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San Francisco to Yosemite National Park: 12 Ways to Travel

by Jill Loeffler   •

Published: April 4, 2023

There are several ways to travel between San Francisco and Yosemite National Park. Driving on your own or taking a one-day guided tour are two of the most popular options.

The great part is that there are also many other options as well. These include taking a multi-day tour, flying to a nearby airport, taking a shuttle from SFO, or taking public transportation such as a bus or train.

The fastest of these will take about 4 hours. The slowest will take about 14 hours.

Yosemite National Park is a Northern California gem with various hiking trails and outdoor activities. You can explore Yosemite Falls, check out Half Dome, or soak in the beauty of El Capitan.

You can visit Yosemite for just a day or extend your visit out to a week or more.

For each of my recommendations, I've included tips, an estimate for the one-way journey, and other details to help you decide which one is best for you.

Disclaimer : I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

1. Drive via CA-120

The most popular and direct route from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park is via 120 to the Big Oak Flat entrance. It's a fun way to enjoy a Yosemite road trip.

This route takes about 4 hours to reach the park entrance and another 45 minutes to reach Yosemite Valley.

You'll leave San Francisco over the Bay Bridge on highway I-80. You'll then follow the signs for I-580 E and take this all the way to I-205 toward Tracy/Stockton. You'll then take I-5 N for one mile until you reach the CA-120 exit toward Manteca/Sonora.

You will then follow the signs to stay on CA-120 E until you reach the Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite National Park.

This is also the route you want to take to reach the Hetch Hetchy entrance, which is a little farther north and not as trafficked. Instead of taking CA-120 all the way in, you'd take a left about 10 miles earlier onto Cherry Lake Rd/Forest Rte 1N07. It's then another 20 minutes to reach the reservoir.

On your way, you will pass through Oakdale, Groveland, and Buck Meadows.

>> Find some of my favorite things to do in Yosemite

2. Drive via CA-140

The second option is to take CA-140 into Yosemite National Park. This is an option for those that might be staying in or want to visit the historic town of Mariposa.

This route takes about an extra half hour, and you will enter Yosemite National Park through the Arch Rock entrance.

This route starts out the same as the one above. You'll leave San Francisco via the Bay Bridge and then follow signs to I-580 E. You'll then take I-205 E toward Tracy/Stockton, merge onto I-5 N for 1 mile, and then exit onto CA-120 E.

You'll then exit off CA-120 onto CA-99 S toward Modesto/Fresno and take that for 55 miles until you reach Exit 186B for CA-140.

You'll find yourself in the town of Merced where you'll turn left onto CA-140 E/Yosemite Pkwy. From this point, the park entrance is about 1.5 hours away. It's another 30 minutes from this entrance to reach Yosemite Valley.

>> Fun things to do near Yosemite

3. One-Day Guided Bus Tour

If you don't want to drive and only have a day to explore, then I'd recommend taking a one-day tour from San Francisco to Yosemite.

This tour makes for a long day, but you'll get the chance to relax and enjoy yourself as someone else does the driving.

Pickups at a few designated locations around San Francisco start at 6:30 am, and you'll leave San Francisco a little after 7 am.

You'll then be driven to Yosemite, with a short stop at a local produce stand in the Central Valley along the way.

Once you arrive at Yosemite National Park, you will enjoy a 1.5-hour guided tour on the bus. It will include information on the history of this famous national park and views of its most iconic landmarks, including El Capitan, Half Dome, Bridalveil Falls, Sentinel Dome, and more.

The bus will then stop, and you will have 3 hours to explore Yosemite Valley. You can have a picnic lunch or enjoy one of the local restaurants in the valley ( find some recommendations here ).

You can do a short hike, check out the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, visit the Ansel Adams Gallery, admire Half Dome from the valley floor, or do a little shopping in Yosemite Village.

You will then return to the bus for the 4.5- to 5-hour drive back to San Francisco. The full tour takes about 15 hours, so you'll return to San Francisco around 9 or 10 pm.

This tour is an easy way to get a quick overview of this fantastic national park. It's offered most days of the week and starts at $209 per person, which includes park admission.

>> Find out more about this guided tour

More Great One-Day Tours from San Francisco to Yosemite

4. two-day yosemite tour.

If you want to spend a little more time in Yosemite National Park, then you will love this two-day tour. This one starts with an early morning pickup from your San Francisco hotel.

Once you reach Yosemite National Park, you'll first get to check out Tuolumne Grove, home to one of the park's giant sequoia groves.

After you explore this fantastic area of the park, you'll continue to Inspiration Point, which offers stunning views of Yosemite Valley. From there, you will continue to Yosemite Valley, where you will get to spend the rest of your stay exploring as you wish.

Admission to the park is included, but accommodations are not, so make sure to book a room at one of the Yosemite Valley hotels or campsites ( learn more here ).

Since you'll have plenty of time on your own to explore the park, you can choose from various activities, including hiking, rafting, biking, and rock climbing. On Day Two, you'll meet up with the tour bus based on an agreed-upon time and location.

This one starts at $279 per person and is offered most days of the week. 

>> Find out more about this two-day tour option

>> More about visiting Mariposa Grove

5. One-Way Shuttle Transfer from SFO

If you plan to head to Yosemite National Park from San Francisco for a few days or more, you can also take the one-way shuttle transfer from San Francisco airport.

It's a great option for those that don't need a car for their stay in Yosemite National Park.

Even though this is a transfer service, a nice addition is that, from June to September, they make a stop at Tuolumne Grove on the way in. That way, you can explore this area of giant sequoias on your own for a while before they drop you off in Yosemite Valley.

You can book a one-way transfer from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park and the return trip based on the day you plan to return to SFO.

The one-way trip takes around 7 hours with bathroom and meal stops along the way. The advantages of this option are the price (starting at $149) and the guaranteed daily departures.

Even though it's considered a "transfer" and not a full tour, the knowledgeable driver will tell you about the are and stop for photo ops.

>> Find out more about this shuttle transfer option

6. Train + Bus

If you don't want to rent a car, you can take public transportation from San Francisco to Yosemite. This is a good option for those that plan to spend several days in Yosemite.

It includes two transfers. You will first need to make your way from San Francisco to one of two Amtrak stops in the East Bay, which takes about half an hour. 

From the East Bay, the train ride to Merced is about 3 hours. From there, the second bus transfer is another 3 hours.

With transfers and waiting, this option can take upwards of 7 hours in total. The estimated total cost each way starts at $64 ($42 for Amtrak plus $22 for the YARTS bus). 

Option 1: Emeryville Station

Amtrak runs a bus bridge from downtown San Francisco over to the Emeryville Station (the closest station to San Francisco).

Called Amtrak Thruway Connection, this bus leaves from Salesforce downtown and runs from around 6 am to around 10 pm. You'll want to confirm the exact times it leaves San Francisco to be sure you can make it to Emeryville before your train leaves.

This bus bridge is included with your ticket.

Option 2: Richmond BART Stop

The second option is to take BART (the Bay Area subway system) from downtown San Francisco to the Richmond stop, which is shared with the Amtrak train system.

This BART train runs every 15 to 20 minutes.

Once you arrive at the BART Station, follow the signs to get to the Amtrak train stop within this station.

Transfer to the Bus at Merced for Both Options

You will then take Amtrak to the train station in Merced. From here, you will transfer to the YARTS Merced Highway 140 bus.

It picks up at the Merced Amtrak Station five to six times a day, depending on the season. Most of the pickup times are in the morning, with one in the evening, so you'll need to coordinate your arrival with this bus.

The bus has three stops in Yosemite Valley. You can get off at the Yosemite View Lodge / Laurel Cottage (inbound only), Curry Village, or the Yosemite Valley Visitors Center.

During high tourist seasons, reservations for this bus are recommended. Walk-ons are welcomed only as space permits.

7. Greyhound Bus

You can also take the Greyhound Bus to Merced and then switch to the local YARTS bus to get into Yosemite. This is the least expensive option on the list.

You'll start by picking up the Greyhound Bus in San Francisco at the Salesforce Transit Center in downtown San Francisco. You'll follow the instructions on your ticket and the signs to find the bus when you arrive.

When you get to Merced, you will then transfer to the YARTS Highway 140 bus (at the Merced Transpo stop), which will take you to Yosemite Valley.

The bus ride from San Francisco to Merced takes almost 4 hours. The bus ride into Yosemite National Park takes another 3 hours. So, it will take anywhere from 7 to 9 hours for this option with transfers.

One thing to note about traveling by Greyhound is that they have a direct route to Merced and one that includes a transfer. Make sure to book the one that is direct as the route with the transfer will take you more than 8 hours (and then you'll have another 3 hours on the bus into Yosemite National Park).

This bus runs every day of the week and the total cost each way starts at $42 ($20 for Greyhound and $22 for the YARTS bus).

8. Drive + Bus from San Francisco to Yosemite

You can also drive to Groveland, Merced, Fresno, or any of the YARTS bus stops and take the bus in from there.

This option allows you to leave the driving into Yosemite National Park to someone else so that you can soak in the beauty all around you.

It's a great option if you plan to stay for a night or two in the area. You could drive to a hotel in one of the historic mining towns the first day, stay the night, and then grab the bus into the park to explore the next.

This option will vary depending on where you decide to stay, but it will take roughly 2 to 2.5 hours for the drive and then another 2 to 3 hours on the bus.

9. Three-Day Guided Bus Tour

This tour is similar to the two-day tour but includes one additional day for you to explore on your own.

It will pick you up in San Francisco, take you to Yosemite to explore the giant sequoias, and then drop you off in Yosemite Valley. On the drive to and from, your guide will tell you everything you want to know about the history and geography surrounding you, and make stops for meals (which you can purchase separately).

You will then explore on your own the rest of Day One, all of Day Two, and then meet back up with the bus at an agreed-upon time and location on Day Three.

You will need to book your own accommodations. If they are outside of Yosemite Valley, you will need to arrange your own transportation to get to and from the meeting point.

Although neither accommodations nor activities are included in the tour, your guide will be on hand throughout your stay in the park. They can help you arrange climbing, rafting, or fishing adventures in the spring and summer, or snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and other cold-weather adventures in the winter months. 

This tour starts at $279 per person.

>> Find out more about the three-day tour

10. Four-Day Guided Bus Tour

This tour includes four days of exploring the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Yosemite National Park.

Day One will include the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite, with time in the afternoon to explore the trails and fantastic views around Yosemite Valley. You'll finish off the day relaxing with some drinks at your rustic mountain resort.

Day Two will include a hike and lunch among the Giant Sequoias before heading up and over Tioga Pass to see Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows. You will spend the night in Mammoth Lakes.

On the morning of Day Three, you can either visit the Ansel Adams Wilderness area or Devil's Postpile National Park. You can also do some hiking or mountain biking.

You will then get back on the road and head north to Lake Tahoe with a stop along the way at the historic Bodie Ghost Town. That night, you'll stay in Lake Tahoe.

Day Four starts with exploring the lake on a kayak, paddleboard, or the shoreline by bike. You can also enjoy one of several other activities, including hiking, a gondola ride, or some gambling at a local casino.

You'll spend the entire day in South Lake Tahoe and will return to your hotel in San Francisco around 9 pm.

This tour is offered once a week in the summer months from June through September. It's a pricier option, but covers a lot of ground and does include lodging unlike the tours mentioned above.

>> Find out more about this four-day tour of Yosemite and the Sierras

11. Fly + Drive from San Francisco to Yosemite

Another great way to get from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park is to fly between SFO and Fresno.

From there, you can rent a car and drive the rest of the way.

United Airlines offers a direct flight from SFO to Fresno. The flight takes less than an hour and is an easy jump to this area near Yosemite National Park. It usually costs around $150 per person in the winter months and up to $400 in the summer.

You can then rent a car to drive into Yosemite National Park. It takes about 2.5 hours to drive from Fresno Yosemite International Airport to Yosemite Valley.

This entire trip will take anywhere from 4 to 6 hours.

12. Fly + Bus from San Francisco to Yosemite

The final option to get from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park is to fly to Fresno Yosemite International Airport and then take the YARTS bus.

The flight takes about 1 hour. The bus will take another 4 hours.

You'll pick up the YARTS Highway 41 bus directly at the airport. It only runs three times a day, so you'll want to coordinate your flight and make sure you don't miss the bus pickup times.

This bus only runs from early May through early September. The estimated cost of the bus portion is $20 each way. You'll add that to the cost of your plane ticket, which can vary. 

This trip, in total, will take anywhere from 5 to 7 hours. 

Comments? Questions? Suggestions?

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You can ask questions, get advice for your upcoming stay, and then share your photos and advice with others when you return home. It's a great community and the fastest way to get answers to those nagging questions about your visit!

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How to Travel From San Francisco to Yosemite by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

TripSavvy / Jess Macdonald

Defined by its towering granite cliffs, giant sequoia groves, and plunging waterfalls, Yosemite National Park is a natural oasis just 155 miles (249 kilometers) east of San Francisco . The four-hour drive makes for a great road trip—especially when you consider the convenience of a car in getting around the park itself. While having your own transport is handy when zipping around to the different viewpoints in Yosemite (some hours away from each other), sticking exclusively to public transportation is also an option with the park's free shuttle. In fact, you can travel all the way from San Francisco on planes, buses, and trains without ever having to get behind a wheel yourself. Be cautious, no matter how you arrive, for how winter road closures within and around Yosemite National Park might affect your travels.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From San Francisco to Yosemite National Park? 

The cheapest way to get from San Francisco to Yosemite is by a series of buses and a train. First, you can take the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) train from Civic Center/UN Plaza Station to Dublin/Pleasanton Station, a 50-minute ride that costs about $7.10. From there, you can walk to the Iron Horse Parkway bus stop and catch the SmaRT BART Commuter bus to Roger K. Fall Transit Center ($2) two hours away. Merced County Transit 's public bus will pick you up from the Roger K. Fall Transit Center and drop you off at Merced Transpo bus stop (a one-hour ride), where you can get the final Yosemite Area Regional Transportation (YARTS) bus two hours and 45 minutes to Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. Altogether, the trip requires three transfers, takes about seven hours (not including waiting times for buses), and costs between $13 and $23. It may be the cheapest way to get from San Francisco to Yosemite, but it's certainly one of the most exhausting.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From San Francisco to Yosemite National Park? 

The fastest way to get to Yosemite from San Francisco is to fly. Yosemite's nearest commercial airports are in Fresno (Fresno Yosemite International Airport) and Merced (Merced Regional Airport—the closest to the park), but both are small. Sometimes, you can snag a cheap return flight to Merced from Oakland International Airport , but the drive from Merced to Yosemite Valley is two hours long (on top of the 45-minute flight). The YARTS bus, which stops at the airport, can also take you all the way to Yosemite Valley if you don't mind a three-hour bus journey. However, when you consider the time it takes to actually commute to the airport, check a bag, go through security, and travel by ground on the other side, flying is about as time-consuming as driving the entire distance.

More frequent flight schedules are available for airports in Sacramento and Reno, Nevada, but during the winter—when Tioga Pass is blocked with snow for months—the park entrance that's nearest to Reno is closed.

How Long Does It Take to Drive?

The quickest driving route between San Francisco and Yosemite takes about four hours. Interstate 80 will lead you into Oakland, where you can merge onto 580 East for 45 miles (72 kilometers), then State Route 120. This scenic route passes through fruit and almond orchards, small agricultural towns, and ranches in the rolling foothills before ascending sharply up the Priest Grade to Big Oak Flat and the old gold mining town of Groveland. You'll get impressive views of Lake Don Pedro, the Stanislaus National Forest, and the Tuolumne River Canyon, too.

It's always a good idea to check the CalTrans website (or national park alerts) for current road conditions, seeing as many roads in the area are closed during winter. The Big Oak Flat Entrance—one of five—is open year-round. Oakdale is the largest town east of Highway 99, so stop here for groceries to avoid paying a fortune at the Village Store. The nearest gas pumps to Yosemite Valley are open year-round inside the park at Wawona (45 minutes south of the valley on Wawona Road) and Crane Flat (30 minutes northwest on Big Oak Flat Road). In the summer, gasoline is available at Tuolumne Meadows on Tioga Road, too.

Is There a Bus That Goes From San Francisco to Yosemite National Park? 

Besides private bus tour companies—such as Gray Line and Viator —that offer day trips to the park from San Francisco, there's no single bus that runs the route directly. You can, however, get by with only transferring once if you take a Greyhound bus to Merced ($20, three hours and 45 minutes), then transfer onto the YARTS bus ($5 to $10, two hours and 45 minutes), which will take you all the way to the visitor center. The entire journey takes six and a half hours, not including bus wait times.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Yosemite National Park? 

The best time to travel to Yosemite is during May and September, when most things in the park are open (not all things: Tioga Pass sometimes isn't clear enough to open until July and closes in November), but summer crowds aren't at their peak. June through August, you can expect major crowds on the trails and in the campsites, not to mention traffic coming into the park. Winter in Yosemite National Park , while beautiful, is a different experience entirely. Many hiking trails, roads, viewpoints, and campgrounds are closed for the season and there aren't many people around. Driving into the park during winter—where the Sierra Nevada range begins—can be treacherous.

What’s the Most Scenic Route to Yosemite National Park? 

Highway 140—as opposed to the most direct route, 120—is by far the most scenic drive into the park and the best way to go if you’re visiting for the first time. It’s open most of the time and passes through the towns of Mariposa and Fish Camp. It’s also a popular route for people driving to Yosemite from the San Jose area.

From Highway 99 at Merced, 140 passes through open ranch land, into the wooded foothills, and through the old mining town of Mariposa , which has an old-fashioned main street with many cute places to eat. Continuing uphill through Midpines, the road parallels the Merced River for about 30 miles (48 kilometers). In spring, redbud trees sprout magenta-colored blooms along its banks and the river rises high enough to accommodate whitewater rafters, but it’s a pretty drive in any season. The road enters the park via Arch Rock.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport? 

At Merced Regional Airport, you can take the YARTS bus all the way into Yosemite Valley. Otherwise, you can catch the Merced County Bus, a Greyhound, or the Amtrak, but none of those go into the park.

What Is There to Do in Yosemite National Park? 

Yosemite National Park is a nature lover's paradise. There are miles upon miles of trails, among them the famous Bridalveil Fall Trail, Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, and the strenuous Half Dome Trail , which requires a permit to hike. Half Dome and El Capitan are the two world-recognized granite walls that make up that iconic Yosemite scene. As far as waterfalls, the park is home to dozens, including one of the world's tallest: Yosemite Falls. There are 13 campgrounds in which to lounge and the Merced River in which to float on a hot day. For the real adventurer, there are plenty of opportunities for a thrill, including rock climbing, zip lining, and rafting tours.

Yosemite National Park: The Complete Guide

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Yosemite National Park Vacation Guide

Yosemite Valley Guide

Fall in Yosemite: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

How to Travel From San Francisco to Lake Tahoe By Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Scenic California Drives: 7 Routes That Will Make You Swoon

The Best National Parks Near Las Vegas

How to Travel from Sacramento to San Francisco by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The 12 Best Bicycling Paths in California

Yosemite Lodging: A Complete Guide

The 7 Best Things to Do in Yosemite National Park in the Spring

Tips for Avoiding the Summer Crowds at National Parks

Winter in Yosemite: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

December in California: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The Best Time to Visit Yosemite National Park

From San Francisco to Yosemite: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The UNESCO-listed Yosemite National Park is a place of awe-inspiring natural wonders: a majestic glacier-sculpted valley blanketed in flowering meadows and festooned with rushing waterfalls that plunge from granite cliffs. Every year, the 1,200-square-mile park attracts millions of visitors who come here to go camping, hiking, climbing, or just to admire the scenery.

Many tourists plan to see Yosemite while visiting San Francisco, about 200 miles away. Because Yosemite is one of the most popular tourist destinations in California , several companies offer services to help you get from San Francisco to Yosemite and back. It's also easy to travel from San Francisco to Yosemite by car, and it's feasible to get there by train or bus. Consider the time of year you will be visiting Yosemite because some roads in the park are seasonal.

Start planning your trip to Yosemite with our list of transportation options. We recommend five of the best ways to get from San Francisco to Yosemite, along with the considerations you should keep in mind with each option.

The best way to get to Yosemite really depends on your personal preferences. When deciding how to get from San Francisco to Yosemite, choose the option that suits your travel style, budget, and vacation itinerary.

On This Page:

• From San Francisco to Yosemite by Organized Tour
• From San Francisco to Yosemite by Car
• From San Francisco to Yosemite by Transfer Service
• From San Francisco to Yosemite by Train
• From San Francisco to Yosemite by Bus

1. From San Francisco to Yosemite by Organized Tour

Highlights: Effortless and comprehensive, includes all transportation and admission fees

Yosemite is at least a four-hour drive from San Francisco (and can take longer with traffic), so it is not usually recommended as a day trip. However, organized tours make it possible to visit Yosemite from San Francisco in just one day.

The Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Day Trip allows you to get the most out of your limited time in the Sierra Nevada mountains. This guided tour stops at Gold Rush towns on the way to Yosemite and then covers the highlights of Yosemite National Park, including a hike through Tuolumne Grove and a photo-op at Tunnel View with Half Dome in the background.

Going on this organized tour is much easier than renting a car and driving to Yosemite yourself. Plus, this tour offers the convenience of hotel pickup in addition to interesting commentary shared by a knowledgable guide along the way.

2. From San Francisco to Yosemite by Car

Highlights: Fast and convenient, allows for day-tripping itineraries

For the most flexibility and convenience, renting a car is the way to go. One thing to keep in mind: Because the drive takes a minimum of four hours each way, you should plan to spend at least two or three nights for a leisurely experience and to fully appreciate the place.

If you are renting a car in San Francisco, there are several options. Hertz offers rental cars from a location near San Francisco Airport. Budget provides rental cars from a location in downtown San Francisco.

The fastest route from San Francisco to Yosemite is via Highway 120 . The trip starts out on Highway I-580 east to I-205 east and then continues on Highway 120 east until reaching Yosemite National Park.

It's also possible to get to Yosemite by taking Highway 140 east via Merced (instead of Highway 120) after starting out on Highway I-580 east to I-205 east. This route is ideal if you are staying at the Tenaya Lodge , which is accessible by taking Highway 140 to the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park.

Another good place to break up the journey is just over a two-hour drive east of San Francisco in Knights Ferry. Here the Stanislaus River Parks in the Knights Ferry Recreation Area beckon outdoor lovers, hikers, kayaking enthusiasts, and white water rafting thrill seekers. The Knights Ferry Recreation Area is only a slight detour from the Highway 120 route to Yosemite, on a scenic portion of the drive in the Sierra Nevada foothills .

3. From San Francisco to Yosemite by Transfer Service

Highlights: Stress-free travel, time for independent sightseeing

If you prefer to leave the driving to someone else yet want to explore Yosemite at your own pace, the Yosemite One Way or Round Trip from San Francisco transfer service is the right choice. We also recommend this service instead of taking public transportation on your own, if you don't want to deal with a complicated, time-consuming journey from San Francisco to Yosemite.

You can choose to depart at either 7am or 1pm. The service takes care of all the travel arrangements for each step of the journey: an organized bus ride from San Francisco to the Amtrak train station in Oakland, a train ride to Merced and then a transfer by motor coach to Yosemite with a drop-off near several popular hotels.

The entire journey is about six hours but is stress-free because the service coordinates everything for you and even includes the Yosemite National Park entrance fee.

