getting to Yosemite
The closest airport to Yosemite National Park is the Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) which is approximately a 1 drive to Tuolumne Meadows when Tioga Road is open usually June until November. Other airports to consider include Merced Airport (MCE) 2 hours to Yosemite Valley, Fresno-Yosemite International (FAT) or Stockton Airport (SCK) both 2.5 hours to Yosemite Valley, or Oakland International or Sacramento International which are both 3.5 hours to Yosemite Valley. The Tioga Entrance is on the east. If you are coming up from Oakhurst you will enter via the South Entrance. Arch Rock Entrance is from the west on 140 and Big Oak Flat Entrance from route 120 and Hetch Hetchy Entrance is from the northwest from Groveland.
getting around
The best way to visit this national park is in your own private vehicle. You can drive through most of the park on paved roads. Yosemite provides free shuttles around Yosemite Valley- one that is the whole valley and other that is East only. Both run 7AM-10PM and come every around every 12 minutes. There is also a free Mariposa Grove Shuttle usually between April and November from the Welcome Plaza to the Grove. YARTS bus is a fee operate bus that brings visitors from outside locations into the park if you do not have your own transportation.
where to stay
If willing to drive out and back in a day you can make this national park a day trip from Mammoth Lakes (in east), Oakhurst (in south) or El Portal (in west) but it is best to get up early to make the most of the day.
Within the park, you can stay at one of the campgrounds or some wonderful hotel/lodges. Some require advanced reservations which can be made at www.travelyosemite.com. You can stay at the iconic Ahwahnee Hotel built in the 1920s, the Yosemite Valley Lodge, the Wawona Hotel, White Wolf Lodge or glamp at the famed canvas tent cabins of Curry Village.
when to visit
The best time to visit Yosemite is between June and September as this is when most roads are accessible. The most popular time to visit is in the July and August and thus is the time of the most crowds. Late May and early June is typically the best time for waterfall viewing and by the fall waterfalls may be dry. Trail and road closures start in October or November. During the winter months of December through April winter sport enthusiasts can enjoy the Badger Pass Ski Area. Tire chains may be needed to access park roads.
fees
Weekly passes are good for 7 consecutive days.
Private vehicle: $35/7 days
Motorcycle: $30/7 days
Person: $20/7 days (bicycle, hikers- without a vehicle)
Death Valley Annual Pass: $70
America the Beautiful Annual Pass: $80 interagency pass good for one year from month purchased- I highly recommend this if visiting more than 3 parks in a year.
top things to do
Yosemite National Park is an outdoor paradise packed stunning views and incredible nature. No trip to Yosemite is complete without exploring the Yosemite Valley. Here you can discover the heart of the park, with must-see attractions like Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall. Take in the stunning scenery and capture memorable photos.
Another must is to drive or hike to Glacier Point for a panoramic view of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and Yosemite’s high country. It’s especially spectacular during sunset.
Mariposa Grove is located in the southern part of the park. Wander among ancient giant sequoia trees in Mariposa Grove. The Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree are highlights not to be missed.
If you are up for the challenge, partake in the iconic hike to the summit of Half Dome, offering breathtaking views of the park and Yosemite Valley. You must get a permit to do this.
Another iconic trail is the Mist Trail. You embark on the Mist Trail to experience the power of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall up close. Prepare for a refreshing mist and stunning views.
Make sure to explore high country where you will discover discover gems like Tuolumne Meadows, Tenaya Lake, and Olmsted Point.
Yosemite is packed with some incredible hiking trails. Some of the best worth checking out include Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point to Yosemite Valley, Sentinel Dome, Taft Point, Cathedral Lakes, Clouds Rest, Four-Mile Trail, Mirror Lakes and so many more. There are a number of moderate and difficult hikes you can explore but remember good sun protection and plenty of water.
