How to get to Yosemite National Park
Planning your visit to Yosemite National Park sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Whether you prefer hitting the road or opting for public transport, securing the right mode of transportation is key to a smooth arrival at one of America’s breathtaking treasures.
Transportation Options
There are a few ways to reach this natural wonder, depending on how you like your travel delivered.
By Car
The great American road trip isn’t complete without a drive through Yosemite! Many folks pick this route, rolling in through one of the main gates. If you’re coming from the west, the path through Big Oak Flat Entrance off Highway 120 will guide you. Prefer a different vibe? Check out the El Portal Entrance via Highway 140, if you’re feeling adventurous.
By Bus
For our planet-loving travelers, the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) is your ticket to green transit. This bus offers rides from lots of nearby places right to the heart of Yosemite Valley.
By Train
Why not sit back and enjoy the view? Amtrak lines up scenic rides that link up with YARTS buses, letting you ease into your park-day adventure without a worry in the world.
| Transportation Mode | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Car | Go at your own pace, Direct park access | Driving stress, Possible parking chaos |
| Bus (YARTS) | Friendly for Mother Earth, Auto-pilot travel | Stuck to a timetable |
| Train (Amtrak) | Relaxing, Great views | Might have to hop on a bus after |
More transportation specifics are on our visiting Yosemite National Park page.
Road Trip Itineraries
Hitting the road to Yosemite means you get the bonus of some killer pit stops and staggering views. Here’s a couple of routes you might dig:
From San Francisco
Making tracks from San Francisco? Pack the snacks and marvel at how the scenes change as you go:
- Route: Get your motor running on I-580 E, then follow I-205 E, veering onto I-5 N, and finally CA-120 E straight to the park gates.
- Highlights: Soak in the farm views and maybe grab a bottle in Livermore’s wine country.
Use our Best Time to Visit Yosemite tips to nail down when to hit the road.
From Los Angeles
Rolling out from LA? Here’s your blueprint:
- Route: Cruise up I-5 N, blend into CA-99 N, then switch to CA-41 N and you’ll be ushered into Yosemite’s snug South Entrance.
- Highlights: The journey takes you from buzzing LA to the mellow tranquility wrapping around Yosemite.
Need more road wisdom? Our Yosemite Map has additional pointers.
Whichever trail you decide on, pack some up-to-date info on Yosemite National Park road conditions and Yosemite weather to keep your ride bump-free.
Eyeing alternatives? Dive into our guides on Public Transportation to Yosemite and Airports Near Yosemite for other nifty ways to make your entrance to paradise.
Eco-Friendly Shuttle Services
Thinking about heading to Yosemite National Park? Well, ditch the car woes and dive into some green travel options. There are two main ways to shuttle around: free shuttles and YARTS buses.
Complimentary Shuttle Buses
Yosemite’s got your back with free shuttles cruising through Yosemite Valley, a lifesaver during those jam-packed summer months. Imagine hopping on a bus and waving goodbye to the drama of parking and road stress (Travel Yosemite). These free rides hit all the cool spots and hike trails, making it a breeze to hit those must-see sights.
You can’t beat the Valley Free Shuttle during the peak season, especially when finding a parking spot is like finding a unicorn. The shuttles are free (yep, you read that right!) and zip along a smooth schedule, so you can soak in the epic views without worrying about where to park (Yosemite.com).
If you’re feeling extra adventurous, check out the free rides to Tuolumne Meadows or Glacier Point. These shuttles let you roam the jaw-dropping sites without hunting for parking or burning gas (Travel Yosemite).
YARTS Bus Services
Enter YARTS, a superhero in the eco-travel world since 2000. Offering a ride to Yosemite for over a million folks, these buses are like the park’s VIP pass (Yosemite.com). They come from all directions—Merced, Fresno, Mammoth Lakes, and Sonora—plopping you right in the middle of Yosemite Valley.
