural surroundings, featuring Yosemite Falls, Half Dome and Glacier Point. The destination of queens and presidents alike, this distinctive hotel offers a perfect balance of history, hospitality and elegance. A study in size and grace, the Great Lounge is 77 feet long and 51 feet wide with 24-foot-high ceilings, and ten floor-to-ceiling windows topped with original, hand-stained glass panels bathe the lounge in light during the day. The massive stone fireplace is an inviting setting; a display of Native American hand woven baskets further decorates the interior; and wrought-iron chandeliers provide a warm glow in the evenings. The Winter Club Room is a cozy, comfortable sitting room with floor-to-ceiling display cases, a winter sports theme, vintage photographs and large windows that create a relaxing mood that's particularly comforting in winter. The Ahwahnee Dining Room, the setting for the annual Bracebridge Dinner, features a 34-foot high ceiling with large sugar pine trestles and ceiling-to-floor windows framed with stained glass. Guest rooms feature comfortable furnishings, including upholstered chairs, televisions, refrigerators, bathrobes, hair dryers and bath amenities, and each room is accented with original Native American designs. The Ahwahnee provides concierge service, bell service, turn-down service, room service, daily in-room ice service and afternoon tea served in the Great Lounge – and the Ahwahnee Dining Room, Great Lounge and Solarium are just steps away from any guest's door.
The term "grande dame" might have been coined with The Fairmont San Francisco in mind as this renowned, landmark hotel has been reigning over the City by the Bay from atop Nob Hill with grandeur and grace since exactly a year after the great San Francisco earthquake. As the place to see and be seen for San Franciscans, The Fairmont San Francisco has attracted a loyal following of kings, queens, presidents and celebrities for over a century. Guest rooms have been recently been restored to their original splendor, including marble baths, and elegantly updated with flat-screen TV, Frette linen ensembles, pillow-top beds, and MP3 docking stations to ensure 21st-century travelers a comfortable stay. This very sophisticated and "refined" hotel has a sense of humor as well, as evidenced by the Tonga Room, with its tropical atmosphere enhanced by regular rainstorms into the "indoor lagoon." And, The Fairmont San Francisco is the only spot in the city where all of the cable car lines meet, making it convenient to all that San Francisco offers.
Many Tauck travelers prefer arriving at their destination a day before
their Tauck journey begins, or often extend a stay at the end of their
trip. As a service, Tauck will make hotel reservations before and after
your journey.
The Westin St. Francis
335 Powell Street
San Francisco, California, USA
Phone: 415 397 7000
Fax: 415 774-0124
There are bound to be questions when travelling. Information on everything from weather to internet connections can be found below.
All prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All hotel accommodations, motor coach and train transportation, entertainment, special dinners, sightseeing, porterage, and the services of local guides, drivers and the Tauck Director are included. Transportation from San Francisco International Airport to the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco is included, regardless of the time you check in to the hotel, provided you have furnished us with accurate flight arrival information at least three weeks prior to your departure date. Transportation from The Fairmont San Francisco to San Francisco International Airport is also included when you check out of the hotel. Transportation to and from airports may be shared with other Tauck guests.
The tour price includes all hotel accommodations with private baths. Our standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality may differ slightly from one hotel to another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triples are usually two-bedded rooms plus a rollaway cot and are not recommended for comfort.
Yosemite and Sequoia: John Muir's California is conducted by a Tauck Director who remains with the group throughout the duration of the tour. Your Tauck Director is a professional, fully trained employee of Tauck.
Checked Luggage – General
Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).
Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.
Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.
Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home!
Carry-on Luggage - General
Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.
For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.
Your Tauck Director will assist you with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance but will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.
Yosemite & Sequoia: John Muir's California begins and ends in the U.S.
If you are traveling by air to join and/or depart from this tour within the U.S., please read the section entitled Airline Security Measures under Additional Information to determine what travel documentation is required.
If you are frequent traveler to the U.S. from Canada, you may benefit from the NEXUS program, which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet website by clicking here.
If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department's Internet site by clicking here.
We strongly recommend that your passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour. We also recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents or cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Transportation to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included.
To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your tour. As a service, we will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through us. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. Airport transfers are included for these extended stays as described above under Inclusive Prices. If you wish to spend additional nights, please consult Extend Your Trip in the Accommodations section above on this webpage and discuss it with your reservations sales consultant or travel agent when you book your tour.
Your Tauck Director will assist you with airline and other carrier communications, but has no inside contacts to guarantee or expedite recovery of lost luggage. All recovery costs, including the communication costs, are your responsibility. Check your travel protection details for covered expenses.
Personal Expenses such as phone calls, room service, alcoholic and other beverages not specifically included, laundry, dry cleaning, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees and services, airport arrival and departure taxes, individual airport transfers (when applicable), and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.
Journey Start and End Times are provided at the time of the booking. The tour begins at 5:30 PM at the Westin St. Francis in San Francisco. You or your booking agent will be advised of any change to this schedule. When making flight arrangements, allow sufficient time to claim luggage and clear customs, if applicable, in order to join the tour on time. The tour ends upon check out from the Fairmont San Francisco. Each carrier and each airport has different rules regarding how early you must arrive for flight check in. Please contact your individual carrier for this information.
Occasionally, we will use photographs and/or video taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for print, Internet and other media promotional purposes. If you prefer that your image not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.
Membership will be granted to all persons. We reserve the right to terminate the tour of any person who is abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.
We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that you refrain from using your cell phone while on the motor coach, during group functions, when sightseeing and when your Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There will be many opportunities to make and receive calls at times when it does not affect others. Please note – there will not be cell phone service in Sequoia and Yosemite national parks.
Please contact your cell phone carrier to determine if your service extends to California.
If you are traveling from the U.S., the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires that your name, as it appears on your domestic or international airline ticket, must precisely match your name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID (i.e., passport or driver's license) that you present during security screening. The ID name must also match any additional airline data, such as frequent-flyer information. For example, if you present your driver's license to security and it says John T. Smith, your ticket must also say John T. Smith, not John Thomas Smith, Jack Smith, or any other variant. Your date-of-birth and gender information provided to the airline must also match your passport.
