Are you on your way to California? Do you like hiking and being in contact with nature? If you answered yes to these questions, then you can't miss Yosemite Park, one of the most visited parks in the United States.
the nature of Yosemite Park is really privileged. In addition to the great granite peaks, there are also valleys, trails and beautiful waterfalls. A destination that is sure to impress and attract thousands of visitors all year round. It is no wonder that it is one of the most visited parks in the United States, according to the National Park Service.
Yosemite National Park, California, was created in 1864 and has more than 3 km² of protected and conserved area. Among the most iconic images are the Half dome and the El Capitan (protagonist wall of the Oscar and Bafta-winning document, Free Solo).
Yosemite National Park is the kind of attraction for the whole family, regardless of age. Even if it's just passing through or even a day trip, it's worth it! And, of course, you can spend more days, calmly enjoying everything there is to do there.
In this comprehensive guide, we've put together all the information you need to know before visiting Yosemite National Park.
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- Park location
- Directions
- Planning your visit to the Park
- Park map
- How to get around the Park
- best time to visit
- how many days stay
- What to see in the Park – Main attractions
- What to bring to the Park
- Where to stay
- Other tours nearby
- Extra Tips
- What you need to know before you go
Where is Yosemite National Park
O Yosemite national park is located in the state of California, 270 km from downtown San Francisco – or a 3h20 journey by car. ?
Another big city not far away is Los Angeles, which is 450 km away. Despite being close, the distance is not short, and in this case I do not advise planning a day trip – you would spend at least 4h40 in the car.
Las Vegas is further away, approximately 550 km, or just over 5:30 hours by car.
How to get to Yosemite Park
The easiest way to get to Yosemite National Park it's by car. Even with the possibility of going by bus from San Francisco and the availability of free internal transportation within the Park – the shuttles –, going with your vehicle will make your displacement much easier.
>> Read our Car Rental USA Tips – The Guide to Secure the Best Deals
By car
Before you leave, keep in mind that Yosemite does not have a specific address. That is, the car's GPS may not find the destination. But Google Maps usually works pretty well. To make it easier, I suggest searching through the park's ordinances or specific points you want to visit.
#AnotaADica: Also, don't forget to download the offline maps on your cell phone. As Yosemite is a forested area, the signal may not pick up there, so it's best not to risk it.
The closest entrance to San Francisco is the Yosemite National Park Big Oak Flat – 40 km from Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. In this visitor center you will find more information, maps, souvenir shops and restaurants.
Gas stations are rare inside the park. The largest amount is on the west side, and there are none in Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows – the latter is 87 km from the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. So be careful with the car's tank.
It is worth remembering that during the winter part of Highway 120 (Tioga Road), which crosses the park from east to west, is closed and only opens when the weather conditions improve (generally between late May and early June).
The regions where you can find fuel inside the park are:
- In Wawona (Visitor Center, open only in summer)
- Crane Flat
- The portal
>> See more about this region of California in the Gold Country post
by public transport
You can take a bus from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park. But it takes a lot of work and can take up to 9 hours to arrive (I don't recommend it).
Ideally, your trip should be optimized so that you enjoy as much as possible, discover new places and, if you can, get some rest, right? But if you still want to tackle this option, here are two suggestions:
- bus only: From the San Francisco bus terminal, take the Greyhound to Merced City – Merced Amtrak station. From there, take a YARTS bus and travel to the Yosemite Visitor Center.
- Train + bus: From downtown San Francisco, take the BART (Richmond – Millbrae – towards Richmond), and get off at Richmond Station. From there, take an Amtrak train to Merced Station. Travel with YARTS to the Yosemite Visitor Center.
A tip: remember to buy your ticket in advance, so you don't miss the trip.
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Planning a visit to Yosemite Park
Yosemite Park Map
To help you find your way around, check out the official park map:
Opening Hours
Yosemite National Park is open year-round and you don't need advance reservations to enter. However, if you plan to spend one or more nights, it is better to book your campsite or lodge in advance.
With the exception of the concierge Hetch Hetchy, to the north, all the others are open 24 hours a day. If you arrive at a time when no one is working, no problem. Enter as normal and pay your admission at the visitor centers or at the exit.
How much does the Yosemite National Park ticket cost?
Entrance to the park costs US$35 per private vehicle (up to 15 seats) or US$30 per motorcycle. In the case of access on foot, by bicycle or by private vehicle (with more than 15 people) the cost is 20 dollars per person.
#AnotaADica: If you're going to visit more than three national parks in the US, it's worth getting the annual pass. For 80 dollars you have access to all American National Parks for a period of one year.
See where to purchase your official annual card in the online store.
>> Also read our post about Tuolumne, one of Yosemite's gateway regions.
Getting around Yosemite National Park
Parking in the Park
The best way to get around the park is through the shuttles, they are free buses inside the park that have a defined route and stop at the main tourist spots in Yosemite.