YARTS buses have all the goodies: comfy seats, A/C, and window views that feel like nature’s Netflix. Perfect for those coming from bigger cities like San Francisco or LA, thanks to their smooth connection with Amtrak trains. Ride the train to Merced, hop on YARTS, and you’re practically there already (Yosemite.com).
| YARTS Routes | Departure City | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|
| Route 140 | Merced | Mariposa, Midpines, El Portal |
| Route 41 | Fresno | Oakhurst, Coarsegold, Fish Camp |
| Route 120 East | Mammoth Lakes | June Lake, Lee Vining, Tuolumne Meadows |
| Route Hetch Hetchy | Sonora | Groveland, Buck Meadows, Big Oak Flat |
Craving more details on YARTS routes? Check out our guide on the best ways to get to Yosemite National Park for all the goods.
Choosing these shuttle services not only makes your trip chill and easy but also helps keep Yosemite beautiful. Whether you’re catching those free shuttles or diving into the YARTS experience, your visit will be smooth and planet-friendly.
Driving Tips and Information
GPS Guidance Cautions
When headin’ to Yosemite National Park, don’t put all your trust in those GPS gadgets. They ain’t always spot on, especially in a park spreadin’ over 1,200 square miles without one single address to key in. Check out those road signs in the park—they’re your best pals for straight-up directions. Grab yourself a trusty Yosemite map and get familiar with the main routes so you’ll stroll in without a hitch.
Gas Stations and Charging
Top off that gas tank before rollin’ into Yosemite; gas stations ain’t too common here. But no worries—gas is flowin’ 24/7 at spots like:
- Wawona
- Crane Flat
- El Portal
Just remember, there’s no gas available right in Yosemite Valley (NPS Yosemite). So, plan your gas pit stops smartly to dodge any hiccups.
If you’re cruisin’ in an electric ride, Yosemite’s got ya covered with free EV charging stations. Go green while you soak in all that natural beauty!
| Location | Gas on Tap | EV Charging Stations |
|---|---|---|
| Wawona | Yep, all day | You betcha |
| Crane Flat | Yep, all day | You betcha |
| El Portal | Yep, all day | You betcha |
| Yosemite Valley | Nope | You betcha |
Keep these spots in your noggin’ and you’re set for a smooth drive through Yosemite. Want more nuggets of wisdom? Check out stuff like Yosemite National Park road conditions and Yosemite weather. We’ve got all the savvy scoop you need!
Accessing Yosemite from Nearby Cities
Routes from San Francisco
Getting from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park can be quite the adventure, filled with stunning vistas along the way. Whether you’re a road trip warrior or a public transit champ, there are plenty of ways for you to reach the park.
By Car
Hopping in your car? Great choice! The most favored way is cruising down Highway 120 through the Big Oak Flat Entrance. It’s a route that’s always bragging about its sweeping views and is usually open unless Mother Nature throws a tantrum. Another way is Highway 140 via the El Portal Entrance, especially reliable when a chill sets in.
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Highway 120 (Big Oak Flat Entrance) | 170 | ~3.5 to 4 hours |
| Highway 140 (El Portal Entrance) | 167 | ~4 hours |
As you drive through quaint spots like Livermore, home to a fab wine scene, you might find a pit stop to be as refreshing as a cold drink on a hot day (My Yosemite Park).
By Public Transportation
Opting for the train? No worries! Take the Amtrak from San Francisco to Merced. From there, jump on the YARTS bus, which will whisk you straight to the heart of Yosemite Valley lodging (Yosemite.com).
| Transit Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Amtrak Train | San Francisco to Merced |
| YARTS Bus | Merced to Yosemite Valley |
For more juicy details on bus and train schedules, check out the info on public transportation to Yosemite.
Routes from Los Angeles
Packing up and heading from LA to Yosemite? Get ready for a longer trek that’s worth every mile.
By Car
Driving from Los Angeles, a popular route is Highway 99 toward Fresno, with a pivot onto Highway 41 to the South Entrance or sticking with Highway 140 through Merced. Alternatively, you could try I-5 to Highway 120 and tackle the Big Oak Flat Entrance.
| Route | Distance (miles) | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Highway 99 to Highway 41 (South Entrance) | 279 | ~5.5 hours |
| Highway 99 to Highway 140 (El Portal Entrance) | 310 | ~6 hours |
| I-5 to Highway 120 (Big Oak Flat Entrance) | 313 | ~6 hours |
Your drive is peppered with picturesque stops in the Central Valley, where vast fields stretch like a scene from a movie.
