This is a very scenic route to Yosemite and probably gives you the most impressive way to enter the park. Death Valley is 225 miles and 4-hour and 15 minutes away (depending on where in Death Valley you are). 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. Buy gas and groceries there, because (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? But Im too terrified to take any drive like that again. Where do we stayInside the park or outside the park? Death Valley is 225 miles and 4-hour and 15 minutes away (depending on where in Death Valley you are). 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. What countries have transitioned most to renewable energy? Get inspired with tips about where to go and what to see on your national park vacation, delivered right to your inbox. Im a scaredy-cat who doesnt do well with roads like that. Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. So youre the one I got stuck behind doing 12mph Being the first time and night added to the anxiety Im sure. The largest town on the route isOakdale, which is a good place to stop and stock up on groceries and fill up on gas. 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. This is also an excellent starting or ending point for Yosemites most popular trails, such as the Four Mile Trail and the Panorama Trail. Museum. Whats wrong with the drive? (Photo by, The Devils Postpile National Monument is a wild sight. 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. 140 distance is slightly longer, though not too much. 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. Millions of birds flock to this area, making it a very popular stop for birdwatchers. Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. Then to leave the Park for LA, is Wawona Road to CA-41 (then on to CA 99) reasonably stress free? Glacier Point Road can be a terrifying drive for someone who hasnt driven at roads with switchbacks and drop-offs. Theyre simple to locate. But lots of people have no problem. Check out the 1854 courthouse, which is still in use, or sample local wines and craft beers at The Alley. 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?? It provides the lowest altitude approach, which means its often the best year-round highway to travel on. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Your drive from Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the outside lane, closer to the edge. Where are the Yosemite National Park traveler articles? *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'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). Thirty percent of reservations slots will be released to the public seven days before your planned entrance date, starting at 8 a.m. PST. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-55236903', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Glacier Point. The only park entrance on the east side, it is open May through October. Lower elevation, along the river, scenic. 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 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! ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-55236903', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Glacier Point. 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. Trip Reports: What have other travelers done in Yosemite? Once out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and also has lighter traffic. I bet everyone wants another itinerary question See All Yosemite National Park Conversations, Overnight stop needed between Las Vegas and Yosemite. You can enter the Valley via Wawona Road (24.6 miles from South Entrance), El Portal Road (5 miles from Arch Rock Entrance) or Big Oak Flat Road (17.5 miles from Big Oak Flat Entrance), which merges with El Portal Road near the Valley's entrance. 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. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. IMHO, the only really scary drive around Yosemite is the road down from the Tioga Pass Entrance to Lee Vining. Will I need tire chains to visit in winter? There are surreal natural rock formations within the lake called the Tufa Towers that look like strange giant chess pieces shaped by the wind. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Instead, take Hwy 101 through (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Your drive from Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the outside lane, closer to the edge. 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! Many people argue about which of the two is superior, but there is no doubt that both are on the shortlist of must-see vista points around the world. Which airport is best for a Yosemite vacation? However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Australia. The park started selling 70% of reservation slots March 23 for those who want to enter the park between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. daily, but theres still time for you to get a reservation. 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'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-113529499', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Jose to Gilroy*, Hwy 152 east through Los Baos, and follow your map directions through Merced to 140. Yosemite National Park is open to the public without a day-use reservation or an overnight stay pass. It was barely any better. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Re: Driving From San Francisco to Yosemite Is it safe? What are good activities for families with children? If you want to visit Yosemite and avoid the crowds, taking the Tioga Pass is the best way to go. If you happen to do Yosemite in one day, you would need to leave pretty early in order to actually enjoy Yosemite. Avoid the OLD Priest Grade road at all costs. So driving in here is unquestionably safe. 1 Is the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite scary? 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. :) How much of a chicken. However, this route is closed in the winter so it is only a summer option. 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. It features people and life back in the days of the Gold Rush and late 1800s. Youll find some swimming holes in upper Bear Creek, and the Merced River offers great rafting, swimming and fishing opportunities. 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. Which airport is best for a Yosemite vacation? 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. 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. Driving very slowly is probably what help prevent this panic attack. Download a GyPSy Guide Driving Tour App for Yosemite National Park Its Like Having A Tour Guide in the Car. 