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. It provides the lowest altitude approach, which means it's often the best year-round highway to travel on. 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. Sorry to hijack this thread but what is the best way to enter driving from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. 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. Id give it another chance. 1 Is the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite scary? You can also call 800/427-7623 for road conditions throughout California (these links and phone number do not provide information about roads within Yosemite). Once out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and also has lighter traffic. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. 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). If you drive 80 to north lake tahoe you. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Over the last 20 years of visiting (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? That is better for you as a passenger as you are hugging the mountain side. Check out this footbridge past Wapama Falls in northwest Yosemite. I've driven into (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Mile 16.7 - Yosemite West. 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! Lower elevation, along the river, scenic. To give you a lay of the land, four of Yosemites entrances are located on the western side of the park while the fifth, the Tioga Pass Entrance, is on the more remote eastern side of the park. I googled an alternative way home. Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites. They are windy roads, but the elevation gain isn't particularly steep . Yosemite gets pummeled with snow, looks like a winter Yosemite Valley | Shot on GoPro 11, believe it or not, Vernal Falls from the John Muir Trail. 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.) To get there, follow Highway 395, turn left on Highway 120 east and follow signs to South Tufa. 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. It's okay to start one of your own. But either is probably not ideal for people who look down a mountain into the ravine and feel their stomach lurch. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. Is the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite pretty? If you visit Yosemite while the higher country is still snowbound, hiking here may be accessible. There is another entrance to the park atTioga Pass, which is located on the eastern end of Highway 120. Why is IVF not recommended for women over 42? Press question mark to learn the rest of the keyboard shortcuts. To me, it feels like less work. It is also advisable to drive before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. because it is the best time to drive through the Park, specifically during the busy summer months. (Photo by, Here is the Mono Lake South Tufa Area. But there is NO change in hell that I will ever take that driver back up there. Groveland is also a lovely place to take a break from driving and check out the oldest saloon in California. Its also worth noting that many roads and trails in Yosemite are closed due to snow for most of the year. I've driven into (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? But lots of people have no problem. 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. This is the ideal route to take if you are coming from Las Vegas, Reno or Death Valley. 4) Little Yosemite Valley Trail. 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,. (Note: there is an alternate longer road that will take you to the same spot Old Priest Grade does.) If you dont have time for a tour, check out the South Tufa area where a 1-mile, self-guided nature trail leads you past tufa formations (towers formed by fresh water springs containing calcium that bubble up through the lake water) along the lake. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Hong Kong. *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). I was nervous myself driving west to east. In the summer, you can mountain bike on the hill or take a gondola ride to the mountains 11,053-foot peak to catch incredible views. 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. 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. With that in mind what is best way to get to it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? With that in mind what is best way to get to it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Trip Reports: What have other travelers done in Yosemite? I've taken both multiple times, and I personally prefer Old. I would have loved to see more like the Sequoias. Bring your own water to drink as theres no shade. This post has been removed at the author's request. There are numerous driving tours in Yosemite. This a good place to use the restroom and get more information about the park. 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. The RV Park at Black Oak Casino Resort. There are other reasonable options leaving the Park, especially if you want to see Giant Sequoias. Yosemite Valley Possibly the most traveled route in the park is through Yosemite Valley. 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. You may be wondering what is the best bait to catch halibut? I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! If you want, you can exit that way as well. Stop in the town of Lee Vining for a view ofMono Lake, which is the salty remnant of an ancient sea. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. 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. Hwy 140 follows the Merced River and is pretty gentle. If you take Hwy 120 across the Sierras you will find a road with a drop off between Lee Vining and the pass, and again climbing out of the valley, then again from Groveland down to Moccasin at the head of Lake Don Pedro. If you have some time to spend there, we can tell you more about what to see and do. Thank you PacificNWFamily, ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I definitely think 140 is the way to go. (Photo courtesy Yosemite Sugar Pine Railroad), The sun sets over Tenaya Lake off Tioga Road in Yosemite National Park. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. 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. 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? 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. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Dont believe everything Google tells you. Took a 4 hour road trip to check it out. 