By Public Transportation
Bus your way there with ease! Amtrak and Greyhound serve Merced, where you can hop on the YARTS bus, practical for getting smack dab into Yosemite Valley (National Park Service).
| Transit Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Amtrak Train | Los Angeles to Merced |
| Greyhound Bus | Los Angeles to Merced |
| YARTS Bus | Merced to Yosemite Valley |
Map out your trip, and peek at some road trip itineraries for an unforgettable Yosemite visit. Remember to check the current Yosemite weather and road conditions before hitting the road. Mother Nature’s idea of fun isn’t always aligned with travel plans.
Public Transportation to Yosemite
If you’re itching to visit Yosemite National Park with less stress and more green, public transport is your buddy. Options like Amtrak and Greyhound make getting there a breeze without your foot ever touching a gas pedal.
Amtrak Train Services
Hop on an Amtrak train—it’ll take you places all over California and drop you closer to nature’s showstopper, Yosemite. From spots like San Francisco and LA, trains zip you to stations such as Merced or Fresno. Then, with a quick swap to a YARTS bus, you’re on your way to breathtaking places like Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. It’s like nature’s Uber that just happens to be a train and bus combo. And it’s especially handy when loads of folks are heading your way.
| Route | How Often | How Long It Takes |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco to Yosemite (via Merced) | Every day | About 6 hours |
| Los Angeles to Yosemite (via Merced) | Every day | About 8 hours |
Need more deets or want to grab a ticket? Pop over to the official Amtrak website.
Greyhound Bus Services
Greyhound’s here for you too, offering a ticket to Yosemite that skips the highway traffic jams. Their buses cut across California, dropping adventurers in Merced. From there, YARTS buses sweep you away to Yosemite Valley’s door.
These YARTS services are pay-as-you-go and cover main routes. Handy stops include spots like Highway 120/395 if you’re coming from Mammoth Lakes or Highway 41 if you’re heading in from Fresno (Under Canvas). It’s almost like they’ve laid a magic carpet through California just for you.
| Route | How Often | How Long It Takes |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco to Merced | Leaves Many Times Daily | About 5 hours |
| Los Angeles to Merced | Leaves Many Times Daily | About 7 hours |
For schedules or if you just fancy browsing, check out the official Greyhound website.
Taking Amtrak or Greyhound means you can kick back, relax, and let someone else do the driving. Whether you’re rolling out from the bustling vibes of San Fran or LA, these rides promise a relaxing trip to one of America’s jaw-dropping natural treasures. Still need a plan? Check these snug reads: Yosemite weather, Yosemite valley lodging, and hotels near Yosemite National Park. Happy traveling, nature lover!
Airports Near Yosemite
Fresno Yosemite International Airport
Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is like a trusty sidekick when you’re setting out for Yosemite National Park. It’s just a hop, skip, and a jump (okay, about 64 miles) from the park’s southern gate, and it’s packed with flights that zip across the country. You won’t be bored here – plenty of perks to make your journey fly by.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance to Yosemite | 64 miles |
| Major Airlines | American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest |
| Services | Rental Cars, Shuttle Services, Taxi Rides |
At this airport, you’ve got rental cars, shuttles, and taxis right at your fingertips, making the next leg of your trip a breeze. Feeling green? Opt for the shuttles or buddy up in a carpool to lighten your carbon footprint.
For the dirt on getting from Fresno to Yosemite Valley, check out our piece on Accessing Yosemite from Nearby Cities.
Merced Regional Airport
Merced Regional Airport (MCE) is the underdog worth rooting for, especially if you’re zipping off to Yosemite. As the closest airport, it’s about 83 miles from the park’s entrance. With wallet-friendly rates and nifty routes to places like Los Angeles (LAX) and Oakland (OAK), it’s a gem for travelers (Yosemite.com).