If you make your air travel arrangements through us, please ensure that the name you provide us precisely matches your name as shown on the identification you will use while traveling. If you make your own airline reservations, please ensure that the airline has the correct information.
For more information on the TSA's requirements, please visit their website by clicking here.
If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S., you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.
Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.
Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site.
The coastal climate of San Francisco is cooler than the desert-like conditions of inland California where the heat of the day may drop 30 °F (17 °C) by evening. We suggest that you dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. A light sweater and jacket will provide warmth on a chilly early morning walk or a late night stroll. For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual resort wear is appropriate; formal wear is never required. Most important are lightweight walking shoes with ankle support.
You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available upon request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are available for a fee.
We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.
We suggest that you pack the following items your journey:
Complimentary basic Internet where available in hotel rooms; service levels are not guaranteed.
California is 8 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). From early March through early November, California switches to Daylight Savings Time and is 7 hours behind. To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to the website, timeanddate.com, by clicking here.
The maximum overland elevation on this tour is approximately 7,000 ft (2,134 m).
The coastal climate of San Francisco is cooler than the desert-like conditions of inland California where the heat of the day may drop 30 °F (17 °C) by evening. The average high temperature along the coast in summer is approximately 67 °F (19 °C); the average low temperature is 52 °F (11 °C). The average high temperature in Yosemite in summer is 87 °F (31 °C); the average low temperature is 52 °F (11 °C).
You may encounter occasional fog in San Francisco and along the coast; it can be quite breezy and a bit chilly in the summer months.
To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov, by clicking here.
Average Temperature
San Francisco, California
Fish Camp (Yosemite), California
Hi/Lo ºF
Hi/Lo ºC
56 / 44
14 / 7
55 / 37
13 / 3
59 / 47
15 / 8
61 / 39
16 / 4
61 / 48
16 / 9
67 / 43
20 / 6
62 / 49
17 / 9
75 / 46
24 / 8
63 / 51
17 / 11
84 / 52
29 / 11
66 / 52
19 / 11
91 / 58
33 / 14
65 / 53
18 / 12
96 / 62
36 / 17
95 /61
35 / 16
69 / 55
21 / 13
90 / 56
32 / 13
68 / 54
20 / 12
79 / 58
26 / 9
63 / 48
65 /41
18 / 5
57 / 45
55 / 36
13 / 2
Three Rivers
(Sequoia), California
57 / 36
14 / 2
64 / 41
70 / 46
21 / 8
79 / 52
26 / 11
89 / 61
32 / 16
97 / 68
36 / 20
96 / 67
91 / 52
33 / 11
80 / 43
27 / 6
67 / 37
19 / 3
58 / 36
Average Rainfall
To help expedite your booking, please have the following information ready before you call us:
For reservations, call 800-788-7885 or contact your travel agent to book today!
Tauck Reservation Sales Counselors are available:
Monday through Friday 6 am - 8 pm
Saturday 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm (Eastern Time)
Monday through Friday 6 am - 8 pm
Saturday 9 am - 5 pm
Sunday 12 pm - 5 pm (Eastern Time)
Some additional questions you might have about booking this trip:
The Deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking. Your deposit is $350 per person.
We will be happy to advise hotels of any special requests, provided we receive them at time of booking. We regret that requests cannot be guaranteed.
Final Payment is due at Tauck's Norwalk, CT office 60 days before departure. Any bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice.
Final Documents, which may include airline tickets, when applicable, are sent by first class mail upon receipt of final payment. They include joining instructions, hotel lists, tour itinerary, clothing suggestions, luggage tags and other pertinent information. We recommend overnight mailing service for any reservation that is made within 30 days of the tour departure date to ensure timely delivery. The additional expense will be added to your tour cost.
Tauck's Guest Protection
Guests booking a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing cancellation protection from Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Travel Protection Plan is available to all travelers, with the exception of residents of Puerto Rico.
Under Tauck's all-inclusive Guest Protection, you can cancel your tour for any covered reason up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment. The following conditions apply:
Section I Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck: Should you have to cancel your journey for any reason, Tauck's Cancellation Waiver reduces the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your journey departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).
Section II – Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company. Should you have to cancel your trip due to illness, injury, death or other covered reason, any cancellation or airline penalties not refunded by Tauck under Section I's Cancellation Waiver would be reimbursable under Section II. This Protection also provides 24-hour emergency assistance services as well as:
The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is $199.00 per person.
This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.
Travel insurance is underwritten by: Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company, Columbus, OH; NAIC #10952, (all states except as otherwise noted) under Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5000. In CA, HI, NE, NH, PA, TN and TX Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5100 and TAHC5200. In IL, IN, KS, LA, OH, OR, VT, WA and WY Policy Form #'s TAHC5100IPS and TAHC5200IPS. Certain coverages are under series TAHC6000 and TAHC7000. 26325543
The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.
This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Cost is not refundable under any circumstances. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.
*Extreme Circumstances: In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.
If You Have to Cancel
Cancellations Fees – Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. Therefore, the following fees apply.
Guests choosing to purchase Tauck's Guest Protection will incur cancellation penalties of $199.00 per person regardless of cancellation date prior to tour departure date.
Guests choosing not to purchase Tauck's Guest Protection will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:
Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Norwalk, CT office.
In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.
Tour Interruption Fees – If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund of land tour costs if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less $40 per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.
Partial Room Cancellation – A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.
Click here
to download our complete Description of Coverage.
Airfare may be purchased through us for travel originating in the United States. By using our air services, you agree that we, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, are acting only as your agent and are not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by us. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline only, even if purchased through us. We are not liable for, and do not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors).
Mary L
Overall Rating:
From sophisticated San Francisco through Muir's beloved redwoods and sequoias to the peaks and falls of King's Canyon and Yosemite, we were awed by the sheer scope and beauty of our world. Learned much about the history of the region and enjoyed the glorious settings, excellent meals and seamless travel experience that Tauck has perfected. Go!
