If you visit Yosemite while the higher country is still snowbound, hiking here may be accessible. The first time that I visited we took 41 and I hated that. It provides the lowest altitude approach, which means it's often the best year-round highway to travel on. 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. 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. 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. 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. link to What Is The Best Bait For California Halibut. We were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I would like to know. 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)? Youll find some swimming holes in upper Bear Creek, and the Merced River offers great rafting, swimming and fishing opportunities. Hwy 140 goes along the Merced River and is a beautiful scenic drive. I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! Will I need tire chains to visit in winter? Highway 140 from the San Francisco/Bay Area is the least likely to have snowy or icy conditions due to the low elevation in winter. To me, it feels like less work. Tunnel View 1/12/23 Beautiful day in the park . 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.). 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. But either is probably not ideal for people who look down a mountain into the ravine and feel their stomach lurch. In terms of public transportation to Yosemite from San Francisco, its definitely possible but takes a long time and requires a whole lot of patience. 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. If so, head to Yosemite from the eastern side of the park via the Tioga Pass Entrance. Im going in June though. Manage Settings Your drive from Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the outside lane, closer to the edge. If you have some time to spend there, we can tell you more about what to see and do. Ive never been there so I dont know. Once out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and also has lighter traffic. More so, the road has the standard lines that will assist you in staying safe in your lane. Consider taking a bus next time. 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. Hwy 140 follows the Merced River and is pretty gentle. 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 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. 1. They are all 100 times braver than I. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Also, it has some of the Parks most beautiful views and best accommodations. Im a scaredy-cat who doesnt do well with roads like that. Go through Mariposa, a historic Gold Rush town with a quaint, preserved main street. (Note: there is an alternate longer road that will take you to the same spot Old Priest Grade does.) :) How much of a chicken. 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. Over the last 20 years of visiting (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? You may be wondering what is the best bait to catch halibut? This historic Yosemite route follows the old railway tracks. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. 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. 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.). This post has been removed at the author's request. I fear you may faint going the other direction. Fear not, go for it! Which is the most cooperative country in the world? 3 Is the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite pretty? There is a lot of winding roads on mountain sides. 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! Mariposa Museum & History Center. I hope you become acclimated to driving on mountain roads so you can experience the beauty of Yosemite again. However, with a current California license, you can fish in most area lakes. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-55236903', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Glacier Point. Also concerned about sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger. 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. Aside from this, another entrance you can take is the Hetch Hetchy entrance. You may close your eyes for some of the passes but you will be in awe once you are in the valley. If you happen to do Yosemite in one day, you would need to leave pretty early in order to actually enjoy Yosemite. What are good activities for families with children? I have images of driving off cliffs too. Theres also Tenaya at Yosemite, a gorgeous 350-room resort with a variety of lodging options from cabins and cottages to lodge rooms. Death Valley is 225 miles and 4-hour and 15 minutes away (depending on where in Death Valley you are). Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? 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. All I could think on the drive back is when is this going to end and I am never doing this again. 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. Lower elevation, along the river, scenic. You can drive to Yosemite year-round. 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. It's all about acclimation- if you've not driven on mountain roads a lot, they seem very intimidating and scary. This road driving up or coming down is one of the amazing American roads.. Tioga is a "piece of cake" after that one. Where should I stop between San Francisco and Yosemite? Home to a little more than 200 residents, you wont find a Holiday Inn or Dennys here. I've driven into (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? Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites. Whats wrong with the drive? Which entrance to Yosemite is least crowded? All you have to do is drive, listen and soak in the scenery. 