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance to Yosemite | 83 miles |
| Major Airlines | Boutique Air |
| Services | Rental Cars, Taxi Rides, Shuttle Services |
Hiring a car here? No sweat—Merced has you covered. With plenty of options, the path to Yosemite is not only easy but economical.
Don’t forget to peek at the Yosemite entrance fees to avoid surprises along the way. For cool tips on the best park entrances and route maps, our guide on Yosemite National Park road conditions is worth a glance.
Picking either Fresno or Merced to land your plane means you’re setting foot on the easy road to breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures awaiting you in Yosemite National Park.
Reservations and Access Management
Reservation Requirements
Want to explore the iconic Yosemite National Park without running into a traffic jam of folks or tangled park entries? Then you’re going to need a reservation. And yes, you read that right – from April 13 through October 27, 2024, the park’s got a new reservation gig going on. Buckle up, as here’s the scoop:
- Weekends and holidays: April 13 – June 30, August 17 – October 27
- Daily: July 1 – August 16
There’s a catch, though: you must score that reservation for park entry between 5 am and 3 pm (NPS – Yosemite National Park).
| Date Range | Got a Reservation? Need It |
|---|---|
| April 13 – June 30 | Weekends and holidays |
| July 1 – August 16 | Daily |
| August 17 – October 27 | Weekends and holidays |
In the past, folks had to make reservations during busy times like the February Horsetail Fall event – definitely worth remembering another trip to experience misty rainbows and cascading water (NPS – Yosemite National Park).
Visitor Access Management Plan
Here’s the plan: keep those gorgeous sights intact and let everyone have a mind-blowing time. The Visitor Access Management Plan aims to keep the spirit of Yosemite alive, while not turning it into a hustle zone. Decisions on a permanent plan are, in classic democratic style, taking folks’ opinions until September 30, 2024. Make sure your voice is part of the mix.
The goal is to handle more visitors, cut down on traffic, and preserve those photo opportunities at Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Tunnel View, and Yosemite El Capitan. While you’re penning out your itinerary, keep an eye on the latest dos and don’ts regarding reservations.
For a road that’s less bumpy, think ahead and book your crash pad early – whether that’s Yosemite Valley lodging or chill spots near the park.
Being clued in on these reservation details and the Visitor Access Management Plan will mean you’re not hitching a ride back home because you missed your slot. Secure your entry to this natural masterpiece in advance to guarantee a seamless adventure. Inquiring minds should also check out Yosemite entrance fees for your whole budget picture.
Yosemite Valley Shuttle System
Getting around Yosemite National Park is a piece of cake thanks to the Valley Shuttle System. If you’re trying to soak in the sights without the headache of parking, this little service is your ticket.
Valleywide Shuttle
The Valley Free Shuttle is your eco-buddy in the park and becomes a lifesaver during those jam-packed summer days (Yosemite.com). It’s free and takes you to all of the big names like El Capitan, Lower Yosemite Fall, and Cathedral Beach. Kicks off early at 7 a.m. and keeps rolling till 10 p.m. with rides every 12 to 22 minutes (Under Canvas).
Stops You Don’t Want to Miss:
- Yosemite Village
- Yosemite Falls
- Curry Village
- El Capitan
- Sentinel Bridge
| Shuttle Service | Operating Hours | Arrival Frequency | Major Stops |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valleywide Shuttle | 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. | Every 12-22 minutes | El Capitan, Lower Yosemite Fall, Cathedral Beach, Yosemite Village, Curry Village |
This service is perfect for those “hop on, hop off” adventures, where you can dive into the Valley Floor. Peep the Yosemite Valley Map for planning your pit stops and mapping out your day.
Mariposa Grove Shuttle
Heading towards the giant sequoias? The Mariposa Grove Shuttle is your go-to. It runs from the Welcome Plaza near the South Entrance straight into the Mariposa Grove, famous for its 500 oldies but goodies among trees.
Stops You Should Know About:
- Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza
- Grizzly Giant Loop Trail
- Mariposa Grove Arrival Area
| Shuttle Service | Operating Hours | Arrival Frequency | Major Stops |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mariposa Grove Shuttle | Daily | Regular Intervals | Welcome Plaza, Grizzly Giant Loop Trail, Arrival Area |
No private rides here—the shuttle keeps the grove peaceful and accessible. For the latest on shuttle timing, swing by the Mariposa Grove Shuttle Schedule.