Many! Rounding the last bend in the road to see King's Canyon spread before us, watching bears in Round Meadow, the view from the Ahwahnee Hotel at sunset...
Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Definitely
This trip is not easily described. My husband wanted Yosemite, so we went while we could still walk and enjoy it. Had no idea how cool the Muir Woods and Sequoia and Kings Canyon parks would be, nor had we ever experienced such amazing parks. San Fran is fine too, but not our focus, even though luxury was provided. highly recommend.
There were several - seeing Glacier Point's views, my husband climbing Morro Rock, and the trees and wildlife - real redwoods, sequoias and bears!
This was our 4th tour with Tauck We continue to be impressed with their service Every little detail is taken care of. I honestly don't think we would ever travel with another tour company They are THAT GOOD. Yosemite is breath-takenly beautiful The tram ride around the park was not only beautiful but very educational Tour guide was excellent
Seeing bears in Sequoia !!!
When the trip was over, I would have liked to start right over again. Gorgeous forests, impressive mountains and historic sites were the order of the day. Our guide shared her excellent knowledge of everything we experienced with humor and fine detail. Our accommodations were excellent, even those within the parks.
Standing next to the giant Sequoia and redwood trees was overwhelming. Their size and age are indeed memorable. I was glad that the rapacious lumber companies were unable to cut them all down before the national forests were established.
This was our fourth Tauck tour and as usual it was everything we have become accustomed to when traveling with Tauck. The accommodations were great and Muir Woods, Sequoia and Yosemite cannot be described with words, but must be experienced to truly be appreciated. Tour Director and Driver were both great.
It is hard to pick one,but seeing the Sequoias and the view from Glacier Point in Yosemite would be at the top of the list.
Wow! Very well executed trip. Outstanding accommodations appropriate for this type of tour. Extremely educational with top notch tour director who certainly knew the area and had a passion for nature.
Our stop at Glacier Point that provided the incredible overview of the Valley. Took my breath away!
Great sights in San Francisco and Sausalito. The Muir Woods was incredible!
The trip to Sequoia, through the San Joauin valley, although long, was enjoyable with our tour director and the good company on the bus.
Sequoia, Kings Canyon and Yosemite National Parks were all that we had imagined and then some! Hotels, food and scenery great!
Seeing the 2000 plus year old Sequoia trees and thinking about what they "saw" in their lives!
Also the incredible views from the lookout points of the whole Yosemite Valley were breath taking!
This was truly a trip of extraordinary experiences! From the hotels and lodges, to the views and vistas, to the historical backgrounds -- especially the re-enactor Shelton Johnson's "Buffalo Soldier" and the personable "John Muir" -- to the exceptional tour guide, literally everything about this was "extraordinary." And we loved the small group!
While each moment held something special, the spectacular view down the Yosemite Valley was nothing short of breathtaking. Of course, coinciding with that view were those from Glacier Point and Moro Rock.
Everything went perfectly and no small detail was overlooked . . . but then, of course, it was a Tauck tour. Our guide (Mike) was terrific. Each of our experiences (San Francisco, Muir Woods, Sequoia and Yosemite) was impressive in itself but the sequence was terrific as each experience was more mind boggeling than the one before.
There were three . . . first walking among the coastal redwoods (it was like being in church). Then standing next to a giant sequoia for the first time. Finally, gazing down at Yosemite Vally from Glacier Point. Photos really don't do any of these experiences justice . . . you have to be there to really fully appreciate the magnificence.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback with us and we are delighted you enjoyed your journey!
-The Tauck Guest Relations Team
I arrived in San Francisco a day early and I enjoyed the city very much. Public transportation is good and, when the tour began we had an excellent sightseeing trip around the city. I especially enjoyed the long walk through the John Muir Woods. Paved trails and the bridges over the beautiful stream made walking easy and pleasant.
Our tour guide was careful to make certain everyone was comfortable and aware of the schedule. He was exceptionally well informed about the history and geography of all the points of interest. Sequoia and Yosemite were so spectacular, I could not choose any one moment. Our hotels were as wonderful as the sights.
We are so pleased you enjoyed your trip!
We stayed an extra day in San Francisco which helped us identify our surroundings. The weather was perfect every day. No fog out there. Our tour director and bus driver were very personable and helpful. Since the group was just 22 people and couples that did not know each other previously, it was wonderful to travel and get to know everyone.
The scenery was beyond our expectations and the enactments made everything come alive. Our lodging had spectacular views. We would recommend a guided tour of the Ahwahnee to really appreciate the history and amazing beauty of the hotel.
We are delighted you enjoyed your journey and returned with so many memories!
This review is being written by my wife, Peggy [Employee Name]. We had a wonderful trip. Well organized, grand hotels, great guides, nice traveling companions and perfect weather.
It was ideal to have time in San Francisco at the beginning of the trip. This just emphasized the transition to the outdoor world. It is a magical city and we loved it.
Giant Sequoias, train trip across our breadbasket, hiking to Glacier Point, bears, deer and coyote. Lunch with a Buffalo Soldier, watching climbers on El Capitan, many wonderful water falls. You see, this trip can't be reduced to one moment!
We are so pleased you enjoyed your journey and experienced so many memorable moments!
This was our second Tauck trip and it was as good as the first one --maybe better.
Our tour director was excellent--knowledgeable , personable, and very well organized. We saw absolutely breathtaking scenery and learned once again to appreciate the beauty of Creation and the importance of John Muir's dedication in preserving our National Parks.
Seeing Yosemite Valley from Granite Point--3000 feet above the valley floor
Thank you so much for your feedbacd and we are delighted you enjoyed your journey with us.
Great Trip! From walking in Chinatown in a crowd to a quiet stroll in the woods by the lodge at Sequoia National Forest watching deer.
We were in Sequoia National Forest during a new moon and were lucky to have a clear sky for star gazing. We had not seen the Milky Way since we were kids.
This was a trip of a life-time. From the beginning in San Francisco through the path covered by John Muir in the California National Parks, this trip was exciting and more picturesque than a camera could capture or words could express.
Walking down the paths among the world's largest and tallest trees.
