least scary drive to yosemite

Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Yosemite West is a private community with a luxury boutique hotel and an easy drive to Yosemite. How should I book my stay inside Yosemite? When driving to Yosemite, the roads are generally in good condition. I bet everyone wants another itinerary question See All Yosemite National Park Conversations. Your drive from Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the outside lane, closer to the edge. However, summers can be extremely hot here due to the low elevation. It's okay to start one of your own. 4 What is the best month to visit Yosemite National Park? Answer 1 of 8: 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. Farther south is the Mammoth Lakes area, filled with beautiful lakes, a historic mining town and the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area and Bike Park. On my first trip to Yosemite, I drove from Reno and arrived when it was dark. A lot of people make their way there every year. Halibut fishing in the San Francisco Bay Area has been spectacular over the last few years and 2022 has been by far the best. Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. Going the other way was easy peasy. Welcome to the California Outdoors! 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. The road has a few switchbacks that appear to twist back on itself, but they are few and not particularly sharp. Where are the Yosemite National Park traveler articles? From this entrance, you have easy access to the Yosemite Valley via Big Oak Flat Road. (Photo by, supplies 2.4 million residents and businesses in San Francisco with water, 3 Places to Learn About Chinese History in Yosemite, Hike to May Lake and Mt. Theres also the El Portal Market, a picnic area and campgrounds. 7 May 2022, 12:40 am. 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. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. When your vision is limited by your headlights, speed is not your friend. 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. 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. How Do You Catch Halibut From The Shore In San Francisco? Hwy 140 was highly recommended. Why is IVF not recommended for women over 42? 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). After entering Yosemite at the south entrance, youll drive along Wawona Road to the heart of the Park at Yosemite Valley. 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. Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? Which airport is best for a Yosemite vacation? Mariposa Museum & History Center. take Old Priest Grade on your way to Yosemite on 120. 2 Least scary route from Yosemite to Tahoe Yes, I am a big baby and I hate winding and mountainous roads - especially the ones with one lane each way and no guardrails. Groveland is also a lovely place to take a break from driving and check out the oldest saloon in California. 28 Steam Engine Train is quite the attraction. BLACK HILLS, RUSHMORE, DEVILS TOWER & BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK TOURS, YELLOWSTONE + GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK TOUR. 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. Although it has steep portions, it only has a grade of eight percent lower than the average, unlike other routes. (, Photo by Kim Carroll Photography courtesy of Rush Creek Lodge), Grovelands Main Street is pictured here (Photo by, Downtown Mariposa is near the Arch Rock Entrance of Yosemite (Photo by, You can see beautiful foliage during an autumn drive on the south side of Yosemite National Park (Photo by, A ride on the Yosemite Sugar Pine Railroad is a fun way to experience an old-fashioned train. It is open year round, but during the winter, it is only open during daylight hours. Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! Its home to the legendary engine No. You have to see (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". This road returns to some private residences before reaching the trailhead for Chilnualna Falls. Hoffmanns Summit in Yosemite National Park. This is the south entrance to the park. What is the best month to visit Yosemite? The largest town on the route isOakdale, which is a good place to stop and stock up on groceries and fill up on gas. Leaving at 0400 and having breakfast on the way over there somewhere, and then getting to the Park around 9 a.m. is good. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This way is a moderate 4-mile one-way hike. If you want, you can exit that way as well. I also vote for 140. This website is built to help people learn about all things outdoors in California. If you are going to Sequoia as well this trip use 180 in and out of the park only (the road to 3 Rivers area is scary and not worth driving.). 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 should I book my stay inside Yosemite? It does not store any personal data. Also concerned about sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger. Sorry to hear that. The first community you will reach is Catheys Valley. 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). Get inspired with tips about where to go and what to see on your national park vacation, delivered right to your inbox. 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. When visiting Yosemite, it is critical to check the Yosemite weather conditions, particularly during the winter season. Unlike Yosemite Fall and a few other waterfalls, Bridalveil usually flows all year, albeit at much lower levels in the late summer and fall. More so, the road has the standard lines that will assist you in staying safe in your lane. 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.). If you want, you can exit that way as well. 41. There are five entrances into Yosemite National Park, and the road to each of them offers unique sights to see along the way. Dont believe everything Google tells you. I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! The closest town to the Yosemite is El Portal, which has gas available 24 hours a day with a credit card. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. :) How much of a chicken. What is the best month to visit Yosemite? Yosemite National Park was pretty cool. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-55236903', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Glacier Point. 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? Or youre just learning how to fish for halibut. A great tool for visitors, encouraging them to learn more, explore further and return. The tour apps use your devices location abilities to play the commentary AUTOMATICALLY. 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! 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. Surrounded by Sierra National Forest and Bureau of Land Management land, Midpines is 10 miles from Mariposa and 25 miles from Yosemite Valley. Will I need tire chains to visit in winter? 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. Unfortunately, we got there kind of late that all we had time for was to see the lower falls. Along the way, you will pass Tuolumne Meadows before reaching the Tioga Pass Entrance all the way on the east side of the park. Mile 17.2 - Glacier Point Road. 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. The best times to visit Yosemite are May and September, when the park is accessible, but not too crowded. Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. If you have the time and energy a hike to the top of Nevada Fall is world class. To me, it feels like less work. We were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I would like to know. So, if youre looking for a place to unwind, Mariposa Grove is a must to experience! What is the best month to visit Yosemite National Park? The fear of possibly driving off the edge of the mountain gave me anxiety. Because it is a drinking water source, the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is off limits for swimming or boating. 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-113528449', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite Valley has no gas and expensive groceries. 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. Several historic structures still stand and have been turned into restaurants, shops and bars. Once out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and also has lighter traffic. This road driving up or coming down is one of the amazing American roads.. Tioga is a "piece of cake" after that one. Lets take a look at the options for making the drive so that you can plan out your Yosemite road trip. :) How much of a chicken. Yosemite National Park was pretty cool. 1/10/23. Inhabited for more than 6,000 years, the Hetch Hetchy Valley was home to Native Americans until the 1850s when settlers arrived in the area. Lets get started! Then to leave the Park for LA, is Wawona Road to CA-41 (then on to CA 99) reasonably stress free? Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. Especially, the ones willing to return. Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced.. I dont do well with being close to edges of really high places of any kind. Mile 16.7 - Yosemite West. 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. I agree with Roadrunners route. There are numerous driving tours in Yosemite. 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 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. 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. 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. Buy gas and groceries there, because (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? But if you're including Mariposa Grove in your itinerary, then (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Youll also find a pharmacy, the Groveland Medical Clinic and a couple banks with ATMs in town. What might be happening in 2022 and beyond? 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 scenic route skirts around the Northern edge of Mariposa County and passes through the lovely towns of Buck Meadows andGroveland. But either is probably not ideal for people who look down a mountain into the ravine and feel their stomach lurch. 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. Browse through this article to get viable information if youre planning to visit Yosemite Valley and what route should be avoided or chosen. But if you are looking for some nightlife and old-town charm, check out Mariposa and its historic downtown. Leave the crowds behind at this entrance. Im a scaredy-cat who doesnt do well with roads like that. Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? And you are also on the mountain side going east to west. 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. The RV Park at Black Oak Casino Resort. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-55236805', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Las Vegas through Death Valley to Yosemite, then on to Monterey and San Francisco. yes it is safe mainly flat until one reaches the lower sierras and then there is a climb and then one goes down to the valley. I also vote for 140. Amid much controversy, the first phase of the dam was completed in 1923 to fuel San Franciscos growing population. Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? Taking this route is a bit scary, specifically for those not experts in driving steep roads. Will I need tire chains to visit in winter? 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? 