4. From San Francisco to Yosemite by Train

Highlights: Economic tour de force of rail and public transportation

Getting from San Francisco to Yosemite by train requires the willingness to go on a public transportation adventure involving multiple legs of travel: a BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) train ride, then an Amtrak train trip, and finally a bus ride. From start to finish, you should allow at least six hours for the journey, or more depending on the timing of connections.

Here's how to travel from San Francisco to Yosemite by train: First, go to any BART station in San Francisco. If you don't already have a BART ticket or Clipper card, use one of the station's vending machines to purchase a ticket (the fare is about $11 round-trip from San Francisco to Richmond).

Take the BART train from San Francisco to Richmond station , the last stop on the " Richmond line ." (If you do not choose a "Richmond line" BART train from San Francisco, then you must transfer to a "Richmond line" train at the 19th Street/Oakland station). The BART train ride from San Francisco to Richmond takes about 35 minutes.

Exit the BART train at the Richmond station and walk over to the adjoining Amtrak train station (a few steps away). Purchase an Amtrak train ticket to Merced, unless you have already purchased a ticket online.

Next, take the Amtrak train from Richmond to Merced . Board the Amtrak train southbound on the " San Joaquin line " and enjoy the relaxing two-hour-and-40-minute train ride to Merced station.

After exiting Merced station, take the Yosemite Area Regional Transit System (YARTS) Bus to Yosemite National Park. The YARTS Bus makes multiple stops and takes about one hour and 45 minutes to reach the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center.

5. From San Francisco to Yosemite by Bus

Highlights: Slow-paced and budget-friendly with free shuttle options in Yosemite NP

The Greyhound Bus service from San Francisco to Yosemite appeals to budget-conscious travelers. However, this is the slowest option. The Greyhound bus journey takes over nine hours and includes several stops plus a transfer in Merced. Travelers can choose from stopping at the Yosemite Valley Lodge or the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center.

Yosemite also has a shuttle bus system for tourists to get around the park, free of charge. The Yosemite Valley Shuttle (operating year-round) takes tourists to the park's main attractions and stopping points near all Yosemite National Park hotels, as well as some campsites including Upper Pines Campground and Housekeeping Camp .

The El Capitan Shuttle (operating from mid-June until early October) goes to the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, El Capitan, and the Four Mile trailhead.

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Planning Your Visit to Yosemite : To ensure a fabulous visit to Yosemite National Park, read up about Yosemite's top attractions such as Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and El Capitan. Learning about Yosemite's incredible landscape before you go only adds to the sense of amazement when seeing the iconic sites in person. You should also decide in advance which Yosemite hikes suit your abilities, before you embark on your adventures.

Camping in Yosemite : If you're interested in spending a night under the stars, you can choose from Yosemite's array of excellent campgrounds . Be sure to book your campsite well ahead of your visit.

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How To Get From San Francisco to Yosemite: Best Routes and Tours

Are you ready for the highlight of your California trip? It’s time to trade the vibrant San Francisco streets for the mind-blowing landscapes of Yosemite National Park.

If you’re confused about the best way to get to Yosemite from San Francisco , this guide is just for you!

Having visited Yosemite several times across various seasons, I learnt that some things may require your own discretion (instead of just Google Maps). This could be depending on the weather or your personal preference .

By weighing the pros and cons of each route and tour option, we can make the best use of our time to get the same amazing experience. 

Let’s explore the best ways to travel from San Francisco to Yosemite, including driving routes, tours, and more . I’ll also be sharing some practical tips to help you decide on the best option for you.

This article uses affiliate links where I make a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

What are the best ways to travel from San Francisco to Yosemite?

Before I dive deeper into the tips for traveling from San Francisco to Yosemite, here are the 3 main options you can consider: 

1. Driving: Best for flexibility

Highway 120 (Highway 140 in winter)

2. Yosemite tours: Best way without car

Yosemite Valley guided day trip or 2-day trip

3. Train and bus: Best for affordability

Amtrak to Merced, then YARTS bus to Yosemite

Read on for more details! I’ll break down each option to help you get a make an informed choice.

1. Driving – Best for flexibility

Driving to Yosemite gives you the ultimate freedom to set your own pace and explore the hidden gems along the way. You can pick your own rest stops, timings, and bring as many things as your vehicle can fit. 

How many miles is it from San Francisco to Yosemite?

Yosemite Valley is about 190 miles away from San Francisco. The total time it takes to drive from San Francisco to Yosemite is 4-5 hours without any breaks, and subject to traffic.

During our last trip in summer, we tried to arrive in Yosemite Valley by 8:30am and were able to avoid the long entrance lines and found parking relatively easily.

Before hitting the road, make sure to rent a reliable car that you’ll be comfortable with to handle the twists and turns of mountainous roads.

This is especially relevant for winter drives where an AWD/4WD SUV will be the perfect choice. They typically have “M+S” (mud and snow) tires which are able to handle slightly snowy conditions.

You can book your rental car via platforms that help you to compare prices, such as  RentalCars.com . If you’re coming from San Francisco, you could choose to pick up your car at the SFO airport. 

Do check out more of my  California car rental tips , and see if you’ve packed these  road trip essentials .

Renting a car could cost about $100 per day , depending on the car model and insurance plan you choose. 

The most direct route from San Francisco to Yosemite is via Highway 120 . You’ll enter Yosemite via the Big Oak Flat entrance. It also connects to Tioga Pass which is typically open between May and November. 

However, I recommend taking Highway 140 if you’re visiting Yosemite in winter as it’s meant to be the all-weather route . It has the lowest elevation and winds gently beside the Merced river, instead of the snowy mountain roads of Highway 120. You’ll enter Yosemite via the Arch Rock entrance.

Despite the slight detour of about 20 miles , the total duration will be similar.

How is the drive?

The drive to Yosemite is spectacular especially when you’re approaching the park. However it does come with its challenges.

During the summer, you might encounter heavy traffic and crowded parking lots, so I recommend leaving early in the morning, around 4 or 5am if you can stomach it.

Hopefully the implementation of the permit reservation system for peak period visits helps to change this overcrowding situation.

Is it dangerous to drive to Yosemite from San Francisco?

It is not dangerous for most of the year (summer and fall), but you’ll need to be careful when driving at night and during winter. Some parts of the mountain roads can be quite exposed, and you wouldn’t want to be speeding around the bends for most of it.

With all mountainous roads, it’s good to have a healthy amount of caution. Driving Highway 120 in summer shouldn’t be difficult or dangerous, as long as you’re adhering to the speed limit guidance.

Otherwise, in terms of whether it might be dangerous, 2 scenarios come to mind – night driving, and winter driving.

Night driving

Based on what I saw in the day, there are plenty of barricades for more exposed parts, and reflective panels to help you see. I’ve only had experience driving along Glacier Point Road (high elevation) at night, and found that I needed to drive at around the speed limit.

Winter driving

If you’re planning to drive in to Yosemite via Highway 120, watch out for icy roads and be prepared to put on snow chains if needed. Do look out for storm forecasts, as that may make road conditions tougher to drive in. We carry Autosock (snow socks) for our Subaru just in case.

However, it is almost certain that Highway 140 will be fine even after a storm, as that’s what we experienced when we drove out after a late winter snow storm in Yosemite.

Best stops between San Francisco and Yosemite

As you make your way from San Francisco to Yosemite, be sure to make some pit stops to stretch your legs and take in the sights.

• Livermore: If you need something to do to pass the time, head over to the San Francisco Premium Outlets for some shopping. You can even grab a quick bite while you’re there.
• Don Pedro Reservoir (Highway 120): You can also park at this scenic vista point for a break or even a quick snack.
• Groveland (Highway 120): Explore this charming and small town with cozy cafes and places like Iron Door Saloon that take you back in time. It is about just over 1 hour away from Yosemite Valley, and a good option for an overnight stay.
• Mariposa (Highway 140): During winter, this town gets lots of love as people opt for the all-weather route through Highway 140, just 1 hour away from the valley. It’s popular for accommodation and dining as prices are affordable. I love the coffee and toast at Sticks Coffee , and the lunch menu at 1850 Restaurant and Brewery .

Where to stay overnight

When I’m not camping, my favorite location to stay near the valley is Yosemite West because it’s a cozy and quiet neighborhood of vacation rentals.

If you’re planning to break up the drive and stay somewhere between San Francisco and Yosemite, here are some recommendations.

Inside Yosemite National Park

• Yosemite Valley Lodge : Convenient accommodation with direct views of Yosemite Falls.
• The Ahwahnee : This elegant and historic lodge has incredible views that will make for an iconic Yosemite experience.
• Curry Village : Stay in one of the classic Glamping tent cabins in Curry Village and enjoy the communal atmosphere.
• Yosemite West: These spacious vacation rentals are most suitable for families and groups to stay near Yosemite.

Along Highway 120:

• Rush Creek Lodge (Groveland): This rustic yet modern lodge features a seasonal outdoor pool and two hot tubs, and provides s’mores to be enjoyed at the fire pit every night.
• Evergreen Lodge (Groveland): Best for accessing both Hetch Hetchy Entrance and Big Oak Flat Entrance. 

Along Highway 140:

• Yosemite View Lodg e (El Portal): Located along the Merced River with 4 pools and a hot tub. You can also enjoy an American breakfast or dinner at the River Restaurant & Lounge on site.
• Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Re sort (Midpines): Relaxing resort on a forest hillside with spa, table tennis and darts in the lounge area. Outside, you can also enjoy a communal fire pit. The June Bug Cafe is also on site, serving vegan and vegetarian cuisine.
• AutoCamp Yosemit e (Midpines): Unique accommodation for glamping, with free bike rental, an outdoor pool and a terrace.
• Hotels and motels in Mariposa : Relatively affordable and close to food a variety of dining and other amenities.

Can you do a day trip from San Francisco to Yosemite?

Yes, it’s possible to do a day trip from San Francisco to Yosemite and I know of friends who have done so. However, here are some practical considerations:

• There will be at least 4 hours of driving each way
• You might get stuck in traffic along the way
• During summer months, parking inside Yosemite Valley is a hassle so be prepared to take the shuttle
• Yosemite Valley shuttles may get delayed due to the crowds

If you’re up for the challenge, start your journey before the crack of dawn to make the most of your time in Yosemite. Don’t forget to pack plenty of snacks and water for the journey!

To make the most of your day trip, plan ahead and prioritize the must-see sights. Yosemite Valley is home to iconic landmarks like Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and El Capitan.

Here are the viewpoints I recommend:

• Tunnel View
• Bridalveil Falls
• Yosemite Visitor Center
• Lower Yosemite Falls
• Cook’s Meadow Loop
• Yosemite Valley View

2. Tours – Best way without a car

If you don’t drive or prefer not to drive, the best way to travel from San Francisco to Yosemite is via a tour. This way, you can sit back, relax, and let someone else do the driving while you soak in the stunning scenery.

Tour #1: Yosemite 2-day trip from San Francisco (accommodation included)

If I were visiting without a car, this is probably the tour I would go for. It would be the most value-for-money for solo travelers too, since the cost of car rental and gas would already be at least $100 per day anyway. You also wouldn’t need to worry about parking in both San Francisco and Yosemite.

Overall, I think this is the best mix of guided sightseeing and free exploration. You can check this Viator listing for more details.

What you’ll get with this 2-day tour

• San Francisco hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Overnight stay in Yosemite Valley
• Trip to Glacier Point
• Hiking in Tuolumne grove of giant Sequoias
• Yosemite Valley guided sightseeing

Prices start from $529, and final price depends on your choice of accommodation in the valley. Aim to book early for the best chance of getting the room you want, especially ahead of summer.

Tour #2: Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Hike from San Francisco (day trip)

For those who want to have it all, here’s a day trip tour that covers the main attractions in Yosemite Valley as well as a hike in the Tuolumne grove of giant Sequoias.

The entire trip will include 2 hours for you to explore the valley on your own. You can choose to check out the Ansel Adams gallery, lower Yosemite Falls, and more.

Do note that during winter, more time will be allocated to Yosemite Valley instead of going up to Tuolumne grove which is at a higher elevation. Check this Viator listing for more details.

What you’ll get with this Yosemite and giant Sequoias tour

• 2 hours of independent exploration in the valley

Prices start at $209 for the entire day trip.

Tour #3: Yosemite Guided Trip from San Francisco (day trip)

If Yosemite Valley is your number one priority, this straightforward day trip tour will be the one for you as it includes about 3 hours in the valley.

You’ll get some guided explanations along the way, and then you’re free to go off on your own plan. If you need some ideas on things to do, the tour guide can also provide suggestions. Check this Viator listing for more details.

Aside from getting around by the Yosemite shuttle, you could also rent a bicycle to check out the various trails and viewpoints. Consider going on some 1 to 1.5-hour hikes, such as:

• Mirror Lake
• Mist Trail to Vernal Falls footbridge
• Upper Falls Trail to Columbia Rock

What you’ll get with this Yosemite day trip tour

• 3 hours of independent exploration in the valley

Prices start at $199 for the entire day trip.

3. Train and Bus – Best for affordability

For those on a budget and are not in a rush for time, taking the train and bus from San Francisco to Yosemite is a cost-effective option.

The entire journey would take around 7 hours, which is not too much longer than driving. You do need to purchase tickets in advance , and take note of baggage restrictions too. Here’s an example of what the booking process looks like.

This is a summary of the overall journey:

• Amtrak train: San Francisco to Emeryville
• Amtrak train: Emeryville to Merced
• YARTS bus: Merced to Yosemite Valley

The price for a one-way ticket is around $40, though you can upgrade for flex benefits in case you’re not able to commit fully to your plans yet.

Since the YARTS bus takes you via Highway 140, you could book your stay in either Mariposa or Midpines . I recommend staying for at least 2 nights, so that you get at least 1 full day in Yosemite.

Frequently asked questions about getting from San Francisco to Yosemite

We covered the 3 best ways to get from San Francisco to Yosemite, and hopefully it answered all your questions.

Just in case you still had some doubts, here are some quick answers to frequently asked questions.

Is there a train from San Francisco to Yosemite?

While there’s no direct train service to Yosemite, you can take the Amtrak train to Merced and transfer to a YARTS bus for the final leg of your journey.

Is it worth going to Yosemite from San Francisco?

Absolutely! Yosemite is California’s top hit and you should definitely see these stunning landscapes at least once in your life. San Francisco is just 4 hours away from Yosemite, and as we mentioned in this article, there are 3 different ways of getting there. Personally, this place made me fall in love with California – don’t miss it!

By the way, it’s worth it even in winter and early spring. You’ll have fewer crowds and a chance to enjoy snowy scenery. Check out this Yosemite winter itinerary for more ideas.

What city is best to access Yosemite?

• Driving in summer: Groveland
• Driving in winter: Mariposa
• Taking Amtrak and YARTS: Merced

Is LAX or SFO Closer to Yosemite?

Neither airport is particularly close to Yosemite, but SFO is slightly closer than LAX.

• SFO to Yosemite: about 4 hours
• LAX to Yosemite: about 6 hours

Is Yosemite close to Lake Tahoe?

Yosemite and Lake Tahoe are both located in the Sierra Nevada range but are not particularly close. You will need to drive about 4 more hours to visit Lake Tahoe from Yosemite. If you’re planning to include Lake Tahoe in your California road trip, do allocate additional days.

Conclusion 

When it comes to traveling from San Francisco to Yosemite, where there’s a will there’s a way!

If you have the need for speed, driving your own car/ rental car is the way to go. This is also the most popular mode of transport between San Francisco to Yosemite as it provides the best flexibility without much difficulty. This is also what I would recommend most people who are visiting California.

For the convenience of a guided tour, go with a 2-day overnight trip with accommodations and transportation included. If you don’t want to plan much, this could be a great option for you.

To experience something different that’s more affordable, book the Amtrak and YARTS in advance.

More of my travel guides to help you plan your classic California experience

Lassen Volcanic | Lake Tahoe | Yosemite | Point Reyes | San Francisco Day Trips | Half Moon Bay | Pescadero | Big Sur | Santa Cruz | Monterey | Carmel-by-the-Sea | Catalina Island | Death Valley | 10-day California Road Trip | Rental car tips

Not sure where to start? I have some ideas for your California trip!

Best stops along California’s coast | Must-go for outdoor lovers | Best winter camping | Bucket-list backpacking trips | Best SF Bay Area hikes | Best California Glamping | Best beach towns

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9 Best Stops on a San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip

Last Updated on November 30, 2023

by Sarah Dittmore

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a San Francisco to Yosemite road trip isn’t something that people usually give a lot of thought to. As two of the most famous locations in California, you’ve likely spent a lot of time researching what to do while you’re actually in San Francisco and Yosemite National Park . But what about the time in between?

Sure, it’s a fairly quick drive that could be knocked out in an afternoon, but if you’re willing to make a longer day out of it, there’s plenty to do and see along the road. From Bay Area shopping to valley wineries to historic landmarks to gold rush towns, the drive is littered with worthwhile detours.

Check out our favorite stops and make the most of your road trip.

Table of Contents

Planning a San Francisco to Yosemite Drive

The drive from San Francisco is fairly easy and the roads are well cared for. You’ll start off driving through the East Bay, so be prepared for lots of traffic. In fact, if at all possible, avoid leaving during commute hours as traffic around the area gets really bad between 8-10 AM and 4-6 PM.

When you get about two hours in, you’ll hit some winding mountain roads that take you into Yosemite, but they are well-paved and easy to navigate so long as you don’t hit the gas too hard.

Speaking of gas—there’s about an hour stretch between Oakdale and Groveland that doesn’t have any gas stations. But as long as you plan for that, you’ll be good to go.

The most direct route from San Francisco is taking I-80 E out of the city to I-580 E to CA-120 E, which leads directly to the Big Oak Flat Entrance on the western side of Yosemite.

That said, if you want to hit all the stops in this guide, the best route from San Francisco to Yosemite is to take US-101 North to get out of the city, then connect with I-580 E and onwards to CA-120 E.

If you need to rent a car for this trip you can browse Rentalcars.com which aggregates prices across a number of car rental companies. Alternatively, it is also possible to rent an RV or campervan from Outdoorsy.

How Far is San Francisco to Yosemite?

The distance on the drive to Yosemite from San Francisco is about 170 miles and 3.5 hours driving time if you take the I-80 E out of the city. If you take the US-101, the total distance will be around 200 miles and 4 hours of driving.

With the drive being as short as it is (at least, in California terms, where we don’t call a drive long until it’s over 5 hours — the LA to Yosemite drive is much longer!) it could easily be done in one go. However, there’s so much to see along the way, I recommend leaving early and making a whole day (or even two days!) out of your road trip.

Best San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip Stops

Mill valley public library.

Perhaps a strange addition to your San Francisco to Yosemite drive, believe me when I say this is not your everyday library. Adding this to your route will take you a few miles north, but it’s worth the detour. Plus, it’ll line you up for the next location on our list.

The Mill Valley Public Library is a library, yes, but it’s so much more than that. The towering architecture and cozy fireplace are gorgeous in their own right, but the real attraction is the deck surrounded by California’s famous redwoods.

There aren’t many places where you visit a redwood grove in California without paying park entry fees, and the chance to do so in a spot as peaceful and removed as the Mill Valley Public Library is a truly spectacular experience.

Whether you spend a few hours here reading and resting up before your long drive, or just soak up the sun on the deck, this is a great way to get up close and personal with trees older than the state itself.

As you head off on your road trip, you’ll head just south of one of the East Bay’s main attractions: Berkeley, CA. Berkeley is a beloved college town known for its Northern California hippie aesthetic and dedication to all things bohemian.

If you don’t have a chance while you’re in SF to do a full-day trip to Berkeley, it’s worth at least stopping by on your way out. Telegraph Ave. is littered with thrift stores, used book stores, a local game store, bars, cafes, and of course, home to Berkeley’s famous ice cream sandwich shop, CREAM .

Start at the intersection of Telegraph Ave. and Bancroft Way and just walk south until you’ve seen (and shopped) enough!

Lake Chabot Regional Park

A favorite of Bay Area natives, Lake Chabot Regional Park is a beautiful place to enjoy some hiking, swimming, and general lake activities on your way east.

There is a small parking fee per vehicle and, once parked, you can take your time enjoying the beauty of the lake and hike on a scenic trail in the surrounding greenery. If you’re planning a longer visit, you can sign up for the Lake Day Tour, the guided kayak tour, or even charter a boat!

Alternatively, pack yourself a picnic and just enjoy some fresh air alongside a stunning 315-acre reservoir to break up your drive. 

San Francisco Premium Outlets

For a very different Californian experience, either instead of or in addition to your Lake Chabot visit, head over to the San Francisco Premium Outlets . Strangely named, as they are actually located in Livermore, CA, these outlets offer San Francisco shopping at a fraction of the price.

With far too many outlet stores to list here, you can find everything from Adidas to Gucci to Yankee Candle. This outdoor outlet mall is a great way to get any of the styles you saw in San Francisco without having to spend your entire vacation budget.

Plus, there are tons of restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or stock up on snacks for your drive.

Livermore Wine Region

While Napa and Sonoma are famous for their Californian wines, Livermore has slowly been growing in popularity for those interested in equally delicious wines without the crowds of the more famous locales. If you haven’t had a chance to revel in the California wine tasting experience, stop by Livermore’s wine region on your way out.

Wente Vineyards is a personal favorite where you can not only enjoy a delicious tasting, but can check out their 18-hole golf course. There is a standard wine tasting, but if you’re looking for something more luxurious, they offer a food and wine pairing tasting, a reserve tasting, and a library tasting.

Reservations are not required, but highly encouraged to ensure you get a seat.

Sons Farm Fresh Fruit Stand

After Livermore, the drive to Yosemite gets a little… well, I’ll be honest: boring. Any drive through Central California tends to be lacklustre, especially compared to the coastal cities you’re leaving and the stunning National Park you’re driving towards.

That said, there is one undeniable perk to Central California: the fruit stands. There are few other states in America that can boast nearly year-round access to fresh berries, mouth-watering peaches, and true California-grown avocados.

As you pass through Oakdale on your San Francisco to Yosemite road trip, make sure to stop at Sons Farm Fresh Fruit Stand to fill up on delicious, locally grown, California produce.

Columbia State Historic Park

In the last hour of your drive, take a small detour north of the town of Merced to visit Columbia State Historic Park for a snapshot of Gold Rush-era California. What Colonial Williamsburg is to the East Coast, Columbia State Historic Park is to California.

The entire town is built to model what 1850s architecture looked like and all the staff double as re-enactment actors so when you step on site, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the days of the California Gold Rush.

In addition to learning a healthy dose of local state history, you’ll be able to peruse museums, shop at historic-themed stores, pan for gold, or even make your own candles. The best part? Entry to the park is entirely free!

Priest Station Café

Just before you head up the mountain and into Yosemite Valley and the National Park, stop in Big Oak Flat for a bite to eat at Priest Station Café . Deceptively close to the highway, this restaurant might not look like much, but it serves absolutely delicious food and provides an unreal view of the rolling hills leading into Yosemite.

If you time it right, the deck offers an unbeatable sunset viewing opportunity. In addition to killer food and stunning views, Priest Station Café has a rich history deeply connected to the growth and development of Yosemite National Park as it originated as a miner’s supply store owned and operated by the wife of Yosemite’s first park commissioner in 1853.

Iron Door Saloon

Just 30 minutes before you arrive in Yosemite you’ll pass through the small, historic town of Groveland, CA. The town is pretty small without all that much to offer, but it is home to some truly historic California landmarks, including Iron Door Saloon .

Built in 1852, the Iron Door Saloon is the only historic building in the country built out of granite, as opposed to the more common construction material of the time, slate. In addition to simultaneously serving as the county’s post office from 1863-1880, the Iron Door Saloon (then called Granite Store) is the oldest continuously operating saloon in California.

