Nearest Airport to Yosemite
Kicking off your Yosemite adventure starts way before you even hit the trails, and it all begins by picking the right airport. Let’s chat about the three closest airports to Yosemite so you can kickstart your travels without a hitch.
Merced Airport (MCE)
Merced Airport (MCE) lands you pretty close to the beauty of Yosemite Valley. Sure, it’s a smaller spot with fewer frills, but that’s exactly what makes it easy on the wallet! Mostly, it takes you back and forth between Los Angeles (LAX) and Oakland (OAK), making it a great option if you’re pinching pennies but eager to get to this natural wonderland.
| Distance to Yosemite | Driving Time | Services |
|---|---|---|
| 82 miles | ~2 hours | Limited regional flights |
For more travel possibilities, you might want to check out different options like the airport near Acadia National Park.
Fresno-Yosemite International Airport (FAT)
For those looking to fly in style and comfort, Fresno-Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is your go-to. This bad boy is the main hub near the park, loaded with all the bells and whistles to make your trip a breeze (Yosemite.com). Plus, you can hop onto the YARTS bus system (when it’s running seasonally) and be whisked away right into the heart of Yosemite (Yosemite.com).
| Distance to Yosemite | Driving Time | Services |
|---|---|---|
| 97 miles | ~2.5 hours | Major airlines, shuttle services available |
Check out which airport is closest to Yellowstone if you’re piecing together a larger nature escape.
Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH)
Finally, Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) is sitting there like a secret weapon for getting to the park, clocking in at about 68 miles out. It’s more specialized with limited flights and seasonal routes, hitting cities like Burbank and Los Angeles. But if it fits your schedule, it’s a cool way to get closer faster.
| Distance to Yosemite | Driving Time | Services |
|---|---|---|
| 68 miles | ~1.5 hours | Seasonal routes, limited flights |
And if your adventures take you to other parks, swing by our guide on the nearest airport to Moab.
Deciding on the best airport for your Yosemite visit isn’t just about punchin’ in numbers. Think about how long you’ll be driving, what services you need, and the vibe that suits your travel style. Make sure your trip to this jaw-dropping destination is as smooth as those granite cliffs you’re about to witness!
Additional Airport Options
If you’re planning a trip to Yosemite and want to dodge the hustle of major airports, there are a couple of hidden gem airports that might just make your journey smoother. Take a gander at these handy alternatives.
Stockton Metropolitan Airport (SCK)
Consider Stockton Metropolitan Airport next time you’re heading toward Yosemite. It’s about 123 miles from Yosemite Valley and offers flights to big-deal places like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Phoenix. Not too shabby for making your way to the park from different parts of the U.S.
Juicy Details:
- Distance to Yosemite Valley: A casual 123 miles
- Fly Here: Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix/Mesa, Phoenix-Sky Harbor, San Diego
- Flight Frequency: Plenty of flights on the daily, hitting all the popular spots
More info and flight shenanigans can be found at Alternative Airlines.
Oakland International (OAK)
Another prime pick for Yosemite travelers is Oakland International Airport. It sits a bit further away at about 180 miles, but it’s an airport powerhouse with loads of flights going every which way. Flying in here means you’ve got domestic and international routes sorted, so you’re covered no matter where you’re coming from.
Need-to-Know:
- Distance to Yosemite Valley: 180 miles
- Flying Routes: Tons of domestic and international options
- Extra Perks: A mix of dining, shopping, and rental car options to get you rolling
Oakland International offers a bag full of goodies for travelers, a snazzy starting spot for your Yosemite adventure for sure.
Comparing Airport Smarts:
| Airport | Distance to Yosemite Valley | Flight Routes | Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stockton Metropolitan (SCK) | 123 miles | Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Phoenix, San Diego | Basic but solid |
| Oakland International (OAK) | 180 miles | Loads of options | Packed with extras |
Want some tips on public transport or shuttle deals from these airports? Check out our section on Getting to Yosemite.
For those with a taste for exploring more of America’s natural wonders, these might tickle your fancy: Which airport is closest to Yellowstone, Airport near Acadia National Park, and Nearest airport to Moab.