We have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel around the world. This trip through our own National Parks with Tauck was over the top! No stone was left unturned in making our visit educational and enjoyable.
The view in Yosemite from Glacier Point.
What made this trip memorable were the vistas that Nature provided. Too bad that we could not have left Muir Woods and headed directly to Sequoia which would have given more time in Yosemite. Instead of the train ride we could have had a coach tour on the way with some explanation of the sights.
Too much repetition on John Muir.
Arriving at Glacier Point and viewing Yosemite valley.
Should have more time in Yosemite with guided hikes or suggested hikes and levels of difficulty'
Dawn C
As always seeing our National Parks can take your breath away. Each place is unique in its own way and staying in the Parks adds so much too the experience ! Having others who work at the Parks share in their knowledge and love also added to this awesome experience. You have to see it to appreciate the beauty and majesty of it all.
There were so many sights that we enjoyed but meeting Shelton as a Bufflao Soldier was a fantastic learning experience and a true highlight of our trip.
World Traveler
As usual, this trip was well organized and executed. Everything went like clockwork with a wonderful guide and driver. It was just the right amount of walking and riding the coach and train. The hotels were great as were the other travelers. Walking among the giant Sequoiah trees was magical.
Climbing to the top of Moro rock at my age of 78 and looking 360 degrees to see such beauty was electrifying.
Visiting Yosemite and Sequoia with my wife, who had never experienced it before was wonderful. Each new sight for her was enhanced by a story of my childhood experience. She was even more delighted about the wonderful accommodations when compared to my stories of camping as a young boy.
Experiencing the beauty and grandeur of Yosemite again as an adult was wonderful. Experiencing it with my wife for the first time was exciting. While looking at the Yosemite Valley from the tunnel view point, the both of us deciding, at the same time, we would return with our grandchildren to experience the trip through there eyes was memorable.
WE thoroughly enjoyed the trip from beginning to end. The only down side was not enough time in Yosemite. At least one extra day should be added. We didn't arrive until late afternoon on the first day and the valley tour took up most of the second.The third day could tour the Tuolumne Meadows of which we saw nothing. It's too special to miss.
Walking early one morning I encountered a bear right on the path in front of me. He posed for about twenty photos and went back to his noshing.
Would you recommend Tauck to a friend?Maybe
This is our 6th Tauck trip. The trip was very interesting but we could have had more time at Yosemite and less time on the train ride. The hotels were Tauck quality, even the park hotels amazed us, but you needed more time in the parks. Hopefully Tauck will make adjustments for next year such as flying from SFO to FAT to provide more park time.
We truly appreciate your sharing your feedback and have notified the tour designer for this trip of your comments. We're glad you enjoyed your vacation overall and hope to see you again soon!
Please wait while we generate your custom trip planner
See for yourself what Tauck and Ken Burns' Yosemite and Sequoia: John Muir's California is all about!
Itinerary Subject To Change
Longitude Books has been recommending reading lists, maps, and travel guides to Tauck guests for many years. Our reading lists are custom-designed to complement specific Tauck destinations.
To view this tour's reading list or to purchase a selection, please click on the following link:
Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – and depending on the destination, what to pack might include footwear, sunglasses, binoculars, hats, etc. We've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Just click the link below and check out all of the great suggestions to make what you pack that much easier!


text:
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Item: 11999635 Product Description >
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
Northwest Region
4201 Shabbona Grove Rd.
Shabbona, IL 60550
"Map quest" use below address:
100 Preserve Road
Shabbona, IL 60550
10/08/13 - Trapping Drawing Announcement
Just miles west of Chicago, off U.S. 30, urban sprawl gives way to
1,550 acres of rolling prairie and a 318.8-acre man-made
fishing lake. Shabbona Lake State Recreation Area provides a convenient,
natural haven from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
A unique
mix of grass-covered meadows, upland mesic woods, bottomland woods, and
a native, undisturbed fen make this an ideal location for natural relaxation
and outdoor activity.
You can see sedges, cattails, marsh marigold, horsetails,
skunk cabbage, turtlehead, iris, blue joint grass and bulrushes. Also
enjoy areas of prairie restoration throughout the park featureing
prairie grasses such as big blue stem and prairie flowers such as purple
cone flower.
facilities for picnicking, camping, hiking, fishing, hunting and winter
sports, Shabbona Lake is a convenient and comfortable retreat where you
can refresh and reinvigorate yourself in a rare, unspoiled environment.
In addition,
Shabbona Lake contains a 15-acre seasonal nesting area for migratory waterfowl
such as canvasback, redhead and pintail ducks and Canada geese.
home to tribes of Native Americans, the park derives its name from Chief
Shabbona. Pioneer settlement of the area began in the 1830s. From Shabbona
Grove, in the southeast corner of the park, homesteaders spread over the
region and began farming the rich soil.
In 1965, a decision was made to develop a lake and recreation area on the site, and
land acquisition begun in 1969. By 1978, 1,550 acres had been obtained.
In 1973, the lake area was cleared of trees, the shoreline was modified
and earthen fishing piers and fish congregators were erected. By 1975,
a 3,000-foot-long earthen dam with a concrete spillway was completed and
the lake was formed. Day use facilities were constructed in 1976 and continue
to serve the public today. A restaurant, boat rental and bait
and tackle facility opened for business in 1995. This facility provides a
sit-down eating area serving breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as a
fully stocked bait and tackle shop. Boat rentals include boats with and
without motors.
Shabbona Lake offers many opportunities for picnicking throughout the park. Three picnic shelters are available: the Shabbona Grove and Three Fires shelters can be reserved in advance at www.reserveamerica.com. The Somonauk Point shelter is available only on a first-come, first-serve basis.
| Campground Map
The campground has available 150 Class A Premium campsites, with 90 campsites available for advanced reservation through www.reserveamerica.com, and 60 campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. All sites have electricity, picnic table, fire ring and vehicle access. A sanitary dump station available to all campers. One family is allowed per campsite, or four unrelated adults with up to two tents. You must be ready to camp when you arrive, and you cannot hold sites. The campground may be closed during the spring thaw due to road conditions. Alcohol is prohibited. To check on the status of the campground or for further information, call (815) 824-2106 during the week or the campground check station at (815) 824-2565 on weekends.