Check out more details on routes, park do’s and don’ts, and general tips at visiting Yosemite National Park. With the Yosemite Valley Shuttle System and Mariposa Grove Shuttle, exploring Yosemite is not just more fun but also easier on the planet.
Alternative Transportation
Visiting Yosemite National Park? Take a chill pill and let alternative transportation take the wheel for a change. Two fantastic options to hop on are the YARTS Highway Buses and the Glacier Point Tour Service.
YARTS Highway Buses
Meet the YARTS—your ticket to no-driving bliss! The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System has been carting folks to Yosemite since 2000, making it the ever-reliable buddy for over a million visitors.
Feeling fancy? Check out these routes they roll on:
| Route | Departure Point | Destination | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highway 120 East Bus | Mammoth Lakes | Yosemite Village | July – September |
| Highway 41 | Fresno or Oakhurst | Yosemite Village | Year-Round |
Keep in mind, YARTS is a pay-to-ride service. Snag your seat online or try your luck as a walk-on—if spaces are up for grabs (Travel Yosemite).
Curious about schedules and routes? Head over to the [bus services website](Travel Yosemite) for the scoop.
Glacier Point Tour Service
Want jaw-dropping views minus the car fuss? Glacier Point Tour Service is calling your name! It takes you from the Yosemite Valley Lodge straight up to Glacier Point. Talk about having your cake and eating it too.
Visitors often grab a one-way ticket to Glacier Point for a scenic hike back down to Yosemite Valley. This gem of a tour runs when the Glacier Point Road is in play, usually from late May through October.
| Tour | Departure Point | Destination | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glacier Point Tour | Yosemite Valley Lodge | Glacier Point | Late May – October |
Want to book a tour? It’ll cut your driving stress and give you time to soak in Yosemite’s natural wonder. Check out more details on our Glacier Point Tour Service page.
Bouncing around on YARTS or the Glacier Point Tour isn’t just about easy travel—it lightens the load of traffic and keeps Yosemite’s beauty on point. Kick back, forget about driving, and let those amazing views sweep you off your feet.
Activities and Exploration
Yosemite’s got a ton of stuff to keep you busy. No matter when you swing by, there’s always cool things to get into.
Year-Round Park Activities
This park isn’t just a summer fling. All year round, you can find stuff to do whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a chill-seeker.
Summer Fun:
- River floats: Drift along the Merced River, taking in the awesome views around you.
- Rock climbing: Scale some of the most legendary climbing spots in the climbing world.
- Hiking: Roam a broad selection of Yosemite hiking trails for all sorts of trekkers.
Winter Magic:
- Snowshoeing: Tread through the snow-draped beauty and soak up the winter vibes.
- Ice skating: Glide around the Curry Village rink with snowy peaks all around.
- Cross-country skiing: Glide through serene backcountry on well-groomed trails.
For more about these activities, hop over to our guide on year-round park activities.
Must-Visit Attractions
Yosemite is packed with jaw-dropping spots you need on your ‘to-see’ list.
| Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Yosemite Valley | Check out El Capitan and Half Dome—two absolute stunners. |
| Yosemite Falls | It’s the tallest waterfall in North America, no big deal. |
| Glacier Point | Get sweeping views of the valley and Sierra Nevada. |
| Tunnel View | Famous for its epic vistas of Yosemite Valley. |
| Mariposa Grove | Wander among giant sequoias, some of Earth’s grandest trees. |
| Tioga Pass | California’s highest road, dishing out insane views. |
If you’re itching to stray from the beaten path, think about spots like Hetch Hetchy or give our Gateway Town Parking Strategy a go for easy transport.
Yosemite’s jam-packed with sights that’ll knock your socks off. Get your plans sorted using our Yosemite map and squeeze every drop out of your visit. For the best of the best, see our must-visit attractions.
For info on getting around with ease, check out the Yosemite Valley Shuttle System that makes seeing these spots a breeze.