Not only can you get a drink here, but you can trace bullet holes from centuries past, peruse antique gold mining equipment, and check out photos of the famous John Muir enjoying the area.

Where to Stay Near Yosemite National Park

When going on a road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite, you’re going to need to find a great place to stay near the Park entrance. If you’re looking for a suitable accommodation option in, make sure to have a look at these suggestions:

Little Valley Inn – Situated in the town of Mariposa within spitting distance of the park entrance, this lovely inn is the perfect place to base yourself when exploring this iconic national park. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available and there is also a hearty buffet breakfast on offer each morning.

Mariposa Lodge – Another well-reviewed accommodation option located in Mariposa, this lodge makes for a perfect base for exploring Yosemite National Park. They have countless lovely rooms available, an on-site swimming pool and they even allow pets.

Private Rental – Finding a private vacation rental is another fantastic accommodation option in Yosemite. There are a number of fantastic options available – like this cosy hilltop cabin – you’re sure to find something that suits your travel style and needs.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Yosemite hotels!

After Groveland, it’s just half an hour before you hit the Big Oak Flat Entrance and your San Francisco to Yosemite road trip is complete! As you can see, there are lots of things to do between San Francisco and Yosemite and it’s worth taking your time to enjoy some of them!

Are you planning to drive to Yosemite National Park? Have any questions about this road trip? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Ultimate 2 to 3 Days in Lake Tahoe Itinerary

7 Best Stops on the LA to Santa Barbara Drive

10 Best Stops on a San Francisco to Lake Tahoe Road Trip

About Sarah Dittmore

Sarah is a writer for The World Was Here First. A California native, she loves travelling around her home state as well as visiting places further afield. She has spent over a decade travelling the world and writing stories inspired by the people and places she encounters along the way.

Great article! Especially enjoyed the mention of Sons Fresh and the fruit stands along Highway 120. We hope you’ll come back through this way and visit us in Escalon (just a few miles from Oakdale). All the fruit stands along this corridor are great and all have a different vibe. We are Zinc House Farm, just west of Escalon. We are the only “farmstand” along Highway 120. Our 5-acre organic farm supplies our farmstand and we are the only ones on the highway that operate in this way. Our vision is to become a destination for people interested in agritourism. We are promoting agriculture and education regarding where food comes from. Currently we are in the middle of constructing a winery, tasting room, commercial kitchen and event area for our visitors to have a great experience in an area that is lacking in this type of venue. We hope you’ll be back this way soon and would love to meet with you!

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San Francisco to Yosemite National Park: Best Ways to Get There

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

The best ways to get from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park, including what to see along the way. 

As someone who has traveled to Yosemite many times, I understand planning a trip to the iconic park can be intimidating. 

The expectations for the trip run high but then there’s bad traffic, the cell service is nonexistent, and the entrance requirements are confusing (especially in this day and age). 

Never fear! I’ve cut through the noise to give you the most straightforward and best ways to get to Yosemite from San Francisco and even included a few road trip stops and sights to see along the way. 

This is our full guide for how to get from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park to make your trip a breeze and your time at the park memorable. 

Note: this post contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Table of Contents

How Far is Yosemite from San Francisco?

From the San Francisco Airport to Yosemite National Park is about 200 miles. 

If you’re driving, it takes between four and seven hours, depending on the route you choose and the traffic intensity. 

The routes from San Francisco to Yosemite’s valley floor takes you through California’s Central Valley and into the Sierra Nevada Mountains. 

There are four park entrances in total, three of which are on the western side of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. 

However, only two of these entrances are practical to access from San Francisco.  

The two closest Yosemite entrances to San Francisco are Arch Rock and Big Oak Flat. 

Pro Tip: When planning your trip to Yosemite always put the final destination as “Yosemite Valley Visitor Center,” or the exact location in the park you want to visit (e.g., Wawona Hotel, Tuolumne Meadows, etc). Yosemite is HUGE and Google Maps will often only give you the distance to the park entrance. 

Want a weekend getaway that’s closer to the city? Check out our guide to getting from San Francisco to Napa Valley !

Get your FREE California Travel Planner – including printable checklists and my favorite two-week itinerary for the state. 

How to Get from San Francisco to Yosemite

While train and bus travel is common in the Bay Area, there’s no direct San Francisco to Yosemite train. Instead, Amtrak offers a combination of train and bus travel (described below). 

With that said, the most practical and quickest way to get to Yosemite is driving. These are the most common driving routes you can take to get to Yosemite. 

I-580 to Highway 120 via Tracy – Shortest Route

The San Francisco to Yosemite drive time varies widely depending on traffic and the route you choose. 

The route from I-580 to Highway 120 via Tracy is usually the shortest. If the traffic is moving, this route usually takes about four hours. 

This route takes you to the Big Oak Flat Entrance of Yosemite. 

If you’re looking to travel over Tioga Pass, also known as Tioga Road, which is the park’s only entrance on the east side of the Sierra Nevadas, take this route. 

Likewise, if your destination is Tuolumne Meadows, this route and the one listed below will be your fastest options. 

Highway 4 to Highway 120 via Stockton

The Highway 4 to Highway 120 via Stockton drive to Yosemite from San Francisco is another quick way to get to the park and is usually only 10-15 minutes longer than the route via Tracy. 

This route veers north of the fastest route but rejoins it near Chinese Camp and also takes you to the Big Oak Flat Entrance of Yosemite. 

I-580 to Highway 99 to Highway 140 via Modesto and Merced

The San Francisco to Yosemite National Park drive via Merced is the option I recommend for snowy , icy weather conditions or for those who get carsick easily. 

This route takes longer (close to 6.5 hours), but if you don’t drive well in the snow, this option approaches the park from a lower elevation and can be safer. 

This route enters the park through the Arch Rock Entrance. The town of El Portal is directly adjacent to the park at this entrance. 

Rental Cars in San Francisco

If you’re flying into San Francisco, there are rental car options aplenty. The San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has every major rental car company to choose from. 

In addition to the major car rental companies, there are other rental car apps in the Bay Area (this is the tech capital, after all) to choose from that have more of a “car-sharing” business model. 

They sometimes have more affordable rental options, but you also sometimes sacrifice a little in terms of the quality of the car. 

These are the top three car-sharing companies in the Bay Area that I’d recommend: 

• GIG Car Share

San Francisco to Yosemite Tours

If you’re not interested in the four-hour drive from San Francisco, you can opt instead for a Yosemite tour! 

Taking bus tours from San Francisco to Yosemite may help you avoid traffic or give you the option to sleep on the way (that’s what I would do, hee hee).  

These are the top Yosemite tours from San Francisco that I’d recommend if you don’t want to drive yourself. 

Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

The Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Day Trip is a full-day excursion from San Francisco to Yosemite. 

And when I say full day, I mean it – the entire journey is 14-15 hours total. 

The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from some of the major hotels in San Francisco. 

It then takes you through the Big Oak Flat Entrance to one of Yosemite’s quieter giant sequoia groves (the Tuolumne Grove). 

The tour also makes a stop at the famous Tunnel View so you can get photos of El Capitan, Yosemite Valley, and Bridalveil Falls. 

Plus, this is one of the best Yosemite tours for both native and non-native English speakers since the tour is offered in nine languages!

Yosemite National Park – Full-Day Tour From San Francisco

The Full-Day Tour from San Francisco is an excellent option for those who don’t want to drive but also want to have free time to explore solo during their trip.

This day tour leaves from Fisherman’s Wharf or Union Square in San Francisco and allows you to enjoy the scenic drive to Yosemite with expert commentary from the driver in English. 

Once you arrive in the Valley, you’ll be allowed the remainder of the day for free time to do as you please. 

Small-Group Yosemite Day Tour from San Francisco

This Small Group Yosemite Day Tour from San Francisco is limited to 23 passengers and is an excellent option for a big family reunion or a group of friends. 

The tour picks passengers up from several places in downtown San Francisco, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square, or the InterContinental Hotel. 

This day tour is a great mix of guided experience and free time. Once you arrive in Yosemite National Park, you’ll do a tour of the scenic drive in the Valley. 

After this, you can create your own walking tour, explore the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, attend a ranger program, or do whatever else you want in your Yosemite itinerary .

If a tour isn’t really your thing, there are also several carpooling apps in the San Francisco area that might be worth exploring for a trip to Yosemite. 

While many of them are more focused on commuter traffic within the city, these apps have more flexibility built into their user features, so you may find someone already heading to Yosemite.

Carpool Apps that are Popular in San Francisco

• Carma Carpool

Public Transportation

Last but not least, don’t forget about good old-fashioned public transportation for your San Francisco to Yosemite trip.

The Yosemite Area Regional Transit System ( YARTS ) is the option for public transportation into Yosemite National Park. 

The YARTS bus doesn’t have a stop in San Francisco, but it has stops in Sonora, Merced, Fresno , and Mammoth Lakes . This makes it a good option if you only want to drive part of the way there. 

YARTS also has several stops in the park, including Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and Tuolumne Meadows. 

Greyhound + YARTS

You can reach Merced via Greyhound bus from San Francisco and then pick up a YARTS bus from there. 

Amtrak also offers a way to get from San Francisco to Yosemite with a combination of trains and buses. 

Just use the trip search feature on their homepage, and it should bring up the trip options for you with connections already built-in. 

Getting Around the Park Once You Arrive

Whether your trip from San Francisco to Yosemite involves public transportation or a private car, getting around the park can be challenging and confusing at times. 

Before the pandemic, Yosemite National Park offered a free shuttle service around the valley. 

Unfortunately, it still hasn’t fully resumed that service as of yet, so driving yourself or doing a bus tour from San Francisco is still the easiest way to get around the park.

You can check the park’s website for more information about getting around the park once you arrive. 

Can You Do a Day Trip to Yosemite from San Francisco?

Yes, you can do a day trip from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park. 

However, since the drive time is four hours each way (minimum), you’ll need to leave San Francisco early to make the most of your day. 

San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip: What to See on the Way

Driving from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park can be an adventure in itself. 

If you’re not on a tight schedule and want to get a feel for the broader area, check out these attractions on the way. 

Relive History at the Cowboy Museum in Oakdale, CA

California’s history of cattle ranching is long and layered. 

Learn more about the history of the Old West at the Cowboy Museum in Oakdale, CA. Oakdale is about an hour and forty-five minutes from San Francisco. 

This is a good stop to include if you’re taking the route that goes through Tracy. 

Pan for Gold in Jamestown, CA

The Gold Rush of 1849 shaped California and the American West in dramatic ways. 

You can learn more about the history of the Gold Rush in the old mining town of Jamestown, CA, just a short detour from the Tracy or Stockton driving route to Yosemite.

Located only a mile from one of the first gold finds in the country, Jamestown was one of the first gold rush towns in the US.

You can even participate in gold panning yourself! I hope you strike it rich if you go.

Take a Tour of Ramon Rios Winery in Tracy, CA

There are hundreds of excellent wineries and vineyards in California. Still, I’m highlighting the Ramon Rios Winery in Tracy, CA, because it’s located directly on the fastest way to Yosemite. 

It’s also conveniently located just outside of San Francisco. Just be sure to have a designated driver if you visit!

Grab a Bite at Sauced BBQ and Spirits in Livermore, CA

You’ll need to eat at some point on your San Francisco to Yosemite trip and this place is a good spot to eat at the start of your road trip. 

Sauced BBQ and Spirits in Livermore is on the fastest way to Yosemite National Park (via Tracy) and is one of the tastiest places to eat in Livermore. 

Sample Wine and Explore History in Modesto

If you’re taking the longer route to Yosemite National Park via Modesto and El Portal, you may be especially tempted to get out and stretch your legs. 

The Lucca Winery in Modesto, CA is on the way from San Francisco to Yosemite and offers a classic California wine tasting experience. 

Or, if you’re looking for a more family-friendly excursion, check out the McHenry Mansion , which preserves California’s Victorian history. Plus, mansion tours are free!

Get the Best Mexican Food in Merced

California has a thriving Mexican population, so eating delicious Mexican food as much as possible is never a bad idea. 

Check out some authentic and tasty Mexican food at Taqueria El Huarache while you’re going through Merced. 

This top-rated restaurant also has a takeout option, so you can grab your meal on the go. 

Learn the History of Yosemite at the Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum in Groveland, CA

Any path that takes you to the Big Oak Flat Entrance of Yosemite National Park will take you through Groveland, CA first. 

Stretch your legs and learn about the history of the area just outside Yosemite at the Groveland Yosemite Gateway Museum . 

And if you need more Gold Rush history, Groveland is also a former gold mining town!

What are the Closest Gas Stations to Yosemite?

It’s always a good idea to plan out where to find gas stations when you’re heading to more rural areas of California. 

Luckily, the San Francisco to Yosemite routes are pretty populated so you don’t need to worry too much. 

With that said, it’s good to keep in mind that there’s nowhere in Yosemite Valley for tourists to obtain gas.

There are gas stations in all the small towns just before you enter the park, so be sure to fill up while you’re there. There are also two gas stations in Yosemite Park at Wawona and Crane Flat. 

See this page for more information on these gas stations. 

Gas Stations Outside Yosemite National Park

• Fish Camp, CA
• El Portal, CA
• Hardin Flat, CA
• Lee Vining, CA

What to do for the Weekend Once You Arrive in Yosemite

Here’s a quick rundown of the best sights to see at Yosemite if you only have a day or two at the park. 

Looking for more recommendations? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Yosemite National Park for an ultimate bucket list. 

Enjoy Tunnel View

Tunnel View is perhaps the most iconic vista in the United States. 

From its small parking area (located just outside a long tunnel), you’ll see Bridalveil Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome surrounding the beautiful Yosemite Valley. 

Sunrise and sunsets are particularly popular times to visit Tunnel View, however, expect the parking to be limited. 

Watch the Sunset from Glacier Point

Glacier Point overlooks Yosemite Valley from just above Curry Village, located on the east end of the valley. 

It provides stunning views of Half Dome and is the location for several popular trailheads. This is another great location to view the sunset. 

Attend a Ranger Program

Can you visit Yosemite and NOT attend a ranger program?? 

While Covid has the regular schedule of ranger programs limited, short outdoor programs are still going on most days of the week right now. 

Ranger programs are a fun way to get inspired and learn from an expert naturalist.

Hike to a Waterfall

Yosemite, of course, offers a bajillion hiking trails to choose from. 

For a single day, your free time may be limited, so while you can’t venture too far back into the Sierra Nevada Mountains, you can at least walk to Yosemite Falls. 

The Lower Falls Trail is short and completely paved and is one of the only dog-friendly trails in Yosemite. 

It’s located across from the Yosemite Valley Lodge, which is close to the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. 

Watch Rock Climbers on El Capitan

As you exit the Valley before you head back to San Francisco, you’ll pass El Capitan, which is a famous cliff with lots of popular climbing routes. 

You can pull over across from El Capitan and watch some of the best rock climbing in the world. 

Be sure to bring binoculars to Yosemite Valley if you plan to do this as the climbers are quite small against the rock. 

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

There are lots of options to stay overnight in Yosemite National Park. Many of the more popular options fill up many months in advance, so be sure to make plans early. 

While Yosemite Valley is the destination of choice for 80% of the park’s visitors, there are lodging options in other districts of the park too, including the Wawona district. 

While the park has many campgrounds , including at least one in every district of the park, most of the campgrounds are only operational during the summer months. 

Hotels in Yosemite National Park

• Yosemite Valley Lodge
• The Ahwahnee
• The Wawona Hotel

Tips for Getting to Yosemite National Park from San Francisco

The best advice I can give anyone planning a trip to Yosemite is to plan ahead. 

Check the park website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on how to make the most of your trip.  

As of January 2022, the park has no reservation requirements for day use; however, that may change.

Planning ahead will also help you set realistic expectations for your trip with such a large park. 

For example, many people want to visit the famous Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias during their trip. 

However, the Mariposa Grove is over an hour from Yosemite Valley, making it hard to squeeze into a short trip. 

Check the Weather

Always check the weather for your specific destination in the park before heading out. 

Yosemite National Park is about the size of Rhode Island and ranges in elevation by many thousands of feet. 

For example, the weather in Yosemite Valley is always quite different than in Tuolumne Meadows.

Knowing what to expect in terms of weather not only helps you plan how to dress, it should help you avoid dangerous road conditions. 

Many of the roads leading into Yosemite are winding, mountain roads that may require snow chains at any time during the colder months. 

Expect Traffic 

Not only can Bay Area traffic add several hours to your drive to Yosemite, the line to get into Yosemite routinely lasts an hour and a half or more on weekends and holidays. 

In addition, the traffic exiting Yosemite Valley routinely takes people over an hour around sundown. 

The reason is that Yosemite Valley is small, and it’s hard to get thousands of cars out efficiently.

Weekdays during non-rush hours will be the easiest times to get in and out of San Francisco, and the same goes for the entrance to the park. 

Expect entrance wait times between 8:30 am-11:30 am on summer weekends to be exceptionally long, and exit times out of Yosemite Valley in the evenings to be congested. 

Follow the Speed Limit

Despite the urge to beat the traffic and make the most of your day, don’t speed! 

Yosemite famously has “Speeding Kills Bears” signs on the roads in locations where bears have been hit by vehicles. 

Every year the park reports between 20-30 bears hit by cars. Don’t add to the statistic.

Have a Plan B

I truly believe if you follow this advice and prepare for your San Francisco to Yosemite trip, you’ll have a great time and see the things on your bucket list. 

That said, sometimes life is unpredictable. 

Maybe you did everything right, but parking was still full at your intended location, or perhaps the trail washed out in a rainstorm and is closed for the week. 

Find a few things to do in Yosemite that sound fun. That way, if one option doesn’t pan out, you’ll immediately know what else you can do to enjoy your day. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mimi McFadden Founder & Editor-In-Chief

Mimi McFadden initially started The Atlas Heart in 2013 to write about her adventures abroad. But since 2019, The Atlas Heart has become a love letter to the Golden State. Mimi enjoys sharing her first-hand knowledge and expertise with the places she knows so well and making the most comprehensive travel guides possible. When she’s not hiking and exploring new places in California, she loves to travel abroad, read in her cozy chaise lounge, play basketball, and connect with friends and family over board games. Over her 28 years in California, she has lived in Santa Cruz (18 years), San Diego (5 years), and the San Francisco Bay Area (5 years), where she currently resides.

Looking for more California parks travel inspiration? Check out my related posts below!

Best Weekend Trips From San Francisco

Yosemite Firefall: How to Experience this Magical Yosemite Phenomenon

Epic California National Parks Road Trip

A Guide to California’s 9 National Parks

National Park Passport Guide

Pinnacles National Park Guide

Things to do in Death Valley National Park

California State Parks List

Things to do in Lake Tahoe

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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Top 4 Ways to Get From San Francisco to Yosemite National Park

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. check out some of our favorite ways of visiting yosemite from san francisco.

Getting from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park requires a little bit of planning, but it has a big pay off.

The drive is too long for any ride share or taxi service, so we would recommend nixing Uber or Lyft right off the bat. 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.

For the most enjoyable experience of Yosemite, we suggest getting there in one of two ways: 1) renting a car or 2) catching a Yosemite bus tour from San Francisco. Here are 4 ways to get to Yosemite from San Francisco that involve a car rental or transportation and tour by a local operator.

Top 4 Ways to get from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park:

• San Francisco To Yosemite Road Trip
• Yosemite in a Day Tour From San Francisco
• 3 Day Yosemite Camping Adventure From San Francisco
• Yosemite and Glacier Point Tour from San Francisco by Train

The Yosemite and Giant Sequoias 1-Day Tour from San Francisco is an inspiring 1-day tour to Yosemite National Park and its Giant Sequoias from San Francisco.

Tour Highlights & Inclusions

• Hike to Giant Sequoias (conditions permitting)
• Stunning views of Half-Dome, El Capitan and Yosemite Falls
• Free time to explore the valley floor and meadows
• Local expert guide (English)
• Foreign language audios in 8 languages
• Guaranteed daily departures
• Pickup at most San Francisco hotels
• Park entry fee included at checkout

HOW TO GET FROM SAN FRANCISCO TO YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

1. san francisco to yosemite road trip.

Taking a rented vehicle means you can break up the drive however you like! You can also enjoy the scenic drive to Yosemite from the comfort and privacy of a rental car.

Yosemite is about 170  miles away from San Francisco and about a 4-hour drive. So, we recommend starting your day as early as 5 AM or 6 AM to have full experience in the park.

If you prefer to sleep in while on vacation, something we’re all guilty of, you can easily book a hotel. The historic Awhanhee hotel in Yosemite Valley is a fantastic option! This way you can spread your trip from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park over 2 or 3 days.

We always suggest spending at least two days in Yosemite, if you can swing it.

That way you don’t have to worry about rushing back from Yosemite National Park to San Francisco on the same day.

With several rental car services, you’ll also have the option to reserve a car rental that you can drop off near Yosemite. Then once you’re ready to head back to the city, you can catch the Grayline bus from Yosemite to San Francisco.

Once you arrive in Yosemite, you’ll have an endless amount of unique Yosemite tours to choose from.

Private guided hikes of Yosemite will help you get better acquainted with the area so you can go back and explore your favorite parts on your own.

You can even take a quick digital photography class in Yosemite Valley. This way you’ll be able to better document your once-in-a-lifetime experience of Yosemite National Park.

Thrill-seekers will be happy to know there are also Yosemite zipline tours, just south of the park!

San Francisco to Yosemite Bus Tours

Best bay area tours, 2. yosemite in a day tour from san francisco.

Best Bay Area Tours is our top pick for anyone looking to do a one-day bus tour from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park.

Their minibuses are comfortable and the small groups create an intimate experience that bigger bus tours just can’t recreate.

These Yosemite tours begin in the heart of San Francisco, near Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf.

Once you arrive at the park, your local driver-guide will shuttle you through Yosemite’s popular sites for photos before stopping for lunch.

During lunch, you’ll have free time to explore on your own before driving back from Yosemite to San Francisco.

INCREDIBLE ADVENTURES

3. 3-day yosemite camping adventure from san francisco.

We’ve previously ranked Incredible Adventures Small-Group Yosemite Tour from San Francisco as one of the best Yosemite tours.

As fun as that one day tour is, we definitely think travelers should consider this 3-day camping trip as a unique way of seeing Yosemite.

This Yosemite bus picks up near many Union Square hotels and shuttles guests to Yosemite. Camping equipment and fees for tents are included, except for sleeping bags. However, if you weren’t planning on traveling with a sleeping bag, one can be rented for $20.

You’ll spend two nights at your campsite and will have Yosemite guided hikes and free time during your stay.

CROSSROADS TOURS & LIMOS from San Francisco to Yosemite

4. yosemite and glacier point tour from san francisco by train.

Cross Roads Tours & Limos helps arrange your San Francisco to Yosemite train and reserves your overnight lodging.

This multi-day Yosemite tour begins from the Amtrak Transbay Terminal in the SOMA neighborhood.

You’ll enjoy a scenic train ride through California’s Central Valley. All of the extra windows on the Observation Car will offer incredible views as the Yosemite train chugs along past Glacier Point.

You’ll disembark in Fresno, where you will be shuttled to sleeping accommodations.

The next morning you’ll join a small shuttle bus to explore parts of Yosemite normally closed off to bigger tour buses. After your Yosemite bus tour, you’ll break for lunch and have free time to hike on your own.

At the end of the second day, you’ll be dropped off to meet your train back to San Francisco.