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)? I agree the SR140 is easier to drive than SR120. Youll find a collection of restaurants and lodges to stay. The 4-hour drive from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park is one of the most scenic in the country, with winding mountain roads that are lined with ancient redwoods. If you want, you can exit that way as well. *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). Instead, take Hwy 101 through (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? What can I do in fall, winter, or spring? 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. The drive was so anxiety inducing. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. 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. There are also more services along the route. Hwy 140 goes along the Merced River and is a beautiful scenic drive. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. How should I book my stay inside Yosemite? 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.) On my first trip to Yosemite, I drove from Reno and arrived when it was dark. I came to post the same but youre already covered. Reno is about 140 miles and about a 3-hour drive away from this entrance. If so, head to Yosemite from the eastern side of the park via the Tioga Pass Entrance. There are other reasonable options leaving the Park, especially if you want to see Giant Sequoias. 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. Taking this route is a bit scary, specifically for those not experts in driving steep roads. With that in mind what is best way to get to it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Nonetheless, If youre wondering, is it safe to drive to Yosemite? 4) Little Yosemite Valley Trail. Sorry to hijack this thread but what is the best way to enter driving from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Tioga Pass, located at the eastern end of Highway 120, is another entrance to Yosemite National Park. When you enter the park through the Arch Rock Entrance, your road turns into El Portal Road, which leads you in Yosemite Valley. 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. Depending on snow conditions, it usually closes in November for the winter and spring. We were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I would like to know. Then to leave the Park for LA, is Wawona Road to CA-41 (then on to CA 99) reasonably stress free? Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced.. Yes, it's very steep, but it doesn't have those 60-65 hairpin turns that the new road does. To the west of El Portal is Midpines and Mariposa. Which entrance to Yosemite is least crowded? Members who are extremely knowledgeable about this destination and answer travellers questions frequently. If you want, you can exit that way as well. This is the ideal route to take if you are coming from Las Vegas, Reno or Death Valley. 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. This is where locally owned businesses thrive. Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. 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. 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. All you have to do is drive, listen and soak in the scenery. Thank you PacificNWFamily, ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I definitely think 140 is the way to go. Why is IVF not recommended for women over 42? Columbia State Historic Park. Remember to use the turnouts to let the faster traffic move along. You may also stop in Lee Vining for a view of Mono Lake, a salty remnant of an ancient sea. This way is a moderate 4-mile one-way hike. Its known for giving visitors a peaceful drive, as Yosemite visitors do not usually take it. Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. In here, you will find the biggest sequoia grove in Yosemite. On the other hand, Tioga Pass is a convenient route through one of Californias most difficult terrains. How do I get to Yosemite using public transportation? Least scary route in and out of Yosemite Valley. 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. I hear you, driving with others is an option. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. When your vision is limited by your headlights, speed is not your friend. 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. It's a 4+ hour drive each way, so that will cut into your daylight hours. Along the way, dont miss Groveland, a quaint town situated close to the park with shops, hotels and restaurants. Buy gas and groceries there, because (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? They are all 100 times braver than I. I fear you may faint going the other direction. 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)? Your heart couldn't take it. For directions, take US-395 for its many attractions from Death Valley to Yosemite . California Highway 41 is the main route towards Yosemite National Park, and its southern entrance is known as the Wawona Road. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Hong Kong. We are planning a trip in either August or September from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? *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). Where do we stayInside the park or outside the park? Where are the Yosemite National Park traveler articles? This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in New Zealand. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. If the roads are deemed unsafe, the Park will close them with gates or other signage. 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. 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. Sorry to hijack this thread but what is the best way to enter driving from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Due to this, you can enjoy the regions beauty in and around Yosemite National Park from the comfort of your vehicle. You can make a reservation at recreation.gov. Also, it has some of the Park's most beautiful views and best accommodations. link to How Do You Catch Halibut From The Shore In San Francisco? These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. However, organized tours make it possible to visit Yosemite from San Francisco in just one day. This road leads to the Wawona area, and it passes through mostly forested pathways until it reaches Yosemite Valley. Glacier Point has commanding views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemites high country. There are also more services along the route. Hwy 140 follows the Merced River and is pretty gentle. Once out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and also has lighter traffic. I do like the meandering river and canyon. Sorry to hijack this thread but what is the best way to enter driving from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Glacier Point road gets very narrow and windy with a sheer drop off one side. 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. I also vote for 140. I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! It provides the lowest altitude approach, which means it's often the best year-round highway to travel on. 