Hiking and Trail Access
Roaming the wild beauty of Yosemite National Park makes the heart sing for nature lovers everywhere. A web of trails gives you front-row seats to stunning views, making each hike here a memory for the ages. To really soak up the experience, it’s key to get the lowdown on trailhead spots and hitch a ride on those handy shuttles.
Trailhead Exploration
Yosemite is like a treasure chest of trailheads leading you into the park’s eye-popping scenery. Whether you’re up for a laid-back stroll or a thigh-burning trek, picking the right starting point can make all the difference.
Check out a few hot trails and where they kick off:
| Trailhead | Location |
|---|---|
| Vernal and Nevada Falls | Happy Isles |
| Mist Trail | Happy Isles |
| Yosemite Falls Trail | Camp 4 |
| Half Dome | Happy Isles |
| Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias | Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza |
Detailed maps and trail descriptions are your best hiking buddies for planning the perfect route. In case your curiosity’s piqued, find those at our Yosemite hiking trails.
Shuttle Services for Hikers
Wrapping your head around Yosemite’s vastness gets way easier with a slew of shuttle services at your beck and call. Ditch the car worries and snag a shuttle spot, especially during the thronged summer days.
Yosemite Valley Shuttle
The Yosemite Valley Shuttle System whisks you around Yosemite Valley at no cost, with stops at all the crowd-pleasers like El Capitan and Lower Yosemite Fall. Available from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., buses pull up every 12 to 22 minutes. It’s a real lifesaver when finding a parking spot is like petting a unicorn.
Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle
If Tuolumne Meadows are calling your name, the Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle is just the ticket. From mid-June to early September, it hits up various trailheads along Tioga Road. With its sweeping scenery and vibrant meadows, Tuolumne Meadows is a wish-list staple for hikers (Travel Yosemite).
Glacier Point Tour Service
For something a bit different, the Glacier Point Tour is a sweet deal. Many visitors snap up a one-way fare to Glacier Point, then lace up their boots for the trek back to Yosemite Valley. This service rolls when Glacier Point Road is open, usually from late May to October.
Glacier Point to Yosemite Trailheads
| Starting Point | Trailhead |
|---|---|
| Glacier Point | Four Mile Trail |
| Glacier Point | Panorama Trail |
Picking the right wheels for you in Yosemite makes the whole visit a breeze. For more park-savvy tips, snoop around articles about Yosemite Valley and Yosemite Park.
Yosemite Annual Pass
Exploring the wonders of Yosemite National Park is a truly unforgettable adventure. With a Yosemite Annual Pass in your pocket, you get to enjoy the breathtaking sights all year round, minus the fuss.
Pass Information
What do you get with this pass? You’re looking at a whole year’s free entry into Yosemite National Park, starting from the day you buy it. It’s amazing for those who can’t get enough of stunning landscapes, families craving outdoor fun, or anyone who just wants to soak up all that Yosemite’s got going on without worrying about entry costs.
If you’re hitting the trails on foot or a trusty bicycle, there are cheaper options for you. And hey, kiddos under 16? They stroll right in for free (NPS).
Types of Passes Available:
- Yosemite Annual Pass: Your ride or feet are covered – whether you’re in a car or on a hike with up to three buddies.
- America the Beautiful Passes: These are a must-have if you’re a road-tripper hopping between multiple scenic spots; they get a whole car or up to four people inside.
Access and Fees
Now, let’s talk dollars and cents. The price tag on the Yosemite Annual Pass changes based on how you’re getting around, but once you sort that out, planning becomes a breeze.
| Pass Type | Coverage | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Yosemite Annual Pass | Car (with up to 4 people) | $70.00 |
| Individual (foot/bicycle) | Solo adventurer (youngsters under 16 free) | $20.00 |
| America the Beautiful Pass | All federal recreation hubs | $80.00 |
| Seniors (America the Beautiful) | U.S. folks aged 62+ | $20.00 yearly $80.00 forever |
For the park lovers visiting often, the Yosemite Annual Pass gives you your money’s worth. But if you’re planning on park-hopping across the country, the America the Beautiful Pass could be the way to go. Grab it online via the USGS Online Store. Just a heads up, if you’re getting a physical pass, there’s a bit of a wait—up to three weeks for it to show up in your mailbox.