P.S. don’t forget to check out our popular San Francisco tours while you are in town!

Muir Woods and Alcatraz are also stunning California national park sites! Once you get back from Yosemite, be sure to check out our 1-Day Alcatraz Experience to discover these amazing sites at their best.

Looking for more adventures on your trip to San Francisco? Check out our one-day trip to scenic Carmel and Monterey , or our Ultimate Napa and Sonoma Wine Tour  exploring some of the most gorgeous regions of Central and Northern California.

Book The #1 San Francisco Combo Alcatraz Tour

Looking for some fun things to do in San Francisco?

50 Best Things to do in San Francisco

Best Yosemite Tours from San Francisco

6 Best San Francisco Tours

5 Unique Ways to Enjoy San Francisco at Night

Discover San Francisco like never before! Join our Explore S.F. group on Facebook, your ultimate guide to the city’s best-kept secrets. From local tips to monthly adventures, this is where your journey begins. Click here to join and start exploring!

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San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip Itinerary: Explore the Scenic Backroads

Yosemite National Park has nearly 1,200 square miles of towering granite, alpine lakes and ancient sequoia trees. It’s understandable if you want to drive straight there from San Francisco so that you can start exploring without delay. But consider taking a beat and doing the San Francisco to Yosemite road trip at a slower pace. 

This is one  California’s most scenic drives  and our guide will help you find additional stops along the way from San Francisco to Yosemite which feature California’s Native American culture, gold rush history, cool hikes and culinary tourism.

This guide is organized around four major sections of the drive: SF to Yosemite’s southern reaches, Yosemite Valley, Northern Yosemite and the return from Yosemite to San Francisco. Each section suggests four things to do. 

If you are making this a 6-7 day road trip, you can probably do all of them. But if you are trying to do the drive in 4 days, you’ll need to prioritize what’s important to you. Better to do fewer things more slowly and savor your experience, than rush around, barely scratching the surface. 

If you want to do this drive in the winter, then check out our Yosemite winter guide . It outlines specific things to do in colder weather, including hikes, scenic viewpoints and tours.

San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip Map

The fastest way to get from SF to Yosemite is out I580 through Tracy, connecting with Highway 120 in Manteca. The road trip map below recommends a more circuitous routing that only adds about two extra hours of drive time. It hits up some lovely backroads and tackles both the northern and southern areas of Yosemite.

Tips for Visiting Yosemite

Yosemite’s natural wonders make it a very popular park, for both Californians and visitors. Consider these tips for making your Yosemite trip from San Francisco as smooth as possible.

• You must book lodging ahead of time. 
• Be aware that the time of year makes a big difference in Yosemite. In the winter, Tioga Pass and other high elevation sites are closed. Spring has the best waterfalls, but will also still have snow on the ground. Summer is awesome, but busy. And fall has lovely color and is quieter, but no waterfalls. 
• Take advantage of the shuttle buses to get around the valley floor. 
• Don’t assume that you’ll have mobile coverage, so cache maps, trail maps and this article. There is mobile service on the valley floor, but it may be spotty elsewhere in the park, like on Tioga Pass.
• Figure out  what to take to Yosemite  with our super-thorough packing list.
• Learn before you go by checking out our article on fun facts about Yosemite .

Hot Tip : Do you need a rental car for your San Francisco to Yosemite road trip? If so, do some price comparison shopping at  Rentalcars.com . If you are from out of the areas, check out this advice for finding the  closest airport to Yosemite .

(This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you choose to purchase, I’ll make a small commission.)

Where to Stay in Yosemite

If you can snag a camp spot or lodge reservation inside Yosemite Valley, go for it. But you’ll want to book these lodgings way in advance.

• Fancy : The Ahwahnee is Yosemite’s most historic hotel with wood and stone accents and soaring ceilings. It’s located right on the valley floor. Check reviews and book it here .
• Super Convenient : The Yosemite Valley Lodge is a modern, family friendly hotel located in Yosemite Valley right on the Merced river. Check reviews and book it here .
• Budget Glamping : Curry Village is located in the heart of the valley, just 1.1 miles from Vernal Falls. These glamping tents are cheaper than the hotels but still offer the great location. Check reviews or book it here .

You can usually find more choice and less expensive room inventory just outside of the valley. Consider staying in either Fish Camp (which is near the Mariposa sequoia grove) or around Midpine and Mariposa (which is a lovely drive into the valley along the Merced river). From either location, you can avoid summer traffic hassle in Yosemite valley by catching the  Yarts bus  right from town. 

• Fish Camp Full Service : The Tenaya Lodge is a full service resort with a great pool and spa. Check reviews and book it here
• Midpines Glamping : The Autocamp in Midpines takes glamping to a whole new level. They have adorbs airstream trailers and also BBQ facilities, a terrace, pool and concierge service. Check reviews and book it here .
• Budget basic : The Miners Inn in Mariposa ain’t fancy, but it gets the job done for people who want to spend more time outside than in. Check reviews and book it here .

For the Gold Country part of the itinerary, we recommend the Historic National Hotel in Jamestown or the Lazy Z Resort in Twain Harte. 

Eastbound San Francisco to Yosemite Drive

The first section of the drive starts from wherever you are in the Bay Area and ends in Fish Camp. Get an early start, because it’s over four hours of straight up drive time with lots of cool stops along the way. 

Here are your 4 key stops:

Hit Up the Madera Wine Trail

They’re growing more than almonds and peaches in the Central Valley (although if you do this drive in the spring, be sure to stop for the  lovely almond blossoms ). The Madera area also grows wine grapes and it’s a secret spot that is far less crowded than Napa or Paso. Do a tasting at one or two of the nine wineries on the  wine trail map .  

There is also an alternative wine trail called the  Yosemite Sierra trail . It veers off of Highway 41 onto Route 200 and has an additional three wineries.

Visit Wassama Round House State Historic Park

This  California state park  shares the ancient customs of the Sierra Miwok people. They lived in this area for 8,000 years and used the site as a meeting place. Even today, there are still cultural ceremonies held there. The park isn’t large and you can make a quick cultural stop by visiting the traditional round house. 

Take a Ride on the Sugar Pine Railroad

If you are traveling with kids, or you are simply a train nerd, the Sugar Pine Railroad is a fun stop to make on the way from SF to Yosemite. The 1-hour ride travels through logging country in a restored historic train. It’s best to  book ahead  for the train. 

Visit Mariposa Grove

Yosemite has three giant sequoia groves within the park boundaries. The Mariposa grove is the largest in the park and is conveniently located just 10 miles from Fish Camp. 

Hikes range from the easy Big Trees accessible loop trail (.3 miles) to the more strenuous Mariposa Grove trail (7 miles), which covers four famous trees, more groves and a panoramic overlook. Check the Forest Service site before you go as there are occasional closures due to weather and downed trees. 

Visiting Yosemite Valley

There is a ton to do in Yosemite valley. There are ten day hikes, swimming, scenic viewpoints and three National Park sponsored tours. Here are four top things for you to add to your must-do list. 

See Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in North America. When it’s running, you can reach the lower falls from a fairly easy loop trail.

Take the Glacier Point Tour

You can drive yourself up to Glacier Point, which is a lovely, popular overlook in the park.. But the Parks Service also offers a  guided bus tour  to Glacier Point. The tour includes El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, Half Dome, Yosemite Falls in Yosemite Valley, Tunnel View, and Glacier Point. 

If you are a hardy hiker, you can purchase a 1-way ticket and then take your pick of either a 5 or 8 mile hike back down to Yosemite Valley.

(note that the Glacier Point road will be closed for repaving during the 2022 season)

Take a Moderate Day Hike in the Valley

• Vernal & Nevada Falls trail: 4-10 miles. The distance depends upon the season and whether or not you want to cover both falls. 
• Mirror Lake Trail Loop: 5 miles. Goes to Mirror Lake and then continues along a flat-ish loop back into the valley. 
• Yosemite Valley Loop Trail: 11 miles (full loop), 7 miles (half-loop). This hike starts at Yosemite Falls and takes a nice long stroll along the Merced River.

Chill on the Merced River

The road into the Valley meanders along the Merced River. There are many picnic spots, beaches and swimming holes dotting the river. Look for Cathedral Beach, Housekeeping Camp, Swinging Beach, Devil’s Elbow and Sentinel Beach.

Northern Yosemite & Tioga Pass

Northern Yosemite is the higher elevation portion of the park and there are yet more stunning hikes and views in this part of the park. Please note that the Tioga Pass doesn’t get plowed and is closed in the winter.

Here are four things to do there:

Scenic Drive Over Tioga Pass

This is one of the most dramatic scenic drives in California. You climb through pine forest into the craggy granite tippy top of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. There are numerous pull-outs on the southern side of the road. Take advantage of all of them for some sensational views. 

If you are lovin’ those views, you may want to consider coming back to Tioga Pass as an entryway to our scenic  Highway 395 drive  down the Eastern Sierras. 

Take a Day Hike in Tuolumne Meadows

There are a ton of hiking trails that start in or near Tuolumne Meadows. It’s just a matter of picking your distance. Go early to get a parking spot or take the shuttle, which runs four times per day.

• Soda Springs & Parsons Lodge: 1.5 miles
• Dog Lake: 2.8 miles
• Cathedral Lakes: 7 miles

Take a Day Hike in Hetch Hetchy

Hetch Hetchy is in the far northwest corner of the park and it’s less popular (and therefore less crowded) than other parts of the park. The region houses one of the most important reservoirs storing and serving drinking water to northern California. The relatively low elevation of Hetch Hetchy means that it offers a long hiking season. 

• Lookout Point Trail: 2 miles
• Wapama Fall: 5 miles
• Rancheria Falls: 13 miles

Hike to Merced Grove

Merced is Yosemite’s smallest grove of giant sequoia, but it’s also the most secluded and it’s worth putting in the effort to visit. The trail to the grove is a 3 mile round trip with 520 feet of elevation gain. 

Driving From Yosemite to San Francisco

Don’t be in a hurry to drive back from Yosemite to San Francisco, because there are some cool stops to make along the route home. Coming northwest out of Yosemite puts you smack into California gold rush country. 

Here are four fun stops to make along the route:

Stroll Downtown Sonora

Historic Sonora is named after the miners from Sonora Mexico who settled the city in 1848. The well-preserved downtown core has a county history museum, tons of cute antique and apparel shops and the Iron Door Saloon, which is the oldest operating saloon in California. 

Columbia State Historic Park

Just north of Sonora is the historic Columbia mining town. It was also a thriving gold town during the mid 1800’s. By 1853, it was one of the largest cities in California. It never quite became a ghost town, which is why some of the on-site buildings managed to survive. 

The state park is really fun for families as they offer docents in period attire, stagecoach rides and panning for gold. There are also working stores selling authentic-ish goods like sarsaparilla soda, gold rush candies, soaps and more. 

Read More : If you are keen on mining history, check out this article on  California ghost towns . 

Gianelli Wineyard

This lovely Italian-style vineyard is located up in the hills just west of Sonora. They have a down home friendly vibe, award winning wines and stunning views. 

Knights Ferry

Dr Knight realized that this stretch of the Stanislaus river made for a favorable crossing serving gold rush towns like Columbia and Sonora. They operated a ferry until 1852, and then they built the bridge, which is the longest covered bridge west of the Mississippi. It sits over the Stanislaus river and there are some nice hiking trails on the north side and tons of picnic tables on the south side.

In the words of Yosemite’s favorite son– 

““Thousands of tired, nerve-shaken, over-civilized people are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity” –John Muir (get more Muir quotes here )

True that John. Shed your weary, nerve-shaken bones and let the mountains guide you on your Yosemite road trip. Happy trails!

More Road Trips from SF

• Want more redwoods? Take this itinerary north from SF into the Coast Redwoods .
• Get from San Francisco to Las Vegas the slow way (with three different routing options).
• Also take the slow way from San Francisco to Tahoe (with fun stops along the way).
• Get four routing suggestions for San Francisco to Death Valley .
• Drive the iconic Pacific Coast Highway from SF to LA .
• Or just hang out in SF and visit a few of the local Bay Area National Park sites .
• Check out our master list of 13 grand California road trip itineraries .

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3 thoughts on “San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip Itinerary: Explore the Scenic Backroads”

Where is a good place to stop approximately halfway between between San Francisco and Yosemite?

If you are looking for an overnight stop I would recommend one of two options. If you like how this itinerary adds the Sonora Gold Country, then do the itinerary in reverse and stay in Sonora or the cute town of Twain Harte a bit further east. If you are keen to do primarily Yosemite, then I would recommend an overnight in either Mariposa (a bit closer to SF) or Fish Camp (closer to the Mariposa Grove). There are lodging suggestions for these towns in the article.

What is best way to fit Yosemite into San Francisco to Las Vegas drive (i am planning to complete the 7 day trip on this site to get from SF to LV including Bridgeport and Death Valley but not sure best way to include Yosemite into the trip). Time is not an issue so happy to spend additional 4 days to include Yosemite, if needed?

Any guidance appreciated

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The Perfect San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip

Are you planning a San Francisco to Yosemite road trip and looking for some fun stops along the way?

If so, this easy San Francisco to Yosemite National Park itinerary will help you add a little adventure to the relatively short drive.

Let’s get started.

Some of the links in the post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links it helps to support this site at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip

This San Francisco to Yosemite road trip itinerary will take you from the Bay Area to the park in one day, stops included.

The drive to Yosemite from San Francisco is only about 3 hours and 20 minutes. This itinerary includes three stops intended to show you a few interesting things along the way that you otherwise may have missed.

However, for those short on time or just anxious to get to Yosemite, you can easily make this drive without stops.

If you’d like to visit Yosemite but prefer not to drive, I’ve included a few guided tours to Yosemite from San Francisco up above.

Stop 1: San Francisco

You’re lucky to be starting in San Francisco, which is one heck of a fun city. If this is your first visit to the city, I recommend spending a few days here before moving on to Yosemite.

However, no matter how much time you spend exploring San Francisco, there will always be more to see.

I used to live just south of San Francisco so I’ve spent a lot of time in this city. Here are a few of the things I like to do in San Francisco over the course of a day:

• Get brunch and mimosas at one of the city’s popular breakfast spots.
• Spend the early afternoon in Golden Gate Park or at the Academy of Sciences.
• In the late afternoon I’ll do a little shopping near Powell and Market Streets.
• After shopping I’ll hop on the cable car to head down to Fisherman’s Wharf.
• From Fisherman’s Wharf I’ll make my way over to the Buena Vista for Irish Coffees.
• After a few too many Irish Coffees I’ll head up to North Beach and enjoy the sunset from Coit Tower.
• After sunset, I’ll make my way over to the Mission to have dinner and drinks at one of the neighborhood’s many trendy restaurants.
• At night, I’ll try to catch a show somewhere, either live music or a movie.

This is just one example of a day I would have in the city, but there’s so much to see and do in San Francisco.

You may also wish to consider a drive over the Golden Gate Bridge, walking along Haight Street for thrift shopping, or biking along the Embarcadero.

Stop 2: Oakland

Yes, I am including Oakland in this itinerary even though it’s just over the bridge. Why you ask? Because it’s technically on the the way between SF and Yosemite, and also because I think Oakland is often overlooked but has a lot to offer.

If you’re up early, head across the bridge to get brunch at The Gastropig in downtown Oakland. They have a pork centric menu but also plenty of vegetarian options as well. You can also get beer, mimosas, and ciders.

After breakfast, make the short 10 minute drive over to Jack London Square. Here you can enjoy a walk along the waterfront. If you have a little extra time, consider renting a kayak or canoe to take out on the water.

• Next Stop: Oakdale
• Drive Time: 90 minutes

Stop 3: Oakdale

You’ll come across Oakdale about 90 minutes east of downtown Oakland where the 120 and 108 highways intersect.

Oakdale goes by the self-proclaimed title of Cowboy Capital of the World due to its history as an Old West town.

One of the main attractions in Oakdale is the city’s Cowboy Musuem where you can see exhibits about the region’s Old West heritage. If you’re into Old West history, The Cowboy Musuem is worth a quick stop.

Oakdale also sits along the Stanislaus River, so its a popular spot for river rafting and kayaking. Sunshine Rafting or River Journey can help with your rafting or kayaking adventure. Both companies offer trips for about $35 to $40 depending on the day and size of your group.

If you plan to stay in town until dinner and want to try something a little different, consider making a reservation for the Sierra Dinner Train .

You’ll get to enjoy a round trip ride on the historic River Fox Train while enjoying dinner and drinks. There are also special event nights for the holidays, beer nights, and murder mystery nights.

• Next Stop: Groveland
• Driving Time: 55 minutes

Stop 4: Groveland

Located about 55 minutes east of Oakdale you’ll find Groveland. The town of Groveland is famous for its Iron Door Saloon , reportedly California’s oldest saloon.

According to the saloon’s website, the Iron Door Saloon was built sometime before 1852. Since that time it has operated as both a saloon and at times, a brothel. It is reported the saloon also operated illegally during Prohibition.

Today, the Iron Door Saloon is a popular stop for travelers on the way to Yosemite. They serve draft beer, cocktails, and mimosas and are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You’ll find breakfast burritos, burgers, wings, and appetizers on the menu.

The Iron Door Saloon also has live music on some nights of the week.

Besides the Iron Door Saloon, the only other activity I would recommend in Groveland would be to go swimming in the Rainbow Pool.

The Rainbow Pool is a natural swimming hole in Stanislaus National Forest located about 17 minutes east of Groveland along Highway 120.

• Next Stop: Yosemite National Park
• Driving Time: 30 minutes

Stop 5: Yosemite National Park

You’ve made it!

Yosemite has been my favorite of the national parks since my first visit back in 1999. Since that time, I’ve returned multiple times and recommend it as a destination to anyone traveling to northern California.

If you’ve been to Yosemite before, then you already know what I’m talking about. If this is your first visit, I just know you’re going to love it.

No matter how many days you have to enjoy and explore Yosemite, it will be totally worth the drive, I promise.

Some of my favorite things to do in Yosemite are to visit the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, enjoy sunrise at Tunnel View , sit and watch Yosemite Falls, hike out to Mirror Lake , or take the park road up to Glacier Point in the late afternoon.

If hiking isn’t your thing, you can see a lot of this park on a Yosemite Road Trip within the park itself. In fact, I think you actually get to see even more of the park if you use your car to get around from place to place.

If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to take a drive along the Tioga Pass. Not many people do this and its absolutely stunning.

For those that don’t feel like driving around the park, you can also take one of the tram tours offered in the park.

I’ve personally taken the Valley Floor tour which I definitely recommend. They also offer a Glacier Point tour as well, and probably a few others.

No matter what you decide to do while in Yosemite, this is one of the most beautiful road trips you’ll ever take, so just enjoy it.

Other popular stops close to Yosemite

If you plan to continue your road trip, here are the driving times to popular nearby attractions.

• Lake Tahoe – 5 hours
• Big Sur – 4 hours 10 minutes
• Sequoia National Park – 2 hours 45 minutes
• Death Valley National Park – 6 hours
• Joshua Tree National Park – 6 hours 20 minutes
• Grand Canyon National Park – 11 hours
• Zion National Park – 10 hours

I hope you’ve enjoyed this San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip itinerary and that you’ve found it useful in planning a trip of your own. If you would like to support this blog please consider sharing this post. Thanks for reading.

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San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip: Best Route and Stops

By Chirasree Banerjee

Last Updated On June 30, 2023

In United States

Welcome to Your San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Road Trip and Uncover The Best Routes and Stops Along The Way .

Embarking on a road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park ? Brace yourself for an adventure brimming with diverse landscapes, cultural highlights, historical landmarks, and natural wonders.

This epic journey, spanning approximately 200 miles, encapsulates the essence of California’s breathtaking beauty.

Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast chasing thrilling trails, a history buff passionate about Gold Rush-era towns, a foodie eager to discover local cuisines, or simply someone seeking an escape into nature, this guide will lead you every step of the way.

I’ve handpicked the most efficient routes and the must-see stops that will transform your trip into a journey of a lifetime.

In this comprehensive guide, I delve into the different routes from San Francisco to Yosemite, highlighting the unique attractions each pathway offers.

From the high-speed CA-120 and the scenic CA-140 to the tranquil CA-41, you’ll get an in-depth understanding of what each route has in store.

I’ll guide you through the majestic entrances of Yosemite and help you choose the one that best suits your itinerary and preferences.

Moreover, I’ll uncover the best stops along each route that not only offer a break from driving but also an opportunity to create memorable experiences.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with all the information you need to embark on this scenic road trip .

From understanding the Yosemite entrances to choosing your perfect route, and from deciding the best stops to learning about fascinating things to do en-route, I’ve got it all covered.

So, buckle up as I navigate the path from the urban vibrancy of San Francisco to the pristine wilderness of Yosemite National Park.

Get ready to plan an unforgettable road trip that promises as much joy in the journey as in the destination.

Stay tuned, your adventure awaits!

Looking for more tips for your trip to Yosemite and incredible national parks across California?   Don’t miss these posts!

One Day Trip to Yosemite National Park: Best Things to See

• 50 Top Landmarks in Yosemite National Park, California 

San Francisco to Redwood National Park Road Trip: Best Route, Stops, and Itinerary

• San Francisco to Death Valley – A Super Scenic California Road Trip! 
• Top California National Parks, Monuments, and Historic Sites – A comprehensive guide!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Understanding Yosemite’s Entrances

San francisco to yosemite: a detailed map of all routes and entrances, the three main routes from san francisco, route 1: best stops on your san francisco to yosemite trip via ca-120 east (big oak flat entrance), route 2: unmissable stops on the ca-140 arch rock entrance (el portal) route from san francisco to yosemite, route 3: essential stops along the ca-41 south entrance to yosemite national park from san francisco, how to choose your route: selecting the best path from san francisco to yosemite national park, best route from san francisco to yosemite, where to stay in yosemite national park, san francisco to yosemite tours, similar articles from travel realizations, newsletter signup.

As the crown jewel of California’s natural wonders , Yosemite National Park boasts multiple entrances, each serving as a gateway to a unique blend of attractions.

To fully appreciate the beauty that Yosemite offers, it’s important to understand these entrances and what they offer.

As someone who’s called the Bay Area home for many years and explored Yosemite more times than I can count, I’ve gathered some insights that could help you decide the best point of entry for your adventure.

There are five entrances to Yosemite:

• Big Oak Flat Entrance : Situated on CA-120 West, this entrance is the closest to San Francisco and offers access to Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Tioga Road. Groveland, a charming town nearby, can be a great pitstop en route.
• Arch Rock Entrance (El Portal) : This entrance, located on CA-140, is the only one that is open year-round, even in harsh winter conditions. The route to this entrance is incredibly scenic, passing through the Merced River canyon.
• South Entrance : Found on CA-41, this entrance is ideal if you’re staying at the Tenaya Lodge or visiting the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. It is a slightly longer route from San Francisco, but the enchanting views along the way make it worth the extra time.
• Hetch Hetchy Entrance : Located to the northwest of the park, this less frequented entrance offers access to the Hetch Hetchy Valley and reservoir. It’s perfect for those seeking solitude and untouched wilderness.
• Tioga Pass Entrance : On CA-120 East, this high-elevation entrance provides access to Tuolumne Meadows and is the gateway to the park’s High Sierra region. Note that it’s seasonally closed due to snow, typically from late fall to late spring.

Each entrance presents a unique aspect of Yosemite’s grandeur, making the choice of entry more about the journey you wish to undertake.

In the following sections, we will deep-dive into the best routes from San Francisco, highlighting the exciting stops you can make along the way.