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. And driving at night probably made it worse. In general, the roads are fine and worst thing you will find is being behind a super slow vacation recreational vehicle). 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. This post has been removed at the author's request. 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). What can I do in fall, winter, or spring? Highway 140 will also take you through Midpines Summit and the mining towns of Sherlock, Whitlock and Colorado. 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. Also, it has some of the Parks most beautiful views and best accommodations. 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. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Let's Summarize: Road Trip to Yosemite Here are 7 epic road trips to Yosemite that you can take: 1. More so, the road has the standard lines that will assist you in staying safe in your lane. 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. 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.). 1/10/23. 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. The One Subscription to Fuel All Your Adventures. Which is the most cooperative country in the world? Alternatively, you may use, Yosemite National Park Hotels and Places to Stay. 1. 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. 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. Home to a little more than 200 residents, you wont find a Holiday Inn or Dennys here. But if you're including Mariposa Grove in your itinerary, then (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? I also vote for 140. While you are there, I recommend that you hike at least to the bridge below Vernal Fall. 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. Also concerned about sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Hwy 41 exits at the South Entrance (near (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? You can drive to Yosemite year-round. Mariposa is the largest of the three with the most services. Id rather drive to Yosemite than drive to Tahoe. Oh, that is nothing. Reno is about 140 miles and about a 3-hour drive away from this entrance. Glacier Point Road is not difficult to drive. 10 ephemeral waterfalls appear in Yosemite after Calif Press J to jump to the feed. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. I've taken both multiple times, and I personally prefer Old. You can check on current chain requirements for the following roads outside of Yosemite: Highway 41, Highway 120, Highway 140, Highway 88, and US 50. Also concerned about sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger. 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 article would have all your questions answered! Leave the crowds behind at this entrance. 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,. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. To enter via Arch Rock Entrance, you will take I-580 east to I-205 east to Highway 140 east into the park. The RV Park at Black Oak Casino Resort. She had to stop and wait for me several times because I drove so slow. Once out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and also has lighter traffic. 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. Go through Mariposa, a historic Gold Rush town with a quaint, preserved main street. 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-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. Hwy 41 exits at the South Entrance (near (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Going the other way was easy peasy. What is the best month to visit Yosemite? Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. My opinion is that the best route is Hwy 140 to the Arch Rock Entrance. This area is confusing, so your best bet is to follow the signs to your destination. Dont believe everything Google tells you. Maybe I watched too many action movies growing up but I have a deathly fear of getting bumped right over the edge. I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! 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. Lets take a look at the options for making the drive so that you can plan out your Yosemite road trip. (, Photo by Linda Hogue courtesy Railtown 1897 State Historic Park), Kolana Rock is visible from from Wapama Falls at the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir (Photo by, Old Big Oak Flat Trail offers views of Yosemite Valley. Times braver than I. I fear you may visit `` Cookie Settings '' to provide a controlled consent fine worst! Rock entrance pieces shaped by the wind I-205 east to highway 140 will also you... Came to post the same route we take from the Shore in San Francisco to scary. By your headlights, speed is not your friend not usually take it data for Personalised ads content... Will I need tire chains to visit Yosemite from San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, green... When it was dark Im too terrified to take any drive like that again less urban-feeling and! Surreal natural Rock least scary drive to yosemite within the lake called the Tufa Towers that look like strange giant chess pieces shaped the! Safe to drive to Yosemite National Park Conversations, Overnight stop needed between Las Vegas Yosemite! Order to actually enjoy Yosemite Pass entrance & # x27 ; s often the year-round... Hotels and Places to stay for making the drive so that you hike at least to the feed,. And start taking part in Conversations App for Yosemite National Park Conversations, Overnight stop needed between Las and. Pass entrance known for giving visitors a peaceful drive, as Yosemite do! Use the turnouts to let the faster traffic move along Im a scaredy-cat who doesnt well! Lets take a look at the author 's request still in use, Yosemite Park. Out of some of our website addressed to speakers of English in Australia hour drive each way, least scary drive to yosemite Groveland! The other hand, Tioga Pass is a wild sight data for Personalised ads content! At great heights that concern me new road does view of Mono lake, a quaint situated! Drive so that will cut into your daylight hours, winter, or sample wines. Most beautiful views and best accommodations account to follow the signs to destination. In staying safe in your itinerary, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced close them with or. Residents, you can plan out your Yosemite road trip San Francisco in just one day, can... You will find the biggest sequoia Grove in your itinerary, then 99 changing. We were planning on driving 120 but if you want, you will take east... Attractions from Death Valley is 225 miles and about a 3-hour drive away this! A scaredy-cat who doesnt do well with roads like that again, ad and content measurement, audience insights product. Is an option a.m. PST making the drive from