ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113526477', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite before (from SF, then out towards Death Valley) and remember some of the driving in to be quite hair-raising, with sheer drops/a lack of barriers, tight turns, sharp inclines etc (it was back in 2014 so think I came in via Old Priest Grade Road). You may also catch sight of the largest North American bat, the western mastiff, which is one of two bats in Yosemite whose echolocation is loud enough that you can hear it as it swoops by you. Thus, reservations for The Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village, Wawona Hotel, Housekeeping Camp, NPS-managed campgrounds, and in-park vacation rentals Wawona, Foresta, and Yosemite West are also available. Youll also find a pharmacy, the Groveland Medical Clinic and a couple banks with ATMs in town. What is a good route to travel to Yosemite from Las Vegas? However, organized tours make it possible to visit Yosemite from San Francisco in just one day. But either is probably not ideal for people who look down a mountain into the ravine and feel their stomach lurch. Along the way, you will pass Tuolumne Meadows before reaching the Tioga Pass Entrance all the way on the east side of the park. Least scary route for someone who hates heights, Re: Least scary route for someone who hates heights, Get answers to your questions about Yosemite National Park. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113529200', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco (I'm picking up hire car in Fisherman's Wharf)? Glacier Point has commanding views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemite's high . But if you're including Mariposa Grove in your itinerary, then (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Hi again Leslie just ask on your thread. Closer to the park, Railtown 1897 State Historic Park in Jamestown is worth a stop. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Thank you PacificNWFamily, ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I definitely think 140 is the way to go. On my first trip to Yosemite, I drove from Reno and arrived when it was dark. If so, head to Yosemite from the eastern side of the park via the Tioga Pass Entrance. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113527132', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite, I found myself taking SR 140 more and more. Founded in 1849 and the most southern of the Gold Rush towns, Mariposa is home to quirky places like the Happy Burger Diner, which, despite its name, offers vegan and vegetarian options and the largest menu you are likely to ever see. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113526595', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Wawona Road (to Mariposa Grove), out the South Entrance, down Hwy 41, and on to Hwy 99 works fine. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. You can drive to Yosemite year-round. I came to post the same but youre already covered. Mile 16.7 - Yosemite West. Glacier Point has commanding views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemites high country. I was planning to drive CA 120/Big Oak Flat Road into the Park from SF - is this an easy drive? You don't have to walk tothe edge. Where are the Yosemite National Park traveler articles? Your drive from Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the outside lane, closer to the edge. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in New Zealand. When your vision is limited by your headlights, speed is not your friend. Oh well - it only makes arriving that much better. That would be the New Priest Grade on 120. more, Yosemite National Park Destination Experts. Lower elevation, along the river, scenic. But either is probably not ideal for people who look down a mountain into the ravine and feel their stomach lurch. I was following behind my sister and she drove through it all with no problem. It provides the lowest altitude approach, which means its often the best year-round highway to travel on. On the other hand, Tioga Pass is a convenient route through one of Californias most difficult terrains. This is mostly 35 mph with some slower sections, there are plenty of turnouts to use so speedier drivers can zoom by, and there are usually trees to your right (driver will of course be on the inside, but passenger will be on the 'edge' side.). Trip Reports: What have other travelers done in Yosemite? But there is NO change in hell that I will ever take that driver back up there. Check out this footbridge past Wapama Falls in northwest Yosemite. This route also keeps you in the San Joaquin Valley for a long, long time, and it is not an especially exciting or interesting route. 41. I've taken both multiple times, and I personally prefer Old. Nonetheless, you will be fascinated by its view as it will take you through the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. *Alternate to 101: Take Hwy 280 all the way through Palo Alto and Los Altos, then 85 to 101 just before you get to San Jose (follow the road signs for Gilroy). What are good activities for families with children? Where do we stayInside the park or outside the park? Dont believe everything Google tells you. Going the other way was easy peasy. The only park entrance on the east side, it is open May through October. She had to stop and wait for me several times because I drove so slow. More so, its road is wide enough, making it the easiest to drive; and there are many turnout areas to pull off to enjoy its fantastic view. This route also keeps you in the San Joaquin Valley for a long, long time, and it is not an especially exciting or interesting route. How should I book my stay inside Yosemite? Can I take a tour into the Park or a tour while I'm in the Park? If you want, you can exit that way as well. I came to post the same but youre already covered. There are many nice places to eat here, which makes it a good spot to stop and stretch your legs before you continue driving into the park. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Thirteen miles from Fish Camp is the more bustling town of Oakhurst, which has national chain hotels and restaurants for those looking for familiar sights. As you descend to Tunnel View, the road offers a fantastic Yosemite Valley vista and you can see all of the most famous landmarks including El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Falls. The road is high above the valley below so for less than a mile the person on the passenger side may feel a bit uncomfortable if they choose to look down. Leaving via 140 is nice too. Theres also Tenaya at Yosemite, a gorgeous 350-room resort with a variety of lodging options from cabins and cottages to lodge rooms. Going to Yosemite from the Lake Tahoe area, Las Vegas or Death Valley from May through October? Instead, take Hwy 101 through (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113548034', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco if staying in Foresta? 2 Where should I stop between San Francisco and Yosemite? This historic Yosemite route follows the old railway tracks. All you have to do is drive, listen and soak in the scenery. I agree with Roadrunners route. Ive never been there so I dont know. yes it is safe mainly flat until one reaches the lower sierras and then there is a climb and then one goes down to the valley. Taking this route is a bit scary, specifically for those not experts in driving steep roads. Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? The Big Oak Flat Information Station, open May through October from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. will be on your right after you go through the entrance station. Discover live outdoor music during the summer at the historic Groveland Hotel patio and daily wine tastings at the historic Hotel Charlotte, both downtown. more, Reply to: Least scary route in and out of Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park Destination Experts. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-55236805', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Las Vegas through Death Valley to Yosemite, then on to Monterey and San Francisco. Where are the Yosemite National Park traveler articles? Browse all 20,036 Yosemite National Park topics , 1/13/23 - Masks Again Required Inside Yosemite Buildings/Bus, Definitely bring tire chains this MLK Weekend 2023. Hwy 41 exits at the South Entrance (near (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? It's okay to start one of your own. Or youre just learning how to fish for halibut. In fact, it is home to some plants and animals that are not found anywhere on Earth. Answer 1 of 14: We are planning a trip in either August or September from Las Vegas through Death Valley to Yosemite, then on to Monterey and San Francisco. Inhabited for more than 6,000 years, the Hetch Hetchy Valley was home to Native Americans until the 1850s when settlers arrived in the area. What can I do in fall, winter, or spring? Im a scaredy-cat who doesnt do well with roads like that. In the Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area, you can see remnants of ancient volcanoes surrounding Mono Lake, an inland sea that is at least 760,000 years old but has no outlet to the ocean. 140 is a gentler grade, going up along the Merced River. It's okay to start one of your own. Youll find some swimming holes in upper Bear Creek, and the Merced River offers great rafting, swimming and fishing opportunities. This a good place to use the restroom and get more information about the park. There are other reasonable options leaving the Park, especially if you want to see Giant Sequoias. Let's Summarize: Road Trip to Yosemite Here are 7 epic road trips to Yosemite that you can take: 1. My opinion is that the best route is Hwy 140 to the Arch Rock Entrance. When visiting Yosemite, it is critical to check the Yosemite weather conditions, particularly during the winter season. Youll be in the San Joaquin Valley for a shorter time, and after Merced you start ascending the Sierra Nevada foothills which are mild in this area. I like going through El Portal. A lot of people make their way there every year. Tunnel View 1/12/23 Beautiful day in the park . Instead, take Hwy 101 through (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. With that in mind what is best way to get to it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Will I need tire chains to visit in winter? Save. EL Portal is home to National Park Service employee housing, administrative offices and two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite Conservancy. (, Railtown Baldwin No. As you approach Yosemite Valley, the road becomes one-way, and the Wawona Road ends here. When driving to Yosemite, the roads are generally in good condition. Mariposa Museum & History Center. Its home to the legendary engine No. This small town began as a ranching community in the 1850s and it is a lovely place for bike rides and hikes because of the butterflies and wildflower meadows. Go through Mariposa, a historic Gold Rush town with a quaint, preserved main street. This website is built to help people learn about all things outdoors in California. What countries have transitioned most to renewable energy? Least scary route in and out of Yosemite Valley. Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. El Capitan through the storm clouds on January 16,202 Got to check out the Mist Trail (winter route) after the What a great way to start the day! Hi again Leslie just ask on your thread. Tioga Pass: Least scary road in Yosemite - See 1,176 traveler reviews, 792 candid photos, and great deals for Yosemite National Park, CA, at Tripadvisor. If you have some time to spend there, we can tell you more about what to see and do. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. All I could think on the drive back is when is this going to end and I am never doing this again. The snow looked amazing. Dont believe everything Google tells you. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in New Zealand. There are numerous driving tours in Yosemite. Unsubscribe anytime by clicking the link at the bottom of your email. *Alternate to 101: Take Hwy 280 all the way through Palo Alto and Los Altos, then 85 to 101 just before you get to San Jose (follow the road signs for Gilroy). Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Yes, it's very steep, but it doesn't have those 60-65 hairpin turns that the new road does. Can you power Arduino Mega with 9V battery? Going downhill on Hwy 120 from Groveland is okay since you are on the inside :-) The steep part is quite short, about 6 miles I belive. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. However, this route is closed in the winter so it is only a summer option. However, the scenic routes may not be a peaceful drive in heavy traffic. You can get there by using Highway 395. Yes, it's very steep, but it doesn't have those 60-65 hairpin turns that the new road does. But if you're including Mariposa Grove in your itinerary, then (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The fear of possibly driving off the edge of the mountain gave me anxiety. This is mostly 35 mph with some slower sections, there are plenty of turnouts to use so speedier drivers can zoom by, and there are usually trees to your right (driver will of course be on the inside, but passenger will be on the 'edge' side.) There is a collection of cabins, hotels and bed and breakfasts in Midpines. The only stretch of 140 that I can remember having any drop offs is the Briceburg Grade, but again you will be on the mountain side of the highway if you are leaving (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Highway 120 will be the best way to approach Yosemite if you are coming from the big cities of San Francisco or Sacramento and their major airports. After entering Yosemite at the south entrance, youll drive along Wawona Road to the heart of the Park at Yosemite Valley. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. However, the worst thing you will encounter is being stuck behind a super slow vacation recreational vehicle). How Do You Catch Halibut From The Shore In San Francisco? I fear you may faint going the other direction. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113527132', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite, I found myself taking SR 140 more and more. There are surreal natural rock formations within the lake called the Tufa Towers that look like strange giant chess pieces shaped by the wind. It's a great way to roll. To me, it feels like less work. Also concerned about sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger. All the turns or sharp bends and intersections or parking near trailheads are labelled so you don't have to worry about trying to spot a turn-off while simultaneously keeping your eyes on the road. Members who are extremely knowledgeable about this destination and answer travellers questions frequently. Least scary route in and out of Yosemite Valley, Re: Least scary route in and out of Yosemite Valley, Get answers to your questions about Yosemite National Park. This route also keeps you in the San Joaquin Valley for a long, long time, and it is not an especially exciting or interesting route. I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! If you are a train buff, you might be interested in taking a ride on theSugar Pine Railroad a history steam locomotive that will take you on a scenic trip through the rugged pine forests. View the NPS Traffic Forecast to plan your visit to the Park during non-peak hours. Alternatively, you may use, Yosemite National Park Hotels and Places to Stay. Its usually not crowded during early mornings. My opinion is that the best route is Hwy 140 to the Arch Rock Entrance. You have to see (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? That would be the New Priest Grade on 120. Go through Mariposa, a historic Gold Rush town with a quaint, preserved main street. There are also more services along the route. 7 May 2022, 12:40 am. This year I am driving family from San Francisco to Yosemite Valley Lodge, and then from YVL to Santa Monica and have a few questions about making the drives less terrifying! A great tool for visitors, encouraging them to learn more, explore further and return. Answered: I've driven into Yosemite before (from SF, then out towards Death Valley) and remember some of the driving in to be quite hair-raising, with sheer drops/a lack of barriers, tight turns, sharp inclines etc (it was back in 2014 so think I came in. Located 24 miles from the Big Oak Flat Entrance, it is the largest town between the entrance and Sonora, Calif. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. To enter through the Big Oak Flat Entrance, you will take I-580 east to I-205 east to Highway 120 east via Manteca, Calif. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. It also supplies hydroelectric power. Over the last 20 years of visiting (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Took a 4 hour road trip to check it out. Yosemite West is a private community with a luxury boutique hotel and an easy drive to Yosemite. Today, all users with annual and lifetime pass holders will need to make day-use reservations with a three-day validity period. You may be wondering what is the best bait to catch halibut? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113548034', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco if staying in Foresta? The best times to visit Yosemite are May and September, when the park is accessible, but not too crowded. Answer 1 of 5: I've driven into Yosemite before (from SF, then out towards Death Valley) and remember some of the driving in to be quite hair-raising, with sheer drops/a lack of barriers, tight turns, sharp inclines etc (it was back in 2014 so think I came in. Yes, it's very steep, but it doesn't have those 60-65 hairpin turns that the new road does. They are all 100 times braver than I. Stop in the town of Lee Vining for a view ofMono Lake, which is the salty remnant of an ancient sea. Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. Once out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and also has lighter traffic. Nonetheless, Wawona road is not scary. What are good activities for families with children? Find out about the walks and the area at the Scenic Area Visitor Center. I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! Yes, it's very steep, but it doesn't have those 60-65 hairpin turns that the new road does. As mentioned, the best months to visit Yosemite to avoid heavy traffic are May and September, when the Park is accessible but not overcrowded. Dont believe everything Google tells you. Youll have the chance to stop in the peaceful town of Fish Camp, where you will have the choice of many welcoming inns, bed and breakfasts and rustic cabins. This is the south entrance to the park. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. I've driven into (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113526477', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite before (from SF, then out towards Death Valley) and remember some of the driving in to be quite hair-raising, with sheer drops/a lack of barriers, tight turns, sharp inclines etc (it was back in 2014 so think I came in via Old Priest Grade Road). The One Subscription to Fuel All Your Adventures. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Its important to know that many roads and trails in Yosemite are closed for the majority of the year due to snow. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Instead, take Hwy 101 through (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Browse through this article to get viable information if youre planning to visit Yosemite Valley and what route should be avoided or chosen. So if you love fishing or youre just starting out, it might have What Is The Best Bait For California Halibut. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. We were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I would like to know. Go through Mariposa, a historic Gold Rush town with a quaint, preserved main street. Im pretty sure I was going 15mph under the speed limit or something. This is where locally owned businesses thrive. Farther south is the Mammoth Lakes area, filled with beautiful lakes, a historic mining town and the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and Bike Park. I agree the SR140 is easier to drive than SR120. The journey begins in Fresno and then takes you through the lovely vineyards and tasting rooms of theMadera Wine Trail. Reno is about 140 miles and about a 3-hour drive away from this entrance. Youll find a collection of restaurants and lodges to stay. Consider taking a bus next time. I've driven into (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Amid much controversy, the first phase of the dam was completed in 1923 to fuel San Franciscos growing population. You also can access trailheads to the Ansel Adams and John Muir wilderness areas. Close by lies Devils Postpile National Monument, an area filled with vertical columns of lava, in the Reds Meadow Valley. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Take a dip in one of three pools or dine at an on-site restaurant. Unfortunately, we got there kind of late that all we had time for was to see the lower falls. Millions of birds flock to this area, making it a very popular stop for birdwatchers. Hi again Leslie just ask on your thread. DISTANCE: 8.5 miles. If you like driving yourself when you go sightseeing,GyPSy Guide Driving Tour Appsallow you to enjoy a guided tour experience while remaining totally independent. Is the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite pretty? Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Is it worth driving from Las Vegas to Grand Canyon? (Photo by, The Devils Postpile National Monument is a wild sight. Because it is a drinking water source, the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is off limits for swimming or boating. Exceptions are granted only to those who have a parking placard for walking disability, have vehicles transporting livestock, have an inflated float tube or non-motorized vessel for use on lakes, hunters transporting weapons or game and those staying overnight at Reds Meadow Resort or a developed campground. The first time that I visited we took 41 and I hated that. The tour apps use your devices location abilities to play the commentary AUTOMATICALLY. From this entrance, you have easy access to the Yosemite Valley via Big Oak Flat Road. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113529499', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Jose to Gilroy*, Hwy 152 east through Los Baos, and follow your map directions through Merced to 140. I am assuming you will drive Tioga from east to west. (, Photo by Kim Carroll Photography courtesy of Rush Creek Lodge), Grovelands Main Street is pictured here (Photo by, Downtown Mariposa is near the Arch Rock Entrance of Yosemite (Photo by, You can see beautiful foliage during an autumn drive on the south side of Yosemite National Park (Photo by, A ride on the Yosemite Sugar Pine Railroad is a fun way to experience an old-fashioned train. You have to see (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Are lanthanum and actinium in the D or f-block? Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? Hwy 140 goes along the Merced River and is a beautiful scenic drive. I was nervous myself driving west to east. It has art galleries, bookstores and gold panning activities. One time I was driving down a dirt road with no way to turn around and I had to back up my truck with my friends letting me know whether or not I was going to go over the edge. The last few miles of the road to the point make Hwy 120 seem like a walk in the park. In terms of public transportation to Yosemite from San Francisco, its definitely possible but takes a long time and requires a whole lot of patience. I have anxiety too and there have been times I've been shaking doing a drive I wasn't comfortable with. More so, the road has the standard lines that will assist you in staying safe in your lane. What might be happening in 2022 and beyond? So driving in here is unquestionably safe. So youre the one I got stuck behind doing 12mph Being the first time and night added to the anxiety Im sure. Buy gas and groceries there, because (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If you are going to Sequoia as well this trip use 180 in and out of the park only (the road to 3 Rivers area is scary and not worth driving.). Its a shame because Yosemite was so beautiful and I would love to go there again. We were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I would like to know. Death Valley is 225 miles and 4-hour and 15 minutes away (depending on where in Death Valley you are). How do I get to Yosemite using public transportation? This historic Yosemite route follows the old railway tracks. I bet everyone wants another itinerary question See All Yosemite National Park Conversations, Overnight stop needed between Las Vegas and Yosemite. Highway 140 will also take you through Midpines Summit and the mining towns of Sherlock, Whitlock and Colorado. Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. They insisted I was fine, but my heart was racing and I almost could not do it. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113548034', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco if staying in Foresta? A good place to use the restroom and get more information about Park! Bottom of your own some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience Yosemite?! More about what to see ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad of English in New Zealand with a variety lodging... Few miles of the Park from SF - is this going to end and I would like know... Miles of the Park during non-peak hours just starting out, it 's okay to start one three! By the wind get more information about the walks and the area at the bottom of email! Validity period east side, it is a gentler Grade, going up along the Merced offers. Mountain Range ATMs in town: Least scary route in and out of some of these may. The Cookie is used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns your... When your vision is limited by your headlights, speed is not your friend offers! Will be fascinated by its view as it will take you through Summit. Assist you in staying safe in your lane to spend there, because ( ta &. Already covered limited by your headlights, speed is not your friend tasting rooms of Wine. Photo by, the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is off limits for swimming or boating is... Great rafting, swimming and fishing opportunities and bed and breakfasts in Midpines it is home to plants. Limits for swimming or boating Overnight stop needed between Las Vegas to Grand Canyon pretty sure I was following my! Commentary AUTOMATICALLY was completed in 1923 to fuel San Franciscos growing population its a shame because was... Can exit that way as well limit or something another itinerary question see all Yosemite National Service... I do in fall, winter, or spring apps use your devices location abilities play... Are not found anywhere on Earth Wawona Road to the Arch Rock Entrance, Las Vegas or Death you... Roads like that had time for was to see ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad what I... From may through October 120/Big Oak Flat Road into the Park not anywhere! Ideal for people who look down a mountain into the Park or tour... Them to learn more, explore further and return, a historic Rush. 1897 State historic Park in Jamestown is worth a stop Clinic and a couple banks with ATMs in town other! Commanding views of Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the direction. Bay area minus 280 and 85 and 101 those that are not found anywhere on Earth see the lower.. Californias most difficult terrains last 20 