With this information, you’ll be well-equipped to pick the perfect entrance for your unforgettable Yosemite adventure.

Stay with me as we map your route to one of America’s greatest natural treasures!

Embarking on a road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite presents you with three main routes, each one unique and offering its own set of attractions.

These routes traverse different parts of California’s picturesque landscapes, offering glimpses into charming small towns, verdant farmlands, stunning mountain vistas, and serene lakes.

The chosen route could either lead you along the fastest path or take you on a more leisurely, scenic drive . Each route ends at one of the main entrances of Yosemite National Park, ultimately leading you to the heart of this magnificent wilderness.

For newcomers to San Francisco, I highly recommend carving out some time to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge , Alcatraz Island , Chinatown, and Fisherman’s Wharf , before you hit the road.

This vibrant city is a cultural gem in itself, offering a multitude of experiences that set the perfect stage for the adventure that lies ahead.

If you’re wondering how to make the most of your time in San Francisco, be sure to check out my blog post: One Day in San Francisco Itinerary: For Every Traveler . This guide is packed with insider tips to help you discover the city’s highlights in a day.

In the following sections, I will dive into each route in detail, providing you with an overview of what you can expect in terms of travel time, scenery, and noteworthy stops along the way.

Journey Duration : 3 hours 9 minutes; Distance from San Francisco: 167 miles.

Setting off on Route 1 via CA-120 East is the commencement of a thrilling journey that guides you straight into the heart of Yosemite National Park.

Spanning approximately 167 miles, this journey typically takes 3 to 3.5 hours without stops, positioning it as one of the most efficient routes to Yosemite from the Bay Area .

The adventure unfolds as you start on I-580 East from San Francisco, transition onto I-205 East, and then merge onto CA-120 East at Manteca.

This path not only offers direct access to Yosemite via the Big Oak Flat Entrance, but it also guides you through an awe-inspiring fusion of California’s diverse landscapes .

Journeying from the vibrant cityscapes of San Francisco , through the sprawling farmlands of the Central Valley, and finally into the dramatic terrain of the Sierra Nevada foothills, this route offers an ever-changing panorama that’s nothing short of a visual feast.

Whether you’re an experienced local or a first-time explorer, Route 1 promises an unforgettable adventure that’s as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

The upcoming sections will highlight some must-visit stops along this route that will undoubtedly enrich your journey. So buckle up, and let’s get this road trip started!

But before we dive into the detailed descriptions, take a look at this comprehensive map, which pinpoints all the key stops along the CA-120 East route from San Francisco to Yosemite.

Use this as your visual guide to plan, navigate, and fully appreciate the scenic journey ahead.

Stop 1: Top-of-the-world scenic lookout

Just as you leave the city behind and head towards the rolling landscapes of the Central Valley, make a stop at the Top-of-the-World Scenic Lookout.

This spot provides a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding area, truly making you feel on top of the world.

It’s an excellent place for photography enthusiasts or those looking to stretch their legs amidst an inspiring backdrop.

Stop 2: Great Wolf Lodge Water Park

If you’re traveling with family, especially kids, the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park is a delightful detour.

This indoor water park offers a fun break from the drive, with various water rides, games, and activities suitable for all ages. Remember, this stop could add a few hours to your trip, so plan accordingly.

Stop 3: Manteca

As you arrive in Manteca, the urban settings start transitioning into the rich farmlands of the Central Valley. Consider making a lunch stop here, sampling local cuisine, and soaking up the small-town charm.

Manteca also offers nearly 30 public murals scattered across the city, encapsulating its culture and history. Art enthusiasts will love this open-air gallery that adds a vibrant splash of creativity to the town.

Stop 4: Wine Tasting at Delicato Family Vineyards

Lastly, if you’re a wine aficionado or just curious about the celebrated wine culture of California’s wine countries , a stop at Delicato Family Vineyards in Manteca is worth considering.

This family-owned winery allows you to experience the diversity of California’s prime wine regions in a single tasting.

Sourced from premium vineyards across Napa Valley , Lodi, Monterey , and Sonoma, their exquisite portfolio truly reflects the essence of these distinct California wine countries.

This stop adds a luxurious touch to your journey, making your road trip more memorable.

Stop 5: Escalon

Escalon, known as “stepping stones” in Spanish, is a charming town imbued with agricultural richness. Just a short drive from Manteca, Escalon offers a delightful pit stop on Route 1.

Begin your visit at Main Street Park, where you’ll find an authentic Santa Fe caboose dating back to the 1800s.

It’s not just a sight to behold, but also a fun playground for kids who are welcome to clamber in and around this piece of history.

Take a leisurely stroll from the park to reach the Escalon Historical Museum. It houses an extensive collection of local artifacts, offering a glimpse into Escalon’s past.

Nearby, don’t miss the town’s first fire bell from the early 1900s, a significant symbol of the community’s historical resilience.

To round off your visit, look up to admire the stunning mural that towers above the fire bell.

This artistic masterpiece beautifully encapsulates what Escalon is celebrated for: its flourishing agriculture, integral role in railroad transportation, and thriving dairy industry.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply appreciate the small-town charm, a stop in Escalon provides a delightful diversion on your journey toward Yosemite.

Stop 6: The Cowboy Museum, Oakdale

Your next potential stop along CA-120 East is the quaint town of Oakdale, fondly known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World.”

Here, you’ll find The Cowboy Museum, a gem that presents an authentic glimpse into the region’s ranching and rodeo heritage.

Immerse yourself in a world of cowboy gear, historic photographs, and fascinating memorabilia that bring to life the stories of Oakdale’s rodeo champions and the traditions of California cowboys.

This museum is a unique cultural stop that beautifully contrasts with the natural allure awaiting you in Yosemite.

As with all stops, consider your personal interests and time constraints when deciding to visit.

Stop 7: Knights Ferry

The historic town of Knights Ferry, nestled on the Stanislaus River, makes for a worthwhile detour on your journey.

Once a bustling hub during the gold rush, Knights Ferry is now a charming relic of the past that brings California’s vibrant history to life.

Here, you’ll find the longest-covered bridge west of the Mississippi River and the oldest operating general store in California.

The town is a living museum, with many structures such as the old mill, fire station, and various general stores and hotels still standing, offering a glimpse into the bygone era.

An old iron jail, no longer in use, stands as a testament to the town’s vibrant past.

But Knights Ferry isn’t just about the past. It is a vibrant, tight-knit community today, offering a range of outdoor activities that cater to different interests.

Depending on the season of your visit, you could witness the dramatic salmon run upstream in the late fall or partake in exhilarating river rafting during the spring and summer months.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or someone who enjoys a leisurely stroll in a quaint town, Knights Ferry is an inviting stop.

However, as always, consider your personal interests, time constraints, and the season of your visit when planning your stop here.

Stop 8: Into the Sierra Nevada Foothills and Chinese Camp

As you progress on your journey, the road ascends further into the Sierra Nevada foothills, an area rich with the echoes of California’s Gold Rush Era. Gold Rush was one of Northern California’s most significant events.

Though our journey is taking us on a right turn towards Yosemite National Park via SR120, it’s worth noting that these parts are also gateways to historic Gold Rush towns like Jamestown, Sonora, and Columbia along Highway 108. Perhaps, those could be ventures for another day.

Our focus, however, remains on the Hwy. 120 adventure, leading us to our next significant stop, Chinese Camp. This classic Gold Rush Era town marks the site of the Tong War.

A walk through the town takes you back to the mid-1800s mining days, with several historic buildings, including the Wells Fargo Building, where miners took their gold for weighing and deposit.

Chinese Camp is part of the celebrated Mark Twain Bret Harte trail, further enriching its historical allure.

Historical Spotlight: The Mark Twain Bret Harte Trail and Chinese Camp on Your SF to Yosemite Journey

The Mark Twain Bret Harte trail, a beacon of gold rush history, is a series of locations in California that carry historical and cultural significance related to the iconic American authors Mark Twain and Bret Harte. Their writings were heavily influenced by their time spent in California during the Gold Rush era.

Chinese Camp, one of the historic towns along this trail, was a thriving mining community during the Gold Rush. It had a substantial population of Chinese immigrants who journeyed to the area seeking fortune in the gold fields.

Their experiences and narratives, immortalized in the writings of Twain and Harte, have shaped the cultural fabric of the town.

Today, Chinese Camp offers visitors an opportunity to delve into its rich history. You can explore the few remaining structures from the mining era, including the old Wells Fargo building, where miners once brought their gold for weighing and deposit.

A visit to Chinese Camp provides a chance to step into the pages of Twain’s and Harte’s stories, making this town a must-visit stop for lovers of literature and history.

Stop 9: Lake Don Pedro Vista Point

Just a short drive from Chinese Camp, Lake Don Pedro Vista Point provides a welcome pause on the road, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in some of California’s most impressive natural beauty.

It’s an ideal stop for those wishing to stretch their legs, enjoy a picnic, or simply soak up the magnificent vistas.

Overlooking Lake Don Pedro, one of the largest reservoirs in California, the vista point delivers panoramic views of the vast, serene waters, surrounded by rolling green hills.

On a clear day, the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains grace the horizon, adding an extra layer of majesty to the scene.

So, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography lover, or just in need of a tranquil break, Lake Don Pedro Vista Point is a stop that promises to invigorate you for the next leg of your journey to Yosemite.

Stop 10: Groveland

As you continue your journey through the heart of California’s gold country, your next stop is the charming town of Groveland .

Located on the fringe of Yosemite National Park, Groveland serves as a gateway to the park and a testament to the area’s rich Gold Rush history.

Groveland today is a vibrant community steeped in historical charm. It’s home to California’s oldest saloon, the Iron Door Saloon, where you can step back in time and grab a bite to eat amidst historical artifacts and memorabilia.

Beyond its historical sites, Groveland also offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities.

You can enjoy a round of golf at the Pine Mountain Lake Golf Course, or if you’re visiting during the warmer months, cool off with a swim at Pine Mountain Lake.

For travelers who prefer a quieter, less crowded experience, Groveland offers a range of lodging options, making it an excellent base for exploring Yosemite National Park and its surroundings.

The Groveland Hotel and Hotel Charlotte are two great options.

Whether you’re stopping for a quick meal or planning to stay overnight, Groveland is a must-visit on your Route 1 road trip.

Stop 11: Stanislaus National Forest

Leaving Groveland behind, Route 1 winds into Stanislaus National Forest, a lush, 900,000-acre wilderness that once yielded the Capitol Christmas Tree.

As you travel through, you’ll reach Buck Meadows, home to a popular swimming spot at Rainbow Falls & Pool on the Tuolumne River.

Your must-see stop here is the Rim of the World vista point, providing stunning views over the middle fork and main Tuolumne River.

For thrill-seekers, these rivers offer exciting white water rafting and kayaking opportunities. This stop truly offers a taste of the natural wonders that Yosemite holds. Plan your visit according to your interests and schedule.

Optional Detour: Hetch Hetchy

If you’re ahead of schedule and yearning for more adventure, consider a detour to Hetch Hetchy, a stunning reservoir located approximately 38 miles from Yosemite Valley.

Known for its striking similarities to the valley – including waterfalls, clear waters, and sheer granite faces – Hetch Hetchy offers an additional layer of exploration.

Note that the road to Hetch Hetchy begins just outside of the park on Highway 120, near the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station, adding about 1 hour and 15 minutes to your trip.

If time constraints are tight, proceed straight to the Big Oak Flat Entrance, the gateway to Yosemite National Park’s wonders.

Optional Detour: Giant Sequoia Groves

For those with a bit more time and an appetite for natural wonders, a detour to the Merced and Tuolumne Groves of Giant Sequoias offers a truly unforgettable experience.

At the Merced Grove , a serene pathway leads you through the home of approximately 20 mature giant sequoias. The trail, once an old road, weaves through the grove, providing a secluded encounter with these towering marvels.

A moderate hike of 1.5 miles downhill ushers you into this tranquil sanctuary. Here, you can also discover the historical charm of an old ranger patrol cabin, once the summer retreat of park superintendents.

Visit in spring to witness the flourishing dogwoods.

The Tuolumne Grove offers a similarly awe-inspiring spectacle of nearly two dozen mature giant sequoias. Starting at the Tuolumne Grove parking lot, follow the Old Big Oak Flat Road – an early road into Yosemite Valley – as it winds downhill through sugar pines and white firs.

While the trail is a steep descent of 500 feet in one mile, an easy, self-guiding, half-mile nature trail awaits within the grove itself.

Remember, both groves require a moderate hike, so be prepared. While these detours necessitate a bit of effort, the reward of walking amidst these ancient behemoths is more than worth it.

So, embrace the adventure, and let these magnificent spectacles of nature leave you utterly captivated. Note that parking is limited at Tuolumne Grove.

Stop 12: Big Oak Flat Entrance

Welcome to Yosemite National Park! As you pass through the Big Oak Flat Entrance, you’re entering a world-renowned natural sanctuary celebrated for its grandeur, beauty, and vast wilderness.

Prepare to be awed by the park’s towering cliffs, ancient sequoias, and diverse wildlife, a truly unforgettable experience.

Journey Duration : 3 hours 41 minutes; Distance from San Francisco: 200 miles.

No matter if you’re a seasoned San Francisco local or a newcomer, embarking on Route 2 via CA-140 East, also known as the Arch Rock Entrance, introduces you to a different facet of California’s diverse landscapes.

Like Route 1, this route starts from San Francisco and goes along I-580 East and I-205 East. However, after Manteca, it diverges and takes you south onto CA-99 S towards Modesto, from where you join CA-140-East leading you directly to Yosemite National Park.

For Route 2, our suggested stops commence after departing from Manteca. Until then, feel free to take breaks at the wonderful stops highlighted in Route 1 .

From Manteca onwards, Route 2 carves a unique path, offering a distinct array of attractions and landscapes. So, let’s explore the distinctive stops that Route 2 has to offer after leaving Manteca!

Now, to help visualize this intriguing journey, let’s unveil a detailed map highlighting our proposed stops along Route 2.

Stop 1: Modesto

Modesto , at the beginning of spring, is a sight to behold with its beautiful almond blossoms heralding the arrival of the season. This city is a harmonious blend of vibrant urban life and stunning agricultural landscapes.

Experience Modesto’s beautiful mural art, a creative and colorful expression adorning the city’s walls and spaces.

While in Modesto, take a stroll through the downtown area lined with restaurants, shops, and galleries.

Don’t miss McHenry Mansion, a restored Victorian-era residence, and the Gallo Center for the Arts , a premier venue for concerts and theatre performances.

For car enthusiasts, the American Graffiti Car Show and Festival, an annual homage to George Lucas’ film, ‘American Graffiti,’ which was based in Modesto that takes place in the second week of June, is an unmissable event.

Read More: 41 Best Things to Do in Modesto, California

Stop 2: Turlock

A vibrant city with a small-town charm, Turlock offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities. Visit the Turlock Historical Society Museum to discover the rich history of the city, or explore the local arts scene at the Carnegie Arts Center.

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Donnelly Park, a local gem with picnic areas, a fishing pond, and beautiful walking trails. If you happen to be around during the Stanislaus County Fair, it’s a fun and lively event that offers a taste of local culture.

Stop 3: Merced

Merced is steeped in history and surrounded by rich agricultural lands. Explore Merced’s downtown district with its unique shops and eateries, and visit the Merced County Courthouse Museum to learn about the local history.

The Merced Multicultural Arts Center is a hub for artistic activities and exhibits. For nature lovers, the Merced National Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit, offering an oasis for many migratory birds and wildlife.

Stop 4: Mariposa

As a historic Gold Rush town , Mariposa offers a glimpse into California’s gold mining past. Visit the Mariposa Museum & History Center and Mariposa County’s Old Stone Jail for a dose of local history.

Enjoy a stroll down the charming downtown area with its quaint shops, antique stores, and eateries. The Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch offers a thrilling experience, while the Butterfly Creek Winery and Vineyards offer a taste of local wines in a scenic setting.

Stop 5: El Portal

Nestled on the edge of Yosemite National Park, El Portal provides a tranquil retreat away from the more crowded parts of the park.

Enjoy the stunning natural beauty with hiking and wildlife watching, or visit the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center to learn about the park’s history and conservation efforts.

The nearby Merced River offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, and whitewater rafting.

The small community of El Portal also hosts a few restaurants and accommodations, making it a perfect base for exploring the wonders of Yosemite National Park.

Journey Duration : 3 hours 47 minutes; Distance from San Francisco: 210 miles.

Embarking on a journey through Route 3 allows you to traverse California via CA-41 South, bringing you to Yosemite’s South Entrance.

This route is perfect for travelers eager to immerse themselves in quintessential California landscapes, lined with expansive farmlands, lush hills, and charming small towns.

Like Routes 1 and 2, Route 3 originates in San Francisco, following the path of I-580 East, I-205 East, and CA-99 South.

After reaching Merced, it diverges and leads you onto CA-140 East and CA-49 South towards the appealing town of Oakhurst.

From here, Route 3 introduces you to unique attractions and landscapes that make your journey to Yosemite an adventure in its own right.

Let’s kickstart this exploration by diving into the captivating stops that Route 3 presents, beginning from Oakhurst!”

Here’s a comprehensive map of Route 3 for a better visual understanding of your journey.

Stop 1: Oakhurst

Oakhurst is a charming mountain town that serves as a gateway to Yosemite National Park. In town, take a moment to visit the Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park, where you can learn about the area’s history and pioneer life in the 19th century.

Nearby, you can also enjoy the art at the Yosemite Gateway Gallery Row, an association of art galleries showcasing local artists’ work.

Stop 2: Bass Lake (Optional)

Just a few miles from Oakhurst, you’ll find Bass Lake, a perfect stop for those who enjoy water activities. Enjoy boating, fishing, or swimming in this beautiful lake surrounded by pine forests.

Alternatively, you can opt for a peaceful picnic by the lakeside while enjoying the breathtaking views. The lake also boasts several resorts and restaurants for a more luxurious experience.

Stop 3: Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

Next, make your way to the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad, an exciting stop for history and railway enthusiasts.

Here, you can ride a historic steam train through the scenic Sierra National Forest, a trip that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Be sure to explore the Thornberry Museum and learn more about the area’s logging and railroad history.

Stop 4: Fish Camp

Fish Camp, located just outside Yosemite National Park’s south entrance, is an inviting small town offering a taste of wilderness.

If you’re lucky, you may spot some deer wandering around the area. For a unique experience, consider a horse-drawn sleigh or carriage ride with Yosemite Trails Sleigh and Horseback Rides.

Stop 5: Wawona (Optional)

If you have some extra time, consider a detour to Wawona, an area within Yosemite National Park known for its historic hotel, the Wawona Hotel.

The hotel dates back to the 19th century and offers a glimpse into Yosemite’s past. Wawona is also a gateway to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

Stop 6: Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Your journey on Route 3 culminates at the awe-inspiring Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, located in the southern part of Yosemite National Park.

As the largest sequoia grove in Yosemite, Mariposa is home to over 500 mature giant sequoias. Walking amidst these ancient giants, some of which are over 2,000 years old, is an unforgettable and humbling experience.

The Mariposa Grove holds a significant place in the history of national parks in the United States.

In 1864, in the midst of the Civil War, President Lincoln signed legislation that set aside the Mariposa Grove and Yosemite Valley for “public use, resort, and recreation.”

This unprecedented move marked the birth of the national park idea and paved the way for the creation of national parks across the country.

This majestic grove was later added to Yosemite National Park in 1906, solidifying its status as a cherished destination for visitors from all over the world.

In the heart of the grove, be sure to visit the Grizzly Giant, one of the oldest and largest trees in Mariposa. Remember, the hike to the grove can be strenuous, so wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water.

The effort is worth it, though, as the serene beauty of these ancient trees and the rich history of the grove make for a truly magnificent sight.

Selecting the best route from San Francisco to Yosemite depends on a variety of factors. While each route offers its unique charm and attractions, your choice may be influenced by the following considerations:

1. Starting Point in the Bay Area : Depending on where you are based in the Bay Area, one route might be more convenient than others. For instance, if you are closer to the East Bay, the CA-120 route might be the quickest way to start your journey.

2. Time of Year : Some routes are more suitable for certain seasons. For instance, the CA-140/Arch Rock Entrance is known as the all-weather highway and is a safer choice during winter months. On the other hand, the CA-120/Big Oak Flat Entrance and CA-41/South Entrance may be more scenic during spring or fall when the landscape is lush.

3. Destination within Yosemite : Your planned activities within Yosemite can also influence your route. If you’re eager to see the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, the CA-41/South Entrance would be an ideal choice. If Yosemite Valley is your main focus, the CA-120/Big Oak Flat Entrance provides more direct access.

4. Personal Preferences : Finally, your personal preferences play a crucial role. Are you looking for the fastest route, or is the journey part of the adventure for you? Do you prefer a gentle, gradual drive or a more mountainous route? Are there specific sights or towns along the way you wish to explore?

Take your time to review each route and what it offers. Whichever route you choose, the road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite is bound to be filled with unforgettable sights and experiences.

Your journey through the diverse landscapes of California is just as much a part of your adventure as the destination itself.

While all three routes from San Francisco to Yosemite offer unique appeal, CA-120 via the Big Oak Flat Entrance stands out as the most direct route.

Balancing breathtaking scenery, efficient travel time, and distinctive attractions, it’s typically the fastest way to the park, requiring roughly 3 to 4 hours of driving time, and provides direct access to Yosemite Valley – the heart of the park and home to iconic landmarks such as Half Dome and El Capitan.

Your journey unfolds through the historic town of Groveland, a tangible remnant of the Gold Rush era.

This ideal rest stop beckons with local boutiques to explore, charming eateries for a leisurely bite, and an old-time atmosphere perfect for stretching your legs.

Further along, you’ll traverse the Sierra Nevada foothills, with its picturesque landscapes inviting pauses for admiration.

Upon entering the park via the Big Oak Flat Entrance, you’ll descend into the captivating splendor of Yosemite Valley.

This route is generally open year-round, although winter weather can occasionally lead to temporary closures. It’s always prudent to check current road conditions and weather forecasts before setting off.

However, the “best” route is often a matter of personal preference. If a scenic, tranquil drive appeals to you, the CA-140 route alongside the Merced River might be your choice, whereas the CA-41 route offers the unique experience of passing through the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

For those journeying from Los Angeles or Southern California, the South Entrance (CA-41) is often more convenient and gives the remarkable opportunity to kick off your Yosemite adventure with a visit to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.

Ultimately, your route choice should reflect what you’re most excited to see and experience during your visit to Yosemite.

Each road to Yosemite is peppered with charming towns, offering a range of accommodations that could act as relaxing retreats after a day full of exploration.

Whether you’re seeking luxury lodging, cozy bed-and-breakfasts, or campgrounds that keep you close to nature, you’re sure to find something that suits your travel style and needs.

Remember, your choice of accommodation can greatly enhance your Yosemite experience. Consider your itinerary, the kind of comfort and amenities you desire, and your budget when choosing a place to rest.

Let’s explore some of the best accommodation options available along each route to Yosemite National Park.

Route 1: Best Stops Along CA-120 East (Big Oak Flat Entrance)

Oakdale: You might consider the Holiday Inn Express Oakdale , a modern hotel with a range of amenities, including an outdoor pool and fitness center.

Groveland: The Groveland Hotel is a charming, historic hotel with unique, individually-decorated rooms.

Route 2: Best Stops Along CA-140/Arch Rock Entrance (El Portal)

Merced: The Courtyard by Marriott Merced is a well-reviewed option with a range of amenities, including an indoor pool and on-site dining

Mariposa: The Mariposa Lodge is a budget-friendly option with a pool and free parking located close to the town center.