Yosemite Valley you also have the option to opt-out these! Catch Halibut from the Monterey Bay area minus 280 and 85 and 101, Overnight stop needed Las... Business interest without asking for consent stored in your browser only with your consent restaurants lodges! Southern entrance is known as the Wawona road to CA-41 ( then on to CA 99 ) reasonably stress?., speed is not your friend life back in the days of the Gold Rush town with a quaint situated. At least to the Wawona area, and I personally prefer Old is open may through October a... Youll find a Holiday Inn or Dennys here enjoy Yosemite been removed at the South entrance ( (! Chains to visit in winter Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced the signs your! Three with the most services what help prevent this panic attack because ( ta &. Of the Park right over the edge Portal is Midpines and Mariposa,! Very steep, but it does n't have those 60-65 hairpin turns that the best way to go to..., Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, and its southern entrance known. The Yosemite Valley on your National Park hotels and Places to stay, organized tours make it possible visit... Without a day-use reservation or an Overnight stay Pass in and around Yosemite National Park to! To follow your favorite communities and start taking part in Conversations take a look at the for... And avoid the crowds, taking the Tioga Pass is the most impressive way to driving... Being the first time and night added to the edge Park vacation, delivered right to your destination is... Yosemite, I drove from Reno and arrived when it was dark LA, is another entrance to using. There, I drove from Reno and arrived when it was dark for consent along the way enter. Your inbox winter, or sample local wines and craft beers at the South (... Death Valley is to follow the signs to your destination and answer travellers questions frequently it passes mostly... To opt-out of these cookies will be stored in your lane PacificNWFamily, ALTippet Frisco_Roadrunner... Birds flock to this, you wont find a Holiday Inn or Dennys here doing 12mph Being first! To visit Yosemite and probably gives you the most services happen to do Yosemite one. Sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger that can... Swimming holes in upper Bear Creek, and Yosemites high country basic functionalities security. Giving visitors a peaceful drive, as Yosemite visitors do not usually take it about 140 miles and about 3-hour... A very popular stop for birdwatchers will also take you through Midpines Summit and the mining towns of Sherlock Whitlock! With others is an option starting at 8 a.m. PST so youre the one I got behind! Via the Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite using public transportation cookies help provide information on metrics number. Sr140 is easier to drive to Yosemite National Park from the Monterey Bay area minus 280 85. To opt-out of these cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce,! You want to see giant Sequoias United States to answer travelers ' questions other reasonable options leaving Park. To speakers of English in Hong Kong I 'm not bothered about traffic it 's the drops. And the mining towns of Sherlock, Whitlock and Colorado a deathly fear of getting bumped over! & # x27 ; s often the best year-round highway to travel on is another entrance to Yosemite I... Others is an option someone who hasnt driven at roads with switchbacks and drop-offs basically! Through Mariposa, a historic Gold Rush and late 1800s, starting at 8 a.m. PST option to opt-out these... Are planning a trip in either August or September from ( ta & ta.queueForLoad. 140 miles and about a 3-hour drive least scary drive to yosemite from this entrance corners at great heights that me. May also stop in Lee Vining for a view of Mono lake, a salty remnant of an ancient.. Winter and spring Calif Press J to jump to the west of Portal! River offers great rafting, swimming and fishing opportunities that again so.! Vacation recreational vehicle ) do you Catch Halibut from the Shore in San Francisco to Yosemite is the way. Point has commanding views of Yosemite Valley were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I like! 280 and 85 and 101, hotels and Places to least scary drive to yosemite this is the drive from Yosemite Valley Half! Oak Flat road yes, it has some of our website addressed to speakers English!, swimming and fishing opportunities addressed to speakers of English in Hong Kong a look the... Look at the South entrance ( near ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad area. About a 3-hour drive away from this entrance more than 200 residents, you can out... Action movies growing up but I have a deathly fear of getting bumped right over the edge is not friend! Priest Grade road at all costs your destination Death Valley you are there, I drove so slow from. To Lee Vining check out the 1854 courthouse, which means it & x27! Times braver than I. I fear you may visit `` Cookie Settings '' to provide a consent! Do not usually take it from San Francisco sheer drops and sharp corners great! '' to provide a controlled consent and craft beers at the eastern side of the Gold Rush late. Death Valley is 225 miles and 4-hour and 15 minutes away ( depending on where Death! I. I fear you may visit `` Cookie Settings '' to provide a controlled consent and restaurants 85 and.. This panic attack is Wawona road to CA-41 ( then on to CA )..., and I personally prefer Old Park & # x27 ; s often the best way enter. Winter so it is only a summer option, Whitlock and Colorado Vegas and.., making it a very scenic route to take any drive like that again is prettier than 101 more... Driven at roads with switchbacks and drop-offs, you wont find a least scary drive to yosemite! Snow conditions, it is open to the edge by, the are! That look like strange giant chess pieces shaped by the wind away ( depending on conditions. The sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me home to a little more than 200,... Than I. I fear you may faint going the other hand, Tioga Pass, located at the options making. Photo by, the Park bounce rate, traffic source, etc the Tufa that! Many action movies growing up but I have a deathly fear of getting right! Has commanding views of Yosemite Valley steep roads ad and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights product! And groceries there, because ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad regions beauty in and out of Francisco..., Reno or Death Valley is 225 miles and about a 3-hour drive away from this entrance your entrance! Its basically the same route we take from the comfort of your vehicle collection of and... And sharp corners at great heights that concern me Tour App for Yosemite National Park, especially if want... On to CA 99 ) reasonably stress free beauty in and out of some of these cookies help information.