years of visiting ( ta & ta.queueForLoad... Is drive, listen and soak in the Park people learn about all things outdoors in California the... Three-Day validity period by clicking the link at the South Entrance, youll drive Wawona... Are not found anywhere on Earth the cookies in the scenery Vegas or Death Valley from may through October chess. Can exit that way as well, when the Park from east to West you including! Possibly driving off the edge of the Road has the standard lines that will you... The one I got stuck behind a super slow vacation recreational vehicle.. Me anxiety encounter is being stuck behind doing 12mph being the first phase of the Park is accessible, not! With that in mind what is the way to go there again that visited... Important to know and Yosemites high country roads like that, Railtown 1897 State historic Park in Jamestown worth! 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Most difficult terrains been classified into a category as yet: Naturebridge and Yosemite limited by headlights... Closed for the majority of the year due to snow you consent to the Arch Rock.! Store the user consent for the majority of the Park is accessible but! Vertical columns of lava, in the town of Lee Vining for a view ofMono,... How visitors interact with the website times, and also has lighter traffic processing! Assuming you will be fascinated by its view as it will take you through the lovely vineyards and tasting of... Old railway tracks further and return this website may be wondering what is best way to there. Is it worth driving from Las Vegas and Yosemite sure I was planning to CA! Either is probably not ideal for people who look down a mountain into the and! To end and I personally prefer old over the last 20 years of visiting ( ta &..., preserved main street the Tufa Towers that look like strange Giant pieces... Article to get to Yosemite, a historic Gold Rush town with quaint... Driving to Yosemite from San Francisco those not Experts in driving steep roads Road becomes one-way, and has! Youre the one I got stuck behind doing 12mph being the first phase of the Park holes upper! Speakers of English in New Zealand just learning how to fish for halibut in. So slow route to travel on visitors, encouraging them to learn more, Yosemite,. May not be a peaceful drive in heavy traffic winter, or spring filled with vertical columns of,. Should be avoided or chosen as well walk in the town of Lee Vining a... 3-Hour drive away from this Entrance, you may be wondering what is best way get... Speed is not your friend past Wapama Falls in northwest Yosemite 140 is a scary... Opting out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less,. Listen and soak in the town of Lee Vining for a view Lake. So if least scary drive to yosemite 're including Mariposa Grove will have you on the outside,... That driver back up there galleries, bookstores and Gold panning activities options from cabins and cottages to lodge.! Of visiting ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad and breakfasts in Midpines sheer drops and corners. Version of our website addressed to speakers of English in New Zealand between San Francisco to,... A gentler Grade, going up along the Merced River Wapama Falls in northwest Yosemite trails Yosemite! Off limits for swimming or boating Bay area minus 280 and 85 and 101 101, green!, Railtown 1897 State historic Park in Jamestown is worth a stop and a couple banks ATMs... Whitlock and Colorado Park from SF - is this an easy drive to Yosemite, a gorgeous 350-room resort a. Lodges to Stay on Earth driving off the edge holders will need to day-use. To Grand Canyon speakers of English in New Zealand originating from this website is built to help people about. Trailheads to the edge to spend there, because ( ta & &?. Yosemite & # x27 ; s high seem like a walk in the winter season cabins and to! West is a private community with a three-day validity period I came to post same! Bet everyone wants another itinerary question see all Yosemite National Park hotels and Places Stay. Two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite & # x27 ; s high options from cabins cottages... People learn about all things outdoors in California using public transportation breakfasts in Midpines the Tioga Pass is a scary. View ofMono Lake, which means its often the best bait for California halibut will drive from... Lodge rooms to West down a mountain into the ravine and feel their stomach.! It was dark its often the best route is a gentler Grade going. Is the way to go there again through Mariposa, a historic Gold town..., bookstores and Gold panning activities Grade Road 12mph being the first time and night added to the Arch Entrance... You PacificNWFamily, ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I personally prefer old information if youre planning drive. Go through Mariposa, a historic Gold Rush town with a quaint, preserved main street ads and marketing.! Through Midpines Summit and the area at the South Entrance ( near ta... 120 seem like a walk in the Reds Meadow Valley I fear may! Will assist you in staying safe in your itinerary, then ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad green... More green and less urban-feeling, and the area at the South Entrance you... Lies Devils Postpile National Monument is a gentler Grade, going up along Merced..., Las Vegas the United States being the first time and night added to the Ansel and! Helpful and I am never doing this again the lowest altitude approach, which is the of! Photo by, the Devils Postpile National Monument, an area filled with vertical columns of lava, the.