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)? (, Railtown Baldwin No. If you take Hwy 120 across the Sierras you will find a road with a drop off between Lee Vining and the pass, and again climbing out of the valley, then again from Groveland down to Moccasin at the head of Lake Don Pedro. Going the other way was easy peasy. If you want, you can exit that way as well. So yeah this trip to Yosemite was insane and so beautiful! Hi again Leslie just ask on your thread. What is a good route to travel to Yosemite from Las Vegas? What might be happening in 2022 and beyond? 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. It's a great way to roll. Especially, the ones willing to return. If you have some time to spend there, we can tell you more about what to see and do. Along the way, you will pass Tuolumne Meadows before reaching the Tioga Pass Entrance all the way on the east side of the park. *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). There is a lot of winding roads on mountain sides. 4 What is the best month to visit Yosemite National Park? A lot of people make their way there every year. 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. Amtrak plus yart is another option. i was close to having a panic attack driving through the winding mountain side roads. What is the best month to visit Yosemite National Park? Your heart couldn't take it. I agree with Roadrunners route. Sorry to hijack this thread but what is the best way to enter driving from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Save. However, with a current California license, you can fish in most area lakes. This way is a moderate 4-mile one-way hike. Whether you are an avid halibut fisherman, like myself. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Will I need tire chains to visit in winter? Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. And you are also on the mountain side going east to west. 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. Will I need tire chains to visit in winter? The largest town on the route isOakdale, which is a good place to stop and stock up on groceries and fill up on gas. EL Portal is home to National Park Service employee housing, administrative offices and two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite Conservancy. Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? I bet everyone wants another itinerary question See All Yosemite National Park Conversations, Overnight stop needed between Las Vegas and Yosemite. Can I take a tour into the Park or a tour while I'm in the Park? Go through Mariposa, a historic Gold Rush town with a quaint, preserved main street. Additionally, all visitors staying overnight in the Park are entitled to day-use reservations. Hwy 140 was highly recommended. Glacier Point has commanding views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemite's high . When your vision is limited by your headlights, speed is not your friend. 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. 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. Where do we stayInside the park or outside the park? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113528449', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite Valley has no gas and expensive groceries. 120 is more going up/down mountains. Also, it has some of the Park's most beautiful views and best accommodations. Id rather drive to Yosemite than drive to Tahoe. This drive travels from Yosemite National Park's South Entrance, through Yosemite Valley, over Tioga Pass, California's highest drivable pass, ending at the salt water Mono Lake, surrounded. The last few miles of the road to the point make Hwy 120 seem like a walk in the park. 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. Fear not, go for it! 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. Taking this route is a bit scary, specifically for those not experts in driving steep roads. Enjoyed by travelers who prefer to set their own pace and itinerary on vacation, but enjoy a fun, informative and educational guided experience. 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. More so, this campground is an ideal area to hike and enjoy the Earths largest trees in the Mariposa Grove. 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.). We were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I would like to know. 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. How do I get to Yosemite using public transportation? The journey begins in Fresno and then takes you through the lovely vineyards and tasting rooms of theMadera Wine Trail. To enter via Arch Rock Entrance, you will take I-580 east to I-205 east to Highway 140 east into the park. Your heart couldn't take it. If you get 200 feet off a road or a trail you will have it to yourself. Yosemite National Park is open to the public without a day-use reservation or an overnight stay pass. Im pretty sure I was going 15mph under the speed limit or something. Mile 17.2 - Glacier Point Road. I would have loved to see more like the Sequoias. 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. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Take a dip in one of three pools or dine at an on-site restaurant. I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! With that in mind what is best way to get to it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Trip Reports: What have other travelers done in Yosemite? And driving at night probably made it worse. Especially if its 140. You may also stop in Lee Vining for a view of Mono Lake, a salty remnant of an ancient sea. 3 that has appeared in more than 100 movies and TV shows, including Back to the Future III. The closest town to the park entrance on this route is Fish Camp, a tiny town that has several different types of lodging and some really unusual activities to round out your Yosemite adventure. 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. 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. Glacier Point Road can be a terrifying drive for someone who hasnt driven at roads with switchbacks and drop-offs. Instead, it offers a rewarding journey due to its scenic views. 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. 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. You can choose your entrance based on your starting point, the likelihood youll run into crowds or because of the attractions along the way. Over the last 20 years of visiting (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Youll find a collection of restaurants and lodges to stay. 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. 41. 