Two rent-a-camp
cabins are available at the park.The cabins have no water, cooking or toilet facilities but have two rooms and will accommodate a maximum of six people. They are located on the shore of Shabbona Lake. Electric baseboard heat allows year-round use of the cabins.
Youth Group
Shabbona Lake's Youth Group camping area will accommodate two groups of up to 50 campers each. Water and privies are available at the site, but there is no electricty.
Reservations for the cabins, campsites, shelters and youth group can be made through www.reserveamerica.com.
are available for breakfast, lunch and dinner, bait and tackle sales,
and boat rental on a seasonal basis. Call (815) 824-2581 or visit
the concession Web site for
further information.
over 8 miles of scenic hiking and cross-country skiing trails weave
through the wooded areas of the park. A trail brochure is available at
the office.
and Boating
Boat and shore fishing are both popular and productive at Shabbona
Lake. The lake is stocked with large and smallmouth bass, bluegill, redear
sunfish, rock bass, black and white crappie, black and brown bullhead,
channel catfish, walleye, muskie and perch.
Contact the park office for fish catch and size limits.
access is available from a double-lane launching ramp. Boat motors are
limited to a 10 HP maximum. However, an 18-acre upper fishing
area is a no-wake zone where only electric trolling motors
or rowing is permitted. For further details, including information on
special sailing regulations, contact the park office.
and/or wading is prohibited at Shabbona Lake. This regulation is strictly
deer hunting, waterfowl and dove hunting are available on 744 acres at Shabbona. The
Steward Habitat Area, a satellite of Shabbona Lake, is a permit-only
pheasant hunting area. Kishwaukee River State Wildlife Area, another satellite outside of the town of Kirkland, is available for archery deer hunting. Additionally, KRSWA is a special permit area for firearem deer and firearm spring turkey hunting.
Shabbona Hunter Fact Sheet | Shabbona Waterfowl Hunter Fact Sheet | Steward Hunter Fact Sheet
Kishwaukee Hunter Fact Sheet | Kishwaukee Spring Turkey Hunter Fact Sheet
Winter Sports
In addition to the cross-country skiing available on the nature trails, the lake is ringed by a 7-mile snowmobiling trail, open January 1 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. when conditions permit. Snowmobiles must register at the park office. Ice fishing and ice skating are allowed when the ice is thick enough. The rolling terrain is ideal for sledding and tobogganing.
Burn At Shabbona Lake State Park
(click on thumbnails to view full size image)
March 31st, 1999 the Indian Creek High School FFA class and their
instructor, Ms. Kathy Prestegaard assisted the Shabbona Lake staff
during their annual prairie burns. Fire and periodic burning is
an important tool in the restoration and maintenance of prairies.
Shabbona Lake burns 320 acres each year, of which 240 acres are
restored prairies. The ICHS FFA group assisted with lighting the
fires, building backfires and were invaluable with keeping the
fires under control.
Lake is a pilot site for disabled visitor accessibility and the facilities--parking, picnic shelters, water fountains, restrooms,
and even a specially designed fishing pier--are totally accessible.
Lake State Park is easily accessible from the Chicago area via I-88. Take
I-88 west to the Sugar Grove exit, which is approximately 2 ½ miles
west of the Aurora toll booth. Take US 30 west from Sugar Grove approximately
22 miles to Shabbona. Visitors from the Northeast or Southeast, take IL
Rt 47 to US 30 west to Shabbona.
Visitors from the Southwest or Northwest, take I-39 to US 30 (exit 87).
Directional signs are on the exit ramps. Take US 30 east 7 miles to Shabbona.
From the DeKalb area, take IL Rt 23 south to US 30, then take US 30 west
to Shabbona. The park entrance is on Preserve Road, approximately ½
mile south of Shabbona. Signs in Shabbona will direct you to the park.
The park
is open year-round and the hours of operation are: November -
January 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., February - March 8 a.m. - 6 p.m., April - October 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.


text:
Friday, September 9, 2011
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls - Football Friday
Sausage balls are a classic tailgating treat. It doesn't matter what time the game is, sausage balls are always welcomed at the tailgate! We've tried lots of different recipes over the years and finally found our "go-to" recipe.
These are by far the best sausage balls we've ever made. What makes these sausage balls so good? Well, the secret ingredient is cream cheese. The cream cheese keeps the sausage balls very moist and tender. We used hot sausage to give the sausage balls a little kick, but regular sausage would work well too. Bring these to your next tailgate party - you won't be sorry!
Cream Cheese Sausage Balls
(Printable Recipe)
1 lb hot sausage, uncooked
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 1/4 cups Bisquick
4 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
Preheat oven to 400F.
Mix all ingredients until well combined. (I use my KitchenAid mixer with the dough hook attachment) Roll into 1-inch balls. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until brown.
Sausage balls may be frozen uncooked. If baking frozen, add a few minutes to the baking time.
130 comments:
When my husband and I first got married, I think I made sausage balls at least once a month... no special occasion needed. He loves them!ReplyDelete
Can't wait to try these...perfect for the Super Bowl Party...:))ReplyDelete
One of my absolute favs!! I could eat these for dinner!!! Thanks for the new recipe.ReplyDelete
how many does the recipe make? I've never done sausage balls but I know the hubs and kiddos would love them.ReplyDelete
Susie - It just depends on how big your roll the sausage balls. I usually get around 36.ReplyDelete
Yummy! Love the cc idea.ReplyDelete
I always have these frozen for breakfast.
Although, due to my imagination when I was about 4 years old, my family and I call these "poo poos".