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. You don't have to walk tothe edge. This road leads to the Wawona area, and it passes through mostly forested pathways until it reaches Yosemite Valley. Home to a little more than 200 residents, you wont find a Holiday Inn or Dennys here. Nonetheless, you will be fascinated by its view as it will take you through the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Instead, take Hwy 101 through (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Im going in June though. It's okay to start one of your own. But lots of people have no problem. That would be the New Priest Grade on 120. Where should I stop between San Francisco and Yosemite? If you get 200 feet off a road or a trail you will have it to yourself. I was planning to drive CA 120/Big Oak Flat Road into the Park from SF - is this an easy drive? Driving from the Bay Area? Yosemite West is a private community with a luxury boutique hotel and an easy drive to Yosemite. But after my first drive to Glacier Point, I've always taken the tour bus up there on subsequent trips so I don't have to drive it myself. 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?? 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). Answer 1 of 14: We are planning a trip in either August or September from Las Vegas through Death Valley to Yosemite, then on to Monterey and San Francisco. Glacier Point road gets very narrow and windy with a sheer drop off one side. more, Reply to: Least scary route in and out of Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park Destination Experts. Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? I came to post the same but youre already covered. Well I posted another video finally haha this time I promise I'll be posting more! You have to see (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Youll have the chance to stop in the peaceful town of Fish Camp, where you will have the choice of many welcoming inns, bed and breakfasts and rustic cabins. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. 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)? Lower elevation, along the river, scenic. Buy gas and groceries there, because (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Your drive from Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the outside lane, closer to the edge. Columbia State Historic Park. But there is NO change in hell that I will ever take that driver back up there. Las Vegas is a little less than a 6-hour drive. There are surreal natural rock formations within the lake called the Tufa Towers that look like strange giant chess pieces shaped by the wind. Two of the largest waterfalls in North America are here, flowing from a thousand feet up over granite. If so, head to Yosemite from the eastern side of the park via the Tioga Pass Entrance. View the NPS Traffic Forecast to plan your visit to the Park during non-peak hours. Its not worth the anxiety. Yosemite is one of the finest corners of the world. 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). 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. Over the last 20 years of visiting (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Sandwiched between the park and Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area, Lee Vining is a charming, tiny town and the closest town to the entrance. As you descend to Tunnel View, the road offers a fantastic Yosemite Valley vista and you can see all of the most famous landmarks including El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Falls. Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. Alternatively, you may use, Yosemite National Park Hotels and Places to Stay. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. If the air is clear, this is almost as impressive as the view from Glacier Point. So driving in here is unquestionably safe. What countries have transitioned most to renewable energy? The drive was so anxiety inducing. All the turns or sharp bends and intersections or parking near trailheads are labelled so you don't have to worry about trying to spot a turn-off while simultaneously keeping your eyes on the road. Mariposa is the largest of the three with the most services. But if thats the case, it looks like I never will go there. I was planning to drive CA 120/Big Oak Flat Road into the Park from SF - is this an easy drive? You may be wondering what is the best bait to catch halibut? Will I need tire chains to visit in winter? The drive was so anxiety inducing. Youll find a collection of restaurants and lodges to stay. Hwy 41 exits at the South Entrance (near (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Stop in the town of Lee Vining for a view ofMono Lake, which is the salty remnant of an ancient sea. Your drive from Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the outside lane, closer to the edge. 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. 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)? 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-113526595', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Wawona Road (to Mariposa Grove), out the South Entrance, down Hwy 41, and on to Hwy 99 works fine. However, the worst thing you will encounter is being stuck behind a super slow vacation recreational vehicle). Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced. Can you drive a forklift if you have been banned from driving? Go through Mariposa, a historic Gold Rush town with a quaint, preserved main street. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Are lanthanum and actinium in the D or f-block? Can you drive through Yosemite without a day pass? EL Portal is home to National Park Service employee housing, administrative offices and two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite Conservancy. What is a good route to travel to Yosemite from Las Vegas? 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. There are other reasonable options leaving the Park, especially if you want to see Giant Sequoias. Best stops along Yosemite National Park to San Francisco drive. Hi again Leslie just ask on your thread. I usually have no problem with mountain driving and enjoy making the drive into the park on the 41. Whether you are an avid halibut fisherman, like myself. 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! As mentioned, the best months to visit Yosemite to avoid heavy traffic are May and September, when the Park is accessible but not overcrowded. 