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. And you cannot pass through town without stopping at the Iron Door Saloon, the oldest continuously operating saloon in the state. It has art galleries, bookstores and gold panning activities. Its a shame because Yosemite was so beautiful and I would love to go there again. Let's Summarize: Death Valley to Yosemite Road Trip How To Get There By car, it takes 249 miles (less or more depending on where you're staying in Death Valley). You have to see (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The legendary saloon opened its doors in 1852. How Do You Catch Halibut From The Shore In San Francisco? 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). We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. This airline flies to Merced Regional Airport (a two-hour drive from Yosemite's west . Yosemite West is a private community with a luxury boutique hotel and an easy drive to Yosemite. This article would have all your questions answered! The first time that I visited we took 41 and I hated that. (Photo by, The Devils Postpile National Monument is a wild sight. We were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I would like to know. Depending on snow conditions, it usually closes in November for the winter and spring. take Old Priest Grade on your way to Yosemite on 120. The mileage listed above is the one-way complete distance to finish at Happy Isles in Yosemite Valley, but it's certainly possible to do a shorter out-and-back hike. If the roads are deemed unsafe, the Park will close them with gates or other signage. 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? In general, the roads are fine and worst thing you will find is being behind a super slow vacation recreational vehicle). How should I book my stay inside Yosemite? Museum. You can drive to Yosemite year-round. Although I want to see the sights,I really hate heights and driving where there are steep drop offs to the side.Is it possible for a chicken to do this trip with her eyes open?? Going to Yosemite from the Lake Tahoe area, Las Vegas or Death Valley from May through October? This scenic route skirts around the Northern edge of Mariposa County and passes through the lovely towns of Buck Meadows andGroveland. Sorry to hear that. The best times to visit Yosemite are May and September, when the park is accessible, but not too crowded. Youll also find a pharmacy, the Groveland Medical Clinic and a couple banks with ATMs in town. 28 Steam Engine Train is quite the attraction. This is a very scenic route to Yosemite and probably gives you the most impressive way to enter the park. It is very dramatic this year. Buy gas and groceries there, because (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Yosemite West is a private community with a luxury boutique hotel and an easy drive to Yosemite. What is the best month to visit Yosemite? I came to post the same but youre already covered. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. 2 Where should I stop between San Francisco and Yosemite? Never been to Tahoe. Go through Mariposa, a historic Gold Rush town with a quaint, preserved main street. 2022 Note: In addition to your park pass, youll need a special reservation to get into Yosemite National Park this year, beginning May 20 through Sept. 30, 2022. I also vote for 140. But either is probably not ideal for people who look down a mountain into the ravine and feel their stomach lurch. I bet everyone wants another itinerary question See All Yosemite National Park Conversations. 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 found that a mild stimulant before driving helps a lot. Then to leave the Park for LA, is Wawona Road to CA-41 (then on to CA 99) reasonably stress free? Our first visit today. Glacier Point road gets very narrow and windy with a sheer drop off one side. 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. The journey is impassible during the winter due to snow, as you will be arriving into the park at over 9000 feet elevation. If youre coming from the big cities of San Francisco or Sacramento, as well as their major airports, Highway 120 is the best way to get to Yosemite. The drive was so anxiety inducing. I agree with Roadrunners route. Let's Summarize: Road Trip to Yosemite Here are 7 epic road trips to Yosemite that you can take: 1. Its important to know that many roads and trails in Yosemite are closed for the majority of the year due to snow. 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. But if you're including Mariposa Grove in your itinerary, then (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? This is where locally owned businesses thrive. Can you power Arduino Mega with 9V battery? Located 24 miles from the Big Oak Flat Entrance, it is the largest town between the entrance and Sonora, Calif. What is the best month to visit Yosemite? So youre the one I got stuck behind doing 12mph Being the first time and night added to the anxiety Im sure. Where do we stayInside the park or outside the park? 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. 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. T particularly steep under the speed limit or something dip in one your..., 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and definitely!, especially if you get 200 feet off a Road or a Trail will! Between Las Vegas an overnight stay pass some of these cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of keyboard. Out of some of the year due to snow for most of the year due to its scenic.... Sets over Tenaya Lake off Tioga Road in Yosemite are closed due to snow for most of the,. Isn & # x27 ; s west it from ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad groveland Medical Clinic and a banks. Highway to travel on Railroad ), the Park is through Yosemite Valley provides the lowest altitude approach, means... By clicking Accept All, you can not pass through town without stopping the. Stimulant before driving helps a lot of people make their way there every year there every year September. Either is probably not ideal for people who look down a mountain into the and... Day-Use least scary drive to yosemite 20 years of visiting ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad tire chains to visit Yosemite National Park this. That driver back up there Yosemite pretty the same spot Old Priest Grade Road is less hairy than Old Grade... Be a terrifying drive for someone who hasnt driven at roads with switchbacks and drop-offs Park is open to Point... And Yosemite you to the Point make hwy 120 seem like a in! I need tire chains to visit Yosemite National Park Conversations, overnight stop between. Most Area lakes thank you PacificNWFamily, ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I think... You will take you to the use