For the nitty-gritty on making reservations or figuring out visitor rules, swing by our sections on reservations and access management. And don’t miss out on the awesome stuff you can do in every season with your pass in year-round park activities.
Turn your Yosemite pass into a ticket to a million adventures, letting you wander places like Hetch Hetchy and stand in awe before icons like El Capitan and Glacier Point any time you like.
Less-Visited Areas
Hetch Hetchy Exploration
Tucked away in Yosemite National Park, Hetch Hetchy is like that secret hideaway you discovered as a kid—where it feels like time stands still. Folks don’t flock here like they do to Half Dome or El Capitan, which means you’ve got a golden ticket to a peaceful retreat, far from the madding crowds (My Yosemite Park).
Activities in Hetch Hetchy
- Historic Lodge: Take a stroll through history by visiting the historic lodge, a reminder of the area’s past.
- Hiking: Lace up your boots and hit the trails surrounding the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. Don’t miss the Wapama Falls trail—a hike with views that just might make you forget your camera exists.
- Educational Opportunities: Dive into the story of Hetch Hetchy; discover how it became a vital water source for San Francisco, all without cracking open a textbook.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Historic Lodge | Step back in time and explore its historical significance. |
| Wapama Falls Trail | An adventurous path along the reservoir leading to a breath-stealing waterfall. |
| Interpretive Programs | Dig into the reservoir’s tale and its natural backdrop. |
Gateway Town Parking Strategy
Got a car? Great. But finding a spot for it inside Yosemite when the crowds are thicker than mosquitos at a summer barbecue can be, well, challenging. Fear not—parking in nearby gateway towns is a smart move to keep your day stress-free.
Nearby Towns with Parking Facilities
- Mariposa: Just outside the park’s borders, this town not only offers abundant parking but also shuttles to whisk you into Yosemite. Bonus: it’s teeming with hotels near Yosemite National Park for those needing a plush pillow after a day on the trails.
- El Portal: Known for sprawling parking lots that are a traveler’s best friend. Perfect for staging your Yosemite escapade from Yosemite Valley and finding Yosemite Valley lodging.
- Oakhurst: An ideal launchpad with easy parking and frequent shuttle service into the heart of Yosemite.
| Town | Parking Facilities | Shuttle Services |
|---|---|---|
| Mariposa | Loads of parking space | YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) |
| El Portal | Ample options | Direct park shuttles |
| Oakhurst | Easy parking | Regular shuttle rides |
Skip the line of cars inching forward like molasses inside the park, and enjoy a more relaxed ride by starting your adventure from these nearby towns.
For more tips on making your visit seamless, give our visiting Yosemite National Park guide a peek. Plan around Yosemite national park road conditions for smooth travels. And if winter’s your vibe, don’t miss the lowdown on Yosemite weather.
Seasonal Park Highlights
You ready to check out Yosemite National Park? This place is packing a punch when it comes to awesome things to do all year round. Whether you’re soaking up the summer sun or embracing the winter chill, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable time.
Summer and Winter Activities
Yosemite’s like a chameleon, changing with the seasons and giving every nature enthusiast something to brag about.
Summer Activities
Summer here is all about the sunny vibes and crystal-clear skies. Here’s what’s hot when it’s hot:
- River Floats: Kick back and drift down the Merced River, where the valley’s breathtaking beauty will leave you in awe.
- Rock Climbing: Take on some epic rock faces like El Capitan and Half Dome. For what’s what, swing by our climbing guide.
- Hiking: Dig into a smorgasbord of trails, from leisurely walks to grueling treks. Yosemite Valley’s got trailheads galore (57hours).
Winter Activities
Come winter, Yosemite turns into a snow-dusted fairytale. Dig these popular picks:
- Snowshoeing: Wander amidst the dazzling snow and soak up the peace and quiet of the park’s winter magic.
