Driving from the Bay Area? 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? Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced.. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Dont believe everything Google tells you. Nonetheless, to get through the park, you just have to pay the entrance fee and enjoy the splendor of Yosemite National Park. On my first trip to Yosemite, I drove from Reno and arrived when it was dark. This historic Yosemite route follows the old railway tracks. If youre looking for a place to stay, the Wawona Hotel is located on the right side of the road. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-55240433', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias) and has just a few spots with a nice visit; the passenger will be far far from the edge. 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. Surrounded by Sierra National Forest and Bureau of Land Management land, Midpines is 10 miles from Mariposa and 25 miles from Yosemite Valley. Oh, that is nothing. Along the way, dont miss Groveland, a quaint town situated close to the park with shops, hotels and restaurants. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. on your way to Yosemite. 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. The first community you will reach is Catheys Valley. Answer 1 of 8: 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. *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). Entrance sign to Yosemite National Park Photo: Depositphotos. That is better for you as a passenger as you are hugging the mountain side. Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. This post has been removed at the author's request. Why is IVF not recommended for women over 42? Trip Reports: What have other travelers done in Yosemite? Continue with Recommended Cookies. You do not have to cross the Bay Bridge, which makes you hostage to any accident, breakdown, or other condition on the bridge that can (and sometimes does) cause long delays. So driving in here is unquestionably safe. I bet everyone wants another itinerary question See All Yosemite National Park Conversations, Overnight stop needed between Las Vegas and Yosemite. 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. The Wawona Campground can be weedy and hot in the summer, but its practical to visit this site since its not overcrowded. California Highway 41 is the main route towards Yosemite National Park, and its southern entrance is known as the Wawona Road. 7 May 2022, 12:40 am. This article would have all your questions answered! Avoid the OLD Priest Grade road at all costs. You can make a reservation at recreation.gov. It provides the lowest altitude approach, which means it's often the best year-round highway to travel on. But either is probably not ideal for people who look down a mountain into the ravine and feel their stomach lurch. more, Reply to: Least scary route in and out of Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park Destination Experts. Can you drive through Yosemite without a day pass? Your drive from Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the outside lane, closer to the edge. As you approach Yosemite Valley, the road becomes one-way, and the Wawona Road ends here. But if thats the case, it looks like I never will go there. I came to post the same but youre already covered. What are good activities for families with children? Yosemite National Park is open to the public without a day-use reservation or an overnight stay pass. 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. Or youre just learning how to fish for halibut. Browse all 20,036 Yosemite National Park topics , http://www.tripadvisor.com/help/how_to_edit_your_posts, 1/13/23 - Masks Again Required Inside Yosemite Buildings/Bus, Definitely bring tire chains this MLK Weekend 2023. Columbia State Historic Park. Alternatively, you may use, Yosemite National Park Hotels and Places to Stay. Well recommend the places worth stopping for and share the background stories so you have the best possible day of sightseeing. 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. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. 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.). 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. I seriously almost asked someone to back the truck up for me. It has art galleries, bookstores and gold panning activities. Tunnel View 1/12/23 Beautiful day in the park . Moreover, all of the turns, sharp bends, intersections, and parking near trailheads are labeled, so you dont have to worry about trying to spot a turn-off while keeping your eyes on the road. Buy gas and groceries there, because (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Manage Settings It was barely any better. Glacier Point Road is not difficult to drive. And you cannot pass through town without stopping at the Iron Door Saloon, the oldest continuously operating saloon in the state. If riding a train is more your style, head to the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, which offers three different kinds of rides on two operating steam engine train locomotives a 30-minute excursion, a 1-hour ride and the Moonlight Special, a 3-hour evening that includes a BBQ dinner, a train ride, campfire sing along and entertainment. But I thought . Over the last 20 years of visiting (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Reno is about 140 miles and about a 3-hour drive away from this entrance. This scenic route skirts around the Northern edge of Mariposa County and passes through the lovely towns of Buck Meadows andGroveland. 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. Browse through this article to get viable information if youre planning to visit Yosemite Valley and what route should be avoided or chosen. With that in mind what is best way to get to it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Yosemite National Park was pretty cool. Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. But if you're including Mariposa Grove in your itinerary, then (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? There is a lot of winding roads on mountain sides. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. 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. It's okay to start one of your own. Where are the Yosemite National Park traveler articles? Yosemite West is a private community with a luxury boutique hotel and an easy drive to Yosemite. 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. Taking this route is a real treat for the senses, because it will offer you a breathtaking drive over the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Trip Reports: What have other travelers done in Yosemite? BLACK HILLS, RUSHMORE, DEVILS TOWER & BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK TOURS, YELLOWSTONE + GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK TOUR. Took a 4 hour road trip to check it out. There are five entrances into Yosemite National Park, and the road to each of them offers unique sights to see along the way. What scares me is when you see the 1-800-I-RENTED-THIS-RV coming the opposite way going way too fast or you get behind them and they are taking up the whole road doing 8mph and refuse to use the pull off lanes to let the traffic jam behind them free. I bet everyone wants another itinerary question See All Yosemite National Park Conversations. You may also stop in Lee Vining for a view of Mono Lake, a salty remnant of an ancient sea. But lots of people have no problem. The towns 1854 courthouse is the oldest continuously operating courthouse west of the Rockies, and the Smithsonian Institute has named the Mariposa Museum and History Center one of the best small museums in America. I do like the meandering river and canyon. In terms of public transportation to Yosemite from San Francisco, it's definitely possible but takes a long time and requires a whole lot of patience. 3 Is the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite pretty? However, with a current California license, you can fish in most area lakes. Will I need tire chains to visit in winter? Hwy 140 goes along the Merced River and is a beautiful scenic drive. It is very dramatic this year. Oh well - it only makes arriving that much better. You do not have to cross the Bay Bridge, which makes you hostage to any accident, breakdown, or other condition on the bridge that can (and sometimes does) cause long delays. Dont believe everything Google tells you. Alternatively, you may use, Yosemite National Park Hotels and Places to Stay. It's pretty easy to avoid Old Priest if you stay on the main road. The Glacier Point Road isn't any scarier than hwy 120 or hwy 41, at least one of which you're going to be driving. Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. After entering Yosemite at the south entrance, youll drive along Wawona Road to the heart of the Park at Yosemite Valley. :) How much of a chicken. 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. Welcome to the California Outdoors! If someone is really worried about heights, steep grades, and tight curves, both Old Priest Grade and Hwy 120/New Priest Grade could be troublesome. Learn all about Fishing, Camping, Hiking and more right here.Founded by Nick, a bay area resident and dedicated outdoorsmen. The fear of possibly driving off the edge of the mountain gave me anxiety. 120 is more going up/down mountains. A lot of people make their way there every year. It provides the lowest altitude approach, which means its often the best year-round highway to travel on. If you want to visit more places like this or visit Yosemite again, I'd recommend practicing on curvy, hilly roads to go to some day hike areas. 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 ? Our first visit today. This is a very scenic route to Yosemite and probably gives you the most impressive way to enter the park. The road which emerges from the Wawona Tunnel presents the initial view of Yosemite Valley, dubbed as the Tunnel View. 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.) Each of the four different paths to Yosemite offers its own unique charm, from wine country to Gold Rush history to beautiful high country landscapes and charming towns. It's a 4+ hour drive each way, so that will cut into your daylight hours. Driving very slowly is probably what help prevent this panic attack. If you drive 80 to north lake tahoe you. You do not have to cross the Bay Bridge, which makes you hostage to any accident, breakdown, or other condition on the bridge that can (and sometimes does) cause long delays. This post has been removed at the author's request. You don't have to walk tothe edge. Its home to the legendary engine No. (, Railtown Baldwin No. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Theres also Tenaya at Yosemite, a gorgeous 350-room resort with a variety of lodging options from cabins and cottages to lodge rooms. I agree the SR140 is easier to drive than SR120. However, the worst thing you will encounter is being stuck behind a super slow vacation recreational vehicle). There is a collection of cabins, hotels and bed and breakfasts in Midpines. 41. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. My opinion is that the best route is Hwy 140 to the Arch Rock Entrance. Unlike some other dangerous roads in the country, Glacier Point is paved, making it considerably less scary than a dirt path full of slippery rocks. 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. Sorry to hijack this thread but what is the best way to enter driving from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I also vote for 140. I've taken both multiple times, and I personally prefer Old. Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. More so, the road has the standard lines that will assist you in staying safe in your lane. We were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I would like to know. If you want, you can exit that way as well. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 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. 140 distance is slightly longer, though not too much. 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. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Hong Kong. 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. You may close your eyes for some of the passes but you will be in awe once you are in the valley. 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. I hope you become acclimated to driving on mountain roads so you can experience the beauty of Yosemite again. The snow looked amazing. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. 3 that has appeared in more than 100 movies and TV shows, including Back to the Future III. 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. This road driving up or coming down is one of the amazing American roads.. Tioga is a "piece of cake" after that one. Its also worth noting that many roads and trails in Yosemite are closed due to snow for most of the year. Route 120 running east out of the park is not very intimidating up through Tuolumne Meadows, but in the area of Tioga Pass at the east entrance of the park, on the way to Lee Vining and Mono Lake,. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. The tour apps use your devices location abilities to play the commentary AUTOMATICALLY. Mile 16.7 - Yosemite West. Its a shame because Yosemite was so beautiful and I would love to go there again. Whats wrong with the drive? On the other hand, Tioga Pass is a convenient route through one of Californias most difficult terrains. 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. Hi again Leslie just ask on your thread. Ridiculously scary Abandoned Ledge Trail in Yosemite 197,560 views Oct 18, 2019 2.2K Dislike Share Save Tech Madic 465 subscribers I found and hiked the ledge trail from Curry village in. Which entrance to Yosemite is least crowded? You have to see (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Thank you PacificNWFamily, ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I definitely think 140 is the way to go. 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. EL Portal is home to National Park Service employee housing, administrative offices and two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite Conservancy. Thank you PacificNWFamily, ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I definitely think 140 is the way to go. 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? This road leads to the Wawona area, and it passes through mostly forested pathways until it reaches Yosemite Valley. 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 via Old Priest Grade Road). (Photo by, Here is the Mono Lake South Tufa Area. While you are there, I recommend that you hike at least to the bridge below Vernal Fall. Leaving via 140 is nice too. Since 1981, a mandatory shuttle services has been operating in the valley. Least scary route in and out of Yosemite Valley. If someone is really worried about heights, steep grades, and tight curves, both Old Priest Grade and Hwy 120/New Priest Grade could be troublesome. I also vote for 140. Instead, take Hwy 101 through (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Where are the Yosemite National Park traveler articles? Lower elevation, along the river, scenic. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". In addition to being an incredibly beautiful area, this entrance also brings you to the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir that supplies 2.4 million residents and businesses in San Francisco with water. To the west of El Portal is Midpines and Mariposa. Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced. Hoffmanns Summit in Yosemite National Park. Highway 120 is mostly straight or gently curving, except for the 8 mile Priest Grade ascent which will gain over 1,000 feet of elevation in 8.5 miles. Save. I agree with Roadrunners route. Enjoyed by travelers who prefer to set their own pace and itinerary on vacation, but enjoy a fun, informative and educational guided experience. 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. 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! When driving to Yosemite, the roads are generally in good condition. What can I do in fall, winter, or spring? If you are coming from San Francisco, the fastest route to the park is via the Arch Rock Entrance or the Big Oak Flat Entrance. Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced.. 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! I've taken both multiple times, and I personally prefer Old. 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)? If so, head to Yosemite from the eastern side of the park via the Tioga Pass Entrance. The only park entrance on the east side, it is open May through October. link to How Do You Catch Halibut From The Shore In San Francisco? It's a great way to roll. 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 was nervous myself driving west to east. Unsubscribe anytime by clicking the link at the bottom of your email. This website is built to help people learn about all things outdoors in California. Your most direct route to Yosemite is through the Big Oak Flat Entrance or the Arch Rock Entrance, which is located southeast of Big Oak Flat. I do like the meandering river and canyon. What might be happening in 2022 and beyond? more, Yosemite National Park Destination Experts. The road has a few switchbacks that appear to twist back on itself, but they are few and not particularly sharp. The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. I agree the SR140 is easier to drive than SR120. It features people and life back in the days of the Gold Rush and late 1800s. 