These look so good! Love your football Fridays!ReplyDelete
I pinned these and am so going to make some. Sausage balls are a special treat for Christmas Breakfast around here....the guys just can't get enough of them. We are having a wedding party next weekend at my home with spend the night company and I will try these for a quick grab and run breakfast. I think I will be getting lots of thank you kisses. :)ReplyDelete
These look great will try them for Happy Hour next time I go camping.ReplyDelete
AWESOME!!! I doubled the recipe to take to a football party this afternoon. Looks like I'll be stopping for chips/dip because my husband and son have demolished most of them!!ReplyDelete
Made these before the game today for a trial run - husband loved them! The cream cheese really helped keep them moist! Definitley making these for the next game. WAR EAGLE!ReplyDelete
I made these this weekend and they were amazing!ReplyDelete
I just love these things and can't quit eating them. I'm sure they were enjoyable for yesterday's exciting game.ReplyDelete
Oh my gosh! have made millions of sausage balls through the years - can't wait to try with your secret ingredient!!! YUM!ReplyDelete
How much of a kick do they have? We are not a big fan of really hot foods so wondering if I should go with the mild sausage.ReplyDelete
Patty - they aren't really hot. They don't burn your mouth or make you sweat. I think it would depend on what brand of sausage you buy as to how hot it is.ReplyDelete
Which brand of sausage did you use?ReplyDelete
Patty - I used Tennessee PrideReplyDelete
WOW...these sound wonderful.ReplyDelete
The photo is fantastic, gotta go wipe the drool off of the keyboard, see what you did?
I made these last week and they are AWESOME!! The cream cheese definitely adds to it, best sausage balls I have ever had! :)ReplyDelete
I tried a few of these and they burned on the bottom...tried more with a lower temp. and with less cooking time...still burned. Any tips, anyone? (also tried turning them over halfway through...didn't help)ReplyDelete
cometcat1 - I cook the sausage balls on my stoneware bar pan. Try cooking them in a 9x13 glass pan - that might help.ReplyDelete
Can you make this with a breakfast sausage or any kind of sausage???ReplyDelete
Teresa - I use Tennessee Pride sausageReplyDelete
I shop at Target or Walmart and usually get johnsonville sausage of some sort...never heard of Tennessee Pride sausage. I live in DFW area of Texas if that helps any since I have never heard of or seen that brand you mentioned.ReplyDelete
How long will the dough keep in the fridgeReplyDelete
Katescake's - I usually only keep it in the fridge for a day or so before I bake them or freeze the balls.ReplyDelete
Never thought of using the dough hook to mix these. Up until now I have been doing them in two batches in my food processor. Just done a batch with the dough hook and it was SO much easier. Thank You!ReplyDelete
I made these tonight, and they were yummy! I didn't have pork sausage, but I had ground pork, so I just added some seasoning to the mix. And, I made my own whole wheat bisquick with this recipe: http://www.food.com/recipe/homemade-bisquick-mix-69051?scaleto=1&mode=null&st=trueReplyDelete
They came out SOOOO good! And soooo easy too.
Should these be stored in the refrigerator after cooling since they have cream cheese in them - or would an air-tight container on the counter work?ReplyDelete
love2cook6993 - I usually just cook what I plan on eating at the time and keep the rest in the freezer. If you cook them all and have leftovers, I would keep them in the fridge so the sausage doesn't go bad.ReplyDelete
Hi, I was following recipes using Kitchenaid 600 and I came across this one. They look so yummy. I found them on another blog, too, so I both copied the URL with the picture. Cheers and Good luck.ReplyDelete
I have been thinking about these sausage balls since I saw them on Pinterest. I thought today would be the greatest time to cook them for the greatest rivalry in college football, the Iron Bowl. It wasn't until I actually clicked to go to your blog that I realized you will probably watching (if not there) the same game as myself. Even though I will be rooting for the Tide, I am so excited to try these sausage balls! Happy Iron Bowl! :)ReplyDelete
I just made these. Very Good!! Thank you!ReplyDelete
Kelly on FB
I found this recipe and your blog via Pinterest and made them tonight! I put them in the fridge to bake for a party tomorrow. I have used this recipe in the past but never with cream cheese. I can't wait to see how they turn out!ReplyDelete
I have thought about replacing half of the Bisquick with cornmeal and add some finely minced onion.Any thoughts on how this mite be?ReplyDelete
Popadoc - sounds kind if like a hushpuppy sausage ball. Interesting! If you try it, use self-rising cornmeal so they puff up. Let me know how they turn outReplyDelete
Well, I made these this weekend and they where very good. I used the self-rising cornmeal and Bisquick 1/2 and 1/2. Also made a dip using mayo and brown spicy mustard.ReplyDelete
i don't have bisquick. can pancake mix be a substitute? i've googled it and all comments are for making actual biscuits... not substituting for meatballs.ReplyDelete
do you know?
^ @AWReplyDelete
Homemade Bisquick Mix
4 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons baking powder
2 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup all-vegetable shortening
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Using a pastry blender or food processor, cut in the shortening until the mixture consists of fine crumbs.
Store baking mix in an airtight container or Ziploc bag in a cool, dry place for up to one year. For maximum freshness, keep it in the freezer and thaw before using.
Brilliant! I've always added milk to mine to keep them moist but cream cheese sound even better! I'm planning on making these for our Christmas brunch. Thanks!ReplyDelete
THANK YOU for responding mommytanya!ReplyDelete
i have "pre-creamed shortening"... not vegetable. is there a difference? i cook/bake a lot but sometimes i'm just stumped on certain things. don't use shortening a lot! :)
Don't have a dough hook. I imagine you use that to grind up the sausage? How else can I prepare the sausage and don't they usually have casings?ReplyDelete
If you don't have a mixer with a dough hook, just use your hands to mix everything together. It will be a little messy, but it is worth it. That is how I did it before I got my mixerReplyDelete
I made these yesterday to have for the Super Bowl today. They are delicious and not difficult to prepare. I went ahead and baked them all to reheat today. I may then freeze any that aren't eaten...we'll see how that goes.ReplyDelete
I converted this to gluten free by using 3/4 cup of Bob's red mill all purpose baking flour instead of bisquick. It is really good! Thanks for sharing!ReplyDelete
When I made these, they ended up being more like sausage patties. They flattened out..i'm guessing due to the cream cheese. any ideas what went wrongReplyDelete
Def cook on stoneware- it makes everything better and cooks so much more evenly:)ReplyDelete
Def cook on stoneware- it makes everything better and cooks so much more evenly:)ReplyDelete
Def cook on stoneware- it makes everything better and cooks so much more evenly:)ReplyDelete
My mom used to make these when I was a kid. We called them corndodgers though I have no idea why. I make them for my husband constantly. He loves them and on days when he take his motorcycle to work he just puts a few in his pocket and can still eat on the way to work!ReplyDelete
I made these for a social at my church and everyone loved them! To avoid the "melting" issue others mentioned above, I formed the balls and then put them in the fridge for about 10 minutes before I baked them. They turned out perfect! Thanks!ReplyDelete
Has anyone tried making these with gluten free Bisquick?ReplyDelete
I just made my own homemade "bisquick" using Arrowhead Mills' Gluten Free Pancake & Biscuit mix. They are delicious.