- Ice Skating: Slide around the rink in Curry Village with epic Half Dome views as your backdrop.
- Winter Hiking: Some trails are open all year, offering a unique look at the park’s frosty charm.
| Season | Activities | Popular Spots |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | River Floats, Rock Climbing, Hiking | Merced River, El Capitan, Yosemite Valley |
| Winter | Snowshoeing, Ice Skating, Winter Hiking | Curry Village, Half Dome, Various Trails |
For the freshest scoop on seasonal fun, pop over to our Yosemite weather page.
Year-Round Experiences
Yosemite National Park isn’t just a flavor of the month. No matter when you drop by, there’s always something to dive into.
- Wildlife Viewing: From black bears to deer and a choir of birds, Yosemite’s like a treasure trove for wildlife watchers.
- Photography: Snap iconic sights like Yosemite Falls and Tunnel View anytime. Don’t miss our photo faves list for more jaw-dropping spots.
- Guided Tours: Hop on a guided tour for some insider info on the park’s rich history and stunning nature. Dig deeper with our guided tours info.
Whatever the season, memorable times await you in Yosemite. Eye up an annual pass to make this adventure a regular gig.
Want to make your trip a breeze? Keep tabs on current weather and road updates. And when it’s time to lay your head, Yosemite Valley’s got you covered with plenty of comfy digs.
Unforgettable Sights
The Giving Trees at Mariposa Grove
So you’re planning a trip to Yosemite National Park? Well, let me spill the beans—this place is a jackpot for nature lovers. One spot that’s impossible to miss is the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. These trees are like nature’s skyscrapers, folks, with over 500 of ’em standing tall. They call ’em “The Giving Trees,” and let’s just say, it’s not without reason—these trees have been around longer than your great-great-grandparents, and they’ll leave you totally mesmerized.
To keep these old giants in top shape and manage the human crowd, the place is sparkling new with improvements (57hours). You gotta park at Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza, right near the Southern Entrance of the park. From there, hop on the Mariposa Grove Shuttle—it’s a no-brainer since they don’t let private cars in (Under Canvas). This shuttle’s your ticket to ride through the grove without ruffling nature’s feathers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Southern Entrance of Yosemite National Park |
| Number of Trees | Over 500 giant sequoias |
| Shuttle Service | Mariposa Grove Shuttle from Welcome Plaza |
Seriously, don’t leave the park without seeing these ancient giants. They’re like the wise old owls of the forest, each with centuries worth of stories etched in their bark. If you want the 411 on what’s cooking at Mariposa Grove, get all the deets on our Yosemite Mariposa Grove page.
Iconic Yosemite Landmarks
Yosemite National Park, folks, is basically a superstar when it comes to natural landmarks. It’s packed with jaw-dropping sights that’ll make your Instagram pop!
- El Capitan: This giant rock face doesn’t need an introduction. El Capitan is like a magnet, especially for rock climbers and anyone who’s ever said, “Yeah, I want to see THAT in person.” It’ll have you craning your neck up to over 3,000 feet!
- Half Dome: This one’s a beast of a hike. Half Dome promises panoramic views that are worth every groan your legs might give. Get ready for a challenge—with a little bit of prep, you’ll be high-fiving the summit like a pro.
- Yosemite Falls: Let’s talk about power—Yosemite Falls doesn’t hold back, with water plummeting down 2,425 feet. Spring’s the time to catch this beauty flexing its muscles, thanks to all that snowmelt.
- Tunnel View: Any shutterbug’s dream, Tunnel View fits the who’s who of Yosemite—El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall—in one glorious frame. Don’t forget your camera for this one.
| Landmark | Height/Feature | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| El Capitan | 3,000+ feet | Year-Round |
| Half Dome | Full-day hike | Summer/Fall |
| Yosemite Falls | 2,425 feet | Spring |
| Tunnel View | Scenic viewpoint | Year-Round |
If you’re itching for more sights to feast your eyes on, we’ve got a deep dive on Yosemite attractions. Load up on tips and tricks, and make sure your trip includes these not-to-be-missed gems. When you’re ready, get all your plans sorted on our visiting Yosemite National Park page.