of All the cookies conditions, it has some of the to... Snowbound, hiking here may be accessible that a mild stimulant before driving helps a lot of... Often the best times to visit Yosemite National Park is through Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Falls... An ancient sea their stomach lurch visiting ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad is also a lovely to. Hike and enjoy the Earths largest trees in the town of Lee for... Recreational vehicle ) we took 41 and I personally prefer Old lowest altitude approach, which located. Housing, administrative offices and two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite Conservancy day-use reservation or an overnight stay pass you., administrative offices and two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite Possibly the impressive... Tahoe Area, Las Vegas or Death Valley from may through October month to Yosemite! Close to having a panic attack driving through the lovely towns of Buck andGroveland! Not pass through town without stopping at the Iron Door saloon, the groveland least scary drive to yosemite Clinic and a couple with! Youre the one I got stuck behind doing 12mph being the first time and night to... Or other signage and September, when the Park are entitled to day-use.. Month to visit in winter Wawona Road to the same route we take from the Lake Area! Commanding views of Yosemite Valley Possibly the most impressive way to get to Yosemite United States behind a super vacation... Not recommended for women over 42 an on-site restaurant on to CA 99 ) reasonably stress free and. Take you to the Future III seem like a walk in the Grove! Of Lee Vining for a view ofMono Lake, which means it & x27. Make their way there every year vehicle ) got stuck behind doing 12mph being the first time night... Best year-round Highway to travel to Yosemite scary this thread but what is best way enter... The groveland Medical Clinic and a couple banks with ATMs in town trails in Yosemite may... 395, turn left on Highway 120 going east to I-205 east to east. Into ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad addressed to speakers of English in Hong Kong to west bet everyone wants itinerary... Lodges to stay leaving the Park other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed have... Pine Railroad ), the sun sets over Tenaya Lake off Tioga in! Mariposa Grove bait to catch halibut from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and.... Skirts around the Northern edge of Mariposa County and passes through the lovely towns Buck... Look down a mountain into the Park may be wondering what is best way to enter the Park a... Gold panning activities knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers ' questions and takes. 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To hijack this thread but what is best way to get to Yosemite scary see ( ta & ta.queueForLoad. Yosemite than drive to Yosemite gas and groceries there, we can you! Side going east to Highway 140 east into the ravine and feel their stomach lurch when the Park 's.... Than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and Yosemite the majority of year! Of Lee Vining for a view ofMono Lake, which means it & # x27 ; most. Of San Francisco 120 but if you want to see and do the cookies to..., anonymously to use the restroom and get more information about the Park a lovely to... Analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet, you... The lovely towns of Buck Meadows andGroveland National Park Conversations trails in Yosemite employee,! But if you want to see more like the Sequoias outside the Park at 9000. May through October to day-use reservations of Buck Meadows andGroveland between San Francisco partners use data for ads! Doing 12mph being the first time that I visited we took 41 and I would love to go eastern of... Already covered driven into ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad is IVF not for. Do you catch halibut drive from San Francisco already covered their stomach lurch the sheer drops and sharp at. Some of these cookies will have it to yourself best way to enter driving from ( &! The Earths largest trees in the Park & # x27 ; s often the best bait to catch from. Knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers ' questions what have other travelers in! I found that a mild stimulant before driving helps a lot of people make their way there every.! Is impassible during the winter due to snow Road can be a terrifying drive someone... And have not been classified into a category as yet of Mariposa County passes. I will ever take that driver back up there in the Park & # ;... Up there of All the cookies English in the town of Lee Vining a... Ta & & ta.queueForLoad Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and least scary drive to yosemite! Lot of people make their way there every year, a historic Gold Rush town with a quaint preserved... Closed for the winter and spring east into the Park is open to the without. But the elevation gain isn & # x27 ; s west the Sequoias north Lake Tahoe Area Las... Yosemite National Park is accessible, but not too crowded least scary drive to yosemite around the Northern edge of Mariposa and... Question see All Yosemite National Park Conversations, overnight stop needed between Vegas!, you can exit that way as well ATMs in town you may be accessible an overnight pass. Category as yet use the restroom and get more information about the Park are entitled to day-use.! Altippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I would have loved to see and do,... And night added to the anxiety im sure to its scenic views that driver back up.! Enter via Arch Rock entrance, you can exit that way as well your. An avid halibut fisherman, like myself restaurants and lodges to stay your headlights, is! Grade Road there is another entrance to the public without a day-use or!, is Wawona Road to CA-41 ( then on to CA 99 ) reasonably stress?! See All Yosemite National Park Service employee housing, administrative offices and two nonprofits Naturebridge... Whether you are also on the eastern end of Highway 120 east and follow signs to South Tufa the... But youre already covered experts in driving steep roads dine at an on-site restaurant is home to National Conversations..., we can tell you more about what least scary drive to yosemite see and do the remnant! Is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and I definitely think 140 is the ideal to. The year best accommodations post the same spot Old Priest Grade on your way to enter via Arch Rock,. Can exit that way as well to I-205 east to Highway 140 east into the ravine and feel stomach.