I was wondering if you cooked the sausage first or if you mixed the sausage in the balls and then just put in the oven to cook. Please let me know asap as I want to make these today!!!ReplyDelete
Sarah - do not cook the sausage first. Mix everything together and then bake. Enjoy!ReplyDelete
I'm making these tonight... Look good!ReplyDelete
This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyDelete
OMG! I am so glad to find out about the mixer trick. I don't have a Kitchen-Aid, but my late granny's old beat-up Sunbeam Mixmaster worked great. These are so much better with the cream cheese. They aren't dried out at all. Thanks for sharing!!ReplyDelete
I wanted to let you know I found your blog around Christmas and I have been making these sausage balls every since then. I even asked for a Kitchen-Aid mixer for Christmas to help and it has been wonderful! Thanks for sharing your tips and your talent with the world!!! Love these sausage balls - have some in the oven right now!ReplyDelete
I made these this morning as a test run for tailgating next month. They were great. I used the garlic cheese biscuit bisquick mix. I always use this mix when I make sausage balls. But I usually have to add milk because because the dough is so dry and crumbly. But the cream cheese solved that problem. I only made one batch and froze the rest of the dough. Since Auburn's first home game is so early, breakfast foods are on the tailgate menu. War Eagle!ReplyDelete
I would like to Make these for dinner but unfortunately don't have any bisquick, I'm not in a position where I can run buy any either, could I substitute with anything such as flour or breadcrumbs?!?!ReplyDelete
Above they have listed recipes for make your own bisquick.ReplyDelete
Love this recipe, but had to turn my oven down to 325 for 25 - 30 minutes. . First batch I made at 400 came out dry, bottoms close to burned and almost caused a fire in my oven due to sausage grease. I made 3 addl. batches and they turned out picture perfect. . Thanks for this great addition to an all time favorite at my house.ReplyDelete
Does anyone know if I could substitute Velveeta for the cheddar? These sound delicious... can't wait to make them. :)ReplyDelete
Making these tonight. Hope they're as good as they sound!ReplyDelete
Hello from iowa! have you used jimmy dean hot sausage? we don't get t.pride .. thanxs. marilyn!ReplyDelete
I've got some in the oven now, I used Bob Evans sausage.ReplyDelete
Hello! I am making these for a football/Halloween party tomorrow. Would it be alright to make the sausage balls and refrigerate them overnight tonight to bake tomorrow morning?ReplyDelete
Mrs. Inman - absolutely. I usually form them into balls and freeze them. I bake them frozen and just add a couple of minutes to the baking timeReplyDelete
Thanks so much Stephanie! Trying to get ahead of the chaos that will be tomorrow! :)ReplyDelete
I want to make there for our teacher breakfast on Friday morning but am also baking an egg casserole @ 325 degrees. Do you think I could bake these at 325 for a longer time?ReplyDelete
Oops, I meant theseReplyDelete
YUM YUM YUM!!! I can taste them now. Thank you for sharing. My entire family are sausage ball fans. I have never heard of this and can't wait to try them!ReplyDelete
Do you prepare the bisquick with milk or just use the powder?ReplyDelete
Angela - just use the bisquick dry.ReplyDelete
Ooh, another use for my stand mixer! I can't wait to try these - I'll be making them Thanksgiving morning while we watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade!ReplyDelete
When you say cook on stoneware, do you mean like a pizza stone?
Jessica - yes, I use a pizza stone or a stone pan with an edge. They cook great on that.ReplyDelete
I used Jimmy Dean sausage and actually cooked it first and drained off the grease before mixing it in w/ the other ingredients and they still turned out awesome! What's the benefit of mixing it in raw?ReplyDelete
Melissa - sausage balls are in the same category as meat balls - all the flavors cook together to make a meat/sausage ball. The dominant flavor/ingredient is the cooked meat.ReplyDelete
I have recipes where I cook the sausage before baking, but those are more like biscuit bites not sausage balls.
Just fulfilled a pregnancy craving tonight. THANK YOU!!!!ReplyDelete
I feel like I should know this, but does this use Italian sausage or breakfast sausage? They look delish!ReplyDelete
These sound so good. I want to take these to a work potluck and wondered if anyone makes a dipping sauce to go with them.ReplyDelete
I have made these a couple times already and they are a HIT! The cream cheese keeps them moist. I do double the cheese because I am a cheese addict haha!ReplyDelete
I use my 9x13 glass baking dish and they come out perfect.
I refrigerated them in the baking dish overnight after mixing and forming them then baked them the next morning. Perfect! I have also baked them then refrigerated them, and they taste fresh even microwaved!
This is the best recipe EVER and I will never go back!