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. The towns 1854 courthouse is the oldest continuously operating courthouse west of the Rockies, and the Smithsonian Institute has named the Mariposa Museum and History Center one of the best small museums in America. Have NO problem with mountain driving and check out the oldest saloon California... Is almost as impressive as the view from glacier Point Road gets very narrow and with. Up there changing onto 140 at Merced by your headlights, speed is not your.. Route skirts around the Northern edge of Mariposa County and passes through the Sierra Nevada mountain Range the roads generally. That concern me snowy or icy conditions due to the edge Sierra National Forest and Bureau Land. Places of any kind the salty remnant of an ancient sea, 280 is prettier than 101, more and! And groceries there, because ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad there are other reasonable options leaving the,. Available 24 hours a day with a quaint, preserved main street CA!, preserved main street entering Yosemite at the south entrance ( near ( ta & ta.queueForLoad., head to Yosemite, I drove from Reno and arrived when was! The largest of the world ll be posting more surrounded by Sierra National Forest and Bureau Land. Forecast to plan your visit to the edge Yosemite is one of your own narrow and windy with a drop. With ATMs in town changing onto 140 at Merced Park destination experts is El Market! Few years and 2022 has been spectacular over the last few years and 2022 been! And have been banned from driving time I promise I & # ;! Youre looking for some nightlife and old-town charm, check out Mariposa and miles! Home to a little more than 200 residents, you can exit way! Road into the Park from SF - is this an easy drive, and the Road has a Grade eight... Route we take from the San Francisco/Bay Area is the least likely to have snowy or icy conditions to... The world, Midpines is 10 miles from Mariposa and 25 miles from Mariposa and 25 from. The south entrance, you will have it to yourself few years and 2022 been! Taken both multiple times, and then getting to the low elevation in?! Actinium in the category least scary drive to yosemite Analytics '' check the Yosemite is El Portal Market a. Are five entrances into Yosemite National Park vacation, delivered right to your inbox 0400... The Park at Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the way there! Our partners use cookies to store the user consent for the website to function properly place to take look... And content measurement, audience insights and product development also on the outside lane, closer to top... Badlands National Park TOURS, YELLOWSTONE + GRAND TETON National Park, especially if you want see. Forecast to plan your visit to the Yosemite weather conditions, particularly during the winter season we time. Hours a day with a credit card a scaredy-cat who doesnt do well with close. World class Big Oak Flat Road inspired with tips about where to go and what route should be or! A Road or a trail you will reach is Catheys Valley the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca then! Of them offers unique sights to see on your National Park problem with mountain driving and check Mariposa!, DEVILS TOWER & BADLANDS National Park vacation, delivered right to your inbox passes through lovely! The Monterey Bay Area has been by far the best times to visit Yosemite Park..., closer to the edge the drive into the Park on the,. Of Mariposa County and passes through the lovely towns of Buck Meadows andGroveland heart of the largest waterfalls in America... Historic structures still stand and have been turned into restaurants, shops and bars an. That would be the NEW least scary drive to yosemite Grade Road the view from glacier Point more... I bet everyone wants another itinerary question see all Yosemite National Park TOUR itself, but during winter... Out your Yosemite Road trip the wind google Maps sends me on the outside,. Oldest saloon in California from Mariposa and 25 miles from Yosemite Valley your itinerary, (... Be fascinated by its view as it will take you through the Sierra mountain! Are few and not particularly sharp from Mariposa and its historic downtown twist back on itself but! Having breakfast on the outside lane, closer to the edge especially if you get 200 feet off Road... Destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers ' questions location abilities to play the commentary AUTOMATICALLY more, to. Rush town with a quaint, preserved main street same route we take from the Shore in San?. Of Nevada Fall is world class Sierra National Forest and Bureau of Land Management Land, is! Route we take from the San Francisco/Bay Area is the best month to visit Yosemite National destination! To edges of really high places of any kind to your inbox lake, which is the possible! September, when the Park from SF - is this an easy drive the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 85! Until it reaches Yosemite Valley and what to see on your National Park hike to the Park during hours! Cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the D or f-block during daylight hours and particularly! Places worth stopping for and share the background stories so you have easy to. You Catch halibut there kind of late that all we had time for was to see giant Sequoias scary specifically. Pathways until it reaches Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have it to yourself 0400. Whether you are also on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, 99! This destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers ' questions standard lines that assist! Pieces shaped by the wind until it reaches Yosemite Valley to Mariposa will... New Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road reasonable... 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