But, if you prefer to go with your car, the park has parking, but arrive early, as it is usually full. Just pay attention to the speed signs and where to park. Follow the signs and be careful not to get a souvenir ticket.
Shuttles – Free transportation in Yosemite National Park
Whether by car or public transport, you can make use of the shuttles to access specific points in the Park, such as some viewpoints, picnic areas and trails.
Shuttles run through much of Yosemite. Some are open year-round, others are seasonal.
- Yosemite Valley Shuttle System: is one of the main and most used. Go through the main attractions of the east region of the valley all year round, from 7 am to 22 pm.
- Captain Shuttle: It takes a route similar to the Yosemite Valley Shuttle, but with stops at El Capitan, Four Mile Trailhead and Valley Visitor Center. It operates between mid-June and early October, from 9 am to 17 pm.
- Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle: circulates between the Tioga Pass e Olmsted Point – including the Lago Tenaya, in the region of Tuolumne Meadows. It works in summer, between mid-June and beginning of September.
A tip, before going to the park, check the Park's official website to see updated information about the shuttles, they may change or be closed depending on the time of year.
When to go – Best time to visit Yosemite
It is not easy to say when is the best time to visit Yosemite Park. Every season of the year, the landscapes change and the park seems like a different place.
Each season has its beauties, advantages and disadvantages. To help you, we have gathered some characteristics of each season for you to choose from:
Yosemite Park in Summer – June to Augusto
During the summer, many visitors are attracted by the warmer weather – which makes the park very crowded, especially with the school holidays falling well during this period as well.
The season is great for camping, walking and enjoying nature, with a nice heat and little chance of rain. The drought, however, causes some waterfalls to considerably reduce the water level – for example, the famous Yosemite Falls can dry up in August.
Temperatures range between 31°C and 10°C in the Yosemite Valley and Wawona region, and between 20°C and 2°C in the Tuolumne Meadows region.
Yosemite in Autumn – September to Novembero
When there are few visitors, it is possible to walk more peacefully along the roads that are still open. Take the opportunity to enjoy the colors of autumn, a show apart, I assure you.
Temperatures, a little lower, vary between 12ºC and -2ºC in the Yosemite Valley and Wawona region. Even with this not very encouraging climate, it is possible to witness beautiful sunny days.
Some regions stay open until November, but it all depends on when the first snows arrive. Depending on the weather conditions, the use of tire chains will be mandatory – stay tuned.
It is worth remembering that Tioga Road – which cuts through the park – services are closed in September and after October 14, parking is prohibited at night.
Yosemite in Winter – December to February
The snow once again transforms the landscape, it is very cold, but this does not deter the few visitors. Temperatures can reach -10°C in the region.
A Tioga Road may close in mid-November, and circulation between Crane Flat e Tioga Pass. Access to the region Tuolumne Meadows is also closed.
Yosemite in Spring – March to May
With the thaw of the snow, the water level of the rivers begins to rise and waterfalls appear again. At the beginning of the season some roads and services are still closed, such as Tioga and Glacier Point – with the exception of the regions of the Yosemite Valley e You see, open all year.
But visitors begin to make their presence felt, especially on weekends.
Temperatures reach a maximum of 21ºC and a minimum of 4ºC in the Yosemite Valley and Wawona region. It has a maximum of 11ºC and a minimum of -6ºC in the Tuolumne Meadows region.
How many days to stay at Yosemite Park
The entrance to Yosemite National Park gives you the right to stay up to 7 consecutive days in the area, that is, you can enjoy it well.
Is a week too much for your script? I suggest at least 2 or 3 full days. Even if you want to do a day trip, which I don't recommend because it's too fast, it will be worth it and you'll still want more. Believe it.
Yosemite Park what to do
Yosemite Visitor Center
If you can, go to the Visitor Center first. There you will get a map and all the information you need to start your exploration.
In addition to a museum with the history of the first residents of the park, there is also a small shop with souvenirs and photos.
Yosemite Valley
Yosemite Valley is a region with many attractions and passages. It is one of the most visited areas.
A few points deserve your attention, I have separated them for you to put on your list:
Tunnel View – It has a spectacular view, from where you can already see El Capitan, Half Dome and other mountains that complete the landscape and are one of the most famous in the park.
El Capitan – a well-known rock formation. It's not hard to see, and from Northside Drive it's even easier. Stop the car in the permitted places and enjoy.
Glacier Point – A special place to see Half Dome and an overview of the entire park. You can get here by trail (Four Mile Trail) or by car (Glacier Point Road).
Yosemite Falls – You can see part of the waterfall from the road, but to reach the Lower Yosemite Falls viewpoint, you have to take an easy and short trail, less than 1 km. If you have the time and energy, follow the trail towards Yosemite Point to see Upper Yosemite Falls.
Two other beautiful waterfalls, also accessible by trail, are Nevada Fall and Vernal Fall.