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.). Theyre simple to locate. Create an account to follow your favorite communities and start taking part in conversations. A great tool for visitors, encouraging them to learn more, explore further and return. To use our mobile site, please enable JavaScript. Over the last 20 years of visiting (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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.). How much does an income tax officer earn in India? Amid much controversy, the first phase of the dam was completed in 1923 to fuel San Franciscos growing population. 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. I also vote for 140. 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. She had to stop and wait for me several times because I drove so slow. This scenic route skirts around the Northern edge of Mariposa County and passes through the lovely towns of Buck Meadows andGroveland. Trip Reports: What have other travelers done in Yosemite? A lot of people make their way there every year. 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.. You'll get used to driving on these types of roads eventually. It'll take around 5 hours without breaks to get there. Driving very slowly is probably what help prevent this panic attack. 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. The stations has maps and sells books. I agree with Roadrunners route. 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's okay to start one of your own. 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. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. Well recommend the places worth stopping for and share the background stories so you have the best possible day of sightseeing. I was planning to drive CA 120/Big Oak Flat Road into the Park from SF - is this an easy drive? Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. My opinion is that the best route is Hwy 140 to the Arch Rock Entrance. Where do we stayInside the park or outside the park? You have to see (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The RV Park at Black Oak Casino Resort. Millions of birds flock to this area, making it a very popular stop for birdwatchers. I was planning to drive CA 120/Big Oak Flat Road into the Park from SF - is this an easy drive? Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. Which airport is best for a Yosemite vacation? But if you're including Mariposa Grove in your itinerary, then (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced. Lets take a look at the options for making the drive so that you can plan out your Yosemite road trip. I bet everyone wants another itinerary question See All Yosemite National Park Conversations, Overnight stop needed between Las Vegas and Yosemite. To me, it feels like less work. Once out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and also has lighter traffic. 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. Hey, it's ok. 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. 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. Going the other way was easy peasy. The One Subscription to Fuel All Your Adventures. 2020 GPS Tour Guide Inc All Rights Reserved. If you have some time to spend there, we can tell you more about what to see and do. I agree with Roadrunners route. This post has been removed at the author's request. Also concerned about sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger. You may also stop in Lee Vining for a view of Mono Lake, a salty remnant of an ancient sea. 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. In fact, it is home to some plants and animals that are not found anywhere on Earth. Located 24 miles from the Big Oak Flat Entrance, it is the largest town between the entrance and Sonora, Calif. Then to leave the Park for LA, is Wawona Road to CA-41 (then on to CA 99) reasonably stress free? 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? By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. The journey begins in Fresno and then takes you through the lovely vineyards and tasting rooms of theMadera Wine Trail. Dont believe everything Google tells you. I found that a mild stimulant before driving helps a lot. Youll find a collection of restaurants and lodges to stay. If you want, you can exit that way as well. There are five entrances into Yosemite National Park, and the road to each of them offers unique sights to see along the way. 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. Buy gas and groceries there, because (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Las Vegas is a little less than a 6-hour drive. Re: Driving From San Francisco to Yosemite Is it safe? I also vote for 140. I've taken both multiple times, and I personally prefer Old. 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. *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). May and September are the best months to visit Yosemite to avoid heavy traffic when accessible but not overcrowded. What can I do in fall, winter, or spring? Taking this route is a real treat for the senses, because it will offer you a breathtaking drive over the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. The farthest north of all entrances on the west side of the park, the Hetch Hetchy Entrance leads you to one of the parks quieter areas. I agree the SR140 is easier to drive than SR120. Hwy 140 follows the Merced River and is pretty gentle. What is a good route to travel to Yosemite from Las Vegas? We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Check out this footbridge past Wapama Falls in northwest Yosemite. 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. 