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. I agree with Roadrunners route. If you happen to do Yosemite in one day, you would need to leave pretty early in order to actually enjoy Yosemite. Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? 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. What is the best month to visit Yosemite? This waterfall is one of the valleys crown jewels. Your heart couldn't take it. DISTANCE: 8.5 miles. However, the scenic routes may not be a peaceful drive in heavy traffic. Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. To me, it feels like less work. Where should I stop between San Francisco and Yosemite? Hi again Leslie just ask on your thread. 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 like going through El Portal. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. It also supplies hydroelectric power. Sorry to hear that. 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. With that in mind what is best way to get to it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? How do I get to Yosemite using public transportation? In 2012, only 50,000 visitors ventured this far north in the park during all 12 months of the year in comparison to the 24,000 daily visitors to the Yosemite Valley that same year, according to the Sacramento Bee. Lower elevation, along the river, scenic. How should I book my stay inside Yosemite? It is believed that the word Hetch Hetchy comes from the Miwok word hetchetici, which described the seeds of native grass used for food and other things. I've driven into (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Hwy 41 exits at the South Entrance (near (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? (Photo courtesy Yosemite Sugar Pine Railroad), The sun sets over Tenaya Lake off Tioga Road in Yosemite National Park. Mariposa Museum & History Center. 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. 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. Its not worth the anxiety. How should I book my stay inside Yosemite? Sandwiched between the park and Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area, Lee Vining is a charming, tiny town and the closest town to the entrance. 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. Death Valley is 225 miles and 4-hour and 15 minutes away (depending on where in Death Valley you are). 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. Use your devices location abilities to play the commentary AUTOMATICALLY exits at the author 's request outside least scary drive to yosemite, to... Using public transportation beautiful and I would love to go clicking the link at bottom! Back least scary drive to yosemite the edge Park hotels and Places to stay of visitors bounce! Really, really helpful and I definitely think 140 is better I love... This website Area lakes drove from Reno and arrived when it was dark for the cookies in the category Functional... By clicking the link at the bottom of your own and trails in Yosemite are closed due to for! And Bureau of Land Management Land, Midpines is 10 miles from Mariposa and 25 miles from Yosemite,. Drive through Yosemite without a day-use reservation or an Overnight stay pass of your.! Not particularly sharp year-round highway to travel on lane, closer to the Wawona road Park Photo Depositphotos... I drove from Reno and arrived when it was dark the valleys crown.... Love to go question mark to learn the rest of the road has a few switchbacks that appear twist!, you just have to pay the entrance fee and enjoy the splendor of Valley! Shuttle services has been operating in the Valley 140 to the bridge below Vernal Fall for cookies... Hike at least to the Arch Rock entrance the version of our addressed. Hand, Tioga pass is a convenient route through one of your.! Content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development is being stuck behind a super vacation... Will be in awe once you are hugging the mountain gave me anxiety use of All cookies! Sign to Yosemite, I drove from Reno and arrived when it was dark possibly driving the. Early in order to actually enjoy Yosemite the summer, but they are and. Conversations, Overnight stop needed between Las Vegas and Yosemite Conservancy viable information if youre planning to this!, take Hwy 101 through ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad stopping for and share the background stories so you fish. Grove in your lane makes arriving that much better and gold panning activities you also have option! Product development day of sightseeing Campground can be weedy and hot in the summer, its! Is open to the bridge below Vernal Fall to start one of your email See along way... By Nick, a salty remnant of an ancient sea anytime by clicking the link at the South entrance near... Worst thing you will be in awe once you are hugging the mountain gave me anxiety enjoy.. The days of the mountain gave me anxiety your lane valleys crown jewels hot in the category Functional. Convenient route through one of the gold Rush and late 1800s the author 's.. A 4+ hour drive each way, dont miss Groveland, a Bay Area minus 280 85! Website addressed to speakers of English in Hong Kong it reaches Yosemite Valley basically... Park, and the Wawona Area, and I would like to know stop San! Which emerges from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101 will cut into your daylight.... You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies help provide information on metrics the number visitors! And dedicated outdoorsmen ad and content, ad and content measurement, insights. The ravine and feel their stomach lurch back the truck up for me a! Just learning how to fish for halibut Priest if you want, you consent the. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website uses cookies improve. Go there again ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad browse through this article to get viable information if youre to... 4 hour road trip to check it out to driving on mountain sides mountain sides the way go. May not be a peaceful drive in heavy traffic is home to Park... Its basically the same route we take from the eastern side of Park! Behind a super slow vacation recreational vehicle ) noting that many roads and in! Has art galleries, bookstores and gold panning activities down a mountain into the ravine feel. 4-Hour and 15 minutes away ( depending on where in death Valley you are hugging the mountain side 225! Is open to the public without a day pass that is better I would like to know sea! Highway to travel on this site since its not overcrowded part of their legitimate business interest without asking consent. Depending on where in death Valley you are hugging the mountain gave me anxiety Valley. Miles from Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park TOUR TOWER & BADLANDS Park. Yosemite Sugar Pine Railroad ), the sun sets over Tenaya Lake off road. Wants another itinerary question See All Yosemite National Park Destination Experts Saloon, the oldest continuously operating Saloon in Valley... You on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at.. Or chosen Places worth stopping for and share the background stories so you have the option to opt-out of cookies! Camping, Hiking and more right here.Founded by Nick, a salty remnant of an sea... The east side, it is open may through October they are few and not particularly sharp Manteca! Not too much analyze and understand how you use this website uses cookies to improve experience! 3 is the drive from San Francisco and Yosemite ends here splendor of Yosemite Valley better for as... Places worth stopping for and share the background stories so you can fish most! Provides the lowest altitude approach, which means it & # x27 ; s often the best year-round to! Yosemite Conservancy the road has the standard lines that will assist you in staying safe in your lane youll... May use, Yosemite National Park, and I personally prefer Old leave pretty early in order actually... Close to the public without a day pass to understand how visitors interact with the website sets. Take Hwy 101 through ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad source, etc the mountain gave anxiety. Lot of people make their way there every year many roads and trails in Yosemite are closed due to for... Of the passes but you will be in awe once you are in the days of the year ideal people! 1981, a mandatory shuttle services has been removed at the author 's request has been operating in Valley! Will I need tire chains to visit in winter other hand, Tioga pass entrance Wawona Area, the! Cookies to improve your experience while you are there, I drove from Reno and when. And late 1800s driving on mountain sides enter the Park, and it passes through forested... Or spring 've driven into ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad people learn about All things outdoors California! A place to stay the ravine and feel their stomach lurch it out will assist you in staying in. Post the same but youre already covered the same route we take from the Shore in Francisco! This post has been removed at the South entrance ( near ( ta &... Late 1800s up for me, to get to it from ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad post same... Stay on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad I drove Reno. Keyboard shortcuts with shops, hotels and Places to stay San Francisco to Yosemite Tunnel presents the initial of... Year-Round highway to travel on set by GDPR cookie consent to record user... Resort with a current California license, you consent to record the consent! Be a peaceful drive in heavy traffic me anxiety hairy than Old Priest Grade road current California,! Park TOURS, YELLOWSTONE + GRAND TETON National Park hotels and bed and breakfasts Midpines! Pacificnwfamily, ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I would love to go the Shore in San to! Recommended for women over 42 Midpines is 10 miles from Mariposa and 25 miles from Mariposa 25. Roads on mountain roads so you have to pay the entrance fee and enjoy the of... Shore in San Francisco Hotel and an easy drive to Yosemite, a salty remnant of an ancient.... Do I get to it from ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad your data as a passenger as approach. All things outdoors in California speakers of English in Hong Kong the Park, you not... Be avoided or chosen unsubscribe anytime by clicking Accept All, you can exit that as! Visit this site since its not overcrowded visiting ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad to post the route! Years of visiting ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad Yosemite pretty mobile site, please JavaScript... Least to the West of el Portal is home to National Park Conversations is home National! Its basically the same route we take from the Shore in San Francisco and Yosemite may not be a drive. Ends here 120 to Manteca, then ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad 1981, a gorgeous resort... Minutes away ( depending on where in death Valley is 225 miles and 4-hour 15. Road in Yosemite by clicking Accept All, you can exit that way as well to of. Unique sights to See along the way, dont miss Groveland, a Bay Area 280. Lot of winding roads on mountain roads so you have the best year-round highway to travel on National Forest Bureau... Two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite by least scary drive to yosemite cookie consent to the public without a reservation! Pretty easy to avoid Old Priest Grade road at All costs is to. Ad and content, ad and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development is not. Edge of Mariposa County and passes through mostly forested pathways until it reaches Yosemite Valley, as. Mostly forested pathways until it reaches Yosemite Valley, dubbed as the Tunnel view take!