Trails in Yosemite: another attraction of the park are the trails, with more than a thousand kilometers in length. Some of them are, to the south of the park, the Four Mile Trail. The Mist Trail, the trail is heavier and leads to Nevada Fall and Vernal Fall.
Giant Redwoods in Yosemite National Park
It is in Mariposa Grove, near the south entrance of the park, that you will find the giant sequoia forest. They impress, even more so after knowing that they can reach 100 m in height.
It's almost 90 km from the Big Oak Flat entrance to the north, or 50 km from Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. Be aware that the Mariposa Grove road closes in mid-November and only reopens between May and June.
What to Bring to Yosemite Park
What to pack for Yosemite National Park depends on what you want to do and how long you'll be there.
For example, a day trip doesn't require much, you can bring your own food and drink and have your own picnic. You can also eat at one of the park's restaurants.
Yosemite is a mountain region, so be prepared for weather changes and the possible sensation of the four seasons in the same day. Even the hottest days cool down by nightfall, so bring warm clothes.
If you are going to hike, wear appropriate clothing and footwear. Basic items such as water, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are always advisable. Oh, and of course, don't forget your camera.
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Where to stay in Yosemite National Park
inside the park
Staying inside the park is an option. To sleep in lodges or tents, it is necessary to make a reservation directly on the website. See the list of accommodations here. Don't leave to book at the last minute.
Camping is another option to enjoy your days. Don't think that you necessarily have to go a long way to camp. There are campsites close to the visitor centers. For more information and reservations at official campsites, click here.
If you intend to go on an overnight trail, remember to go to the visitor center to notify the park rangers and, if necessary, request a camping permit. They also rent mini “anti-bear” kegs for you to store your food.
Most campsites have storage boxes, but depending on the time of year and maintenance, they may not be available.
out of the park
Some nearby cities have great hotels near Yosemite Park. One of the advantages is being able to find cheap accommodation in these places. ?
Em Mammoth Lakes, o The Mammoth Creek Inn ($$), with large rooms (some even with kitchen) and the Sierra Lodge ($$), comfortable and with a fireplace in the common area, are good options.
In Oakhurst, Comfort Inn Yosemite Area ($$) is very quiet for a good night's rest, while the house Pinecone Getaway ($$) is a good choice for those going in a group.
In the city of Mariposa, common base for those who go to Yosemite, the Miners Inn ($$) is an excellent choice. The hotel has super spacious rooms, with a fireplace, and even a swimming pool for guests. With an excellent location for those who go to the parks in the region, the Best Western Plus Yosemite Way Station ($$) has a complete structure to serve travelers.
In Groveland, the Hotel Charlotte ($$) is a very popular option. Those looking for a cheaper option (which is a rarity in the region) will like the Jackass Hostel ($), which is in the North Fork area, less than 50 km from Yosemite National Park.
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Other tour options to match Yosemite
A place not very touristy, but close to the park, are the Mammoth Lakes, close to Lake Crowley. To get there, you have to cross the Tioga Pass. There are numerous thermal waters, most of which are free. One of them is the Wild Willy’s Hot Spring.
Two other national parks close to Yosemite that you can include in the itinerary and enjoy the trip is the Sequoia national park and the Death Valley National Park.
To the north, less than 300 km from Yosemite National Park, is the Lake Tahoe, the largest mountain lake in North America and the second deepest – another ride of unparalleled beauty!
>> Also read our guide to Lake Tahoe
Yosemite Extra Tip – Beware of Bears!
Not to be scared, but you need to know that Yosemite is home to black bears, and there are hundreds of them living in the area. They are smaller and less aggressive than grizzly bears, but that doesn't mean you should be less careful and attentive.
Black bears are super curious and have a very keen sense of smell. Therefore, it is mandatory to use anti-bear boxes to store food, especially if you are going to spend the night in the park, whether camping or in lodges. Under no circumstances leave food in the car or in the tent.
But what is food for a bear? Basically anything that smells – whether edible or not. In addition to our normal food, you can include hygiene items in this list (soap, toothpaste, deodorant), lip balm, sunscreen, kitchen items (even after washing) and so on.
Do I need to bring bear spray (bear repellent)? It's not a rule, but I always had mine on hand. I saw a bear once, but I didn't need to use it. He soon jumped into the woods and ran.
More information about bears in Yosemite National Park can be found on the official website here.
What you NEED to know BEFORE going to Yosemite National Park
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Keep reading about California:
Gold Country – Learn EVERYTHING About the California Region
Tuolumne – Guide to the Wild West County in the USA
Lake Tahoe – Everything for You to Plan Your Trip
Car Rental USA – The Guide to Secure the Best Deals
Where to buy in San Francisco California
San Francisco California: The Complete City Guide
Things to do in San Francisco, California: 22 must-see attractions
Where to Eat in San Francisco, California
Where to stay in San Francisco – Best regions and hotels to stay
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