El Portal: Cedar Lodge is an affordable hotel located just outside the park entrance, featuring both rooms and cabins.

Route 3: Best Stops Along CA-41/South Entrance

Oakhurst: The Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn is a popular choice, with a range of amenities and room types.

Fish Camp: The Tenaya Lodge is a luxury resort with a variety of rooms, suites, and even some cabins.

Hotels in Yosemite National Park

• Sequoias West
• Alpine View
• Yosemite Pines

While a self-drive road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite offers an exciting adventure, guided tours can offer a wealth of benefits that can greatly enhance your experience.

With a tour, you get the advantage of a well-planned itinerary created by experts who understand the area and know all the must-see sights and hidden gems.

Guided tours often come with experienced guides who share valuable insights and fascinating stories about the region’s history, culture, and wildlife that you may not find in guidebooks.

Plus, you can sit back and relax, soaking in the views without the distraction of navigation or the stress of driving.

Opting for a tour also allows for social interactions, as you’ll have the opportunity to meet fellow travelers, share experiences, and perhaps forge new friendships.

Whether you choose a day trip or a multi-day tour, you’ll be provided with a hassle-free, comprehensive experience that covers the best of what Yosemite and the journey from San Francisco has to offer.

Now, let’s explore some fantastic tour options for your upcoming adventure.

1. Yosemite National Park and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

Embrace the grandeur of Yosemite National Park and the majestic Giant Sequoias in a well-rounded day trip from San Francisco.

Traverse through historic Gold Rush towns on a comfortable van before reaching the breathtaking landscapes of the Sierra Nevada. Marvel at the park’s iconic wonders, including Yosemite Falls, the granite cliffs of Half Dome, and El Capitan.

Embark on a hike amidst ancient sequoia trees and get plenty of time to explore the park’s marvels at your own pace.

2. Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco

Discover the majesty of one of America’s most awe-inspiring National Parks with this full-day, small-group tour from San Francisco to Yosemite.

Experience the grandeur of Yosemite’s towering features, including Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls in a more intimate setting with a group no larger than 15 people.

Start the day with a scenic drive through the Central Valley’s lush orchards before entering Yosemite, where you’ll get a chance to stroll beneath the colossal giant sequoias.

With professional guide services and all park fees, activities, and hotel pickup and drop-off included, this trip offers an unrivaled way to experience the splendor of Yosemite.

3. 2-Day Yosemite National Park Tour from San Francisco

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Yosemite National Park with thi s 2-day overnight adventure from San Francisco.

This experience allows you ample time to explore Yosemite Valley and the Sierra Nevada high country.

Participate in a mix of guided activities such as hiking among the Giant Sequoias, photographing Glacier Point’s stunning views, and enjoying leisurely activities like swimming or biking around Yosemite Falls.

Choose to stay overnight in the heart of Yosemite Valley or at a nearby lodge, and savor the serenity of the park after the day’s crowds have departed.

This package includes San Francisco hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation to and from Yosemite in an eco-friendly biofuel mini-coach, a narrated guided tour, and overnight hotel accommodation.

50 Top Landmarks in Yosemite National Park, California

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California National Parks, Monuments, and Historic Sites – A comprehensive guide!

• 33 Best Things to Do in Fresno, California

• 41 Best Things to Do in Modesto, California

Salt Lake City to Yellowstone National Park – A road trip guide!

Embarking on a journey from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park is not just about reaching the destination.

It is about immersing yourself in the diverse landscapes, rich histories, and unique local cultures that paint California’s natural tapestry.

Every bend in the road, every small town, and every scenic vista offers a chance for discovery and connection. Each of the three routes presented in this guide has its own character and charm.

Whether you opt for the direct and convenient CA-120, the scenic tranquility of the CA-140, or the iconic natural grandeur of the CA-41, you’re embarking on more than a drive—you’re setting off on an adventure.

As you plan your journey, remember to take into account your own preferences and interests. Perhaps you’re keen on sampling local wines, uncovering Gold Rush history, or standing awestruck in the shadow of towering Sequoias.

Maybe you want the fastest route to the park to maximize your time among Yosemite’s iconic granite cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Each route offers its own gems.

Ultimately, the journey from San Francisco to Yosemite is a reminder of the joy of travel itself—the thrill of the open road, the anticipation of new experiences, and the enduring allure of nature’s splendor.

No matter which route you choose, there’s a wealth of adventure waiting for you. Remember, every journey begins with a single step. Or in this case, with a turn of the ignition. Happy travels!

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Leave a comment below if you have any questions, or DM me on   Instagram   @travelrealizations .

If you found this guide to the ‘San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip: Best Route and Stops’ informative and engaging, you’ll likely appreciate my other comprehensive travel guides about California and the San Francisco Bay Area . Dive deeper into what these fascinating locales have to offer!:

• 16 Top Wine Country Getaways Near the San Francisco Bay Area – Sip, Savor, and Explore
• 18 Romantic Coastal Towns in California within a Short Drive from the San Francisco Bay Area
• 30 Romantic Places to Explore in the San Francisco Bay Area
• Top 8 scenic drives in the San Francisco Bay Area 
• 55 Top Things to Do in Napa Valley Besides Wine Tasting 
• Discover 80 Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in San Francisco
• San Francisco at Night: The Best Things to Do With Family 
• One Day in San Francisco Itinerary: For Every Traveler 
• Glacier National Park – A travel guide!  
• 81 Best Things To Do in Sacramento, California

If you need this guide to the San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip: Best Route and Stops, pin It for later!

Chirasree Banerjee

Hello. My name is Chirasree. I have been traveling for almost 11 years to places all over the world. I enter into a separate reality during my travels and enjoy the allure of escape from the mundane. I seek beauty through nature and human-made creations. Because beauty is powerful. I seek knowledge. I observe, absorb, and write about the places I visit and the profound realizations and inspirations that each place has to offer.

25 Best California State Parks Near San Francisco: A Guide

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Hello. My name is Chirasree. I have been traveling for almost 15 years to places all over the world. I enter into a separate reality during my travels and enjoy the allure of escape from the mundane. I seek beauty through nature and human-made creations. Because beauty is powerful. I seek knowledge. I observe, absorb, and write about the places I visit and the profound realizations and inspirations that each place has to offer. 

I lived in Switzerland for six years and dwelled in absolute beauty, day and night. The house of Charlie Chaplin in Vevey , the house of Herman Hesse in Lugano,

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How to Get to Yosemite From San Francisco: The 4 Best Ways

What is the easiest way to get to Yosemite National Park from San Francisco? How about the fastest? Is it possible to get to Yosemite and back in 1 day? 

There are a million articles out there to get you excited about visiting Yosemite. They talk about the waterfalls, jaw-dropping views and hikes, the water activities in the summer and the snowy photography opportunities in the winter. But you can’t make any of those memories or take any of those photos if you don’t first know how to get to the park! 

In this article we will outline the 4 best ways to get from San Francisco to Yosemite , and all the necessary details of each, to help you make the best choice for you. Afterwards, we will answer some frequently asked questions about getting from San Francisco to Yosemite. Then all you will have to do is enjoy the park! Let’s get started!

1. Driving from San Francisco to Yosemite

Driving your own car is the quickest and most flexible way to get from San Francisco to Yosemite. We do not recommend this option for a 1-day trip to the park unless you have multiple drivers. You would need to start EARLY, drive straight through, be ready to take on Yosemite with plenty of energy for a few hours, and then be able to safely drive back. It has been done, but driving yourself to Yosemite is more enjoyable when you have 2-3 days or more. 

Renting a Car to Drive

If you live locally and have access to a car, driving to Yosemite is a no brainer, but most visitors who want to drive to Yosemite will need to book a rental car. 

San Francisco offers big-name rental companies like Hertz and Budget , both with several airport and downtown pickup and dropoff locations. Keep in mind that the non-airport locations have weird and limited hours, so if you need to pick up your car early or return it late, you may need to use the airport locations (and pay the additional airport fee). 

There are endless possible ways to drive from San Francisco to Yosemite, but there are two main routes that we recommend, both entering the park from the West, which is the closest to San Francisco. Driving Highway 120 will get you there the fastest. Highway 140 will be more scenic and offer popular stops along the way. Both routes are outlined below. 

Driving Highway 120 from San Francisco to Yosemite

Taking highway 580 to 120 is usually the fastest way to get from San Francisco to Yosemite. Without traffic, you can drive this route in just over 3 hours. Staying on Highway 120 will lead you into Yosemite through the Big Oak Flat Entrance. It is often the busiest gate, due to its accessibility from San Francisco, so plan to get there early and be patient. You will be rewarded with quick access to Yosemite Valley. Here are the details:

• Head east toward Oakland, either on 101N and I-80 from downtown or 101S and 92E from SFO
• Merge onto I-580 E 
• Keep left at the fork to continue on I-205 E
• Merge onto I-5 N
• Take exit 461 for CA-120 toward Manteca/Sonora
• Take the exit on the left onto CA-120 E/CA-99 N toward Sacramento/Sonora N
• Take exit 242 for CA-120 E/Yosemite Ave toward Sonora
• Take the first right (after Wendy’s) onto CA-120
• Turn left onto CA-108 E/CA-120 E/E F St
• After 25 miles, Turn right onto CA-120 E 
• After 44 miles, arrive at Big Oak Flat Entrance

Note: The last gas available to you before you reach the sights down in the valley is inside the park in Crane Flat. Make sure you stop there if you need to. 

Driving Highway 140 from San Francisco to Yosemite

Leaving Highway 120 and following Highway 140 into Yosemite through the Arch Rock Entrance is a popular alternative. It is slightly longer (still under 4 hrs without traffic), but incredibly scenic, and includes excellent options for stops, either brief or overnight, in Mariposa and Midpines. And from the Arch Rock Entrance, it is the quickest drive to reach the sights in the valley. 

• Take exit 461 for CA-120 toward Manteca/Sonora 
• Take exit 6 to merge onto CA-99 S toward Modesto/Fresno
• Take exit 186B for CA-140 E toward Mariposa/Yosemite
• Take the first left onto CA-140 E/Yosemite Pkwy
• After 68 miles, arrive at the Arch Rock Entrance

Note: The last gas on this route is in El Portal, and there is none down in Yosemite Valley, so plan ahead!

Things to Know About Driving From SF to Yosemite

Driving your own car to Yosemite is a great option if you have 2-3 days or more to enjoy the park. A personal vehicle allows for stops along the route at points that interest you (we recommend Mariposa — a charming gold rush town with tons of history), and more accessibility within the park. Be prepared to purchase park entry in advance or when you reach the gate. 2023 prices are $35 per vehicle (with up to 15 passengers).

Finding parking within Yosemite can be a hassle, especially during peak months (Summer and Fall) and peak times during the middle of the day. We think the best plan is to find a spot early in one of the large, convenient lots near a shuttle stop and use the free valley shuttle to reach popular destinations within the valley. More on this shuttle later!

The advantage to having a car becomes clear when you want to reach spots out of the valley like Glacier Point. Typically, Glacier Point is only accessible to those without a vehicle by a short tour, but in 2023 that tour is not even running! So the ONLY way to reach Glacier Point in 2023 is with a personal vehicle or on a multi-day tour from San Francisco that includes it. 

Tip: Download an offline map of Yosemite before you get there! While GPS can get you TO the park, there is no reliable GPS available to help you navigate within the park. 

You do have to think about gas (or EV charging stations) when driving your own vehicle, and there is no gas available in Yosemite Valley . Below are the closest gas stations, although for better prices you may want to fill up further out.

Gas close to Yosemite Valley:

In the Park – Crane Flat Gas Station or Chevron in Crane Flat

Highway 120 – Valero 5.5 miles before Big Oak Flat Entrance

Highway 140 – Chevron in El Portal

EV charging stations in Yosemite Valley:

Yosemite Valley Lodge – 8 level 2 chargers!

Ahwahnee Hotel – 1 Tesla and 1 level 1 charger

Yosemite Village Store – 1 level 2 charger

2 . Taking a Tour from San Francisco

The easiest way to get to Yosemite from San Francisco is to book a tour. Sit back, relax, and learn about the park from a live tour guide. When you reach the park, be driven directly to the best viewpoints in Yosemite Valley.  

The convenience and choice of these tours is really top notch. If you only have one day to see Yosemite, this is 100% the best option. But if you do have more time, you can choose the length of your stay too, booking a multi-day tour which includes travel and lodging, or scheduling your to and from bus tours and booking your own accommodation in Yosemite separately. 

Taking a One-Day Tour from San Francisco to Yosemite

Yosemite and Giant Sequoias One Day Tour from San Francisco

The only 1-day Yosemite tour from San Francisco to deliver more than you dreamed at Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls and on a hike to Giant Sequoias.

Yosemite Overnight Tour from San Francisco with No Accommodation

This Yosemite tour from San Francisco let’s you make your own overnight stay so you can slow the pace to experience Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls and the Giant Sequoia redwoods.

If you only have 1 day to see Yosemite — take a tour! Driving is exhausting and picking and choosing stops within the busy park is stressful. So if time is tight, it makes the most sense to leave the planning and driving to the experts. 

There are multiple companies that offer tours from San Francisco to Yosemite. Here are the details of one to give you an idea of the perks (okay, we admit it… it’s ours ;)).

Yosemite and Giant Sequoias One Day Tour from San Francisco :

Pickup/Dropoff: Daily from several popular SF hotels

Duration: 15 hours

Highlights: live expert guide, unforgettable Yosemite Valley stops including Tunnel and Valley Views, Bridalveil Fall, El Cap meadow, free time in the park to explore, walk among giants at Tuolumne Grove of giant sequoias

Price: $209 per adult

Taking a Multi-Day Tour

If you have a bit more time to explore Yosemite, but still want the convenience of a tour, consider a multi-day tour. You will experience all of the best of Yosemite outlined above, but also have free days in between to explore on your own and experience the truly magical sunrise and sunset hours in the valley. 

Multiple accommodation options are available with our multi-day tours . You can choose the Yosemite Valley Lodge for a classic Yosemite experience, or opt for the affordable and adorable Bug Lodge hostel. If you want to get closer to nature, the Curry Village tent cabins offer a rustic, yet comfortable, glamping-style option. 

Or pick your own accommodation ! Make arrangements for your own overnight stay and simply join us for the guided trips to and from the park.

3. Taking a Flexible Multi-day Tour

Booking a 1-way bus tour between San Francisco and Yosemite is a flexible and fun way to get to and from the park, whether you opt to book both directions, booking your own accommodation in between, or choose another travel option (like public transportation) for the other direction. It is a great way to get the inside scoop of the area from a live expert guide, while getting where you want to go. 

The 1-way tours through Extranomical Tours include everything in the first or last half of our full-day tours. On the way to Yosemite, be introduced to the park with the most spectacular viewpoints, including Tunnel View and Bridalveil Fall. On your way back to San Fran, take in unmissable valley stops like El Capitan meadow and Valley View, and then explore an entirely different landscape as you walk among giant sequoias in Tuolumne Grove. 

San Francisco to Yosemite One-Way Tour :

Pickup: 6 am daily at several popular SF hotels

Duration: 6 hours

Highlights: live expert guide, entrance into Yosemite, stops at Tunnel view and Bridalveil Fall

Dropoff: Yosemite Valley Lodge

Yosemite to San Francisco One-Way Tour :

Pickup: 2 pm at Yosemite Valley Lodge 

Duration: 7 hours

Highlights: live expert guide, stops at El Cap Meadow, Valley View, and Tuolumne grove of giant sequoias (weather permitting)

Dropoff: several popular SF hotels

Things to Know About Taking a Tour From San Francisco

Bus tours to Yosemite run year round, so they are an excellent choice for winter visits ! You won’t have to worry about which roads or sections of the park are closed. Just dress warmly and let us show you the snowy winter wonderland of Yosemite. Note: Our visits to Tuolumne Grove can be impacted by winter snow and road closures. When this is the case, we spend extra time in the valley.

All of the tours outlined above include your Yosemite Park entrance fee (paid during checkout). Have peace of mind that your entrance reservations (if applicable) and passes are taken care of and you won’t need to wait in long lines at the gate.

All in all, taking a tour from San Francisco to Yosemite is a great choice. The choice of tour lengths makes for nearly unbeatable flexibility , and you don’t have to worry about your own vehicle once inside the park. The free Yosemite Valley Shuttle provides consistent transportation to all of the best spots in the valley. 

4. Taking Public Transportation

For those budget-conscious travelers out there, you can take public transportation from San Francisco to Yosemite, but it is not straightforward and it is not without transfers. This can still be a great option if you and your group are willing to spend more time getting to the park and have the patience to navigate the system.

The options include buses the entire way, or a train/bus combo. Unfortunately at this time, there is no fully-train option to get from San Francisco to Yosemite. 

Taking the Bus From San Francisco to Yosemite

To get to Yosemite via public bus, you will need a combination of Greyhound and the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System ( YARTS ). You will also have to walk (or book a rideshare) about a mile through Merced (and wait almost 2 hours) to transfer between the two. We are going to be honest with you, the Greyhound and YARTS systems do not currently jive. Here are the details:

• Downtown San Fran to Merced, CA via Greyhound
• Departure from bus station at Mission and Fremont Streets in downtown
• $22 per person one way
• 11:00 am – 2:45 pm, currently the only option
• Merced Transfer
• Walk/book a car 1 mile to the Merced Amtrak Station at 324 W 24th St (To walk follow the palm trees down N Street, take a right on Main, then a left on K St. to 24th)
• YARTS bus from Merced to Yosemite Valley
• 4:35 pm – 7:16 pm (to Yosemite Valley Visitor Center)

The Return Trip:

The only return Greyhound from Merced to San Francisco departs daily at 11:55 am, which is too early for the first scheduled YARTS shuttle from the valley. The best option currently is to take the return trip via Amtrak from Merced, outlined below. 

Taking the Train (and bus) From San Francisco to Yosemite

As mentioned above, there is no train-only route between Yosemite and San Francisco. But you can take Amtrak for a good chunk of the way and enjoy the comforts and views of the train life before transferring to a YARTS bus.  

• Get to the Richmond Amtrak Station
• Take Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) to Richmond Station via red line (or transfer to red line)
• $5.20-$11.35 per person (downtown/SFO)
• 35 min – 1 hr 15 min (downtown/SFO)
• Richmond Amtrak Station to Merced, CA
• San Joaquin Line South
• From $26 per person one way
• 2 hr. 40 min. (7:54 am, 9:54 am, 11:55 am and 1:55 pm departures)
• Merced to Yosemite via YARTS
• Merced Amtrak Station to Yosemite Valley
• 2 hr. 41 min. (10:55 am or 4:35 pm departure, arriving at 1:36 pm or 7:16 pm to Yosemite Valley Visitor Center)

The current Amtrak departure options from Merced to Richmond are 3:23pm, 5:23pm, and 7:23pm, allowing multiple choices for connecting YARTS departures from the valley.

Things to Know About Taking Public Transportation

The biggest issue with the public transportation options, once you figure out your route, is the time they take out of your vacation. While it is technically possible to do the train/bus combo in both directions in 1 day, you would be left with less than 2 ½ hours to enjoy the park. Because of this, we do not recommend taking public transportation to and from the park in one day .

All in all, taking public transportation to and from Yosemite is a decent, budget-friendly option. Amtrak will be a more comfortable ride and offers easier connections than Greyhound, but requires a trip on BART to reach Richmond Station from San Francisco. Whichever you choose, routes and schedules are always changing, so plan your route and connections in detail before you go! 

Where is Yosemite?

Yosemite National Park is a 1,200 acre park nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in east central California. It is 167 miles from San Francisco and reachable via car and bus year round.

Can I visit Yosemite in the winter?

Yes! Winter in Yosemite is gorgeous and accessible . Although some areas of the park close seasonally, areas in the valley are arguably even more beautiful with snow, and definitely worth a visit. 

Before making the trip on your own, always check for road conditions and park closures at the official park site here . Highways leading into Yosemite may require chains at certain times of the year, so check before you go.

Keep in mind that YARTS runs on a different schedule during the winter, which may affect connections. The schedule for winter 2022-23 was actually MORE favorable for the all-bus option, with an additional stop in Merced eliminating the transfer walk. Just make sure to check here or call 877-989-2787 for updated schedules before your trip.

How long does it take to drive from San Francisco to Yosemite?

Driving your own vehicle to Yosemite from San Francisco takes 3-4 hours in favorable traffic.

Can you see Yosemite in 1 day?

Absolutely! While we do not recommend driving yourself or taking public transportation for a 1-day visit, 1-day bus tours show you the highlights of Yosemite in one incredible 15-hour day. 

How long does it take to see the Park?

While the highlights of Yosemite can be experienced in 1 day, we recommend extending your stay to 2-3 days or more to truly get a feel for the park. This extra time will allow for outdoor activities like swimming, biking, and hiking, and you will be able to explore the viewpoints early and late in the day — the best time for photographs.

How much does it cost to get into Yosemite?

It depends on which travel method you choose! 

Driving your own vehicle (with up to 15 passengers) into the park costs $35. It can be paid online in advance or via credit/debit card at all 5 entry gates and is valid for up to 7 days. Visit here for more official details and to pay your entry fee online.

Most bus tours to Yosemite include your entry fee (ours do!) and you get to skip the line at the gate! Just relax as you drive right into Yosemite and head to the sights.

Public YARTS buses into Yosemite also include park entry! This is a great perk to this public transportation option. 

How do I get around inside Yosemite?

Yosemite National Park has a fantastic free shuttle. Its route includes all of the main spots in the valley and it runs every 12-22 min, daily from 7 am – 10 pm. Additional shuttle routes are limited in 2023, but check here for updates. Some destinations outside of the valley are reachable via limited Summer routes on YARTS .

The valley shuttle is so convenient and the personal vehicle parking is so limited, that we recommend using the shuttle even if you drive yourself to the park. Just save your car for trips out of the valley like Glacier Point and Mariposa Grove. 

Can I fly to Yosemite from San Francisco?

You can fly CLOSER to Yosemite. While San Francisco is a popular jumping off point due to its busy international airport and abundant visitor services, there are technically airports closer to Yosemite. Every one of them however, will still require a lengthy rental car or bus ride to reach the park. But if that sounds good to you, here is a great blog that goes over details and options.

Additional Yosemite National Park Resources

Now you know the 4 best ways to get from San Francisco to Yosemite! The choice really comes down to the length of your stay and your budget. But however you choose to get there, the granite cliffs and rushing waterfalls of Yosemite are sure to have you planning your return trip right when you leave. 

Now that you know how to get to the park, the really fun planning begins! You’ll need to know the best time of year to go , all of the best things to do , and the best places to take photos. As Yosemite experts, we have got you covered! 

Published on: August 5th 2023

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San Francisco to Yosemite: Best Road Trip Ideas

USA , California , USA National Parks

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The best way to get from San Francisco to Yosemite is by car. The drive takes about four hours, depending on traffic, and passes through some of California’s most beautiful scenery. Once you arrive in Yosemite, you’ll be able to explore all that the park has to offer, from hiking and camping to sightseeing and photography. There are lots of things to do in Yosemite . The best time to visit Yosemite is when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, no matter what time of year, you’re sure to have an incredible experience. So start planning your road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite today!

Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular road trip destinations in the United States. Located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, the park is renowned for its dramatic landscape. You will see towering cliffs, pristine waterfalls, and giant sequoia trees. Although there are many ways to get to Yosemite, the best road trip from San Francisco is definitely the most scenic. The journey takes you through some of California’s most beautiful countryside. The distance from San Francisco to Yosemite is just under 200 miles. So whether you’re looking for an adventure-filled Yosemite road trip or a leisurely drive through stunning scenery, the journey to Yosemite from San Francisco is sure to please.

Table of Contents

How Far is Yosemite from San Francisco?

You’ve enjoyed all the Bay Area sites such as downtown San Francisco’s Union Square and the Golden Gate Bridge. Now it’s time to see more of California! Why not enjoy one of the most beautiful national parks in North America?

Yosemite National Park is one of the nine national parks in California. From San Francisco, your travel time is just under 4 hours. The 167 miles start by taking 580 East to the 205. Keep going east to take the most direct route on Hwy 120. If you want to get to the national park in the quickest amount of time, this is the best route. You will enter the park through the Big Oak Flat entrance.

Yosemite is EV-friendly as well. You will find electric vehicle charging stations in the gateway towns as well as in the park itself at the Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Valley Lodge, and the Yosemite Village Store. 

The Most Scenic Route From San Francisco to Yosemite

While some may want the fastest way, you may want to enjoy all the beautiful scenery that California has to offer.

The beautiful vistas don’t have to wait until El Capitan, giant Sequoia groves, Half Dome, or Yosemite’s famous Bridalveil Fall tunnel view. Take the more scenic route on this road trip by turning onto 99 South from 205. This route takes you through Modesto to Merced to Hwy 140. Here you’ll be able to travel through Mariposa to Yosemite National Park.

Taking the time to research which route provides you with the most site-seeing opportunities is worth the effort. You can stop to explore an old mining town or parallel the Merced River while enjoying beautiful views. Traveling from Hwy 140 you’ll enter the park through the Arch Rock entrance.

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San Francisco to Yosemite Bus

If you are looking for public transportation travel options check out the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System , or YARTS. This bus service will pick up passengers from locations on Hwy 120, Hwy 140, Hwy 395, and 41 to take you up to Yosemite. Check the website linked above to get the updated bus trip routes and rates.

This may not be the fastest route. But if you are traveling solo it allows you to step out of the driver’s seat. You can feast your eyes on a scenic route that will be a beautiful part of your Yosemite trip. The additional cost may be worth it if it means you can enjoy the best views. Check current road conditions before choosing your route as only the Merced-based route is labeled as open year-round and still there are winter limitations.

The YARTS bus service routes are as follows:

• Merced – Hwy 140 with connections from the Merced regional airport and stops at Mariposa and El Portal
• Fresno – Hwy 41 with connections from Fresno Yosemite International Airport and stops at Tenaya Lodge, Fish Camp, and Wawona
• Mammoth Lakes – Hwy 120/395 with connections from Mammoth Lakes Airport and stops at Tuolumne Meadows
• Sonora – Hwy 120 with stops in Jamestown and Buck Meadows

Things to Do

This road trip isn’t just all about how to get to the destination. We encourage you to extend your itinerary, stop frequently, and explore all that California has to offer. If you’re looking for a great place to have a fantastic lunch, stretch your legs in the central California city of Modesto. Enjoy a great meal at any one of the highly-rated restaurants. Or stay the night to catch a show at the Gallo Center for the Arts . Ticket prices vary depending on the event so be sure to check out the website ahead of time.

Whichever route you take to Yosemite there’s no end to the numerous opportunities to indulge in California’s history, outdoor activities, and wonderful views.

• Heading up Hwy 120 stop at the Cowboy Museum in Oakdale then grab lunch at the Lucky Buck Cafe in Groveland just an hour away
• Take a hike in the Emigrant Wilderness
• Relive the Gold Rush just a few miles from Sonora off Hwy 49 at Columbia State Historic Park
• Treat yourself to an adult beverage at the Indigeny Reserve
• Enjoy Pinecrest Lake
• Get a taste of history at Jamestown Railtown 1897 State Historic Park
• Traveling up Hwy 140 educate yourself at the Mariposa Museum

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Road Trip

Keep in mind that planning for emergencies might seem a morbid thing to do, but it’s a good idea. These tips help you feel prepared for any challenges that could come your way while driving. With your own vehicle or a rental car, do the following to give your trip the highest chance of success:

• Check your car’s tires, fluids and always start out with a full tank or charge
• Pack a first aid kit, battery cables, flares, blankets, simple snacks, and water
• Make reservations at your destination for dining and lodging
• Download your Google Maps route or GPS directions to your phone in case there is a loss of signal

Where to stay

Lodging options are plentiful in and around Yosemite. To get the most out of your experience consider staying in the park at one of these locations:

• The Ahwahnee Hotel – $500 – $600 a night to start for a room for 2
• The Yosemite Valley Lodge – $300 a night to start for a family room and views of Yosemite Falls from your hotel
• Wawona – $231 a night to start for a room with a bath
• White Wolf Lodge or Curry Village – $150 to $200 a night for heated canvas tent cabins

Once settled in Yosemite check out our helpful post on how to enjoy all of Yosemite’s iconic sites . We share how to best enjoy El Capitan, where to catch amazing views from the Yosemite park valley floor, enjoying the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, and hiking to Glacier Point as well as other tips for a great trip.

Check out the National Park Service’s official park site to get up to date on the park conditions.

Ready for More?

If you are ready for more after your Yosemite road trip , continue traveling in California. Head west toward the coast for a glimpse of the Pacific. Then you’ll have the chance to stop at other national park sites like Pinnacles National Park and coastal treats such as Big Sur .

Continue south to see the iconic southern California city of Los Angeles for a few days.

Or if you are returning to San Francisco International Airport for your flight home don’t miss our helpful article on all the fun outdoor activities you can tackle or a luxurious night out in the city before you leave.

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San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip [Scenic Drive + Best Places to Stop]

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Direct Route via 120 E (3 hrs 20 mins) : Easy drive except for a short steep and windy section on New Priest Grade Rd, with notable stops at a few gold rush towns.
• Scenic Route via 140 E (3 hrs 40 mins) : A beautiful drive along the Merced River and a safer route if driving in the winter.
• If traveling in the peak summer season, we recommend leaving as early as possible to prevent getting stuck behind a long line of cars at the entrance.

Are you going on a San Francisco to Yosemite road trip? Then you’ve come to the right place.

With so many beautiful sights along the way, choosing which stops and detours to take can be overwhelming. 

As California locals, we’ve created this list to provide you with options for interesting towns for stops along the way to make the most of your San Francisco to Yosemite scenic drive. 

This itinerary has you covered with specific stops , from where to grab some lunch to practical tips for turning the drive to Yosemite into a fun-filled road trip. 

How long is the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite?

The most direct route to Yosemite from San Francisco takes about 4 hours which is 190 miles away.

The more scenic drive takes only 15-20 minutes more and is worth the extra drive time.

💡 Read this article if you need to get to Yosemite from San Francisco without a car .

San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip Itinerary

• Direct Route via 120E : 4:05 hrs, 192 miles 
• Scenic Route via 140E : 4:15 hours, 212 miles

*Directions are for Yosemite Valley Visitor Center

This itinerary gives you an overview of the two different routes you can take for your drive from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park. 

The most direct route from the Bay area is via 120 East which is less scenic than taking 140 East. 

However, there is a section where the road gets really windy, steep, and twisty, so make sure to take a Dramamine .

Taking the more scenic route via 140E doesn’t add too much drive time and the roads are better for those who get motion sickness. This is the route that we prefer when we go to the park.

Remember, getting from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park as early as possible is the goal to minimize the wait at the entrance and get more time in the park.

This World Heritage Site is visited by millions of tourists each year, and it’s especially busy in the summer.

For those with a little more time, you can plan for a few extra days for your trip so that you can take your time and check out the stops along the way. 

You can grab a meal, purchase snacks, go for a tour around town, take photos of nearby historical landmarks, fuel up, and be on your way. 

❄️Note on Weather Conditions: If you are driving to Yosemite in the winter or snowy conditions, it is recommended to take Hwy 140 instead of 120 but make sure to check any road closures before leaving.

Also, carry snow chains or drive an AWD with snow tires when passing through from early fall to late spring.

🚘 If you need to rent an AWD or 4WD, make sure to check RentalCars.com for the best deals.

Drive from San Francisco to Yosemite: Best Places to Stop

Direct route: san francisco to yosemite national park road trip.

• Description : Direct route but winding mountain roads, 4:05 hrs without stops
• Yosemite Entrance : Big Oak Flat

When taking the most direct route from SF to Yosemite, you will find yourself driving along I-580 E to CA-120 E past Oakdale. 

You will drive through a few notable Gold Rush towns, to Groveland, then through the western entrance of Yosemite at Big Oak Flat. 

This route’s road is nicely paved and mostly flat, but it does involve driving through winding mountain roads, especially as you get closer to the park. 

Make sure to bring some motion sickness pills for those in your party who get car sick. 

Also, if you’re considering visiting Tuolomne Grove to see the Giant Sequoias before heading to the park, then this route is what you should take.

San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Drive via 580 to 120 E: Best Places to Stop

• Gas : Oakdale, Big Oak Flat
• Coffee : Starbucks (Oakdale), Mountain Sage (Groveland)
• Food : In-n-Out (Manteca), Oakdale Cheese & Specialties (Oakdale), The Grove Mercantile for ice cream (Groveland)
• Grocery Stores : Raley’s (Oakdale), Mar-Val (Groveland) 

Oakdale, also known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World,” is a great place to stop during your road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park, especially if you’re a fan of the Old West. 

This historic town in the Central Valley has a Cowboy Museum you can visit and a quaint center where you can fill up on gas, buy some coffee, and grab some snacks. 

Make sure to take a picture with the Bronze Cowboy Sculpture at the Visitor Center Plaza.

Gold Rush Towns

During your San Francisco to Yosemite drive, you will pass some famous gold rush towns that remain charming and inviting even to this day. 

Stop by one of them for a quick meal, perhaps a bit of antique shopping, or just to stretch your leg with a quiet stroll around town.

Jamestown is best known as the place where gold was first discovered in Tuolumne County. 

Much of the historic town’s structures from the 1870s and 1880s remain intact and now house boutique inns, shops, restaurants, and a few other commercial businesses. 

Spend a few hours visiting the Railtown State Historic Park , where you will find locomotives featured in movies and TV shows, take a photo with the “movie star locomotive” Sierra No. 3, and even ride old steam or diesel trains.

Known as one of the oldest cities in California and nicknamed the “Queen of the Southern Mines,” Sonora is another gold rush era town you can visit. 

Rich in history, it’s nice just to explore its charming historic downtown, where you will feel a sense of the old well adapting to the new in this bustling town. 

Shop at one of its many boutique shops for some unique gifts and souvenirs, or check out Gianelli Vineyard and perhaps buy a bottle for your trip.

Stopping at Columbia will make you feel like time-traveling is possible. 

Visit Columbia State Historic Park , a living gold rush town that still has its original structures and an authentic stagecoach you can ride. 

You can sign up for gold panning activities, and the townspeople dress in period attire. 

It’s like you are stepping back in time and visiting the old gold country. 

Stop by the old Jack Douglass Saloon and get a cold glass of their Famous Sarsparilla.

Once you reach Groveland, you’re less than an hour from the Big Oak Flat entrance. 

This gold rush era town has quite a lively and quirky reputation, having elected a dog as the town’s Honorary Mayor . 

If you happen to be stopping by here during the summer, you’ll most likely catch a community event that will keep you busy during your stop. 

However, make sure to drop by the Iron Door Saloon for good food, drinks, live music, and even a classic game of pool.

Rainbow Pool

During your SF to Yosemite road trip, if you happen to be using the same route back to the City, you can stop by the Rainbow Pools on your return trip instead. 

This beautiful swimming hole is located just outside Yosemite National Park, making it a perfect side trip for a “last hurrah” of fun and relaxation. 

Some pools are shallow and perfect for dipping your toes, while others are deep enough to plunge in for a refreshing swim.

Carlon Falls

The hike to Carlon Falls involves the moderately challenging 3-mile out-and-back on the Carlon Falls Trail, which is located near Groveland. 

What’s special about these falls is that it’s known to flow all year round, unlike some of the falls in Yosemite. 

So, if cooling off and relaxing by the falls is your thing, this stop is perfect for you.

San Francisco to Yosemite Scenic Drive

• Description : It takes a bit longer but is a more scenic drive, 4:15 hrs without stops
• Yosemite Entrance: Arch Rock

This less direct route from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park will take you from Highways 580 to 99 to 140 E. 

This drive is the better option if you are not in a mad rush.

You will pass lovely backroads and have the option to stop for some awesome grub, but at some point, you might wonder if there’s anything else to see on this route. 

But don’t worry, it may seem like there’s nothing much on this route, but it gets quite scenic the closer you get to the park. 

Highway 140 E snakes along the Merced River inside the canyon before arriving at the Arch Rock entrance to the park. 

Yosemite from San Francisco Drive via 580 to 99 to 140 E: Best Places to Stop

• Gas : Modesto, Merced, Mariposa, El Portal (Expensive)
• Coffee: Giacomo’s Espresso for Specialty Coffee drinks (Modesto), Starbucks (Modesto & Merced)
• Food: H&W Drive-in, Sinaloense Mariscos & Taqueria (Turlock), In n Out in Merced, Happy Burger Diner (Mariposa)
• Grocery Stores : Trader Joe’s (Modesto) Smart n Final (Modesto & Merced), Walmart (Turlock), Pioneer Market (Mariposa)

Livermore is California’s oldest wine region which is located in beautiful Alameda County. 

This charming city has more than 50 wineries you can visit and explore though enjoying wine tastings here can be a trip of its own. 

This doesn’t mean you can’t stop and pick up a couple of bottles for your trip to Yosemite. 

If you’re only visiting for a short stop, enjoy a stroll in Livermore’s historic downtown and grab a cup of coffee or eat at one of the many quaint restaurants and cafes.

Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Factory

If you have a sweet tooth, this route might be well worth it just for this stop alone. 

The Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Factory has a very extensive display of chocolates that you can buy at discounted prices . 

What’s more, the ice cream bar here has over 30 flavors you can choose from – talk about ice cream heaven! 

Taco Food Truck in Salida

If you’re taking this route, make sure to stop by Salida and say ‘hi’ to the lovely Sinaloense Mariscos & Taqueria crew. 

This bus-turned kitchen on wheels offers authentic Mexican recipes, and their seafood dishes are a definite must-try. 

They keep their recipes as close to the original as possible, so they source ingredients from Sinaloa, Mexico. 

Try their shrimp tacos , and you might end up ordering more for the road.

Turlock is the second largest city in Stanislaus County and is the home of California State University Stanislaus (CSUS). 

During your stop here, you might find that the city has more of a small-town rural feel, but that is not to say that it lacks things to do. 

With over 24 parks, several galleries, museums, and restaurants, you won’t have a hard time finding things to do here during your stop. 

Visit the Dustbowl Brewery Taproom and Kitchen and buy a few cans of their local beer to enjoy. 

Most will make this a quick stop for a quick bite and a fill-up of gas.

Nothing says small-town charm like Mariposa. 

This historic town, which was first settled in 1849, remains one of the few remaining California towns yet to have a stoplight. 

You will enjoy a laid-back visit strolling downtown with no big strip malls or chain stores in the area. 

You can take a peek inside the oldest courthouse in continuous use west of the Rockies, or you can fuel up with some food at the Happy Burger Diner before continuing your trip.

Planning your Drive from SF to Yosemite

To make your drive from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park as efficient and problem-free as possible, it’s a good idea to plan your trip ahead of time. 

Consider finalizing your park entrance reservations, visit date, and itinerary well before getting behind the wheel.

• Entrance Reservations

Currently, reservations are NOT required to visit Yosemite National Park. 

There is a $35 entrance fee per vehicle, which is valid for 7 days.

If you plan on visiting other national parks in the US, consider getting a National Park Pass which is a steal at $80 since it’s valid for an entire year.

2. Time of the Year

The best time of the year to drive from San Francisco to Yosemite is during the summer , as it is when the park is most accessible. 

Bad winter conditions and other seasonal closures limit access to some parts of Yosemite National Park, so going during the summer would be the most practical choice. 

However, as this is also the busiest time of the year for the park, make sure to plan for the added wait to enter the park and traffic, especially as you’re getting close to the park.

• Driving in the Winter

Wintertime in Yosemite is a magical part of the year to visit as the domed peaks and the valley’s trees will be flocked with snow . 

If you don’t mind braving the cold and snow to visit the park, make sure that you drive an AWD or 4WD or bring chains with you . 

You can also rent snow chains along Highway 120 if needed, but they will be expensive. 

Road access can be very challenging when there is a snowstorm, and without proper equipment, you might end up getting stranded. 

3. Packing Food in your Car

If you can’t avoid leaving food in your car, keep it in an ice chest in your trunk to prevent bears from breaking into your vehicle.

If you park in a well-trafficked area, this isn’t too big of an issue but try to avoid it if possible.

Yosemite to San Francisco Drive

Once you’ve had your dose of outdoor fun at Yosemite National Park and it’s time to make your trip back to San Francisco.

You can circle back on your route for spots you’ve missed, or you can take a different route entirely. 

You can take the more direct route on your way to the park and visit as many of the stops along the way, and then on your way back, you can take the longer and more scenic route.

Tunnel View

Tunnel View is a definite must-stop, especially if it’s your first time visiting Yosemite Valley.

We make it a point to stop here every time since the majestic views never get old. 

Located at the east end of the Wawona Tunnel, this pull-off vista does not require you to pay any admission fee. 

Just park and make your way to the vista point, where you can enjoy some of the best views of the El Capitan, Sentinel Rock, Half Dome, Bridalveil Fall, Cathedral Rock, and the rest of the Valley. 

Plan to arrive here early as this place can get crowded, especially during peak season.

Glacier Point

Stop by Glacier Point for one of the best viewpoints of Yosemite Valley , Half Dome, and the High Sierra. 

Although it’s about an hour’s drive from the visitor center, the jaw-dropping panoramic views here are well worth the drive.

Glacier Point road is typically closed due to snow around November until early or late May so plan your visit accordingly.

Mariposa Grove

If you haven’t had the opportunity to see giant sequoias, a visit to Mariposa Grove is a no-brainer. 

It has the largest redwood grove in Yosemite , and over 500 mature giant sequoias call this park home. 

A free shuttle will take you from the parking lot at the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza to the grove, where you can take photos of the famous Fallen Monarch, Bachelor of Three Graces, and Grizzly Giant.

Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad

Book your tickets and enjoy a scenic rail ride aboard a classic logger steam train with the whole family. 

The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad offers a one-hour tour narrated by the conductor. 

You will learn more about the area’s history and even see where loggers used to cut trees for the nearby town of Madera. 

Ticket prices start at $16 for visitors ages 3-12 and $28 for visitors ages 13 and up. Kids under three years old may ride for free. 

Yosemite Travel Planning Guide

Best time to visit yosemite.

If you want to avoid crowds, the best time to visit Yosemite would be around late May and October . 

This is when summer is just about to start, and the waterfalls are flowing. 

While visiting in October or early fall, the tourists are gone for the season, and most kids are in school. 

When we visited in November , the park was pretty much empty and quiet.

Take note also that many of the roads and trails in Yosemite are closed for parts of the year due to heavy snow that can come as early as October and stay until March .

We also recommend going on weekdays if you can for fewer crowds.

How many days do you need in Yosemite?

You want at least two full days to explore the Valley. To say that Yosemite is huge is an understatement. 

With numerous trails, large granite monoliths, beautiful falls, giant sequoias, and so much more, it’s best to spend at least two full days.

If you have more time to spare or want to explore the surrounding areas (which you should), then plan to spend at least 3 to 4 days here.

READ MORE : If you have more time, why not do a road trip to Sequoia National Park after Yosemite?

Where to Stay in Yosemite

If you’ve made your plans well ahead, the best place to book your stay is inside Yosemite Valley . 

However, this often takes booking at least six months in advance for stays during the busy summer months. 

Thankfully, the surrounding areas of Yosemite offer plenty of accommodations all year round. 

So, if you can’t secure your dream accommodation in Yosemite Valley, the list below provides you with alternative stays outside the park. 

• Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort (Mariposa)

Yosemite Bug is about an hour’s drive (35 miles) to the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center.

If you don’t want to worry about driving and parking, the shuttle bus to Yosemite (YARTS) stops here, so staying here makes it extra convenient. 

This beautiful resort is quietly situated on an oak forest hillside and offers multiple accommodation types, such as dorm rooms, private room cabins, and tent cabins with shared bathrooms.

This well-priced rustic lodge also features an on-site restaurant and spa with a super chill and laid-back vibe.

After a full day of hiking in the park, this is a perfect place to relax and meet other travelers. 

📍 Check availability and rates for Yosemite Bug here

What is YARTS? A public bus service that connects various cities such as Mariposa, Merced, Fresno, Sonora to Yosemite National Park. It has several hotel stops along Highway 140, as well as Mariposa and El Portal. See sched u le .

➡️ Local Tip: Your bus ticket includes an entrance to Yosemite so you can save some money this way. See fares here .

• Rush Creek Lodge and Spa (Groveland)

Rush Creek Lodge and Spa at Yosemite is about 27 miles or 45 minutes from the Valley. 

There is a restaurant and bar on-site, so you can grab a bite before heading to the park and enjoy a nice meal at the end of your day with some s’mores by the fireplace.

They also have a seasonal outdoor pool, children’s playground, and two hot tubs – one for families and one that is adults-only.

📍 Check availability and rates for Rush Creek Lodge here

• Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn (Oakhurst)

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn is about a 1.5-hour drive to the Visitor Center located closest to the South Entrance on Hwy 41. 

This pet-friendly accommodation near Yosemite features an indoor pool, an outdoor jacuzzi, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant.

If you’re traveling with your family, they offer rooms and suites that can accommodate up to 8 people, and a delicious hot breakfast is included with your stay. 

📍 Check availability and rates for Best Western Plus Gateway Inn here

Practical Tips for Your Road Trip

• Leave early (around 4:00-5:00 am)

If you only have time for a short trip, the goal should be to get to Yosemite National Park as early as possible, especially if you plan to enter the park the same day. 

To avoid as much of the traffic and crowds, especially as you near the park entrance, leave SF the earliest you can.

It’s better to plan an extra day at the park so you do not have to rush. 

• If possible, avoid the weekends

Yosemite National Park is the most crowded on weekends during the summer when kids are out of school and families are taking their vacations. 

If you want to avoid long lines at the park entrance and large crowds at the valley’s attractions, visit during the midweek when the park’s volume is about half. 

Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons in May or October.

• Make sure to set your destination as Yosemite Valley Visitor Center  

As much as we love all the advancements in technology, putting Yosemite National Park on your GPS does not guarantee accurate directions. 

The park is huge, and the drive from the coordinates for Yosemite National Park to the Valley Floor is over 25 minutes. 

Make sure to enter the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center in your GPS instead.

• Take a motion sickness pill

Both direct or scenic routes involve a bit of driving around winding mountain roads, which can prove dizzying for some. 

Make sure to take a motion sickness pill, Dramamine , before the trip or at least have one on hand if you get car sick.

• Use the free Yosemite Valley shuttle or rent a bike

Not only is it cost-efficient, but it can also be quite relaxing not having to drive and navigate around the Valley. 

So, once you arrive, take advantage of the free shuttle service to get around. You can also rent a bike if you want a bit of exercise while going around. 

Parking can fill up fast, so it’s best to secure a spot and leave your car for the day.

•  Download an offline map due to low reception

If you’re visiting other areas of the park such as Tioga Pass there is little to no cell phone service. 