I would like to add these to my cookery book journal. I plan to add some spinach for it as I like adding my little twist to them.ReplyDelete
If you don't mind, I'd like to suggest this to the caterer sydney we got for Christmas. This would make for a nice alternative to the usual finger food.ReplyDelete
I need to give you a hug now. I used my Kitchen Aid to combine the ingredients, which would have NEVER occurred to me. They went together so easily I could cry!!!ReplyDelete
"Nature's Besuty N Health" wants to know: What is the calorie, carb, & nutrition content of each cheese ball? Would like to share with my Health Group. Thank you! Creator/Admin~ Marvie RiordanReplyDelete
"Nature's Besuty N Health" wants to know: What is the calorie, carb, & nutrition content of each cheese ball? Would like to share with my Health Group. Thank you! Creator/Admin~ Marvie RiordanReplyDelete
I know this is a really dumb question but do I follow the directions on the bisquick box and make the dough then add all the ingredients or do I just add the powder bisquick mix to the ingredients??ReplyDelete
Jamie - just add the bisquick to the sausage and cheeses.ReplyDelete
These are so, so good! I use Isernio's brand spicy chicken sausage and gluten free bisquick and they were perfect. My sister, who has Celiac disease, was thrilled that she could enjoy them too and no one else could tell that it was gluten free. Yay! I've made these using my Kitchen Aid with the dough hook and mixing by hand. I prefer the mixing-by-hand method over the mixer but that's just personal preferance.ReplyDelete
These are absolutely delicious! My family keeps asking for me to make them! The cream cheese is the best for keeping it moist!ReplyDelete
Received this recipe via pinterest and sounds so easy and delicious - does anyone have any idea for a substitute for Bisquick as it is not available in Australia. Thanks so muchReplyDelete
Can you substitute Heart Healthy Bisquick for regular Bisquick?ReplyDeleteReplies
I did and they were delicious! Don't use a low fat sausage like I did on the second go round. Sticky and hard to work with!!Delete
Melissa - yes, I use the heart healthy bisquick all the timeReplyDelete
Well I'm going to make these tonight for a Pot Luck tomorrow. However, I'm worried how they will taste if they are not eaten right out of the oven and stored overnight. Hmmm.ReplyDelete
Do you know about how many these make?ReplyDelete
Emily - it just depends on how big you make them. I usually get around 60, but there is no exact number since everyone makes them different sizes.ReplyDelete
Love how easy this recipe is. I thought I had shredded cheese in the fridge, but I didn't. I had sliced Provolone Cheese, so I finely sliced it up and up it in as a substitute. Since I haven't tried the recipes way I can't compare. However, my 7.5 picky eater(won't eat ground beef or chicken)asked for me to make them again.ReplyDelete
Found the recipe on Pinterest and will "pin" again. Also make again :)
mom2my2girls - SO glad it was a success!ReplyDelete
Any ideas what sides or dish could be served with these to make it a meal?ReplyDelete
They turned out amazing. We used red lobster biscuit mix instead of bisquick. Talk about amazing!!!!!ReplyDelete
Thanks for the kitchenaid dough hook tip. Saved my arm for drinking wine!ReplyDelete
Love this recipe! I made these Thanksgiving morning for my Husband and I to snack on while dinner was cooking...they didnt last long, lol...this was the 1st time I have ever used the hot sausage and added the cream cheese...I wont be going back to the old way ;) Thanks for a great recipe!!ReplyDeleteReplies
So glad they were a hit! I am making a batch for us this week. YUM!Delete
These sound YUM! Thinking of making them for our family's Christmas Eve get together. Wondering...only eat them as they are or can they be dipped in a sauce? Any suggestions?ReplyDeleteReplies
We never dip them in anything, but I think some people like to dip them in honey mustard or BBQ.Delete
thanks! I haven't ever had these and they just LOOK like they need dipping LOL. I will try them without any but I was kinda thinking the sauce you mention for the buffalo chicken empanadas sounded like it might be good with these :) (which I am also excited to try - maybe this weekend for the OSU/Michigan State game!)Delete
So I've been making your recipe for months now and they are delicious!!! I've read some of the above comments and questions on what to cook them on. I only use Pampered Chef Stoneware! I'm not a consultant, but a huge fan! I have them in the pizza stone and baking dishes. Everything I make comes out perfectly cooked and nothing ever EVER burns on the bottom. That's what I bake my sausage balls on. Highly recommend getting Stoneware if you don't have it. My pizza stone has been used for muffins, cookies, cinnamon rolls, sausage balls.... : )ReplyDeleteReplies
That is what I cook mine on too. Never have anything burn on the bottom.Delete
Do you use hot Italian sausage? If so, have you tried making them with mild or sweet?ReplyDelete
Just made these for teacher gifts and THEY ARE DELICIOUS!!! I just used cookie sheets line with foil for easy clean-up. I remove them to a paper towel as soon as they come out of the oven which I think helps the bottom not to get too crispy.ReplyDelete
I made these when I had the women from my office over for a Christmas get together the other night. We couldn't stop eating them and that's the dish that everyone talked about the next day! Don't do what I did on the second go round and use low fat sausage. A sticky mess and very hard to work with!!!ReplyDelete
Eating now, hot out of the oven, AMAZING! Did have to cook for 30 mins.ReplyDelete
I made a double batch this afternoon. Flavor is great - even my picky husband likes them! However they ceased to be 'balls' so next time I will add a bit more Bisquick. I used the dough hooks on my hand mixer - so much easier than a fork!ReplyDelete
Do you remove the sausage from the casing first before you add it?ReplyDeleteReplies
Can you use Jennie O Turkey Sausage?Delete
It was a very good recipe but it was also very greasy. So next time I think I will use lean ground turkey instead of ground sausage since the grease is all absorbed into the mixture when cooked in the oven.ReplyDelete
I will be mixing by hand so is it okay to soften the cream cheese?ReplyDeleteReplies
Yes - the cream cheese should be softened before mixing in the mixer or by hand.Delete
These were SO great! Thank you for the amazing recipe. We'll make these again for sure :)ReplyDelete
Haven't made these yet, but I do love sausage balls. I've always mixed them with my hands. Never thought about using my Kitchen Aid. Thanks for sharing. : )ReplyDelete
I make these all the time. I haven't tried it with the cream cheese. Can't wait to try it. When I make the original recipe I always add enough water to make it like a dough. I mix with a spoon. It makes them really moist. Sometimes I add a little melted butter and sometimes garlic powder. Yummy!! Think I'm gonna go fix these now.ReplyDelete
I also use pioneer biscuit mix. I like it better than bisquick.ReplyDelete