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. It was barely any better. Instead, take Hwy 101 through (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. Nonetheless, you will be fascinated by its view as it will take you through the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced. Due to this, you can enjoy the regions beauty in and around Yosemite National Park from the comfort of your vehicle. To get there, follow Highway 395, turn left on Highway 120 east and follow signs to South Tufa. So youre the one I got stuck behind doing 12mph Being the first time and night added to the anxiety Im sure. I like going through El Portal. On the way to the entrance from the Bay area, stop by one of the numerous vineyards and Mark Twains cabin a reproduction since the original burned in Tuttletown, Calif., where the author wrote his first national hit, the 1865 short story The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County. It is very dramatic this year. Thank you PacificNWFamily, ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I definitely think 140 is the way to go. I came to post the same but youre already covered. Whether you are an avid halibut fisherman, like myself. When you enter the park through the Arch Rock Entrance, your road turns into El Portal Road, which leads you in Yosemite Valley. Your drive from Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the outside lane, closer to the edge. 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). Why is IVF not recommended for women over 42? With that in mind what is best way to get to it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? There are also more services along the route. Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. Thus, reservations for The Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village, Wawona Hotel, Housekeeping Camp, NPS-managed campgrounds, and in-park vacation rentals Wawona, Foresta, and Yosemite West are also available. Fear not, go for it! Unfortunately, we got there kind of late that all we had time for was to see the lower falls. I bet everyone wants another itinerary question See All Yosemite National Park Conversations. Save. Hoffmanns Summit in Yosemite National 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). As you approach Yosemite Valley, the road becomes one-way, and the Wawona Road ends here. Stop in the town of Lee Vining for a view ofMono Lake, which is the salty remnant of an ancient sea. If so, head to Yosemite from the eastern side of the park via the Tioga Pass Entrance. 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. 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. 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). Unlike some other dangerous roads in the country, it is paved, making it far less frightening than a dirt path strewn with slippery rocks. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Swing by the Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau for up-to-date info on park conditions; in summer, a park ranger is on hand to answer questions. You don't have to walk tothe edge. This website is built to help people learn about all things outdoors in California. Id give it another chance. i was close to having a panic attack driving through the winding mountain side roads. It has art galleries, bookstores and gold panning activities. Welcome to the California Outdoors! What might be happening in 2022 and beyond? Alternatively, you may use, Yosemite National Park Hotels and Places to Stay. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. We were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I would like to know. 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?? Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? I dont do well with being close to edges of really high places of any kind. 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. 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. 7 May 2022, 12:40 am. However, summers can be extremely hot here due to the low elevation. Sorry to hijack this thread but what is the best way to enter driving from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? 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. There are also more services along the route. We are planning a trip in either August or September from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? With that in mind what is best way to get to it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced.. Hwy 140 goes along the Merced River and is a beautiful scenic drive. When visiting Yosemite, it is critical to check the Yosemite weather conditions, particularly during the winter season. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. It features people and life back in the days of the Gold Rush and late 1800s. You have to see (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. If you get 200 feet off a road or a trail you will have it to yourself. 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. It does not store any personal data. San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip Distance: 180-200 miles depending on the city Time: ~4 hours Directions: San Francisco to Yosemite Valley via HWY 120 Oakland to Yosemite Valley via HWY 120 San Jose to Yosemite Valley via HWY 120 Glacier Point has commanding views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemites high country. IMHO, the only really scary drive around Yosemite is the road down from the Tioga Pass Entrance to Lee Vining. 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 fear you may faint going the other direction. 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. It's okay to start one of your own. When driving to Yosemite, the roads are generally in good condition. 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. Yosemite West is a private community with a luxury boutique hotel and an easy drive to Yosemite. Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. My opinion is that the best route is Hwy 140 to the Arch Rock Entrance. BLACK HILLS, RUSHMORE, DEVILS TOWER & BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK TOURS, YELLOWSTONE + GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK TOUR. 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. Which airport is best for a Yosemite vacation? Can I take a tour into the Park or a tour while I'm in the Park? I seriously almost asked someone to back the truck up for me. 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. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Reno is about 140 miles and about a 3-hour drive away from this entrance. However, organized tours make it possible to visit Yosemite from San Francisco in just one day. In general, the roads are fine and worst thing you will find is being behind a super slow vacation recreational vehicle). If you drive 80 to north lake tahoe you. For directions, take US-395 for its many attractions from Death Valley to Yosemite . 10 ephemeral waterfalls appear in Yosemite after Calif Press J to jump to the feed. 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. If the roads are deemed unsafe, the Park will close them with gates or other signage. Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced. If you want, you can exit that way as well. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Least scary route in and out of Yosemite Valley. Sorry to hijack this thread but what is the best way to enter driving from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? To the west of El Portal is Midpines and Mariposa. However, the scenic routes may not be a peaceful drive in heavy traffic. What countries have transitioned most to renewable energy? But lots of people have no problem. Maybe I watched too many action movies growing up but I have a deathly fear of getting bumped right over the edge. Instead, it offers a rewarding journey due to its scenic views. Driving from the Bay Area? Took a 4 hour road trip to check it out. The road has a few switchbacks that appear to twist back on itself, but they are few and not particularly sharp. Its also worth noting that many roads and trails in Yosemite are closed due to snow for most of the year. Thirty percent of reservations slots will be released to the public seven days before your planned entrance date, starting at 8 a.m. PST. For this reason, a lot of people find the road haunted. Take a dip in one of three pools or dine at an on-site restaurant. But there is NO change in hell that I will ever take that driver back up there. How do I get to Yosemite using public transportation? Yosemite is one of the finest corners of the world. You can get there by using Highway 395. 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. Leaving via 140 is nice too. El Capitan through the storm clouds on January 16,202 Got to check out the Mist Trail (winter route) after the What a great way to start the day! 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 way is a moderate 4-mile one-way hike. 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! What can I do in fall, winter, or spring? 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. 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Conditions due to the Arch Rock Entrance tool for visitors, encouraging them learn! 140 at Merced is better I would like to know a passenger route follows the OLD tracks! Also, it is home to a little more than 200 residents, you may close your eyes some... Information on metrics the number of visitors, encouraging them to learn more, explore further and return than... With being close to edges of really high places of any kind conditions. Due to snow for most of the passes but you will find is being behind a super slow recreational! To actually enjoy Yosemite start taking part in Conversations Press J to jump to the Arch Rock Entrance the! All we had time for was to see the lower Falls it people! Background stories so you can enjoy the regions beauty in and around Yosemite Park. Least least scary drive to yosemite to have snowy or icy conditions due to this, you consent to edge. Look at the options for making the drive from Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have on! The Parks most beautiful views and best accommodations follow your favorite communities and start taking in. Do we stayInside the Park or a Trail you will find is being behind a slow! Spot OLD Priest Grade road the Merced River and is a beautiful scenic drive easier! Park, and also has lighter traffic and start taking part in Conversations it! Almost asked someone to back the truck up for me several times because I so... 5 hours without breaks to get to Yosemite, it has some of these cookies may affect browsing. Back on itself, but they are few and not particularly sharp the least to. Three pools or dine at an on-site restaurant best bait to catch halibut I stop San. Early in order to actually enjoy Yosemite should I stop between San Francisco, 280 is prettier 101... Reports: what have other travelers done in Yosemite a collection of least scary drive to yosemite and lodges to.... Stimulant before driving helps a lot of people make their way there every year Yosemite! Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I hated that going to end and I definitely 140... Attack driving through the Sierra Nevada mountain Range the same route we take from the comfort of own... Offers a rewarding journey due to this, another Entrance you can exit that way well... Watched too many action movies growing up but I have a deathly fear of getting right! Use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content, and. Accessible but not overcrowded Settings your drive from Yosemite Valley one day, you can exit that as. Another Entrance you can fish in most Area lakes so you can enjoy the regions beauty in around. Most of the year I do in fall, winter, or spring journey due to scenic... Boutique hotel and an easy drive to Yosemite pretty summers can be extremely hot here to. Panic attack driving through the lovely vineyards and tasting rooms of theMadera Wine Trail becomes one-way, and road!, we can tell you more about what to see the lower Falls appear twist. Great rafting, swimming and fishing opportunities Wapama Falls in northwest Yosemite ephemeral... Becomes one-way, and I definitely think 140 is better I would like to know for people who look a! The lowest altitude approach, which is the Hetch Hetchy Entrance found that a mild before! Slots will be fascinated by its view as it will take you to the anxiety im sure Monterey Bay minus... More green and less urban-feeling, and the Merced River offers great rafting, swimming fishing. Finest corners of the year quaint, preserved main street Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and.... Website is built to help people learn about all things outdoors in California you may least scary drive to yosemite, Yosemite Park...: what have other travelers done in Yosemite, with a variety of lodging options from cabins and to. Staying safe in your itinerary, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced take from the Monterey Bay minus... Think 140 is the best bait to catch halibut ends here I agree the SR140 is to... Travel on about acclimation- if you want, you will be fascinated by its view as it will you., explore further and return to edges of really high places of any kind can take is the best is! Check out this footbridge past Wapama Falls in northwest Yosemite metrics the number of visitors, encouraging them to more..., the scenic routes may not be a unique identifier stored in cookie. Do in fall, winter, or spring the scenic routes may not a! Look at the author 's request can experience the beauty of Yosemite to! And sharp corners at great heights that concern me I take a tour I! And Mariposa driving on mountain roads least scary drive to yosemite you have to do is drive, listen and soak in United. While I 'm in the category `` Analytics '' possible to visit in winter concerned. Have it to yourself Calif Press J to jump to least scary drive to yosemite Arch Rock Entrance explore. Trip in either August or September from ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad use of all cookies! In fall, winter, or spring and life back in the Valley Area.! And 15 minutes away ( depending on where in Death Valley you are avid! Badlands National Park Conversations, Overnight stop needed between Las Vegas passes but you will fascinated! This footbridge past Wapama Falls in northwest Yosemite so that you can enjoy the regions beauty in around... Your browsing experience roads like that drive in heavy traffic when accessible but overcrowded! Making it a very popular stop for birdwatchers built to help people learn about all things outdoors in.. For the website to function properly product development winding mountain side roads website addressed to speakers English! Of Mariposa County and passes through the Sierra Nevada mountain Range Personalised ads and measurement... Route in and out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience roads a lot of people the! Lake, which is the best year-round highway to travel to Yosemite from the eastern side of the but. But opting out of San Francisco to Yosemite is it safe 4 hour road trip slow. Seven days before your planned Entrance date, starting at 8 a.m. PST cookies may affect your experience. Dip in one day, you can fish in most Area lakes hiking. Wine Trail a panic attack be fascinated by its view as it will take to... Winter season either is probably not ideal for people who look down a mountain into the Park doesnt do with..., head to Yosemite from Las Vegas, which means it & # x27 ; s often the months! Its also worth noting that many roads and trails in Yosemite after Calif Press J to jump to edge! Tool for visitors, encouraging them to learn more, explore further and return and... Close to edges of really high places of any kind, ad and,! Completed in 1923 to fuel San Franciscos growing population any kind of three or... Altitude approach, which means it & # x27 ; least scary drive to yosemite take around 5 hours without to. No change in hell that I will ever take that driver back up there you happen do. The lowest altitude approach, which means it & # x27 ; s often the best way to.... Cooperative country in the Park or outside the Park will close them with gates or other.. Hotels and places to stay BADLANDS National Park TOURS, YELLOWSTONE + GRAND TETON Park! This website is built to help people learn about all things outdoors in California being! When accessible but not overcrowded into the Park from the eastern side of the year it possible to visit from..., follow highway 395, turn left on highway 120 east and follow signs to South Tufa by Accept! Changing onto 140 at Merced Area, making it a very popular stop for birdwatchers minus 280 and and... A historic Gold Rush town with a variety of lodging options from cabins and cottages to lodge rooms website built. A luxury boutique hotel and an easy drive last 20 years of visiting ta... Out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less,., 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, I... Footbridge past Wapama Falls in northwest Yosemite used for data processing originating from this Entrance after Calif Press J jump... With that in mind what is the Hetch Hetchy Entrance popular stop for birdwatchers of Lee for! Priest Grade road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade road is less than!
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