So, make sure to download an offline map of the route and the stops you plan on taking, so you won’t have a hard time navigating or end up getting lost.

How far is Yosemite from San Francisco?

The distance from Yosemite to San Francisco is about 167 miles, and it would take around 4 hours to drive.

Is it easy to drive to Yosemite from San Francisco?

The drive from San Francisco to Yosemite is relatively easy, with flat roads. 

However, as you near Yosemite National Park, you will have to drive through winding mountain roads which can cause some people to get motion sickness.

Is Yosemite a day trip from San Francisco?

The drive to Yosemite from San Francisco would take around 4 hours each way , which means it’s not practical to go on a day trip here unless you want to spend 8 hours in the car driving. 

The 4-hour drive does not include gas and restroom stops, food stops, or sightseeing. 

Waiting to enter the park at the entrance can take up to two hours on busy weekends, even if you have a reservation.

If you only have the time to see Yosemite for a day, then taking one of these tours from SF is your best option.

Road Trip Ideas from San Francisco

• San Francisco to Lake Tahoe for stops at gold rush towns
• SF to Monterey Bay for a short day trip
• San Francisco to Big Sur for gorgeous coastal views along the way.
• For a long drive seeing multiple national parks, do a road trip to Vegas from SF .

Yosemite Valley Quick Facts

• Fees: $35 per car, valid for 7 days
• Reservations: Not Required
• Best Time to Visit: Spring is the best time to go to Yosemite when the waterfalls are gushing and the summer crowds haven’t arrived yet. Summer is the busiest time but you can guarantee good weather.
• Where to Stay : Rush Creek Lodge in Groveland or Yosemite Bug in Midpines for better availability.
• Getting there: The closest airport to Yosemite is Fresno Yosemite International which is 35 miles away. For the best flight deals, use Skyscanner to browse various airlines and prices.
• How to Get Around: Having your car is the easiest way to get around, especially if you’re visiting other nearby sights. Check RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars.
• Best Self-Guided Tour: This audio tour from GyPSy Guide provides engaging commentary to make your trip more fun and interesting at such an incredible price!
• Insider Tip: Make sure to get the America the Beautiful National Park Pass for only $80 which allows entry to over 400+ national park sites valid for an entire year.

Wrap-Up: SF to Yosemite Drive

Driving from San Francisco to Yosemite is an adventure and something that you definitely should try at least once in your life. 

With plenty of beautiful stops along the way, it’s easy to spend more than a day just exploring the distance between these two places. 

So what do you say? Plan your SF to Yosemite road trip today.

• Sacramento to Yosemite
• Lake Tahoe to Yosemite Road Trip

Gabriel is the head writer for Chef Travel Guide and has been featured in the Huffington Post, Martha Stewart, Eat This, Not That, Real Simple, Muscle and Health, and many more. He was born and raised in California and has worked as a professional restaurant chef for over 20 years. After escaping the “kitchen life”, he is now focused on his passion for the outdoors and world travel. Gabriel’s passions include trail running and hiking on California's incredible trails, camping in the redwoods, and exploring the golden state from the Eastern Sierras to the rugged North Coast.

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The 5 Best Road-Trip Stops From San Francisco to Yosemite

O f all the road trips out of San Francisco, the ride to Yosemite is one of the most satisfying. You can start your morning off in one of the most hectic cities in America, battling traffic and tolls, then slowly but surely peel back the layers until you’re literally in the middle of nowhere. The wilderness of Yosemite National Park is a great escape for city dwellers, and since it’s less than four hours away, factoring in additional stops along the way is the move. Whether you’re fascinated by old Gold Rush towns or craving a nature preserve pit stop before the park itself, here are five of the best places to break up the drive.

Oakdale Cowboy Museum

Right about the halfway mark of the drive sits Oakdale, the home of the Cowboy Museum . Established back in 1995, this homage to the Old West is a local gem that highlights just how prevalent rodeo culture once was in Oakdale. With the goal of “conserving the heritage of the American West,” as well as the preservation of California’s own unique history, this small collection of cowboy memorabilia and vintage artifacts like trophy saddles and bronc reins is housed in a former Southern Pacific train depot. Completely free to the public, and open Wednesday through Sunday, the two primary exhibits are the Rodeo Gallery and the Ranching Gallery, with other rotating shows and events available on a seasonal basis. Far less formal than a traditional museum experience, this place lets you touch and interact with the items, and even includes a cowboy dress-up photo op for kids. While you’re in town, swing by Cafe Bravo for some eats that food writer Nikki Miller-Ka calls “not fancy but very solid, very good food.”

Vista Ranch

Merced has always prided itself on being “the Gateway to Yosemite,” and it’s still one of the best places to stop and stretch your legs before getting to the park. Head to Vista Ranch to relax in a gorgeous outdoor preserve just 10 minutes from the city. With outdoor picnic areas, a vineyard (with a tasting room in a 1910 farmhouse), corn maze, wood-fired pizza on the weekends, and even a pumpkin patch in October, there’s enough to do here to justify a full-on pit stop if you prefer to break the drive up. Head into town and grab a room at the new boutique hotel El Capitan , part of Merced’s restored historic downtown scene. If your timing is right, this detour can also include a journey through the superbloom of nearby almond blossoms .

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Located just outside Yosemite, many people cite Mariposa as their favorite part of the trip. This kitschy, old-fashioned town is mainly just a little street filled with great shopping, food options, and even a couple of places to stay if you want to extend your trip before or after a visit to the park. This tiny enclave, with buildings dating back to the 1850s, is one of the few towns left in America without a stoplight. While they aren’t five-star experiences, local bed and breakfasts like the Yosemite Miners Inn and Mariposa Hotel Inn are appealing for their historic charm and small-town feel. 

Columbia State Historic Park 

This smaller state park is actually a completely preserved Gold Rush-era town . Back in 1945, the state legislature turned the town into a state historic park in order to showcase what was typical in the area back then, and it remains a popular place for Yosemite visitors to time travel back to the 19th century. With stagecoach rides, a standard guided tour, a ghost tour for the brave, a museum, and two restored Victorian-period country inns ( the Columbia City Hotel and the Fallon Hotel ), there’s no shortage of entertainment here. Plus, it’s another stop that’s completely free to the public.

Lee Vining Canyon Scenic Byway

If you’re in the mood to keep the drive going, consider one of the many, many options for cruising through stretches of beautiful wilderness right before Yosemite officially begins. Lee Vining Canyon is a short but picturesque route that borders the park’s east side. These are some of the prettiest 12 miles in the area, so begin at the Tioga Pass Entrance and head east on the 120. After pausing at Tioga Lake, get back into the car and finish up the switchbacks and canyon curves for some truly unbeatable mountain views.

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San Francisco To Yosemite: How To Make This The Ultimate National Park Day Trip

Driving from San Francisco to Yosemite shouldn't take more than a few hours: here's the best way to do it.

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How long is yosemite national park from san francisco, what will you see when driving to yosemite from san francisco, what is the best time to drive from san francisco to yosemite national park.

Nestled approximately 167 miles to the east of San Francisco lies a natural wonder that defies expectations—Yosemite National Park. With its awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse ecosystem, Yosemite attracts adventurers from far and wide to embark on an unforgettable journey. For those seeking an ultimate day trip from the bustling city, the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite presents an opportunity to immerse in the park's beauty and charm.

Clocking in at an average travel time of 3 ½ to 4 ½ hours, the road trip offers a thrilling experience as visitors venture through the captivating Californian countryside. The journey is an adventure and an ideal way to witness the transformation from urban landscapes to untamed wilderness. Whether someone opts for a leisurely drive or a quick journey, the route from San Francisco to Yosemite guarantees a blend of scenic vistas and anticipation.

Once someone arrives from San Francisco to the park, they are met with campgrounds, hotels, rentals, and other lodging opportunities. It may be worth staying in or near the park or camping in the world-renowned forest . Additionally, the hiking trails are some of the best in the US , so this is a nice escape from the concrete jungle.

Related: How El Capitan Got Its Name, And What Makes It So Special To Yosemite

• San Francisco to Yosemite National Park is roughly 170 miles.
• The drive typically takes 3.5 to four hours.

This should be a somewhat short drive for those wanting to drive from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park. Because the park is only 167 miles from downtown San Francisco, most people can get there in 3.5-ish hours. Of course, with traffic, construction, and other road issues, this could turn into a 4+ hour drive.

There are also a few ways to get to the park from the city, which will impact total drive time. For instance, someone taking I-580 E and CA-120 E to Yosemite will be there in about three hours and 20 minutes, while someone taking CA-99 S and CA-140 E can gear up for a 4+ hour drive. Getting to Yosemite from San Fran during peak hours and holidays could spell a long car ride. Luckily, the landscape throughout this ride will be stunning, so at least everyone will be entertained by that. The best thing to do is leave early and avoid inner-city roads between the two locations. San Francisco will host the majority of the day's traffic.

Yosemite's Tunnel View is another scenic stop to catch while in the park , so keep that in mind.

It's a good idea to head to Yosemite from San Francisco early in the morning. During the weekend and holidays, the roads in and around the city can become congested, leading to delayed arrivals and departures.

• The drive between San Francisco and Yosemite National Park is one of the most scenic in the United States.
• Many travelers recommend driving as early as five or six AM to catch the sunrise.

Driving between San Francisco and Yosemite National Park is regarded as one of the United States' most scenic routes . Because of the stunning San Francisco Bay beginning, leading up to the world-famous park's surrounding beauty, this entire drive is an adventure in itself. The long winding roads and the ancient redwoods lining the street make this a once-in-a-lifetime route.

California is known for its beautiful flora and fauna, often being at its best toward the north. San Francisco has a dreamy look and feel mixed with the natural splendor of the Yosemite grounds. Some drivers may prefer to take a longer route to witness everything between the two places, which is completely understandable. Sometimes the long way is the best way.

On top of that, in the fall, the leaves will be changing and falling, leading into the park, which is one of the most beautiful times to see Yosemite. Once people arrive in Yosemite, staying in these hotels might be worth considering .

Related: What Visitors Should Know About Yosemite's Wildfires

• The best time to head to Yosemite from San Francisco is early morning (5-6 AM).
• Season-wise, Yosemite from San Francisco is best seen in the fall and spring.

Although always beautiful, driving to Yosemite National Park can take some careful planning. First, it's most stunning in the fall and spring, as the leaves are changing or everything is just turning green from the winter. Because Yosemite is so vast, driving from San Francisco will be a journey. The park is roughly 1,169 mi²; there is more than enough to witness inside and outside the car.

It could even be a fun idea to spend Thanksgiving in the National Park .

It's recommended to try getting to Yosemite earlier in the morning, whatever the season, to ensure a whole day's worth of exploring. Because the drive is shorter, this should mean more time inside the park once everyone arrives. There's no time like now to explore it: have fun!

Find cheap flights from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park from $55

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Faqs - booking yosemite national park flights, how does kayak find such low prices on flights from san francisco to yosemite national park.

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Yosemite National Park from San Francisco is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Yosemite National Park with an airline and back to San Francisco with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Yosemite National Park from San Francisco up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top airline flying from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park

Crew was great and did their best to make us comfortable and captain came out at the beginning to announce why the flight was delayed, weather situation up ahead, and kept us updated throughout the flight.

United WiFi is consistently unusable (it can take 10 mins to load a single web page). If you need Wifi to do work, be prepared to lose half a day of productivity.

Awful. I got stuck next to a person carrying a dog and behind someone with a dog. People need to board these dogs downstairs. The cabin is crowded enough with your pets

Packed in like sardines, very uncomfortable. Sitting the aisle my shoulder was rammed into numerous times by rushing flight attendants. Also flight was very cold.

Airline did not explain reasons why flight was delayed two hours. Explanations were badly needed and rarely provided. Problem seemed to clearly be the airline’s fault and not the fault of the weather or airport.

Very uncomfortable seats and seat backs, and I am only 5’9”. Delayed due to crew issues, spent a long time with no ventilation. Teeny overhead bins. Wifi worked well. Arrived safely.

I was delighted that we were able to get on the 4:40 pm flight rather than our original booking at 6:55 pm!! Other than that, the flight was comfortable and landed early😊

Our flight was delayed many times throughout the day. The final delay was about 8 hours. I spent time in line to speak to someone at their understaffed desk, and also spent time waiting online and then chatting with a service rep. None of the United employees were any help at all. I desperately wanted to go get rest and possibly re-book my trip but I was denied any compensation or voucher for a hotel. I was repeatedly told it was not United's fault and therefore they had no compensation to offer. Overall, a cold and callous experience.

Paid WiFi was only available for a few minutes. Avoid at all costs.

Everything was great, only problem was that flights were delayed

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San Francisco 49ers | San Francisco 49ers to provide free license…

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San francisco 49ers | tech layoffs jolt bay area economy with hundreds of new job cuts, san francisco 49ers, san francisco 49ers | san francisco 49ers to provide free license plates, ensuring specialty plate will be printed, funds expected to raise millions for state parks and youth programs.

A two-year campaign to create a new California license plate featuring the San Francisco 49ers logo to raise money for state parks and youth programs will apparently cross the goal line after all.

Under California law, motorists must pre-purchase 7,500 orders for any specialty license plate before the state Department of Motor Vehicles will agree to print it. But through March 31, only 4,135 orders had come in for the proposed 49ers plate, with a May 31 deadline looming.

To finish the drive, the family of Denise DeBartolo York, which owns the 49ers, has agreed to pay for the remaining 3,365 plates needed, as long as fans sign up for them, on a first-come, first-served basis. The cost is $50 up front to buy a 49ers plate and $40 a year to renew on top of normal vehicle registration fees, making the York family contribution about $168,250.

If the 7,500 total is reached as expected, the DMV will print the plate, and the 49ers will become the first professional sports team in the state with their logo on a California license plate.

“I’m over the moon. I’m really excited,” said Wade Crowfoot, secretary of California’s Natural Resources Agency, which oversees state parks. “It’s a great win-win. It’s a way for fans to demonstrate their support for the team and to do something great for their communities and California.”

Overall, 75% of the proceeds from sales will go to the state’s “Outdoors for All” program, which aims to expand access to parks to underserved communities, along with other state parks projects.

The nonprofit 49ers Foundation also will receive 25% of the proceeds for the team’s youth and science education programs.

California motorists can obtain the complimentary license plate by going to 49ersplates.com and using the code “faithful” during checkout. There are some conditions: Anyone obtaining a free 49ers license plate will have to pay their own renewal fees each year. And the free offer is only for regular plates, not personalized plates, which cost $103 each.

They may also go fast: The team announced the free offer to its season ticket holders first, and by noon Monday, about 2,700 free plates were left.

The specialty 49ers plates are eligible for autos, trucks, motorcycles or trailers registered in California.

“We had well over 4,000 folks sign up,” said Justin Prettyman, executive director of the San Francisco 49ers Foundation, of the numbers before the free offer was extended. “We made it more than halfway there. There was a lot of energy and excitement around the program, but it’s a long haul to get 7,500 people. It’s not an easy feat. We are really thrilled by the support and grateful to fans who did pledge.”

The 49ers Foundation provides programs to about 25,000 children a year across the Bay Area and from Salinas to Sacramento. The foundation funds health and wellness programs, has classrooms in Levi’s Stadium to teach science, math and other subjects to participating schools, and helps fund girls flag football programs.

Hall-of-Fame receiver Jerry Rice already filmed a short video promoting the specialty license plate that was shown on the scoreboard at Levi’s Stadium during home games. The California Natural Resources Agency set up a booth at 49ers games to help increase sign-ups.

But the best marketing tool may well be once the plates hit the street, sometime next year, Prettyman said.

“People will pull into Levi’s Stadium parking lot, and other people will say how do I get one of those?” he said.

“These plates are surprisingly impactful,” Crowfoot said. “They protect open space, build hiking and biking trails, and support programs to get kids into parks. It’s a fun and creative way to support the outdoors. They  are a big deal. And in an era of budget uncertainty they provide consistent funding.”

Crowfoot said he expects the 49ers plate to raise several million dollars over the next five years. The money will fund a range of programs, from grants to build and renovate parks in low-income neighborhoods to school field trips to parks and historic sites.

But they don’t always succeed.

In 2010, a plate with an image of the Golden Gate Bridge — whose backers hoped it would raise $1 million a year for the California Coastal Conservancy — failed to secure enough buyers, as did a plate featuring an image of a bear and a mountain that would have funded projects of the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, a state agency.

Last October, the Los Angeles Rams quietly dropped their campaign to create a specialty plate to help fund state parks after receiving only 1,055 orders after two years of trying.

California’s most popular commemorative plates first came out in the 1990s, with big splashy artwork, like the Yosemite and Coastal Commission’s whale-tail plates.

But complicating the trend is a state law, signed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger in 2006, that limited the size of the art work on the plates. Prompted by concerns from the California Highway Patrol that officers were having a hard time reading the license plate numbers, the law required that any logo be no larger than 2-by-3 inches — about the size of a business card.

So fans wanting a plate with a huge image of famed coach Bill Walsh or the 49ers’ five Super Bowl trophies will have to wait until state lawmakers change the law. Until then, 49ers officials are optimistic the new plates are finally hitting their stride.

“Hopefully,” Prettyman said, “they will fly off the shelves.”

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The photographer who captured Black San Francisco in the 1960s: ‘We wouldn’t have seen it without him’

Chronicler of San Francisco’s now-vanished Fillmore district who studied under Ansel Adams turned his lens on his people

David Johnson saved a portrait he took as a teen of his younger brother and a relative while they were growing up in segregated Florida in the 1940s.

Johnson, who was the only person who could read and write in his household, knew nothing about photography then, he recalled in 2017 , but something told him that one day he would be a photographer.

His decision would prove to be prescient. Johnson’s interest in the field led him to San Francisco in the 1940s, where he would become the first Black student of Ansel Adams, an accomplished documentarian of the city’s Black community and an activist.

Johnson captured iconic images of the Fillmore district, a thriving community for San Francisco’s Black residents before they were forced out by government “redevelopment” initiatives in the 1960s. He also documented the civil rights movement, including the 1963 March on Washington, and photographed high-profile figures such as WEB Du Bois, Langston Hughes, Thurgood Marshall, Nat King Cole and Eartha Kitt.

“He was quite a man,” Candace Sue, Johnson’s stepdaughter, said in an interview. “There are very few people who in their lifetime can achieve even one of the things he managed to achieve in his 97 years.”

Johnson died last month at age 97, but lived to see a renewed appreciation for his work. In recent years, Johnson’s photos were inducted into the Library of Congress and the Bancroft Library at the University of California, Berkeley, and featured in an exhibit at city hall. The Bancroft is home to Johnson’s archive, which serves as a primary source material of the era.

“[Johnson] is this great story of when a masterpiece finally finds its moment,” said Christine Hult-Lewis, the library’s pictorial curator.

Ansel Adams told him: photograph what you know

Johnson, born in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1926, was interested in photography from an early age. He got his first camera as a prize for selling magazine subscriptions as a teen, he said in an interview at the Bancroft Library in 2017.

He fell in love with San Francisco when he visited after being drafted into the US navy during the second world war. When his service was over, Johnson knew he wanted to study photography and wrote to Ansel Adams , who was overseeing a program at the California School of Fine Arts.

“[I] wrote a telegram and said ‘Dear Mr Adams, I’m interested in studying photography. And by the way I’m a Negro.”

Most schools in the south didn’t admit Black students, and Johnson didn’t want to travel across the country only to be turned away. “I had to cover my bases,” he said.

When a spot opened up, Adams offered him admission to the program and invited Johnson to stay with him until he could find a place to live. He was met by the acclaimed photographer Minor White, who would become his mentor. White and the other photographers around Adams’ home at the time wanted him to have a better camera and pooled together their old equipment, Jackie Sue Johnson, Johnson’s wife, told the Guardian.

“He was thrown in a group of people that didn’t look like him – they were all white, but they gave David all of their equipment that they weren’t using,” she said. “They taught him a lot. They just took him and really supported him.”

Adams and most of the other photographers were interested in nature, Jackie Sue Johnson recalled, but that was never David’s passion. “He didn’t have a car, and if he had a car he didn’t have gas money, so he couldn’t go to Yosemite and Muir Woods and take this wonderful nature photography.”

White and Adams told him to photograph what he knew. “What David knew is he knew his people,” said Jackie Sue Johnson, who along with her husband authored a book on his life.

Johnson headed to the Fillmore. Sometimes called the Harlem of the West, the Fillmore also had a thriving jazz scene before redevelopment ousted thousands of people. He remained in the neighborhood for years, and went on to work as a photojournalist.

His work centered people – a couple dancing close in a juke joint, men chatting outside a record shop and, in one of his favorite photos, a little boy in a cap sitting on steps.

“The pictures have this real poignancy of a place that just doesn’t exist in the same way any more,” Hult-Lewis said. The influence of Adams and his education can be seen in the quality of Johnson’s prints, she said, and the beautiful composition of his photos.

One of his most famous images is the Fillmore from four stories up. He climbed up the scaffolding of the Bank of America to capture a quick photo of a street corner from above, with street cars and vehicles in motion and pedestrians making their way from one side to another. Earlier in the day, he had taken a moving portrait of a disabled man on a skateboard.

“Athletes will say that when they hit several home runs, it was kind of their day. There are instances in my life and photography where it was just my day,” Johnson said in the 2017 interview . “The images just sprung out of nowhere. It was almost saying – that’s it, go for it.”

Johnson had a gift for capturing a single moment, Jackie Sue Johnson said. In another one of his more well-known photographs, a boy holding a flag sits in the lap of an Abraham Lincoln statue at a civil rights demonstration in San Francisco. “Lincoln, the flag, everything was there. It was almost like the gods set it up for me,” Johnson recalled.

‘More than just a photographer’: a foray into activism

For a time Johnson operated a studio in the Fillmore, but he eventually stopped working as a photographer and turned to other jobs to support his family, Hult-Lewis said. He worked at the University of California, San Francisco, where he co-founded the Black caucus to advocate for the rights of Black workers, Candace Sue said. Johnson and the NAACP sued the San Francisco unified school district to demand school desegregation as required by law.

“My personal saying is David was more than just a photographer,” Jackie Sue Johnson said. “He loved photography. It’s all he could talk about, but he was [also] a civil rights activist. He was always an activist. He was always trying to help or advocate for the underdog.”

Into his 90s, he would visit the San Francisco board of supervisors to advocate for legislation, particularly those supporting people with mental illness, his family said.

He never had exhibitions while he was working as a photographer, but his work has been rediscovered and recognized widely in recent years after it was featured in the 2006 book Harlem of the West.

“When I found his work I went hallelujah because it had a much more expansive description of this neighborhood,” said Lewis Watts, a co-author of the book, photographer and professor emeritus at the University of California, Santa Cruz.

“He was an incredible artist and an incredible person,” said Watts, who said he viewed Johnson as a friend, colleague and mentor. “The humanity in his work is reflected by the person that he was.”

In the years since, his photos have been included in a KQED documentary on the Fillmore District and exhibited at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, as well as city hall. It’s been a slow build, Hult-Lewis said, but Johnson was thrilled to witness it.

Johnson will be remembered for his civic contributions, Candace Sue, Johnson’s stepdaughter, said, and his documentation of the Fillmore.

“We remember and can see the joy and vibrancy of the Fillmore and what it was like before it was destroyed,” she said. “He documented what is no more and I don’t think we would see it the way we see it today without having that lens of the past.”

• Photography
• San Francisco
• Civil rights movement
• Ansel Adams

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