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Transportation to Yosemite
Getting to Yosemite National Park from nearby airports is easier than you’d think! Whether you’re hitching a ride with public transport or slipping into a comfy shuttle, we’ve got the lowdown to help you arrive without a hitch.
Public Transit Options
If you’re all about the public transit life, options are a-plenty to whisk you from nearby airports straight to Yosemite’s doorstep.
Hop aboard the Yosemite Area Regional Transit System (YARTS), a sweet way to travel. Seasonal “Gold Route” buses journey from Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) direct to Yosemite Valley, with handy stops around the park. Snag those tickets early so you’ve got a seat waiting.
And hey, don’t overlook good ol’ Amtrak or Greyhound if you’re scootin’ around California. Here’s a handy table to sort these options:
| Airport | Public Transit Option | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresno Yosemite International (FAT) | YARTS Gold Route | Seasonal ride, book ahead! |
| Merced Airport (MCE) | Amtrak and YARTS | Need to switch at Merced Amtrak |
| Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) | None direct | Wheel away in a rental or shuttle |
Swing by our page on nearest airport to Moab for more travel deets.
Shuttle Services
Preferring to cruise in a shuttle? No worries, there’s plenty of ways to get right to the heart of Yosemite from those nearby airports. Fresno Yosemite International Airport hooks you up with car rentals right in the terminal and familiar rideshare faces like Uber and Lyft—lots of choice to hit that itinerary like a pro (Yosemite.com).
YARTS shines again with its seasonal, trusty routes into Yosemite. Here’s the scoop on shuttle options:
| Airport | Shuttle Service | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresno Yosemite International (FAT) | YARTS, Uber, Lyft | Seasonal delights, rentals available |
| Merced Airport (MCE) | Private shuttles, car rental | Hiatus needed to hop into Yosemite |
| Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) | Car rental, private shuttles | Direct shuttles are rare birds |
Book early to dodge any drama and make it a smooth roll to the park. For more, be sure to check out our tips for straightening curly hair—because travel tips come in all shapes!
Travel Tips for Yosemite
Planning a trip to Yosemite National Park? It’s time to roll up those sleeves and get your ducks in a row! Here are some nuggets of wisdom to help your journey sail smoothly, especially when it comes to snagging reservations and picking airports.
Advance Reservations
Want to dodge any last-minute stress while visiting Yosemite? Bagging those advance reservations is your secret weapon. Here’s the lowdown on what you need to book pronto:
- Accommodation: Seen Yosemite in the movies? Then you’d know it’s the go-to spot, and everybody wants in. Lodgings—from campsites to park lodges and nearby hotels—vanish faster than discounts on Black Friday. So, reserve your spot ASAP to grab a slice of paradise that suits your style.
- Park Entry: Depending on the time of year, you might need a ticket just for stepping foot inside. Keep tabs on the National Park Service website and sort out your entry ahead of your adventure.
- Activities: Dreaming of guided tours, ranger talks, or a must-do hike? They’re popular, and sometimes you need reservations. Plan your activities so you don’t end up with major FOMO.
Best Airports for Yosemite Access
Picking the spot to touch down is like choosing the right brand of coffee—crucial. Check out these airports for your Yosemite escapade:
Fresno-Yosemite International Airport (FAT)
The “it” airport closest to Yosemite is Fresno-Yosemite International. At 95 miles away, it’s your main squeeze when flying in, with big-time airlines and amenities at your service.
- Distance to Yosemite Valley: 95 miles
- Major Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, United
- Amenities: Car rental options right at the terminal, easy rideshare pick-up/drop-off
Fresno Airport gives you a sneak peek of those breathtaking natural wonders awaiting you. Just hop off the plane, grab your rental car in a jiffy, and break for the park.
Merced Airport (MCE)
Looking for an airport that’s more of a well-kept secret? Say hello to Merced Regional—fewer flights, but totally worth it.
- Distance to Yosemite Valley: 83 miles
- Major Airlines: Boutique Air
- Amenities: Basic services
Merced’s got that cute, laid-back vibe, which might fit the bill depending on where you’re jetting in from.
| Airport | Distance to Yosemite Valley (miles) | Major Airlines | Car Rental Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresno-Yosemite International (FAT) | 95 | American Airlines, Delta, United | Yes |
| Merced Airport (MCE) | 83 | Boutique Air | Limited |
Still curious about finding your way to other parks? Swing by our insider guides on the nearest airport to Moab and the best airport for Crater Lake.
Wrap up these tips, and you’re on your way to a Yosemite trip that’s as smooth as a hot knife through butter. Safe travels, adventurer!
Nearby Airports Comparison
Distance and Driving Times
Planning your Yosemite trip? Knowing how far and how long it takes from nearby airports can guide your decision. Here’s the rundown of airports and how far they are from Yosemite:
| Airport | Distance to Yosemite Valley (miles) | Driving Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) | 95 | 2.5 hours |
| Merced Airport (MCE) | 83 | 2 hours |
| Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) | 68 | 1.5 hours |
| Stockton Metropolitan Airport (SCK) | 133 | 3 hours |
| Oakland International (OAK) | 180 | 3.5 hours |
Hop over here for a detailed look at which airport is closest to Yellowstone.
Amenities and Services
Airports gotta have their perks, right? What you get can really make or break the trip. Here’s what some of the nearest airports to Yosemite offer:
| Airport | Major Carriers | Amenities and Services |
|---|---|---|
| Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) | Big names like American Airlines, Delta, United | Loaded with restaurants, shops, free Wi-Fi, and car rentals (Yosemite.com) |
| Merced Airport (MCE) | Boutique Air | Simple setup, small terminal, car rentals right there (National Park Service) |
| Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) | Flies you seasonally to Burbank, Los Angeles, San Diego | Limited offerings, tiny regional spot (Alternative Airlines) |
| Stockton Metropolitan Airport (SCK) | Allegiant Air, United | Basic stuff, cars for rent, smaller terminal vibe |
| Oakland International Airport (OAK) | Takes you global and domestic | Tons of goodies like duty-free shopping, restaurants galore, Wi-Fi, and car rentals |
Need to know more? Check our page on the best airport to fly into for Crater Lake.
Choosing a close airport to Yosemite gives lots more than just shorter travel – it brings a bunch of extras to smooth out your adventure. Whether you zero in on the distance, the drive, or just need certain perks, our guides are here to help plan a breezy journey. Want more choices? Look into airport near Acadia National Park and nearest airport to Moab.
Popular Airport Choices
Planning a visit to Yosemite National Park? Picking the right airport is key to getting there smoothly and kicking off the fun early. Here are a couple of airports that’ll get you close to all the wilderness wonders:
Fresno Yosemite International Airport
Fresno Yosemite International Airport (code: FAT) is the go-to spot for anyone heading to Yosemite. Step off the plane and you’re almost there! Top airlines like Aeromexico, Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest Airlines, United, and Volaris fly in, giving you loads of choices (Yosemite.com).
Being the closest big airport to Yosemite Valley, FAT gets you fast and easy access to awe-inspiring nature like the giant El Capitan and the majestic Yosemite Falls (Yosemite.com). They’ve also got some pretty cool stuff to keep you entertained while you wait—a taste of local life with snacks and drinks, plus artwork and tasty regional eats at the John Muir Tavern.
Need wheels for your adventure? FAT’s got you covered with car rentals from Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis, along with rideshare options like Uber and Lyft for an easy ride to your next spot (Yosemite.com).
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Airlines | Aeromexico, Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, United, Volaris |
| Amenities | Local snacks, Sequoia art, culture bits, John Muir Tavern |
| Transportation | Rent a car (Enterprise, Hertz, Avis), Rideshare (Uber, Lyft) |
Merced Regional Airport
Now, if you prefer something more chill and laid-back, Merced Regional Airport (MCE) might be your jam. It’s the closest spot for commercial flights into Yosemite Valley on the cheap (Yosemite.com). It’s smaller, sure, but sometimes that’s a win—less fuss, more nature.
MCE mainly links you from the big hubs like Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Oakland International Airport (OAK). While it might not have FAT’s flashier extras, if you’re all about getting there without breaking the bank, MCE is a solid choice.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Main Routes | To and from LAX, OAK |
| Distinction | Nearest airport to Yosemite Valley for commercial flights |
Curious about other places to land? You can also scope out options in and around Yellowstone here and check where to touch down near Acadia National Park.
