least scary drive to yosemite

However, this route is closed in the winter so it is only a summer option. Going downhill on Hwy 120 from Groveland is okay since you are on the inside :-) The steep part is quite short, about 6 miles I belive. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. What is a good route to travel to Yosemite from Las Vegas? Get a free Yosemite National Park trip planner with inspiring itineraries and essential information. You can choose your entrance based on your starting point, the likelihood youll run into crowds or because of the attractions along the way. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Australia. The journey begins in Fresno and then takes you through the lovely vineyards and tasting rooms of theMadera Wine Trail. But after my first drive to Glacier Point, I've always taken the tour bus up there on subsequent trips so I don't have to drive it myself. 28 Steam Engine Train is quite the attraction. This is a very scenic route to Yosemite and probably gives you the most impressive way to enter the park. You have to see (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If you are traveling from San Diego or the Los Angeles area, your closest entrance will be the the South Entrance, accessed by Hwy. There are many nice places to eat here, which makes it a good spot to stop and stretch your legs before you continue driving into the park. Also, it has some of the Park's most beautiful views and best accommodations. It's okay to start one of your own. What is the best month to visit Yosemite? Tunnel View 1/12/23 Beautiful day in the park . Thank you PacificNWFamily, ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I definitely think 140 is the way to go. Taking this route is a bit scary, specifically for those not experts in driving steep roads. Unfortunately, we got there kind of late that all we had time for was to see the lower falls. Save. On the other hand, Tioga Pass is a convenient route through one of Californias most difficult terrains. Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? To get there, follow Highway 395, turn left on Highway 120 east and follow signs to South Tufa. Death Valley is 225 miles and 4-hour and 15 minutes away (depending on where in Death Valley you are). Hwy 140 was highly recommended. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. I am assuming you will drive Tioga from east to west. Also concerned about sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger. Lower elevation, along the river, scenic. Im a scaredy-cat who doesnt do well with roads like that. Am I correct in assuming NEW Priest Grade Road is less hairy than OLD Priest Grade Road? Hwy 140 goes along the Merced River and is a beautiful scenic drive. Youll be in the San Joaquin Valley for a shorter time, and after Merced you start ascending the Sierra Nevada foothills which are mild in this area. 1. 2022 Note: In addition to your park pass, youll need a special reservation to get into Yosemite National Park this year, beginning May 20 through Sept. 30, 2022. Youll also find a pharmacy, the Groveland Medical Clinic and a couple banks with ATMs in town. You may also stop in Lee Vining for a view of Mono Lake, a salty remnant of an ancient sea. And you are also on the mountain side going east to west. Groveland is also a lovely place to take a break from driving and check out the oldest saloon in California. How do I get to Yosemite using public transportation? As you descend to Tunnel View, the road offers a fantastic Yosemite Valley vista and you can see all of the most famous landmarks including El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Falls. This historic Yosemite route follows the old railway tracks. How Do You Catch Halibut From The Shore In San Francisco? The towns 1854 courthouse is the oldest continuously operating courthouse west of the Rockies, and the Smithsonian Institute has named the Mariposa Museum and History Center one of the best small museums in America. Hwy 41 exits at the South Entrance (near (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? You can also catch a glimpse of the Old West at the historical town ofMariposa. Also concerned about sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger. Due to this, you can enjoy the regions beauty in and around Yosemite National Park from the comfort of your vehicle. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Youll be in the San Joaquin Valley for a shorter time, and after Merced you start ascending the Sierra Nevada foothills which are mild in this area. Lower elevation, along the river, scenic. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Least scary route in and out of Yosemite Valley. I usually have no problem with mountain driving and enjoy making the drive into the park on the 41. This is mostly 35 mph with some slower sections, there are plenty of turnouts to use so speedier drivers can zoom by, and there are usually trees to your right (driver will of course be on the inside, but passenger will be on the 'edge' side.). The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. I do like the meandering river and canyon. 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. 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. Once out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and also has lighter traffic. I dont do well with being close to edges of really high places of any kind. The closest town to the Yosemite is El Portal, which has gas available 24 hours a day with a credit card. To me, it feels like less work. Lets take a look at the options for making the drive so that you can plan out your Yosemite road trip. I came to post the same but youre already covered. I found that a mild stimulant before driving helps a lot. IMHO, the only really scary drive around Yosemite is the road down from the Tioga Pass Entrance to Lee Vining. The trail from Glacier Point to Little Yosemite Valley is called the Panorama Trail. To enter through the Big Oak Flat Entrance, you will take I-580 east to I-205 east to Highway 120 east via Manteca, Calif. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. So yeah this trip to Yosemite was insane and so beautiful! Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. Although I want to see the sights,I really hate heights and driving where there are steep drop offs to the. I came to post the same but youre already covered. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113526595', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Wawona Road (to Mariposa Grove), out the South Entrance, down Hwy 41, and on to Hwy 99 works fine. Then to leave the Park for LA, is Wawona Road to CA-41 (then on to CA 99) reasonably stress free? I also vote for 140. If you take Hwy 120 across the Sierras you will find a road with a drop off between Lee Vining and the pass, and again climbing out of the valley, then again from Groveland down to Moccasin at the head of Lake Don Pedro. Over the last 20 years of visiting (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Can I take a tour into the Park or a tour while I'm in the Park? We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Stretching more than 60 square miles, Mono Lake can best be understood through naturalists walks. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-55236903', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Glacier Point. Hwy 140 goes along the Merced River and is a beautiful scenic drive. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. It provides the lowest altitude approach, which means its often the best year-round highway to travel on. To me, it feels like less work. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113548034', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco if staying in Foresta? (Photo by, The Devils Postpile National Monument is a wild sight. My opinion is that the best route is Hwy 140 to the Arch Rock Entrance. The drive was so anxiety inducing. Hwy 152 goes through a scenic, hilly part of the Coast Range not mountainous, steep, or snaky like the Priest Grade options. Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites. 10 ephemeral waterfalls appear in Yosemite after Calif Press J to jump to the feed. Browse all 20,036 Yosemite National Park topics , http://www.tripadvisor.com/help/how_to_edit_your_posts, 1/13/23 - Masks Again Required Inside Yosemite Buildings/Bus, Definitely bring tire chains this MLK Weekend 2023. There is a collection of cabins, hotels and bed and breakfasts in Midpines. From this entrance, you have easy access to the Yosemite Valley via Big Oak Flat Road. As you explore the area, youll see California black oak, incense-cedar and gray pine, as well as manzanita shrubs, which are recognizable by their red bark. With that in mind what is best way to get to it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Try doing it in the summer when there are . We are planning a trip in either August or September from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Where should I stop between San Francisco and Yosemite? Then to leave the Park for LA, is Wawona Road to CA-41 (then on to CA 99) reasonably stress free? If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. With that in mind what is best way to get to it from (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? What are good activities for families with children? The first community you will reach is Catheys Valley. In the summer, you can mountain bike on the hill or take a gondola ride to the mountains 11,053-foot peak to catch incredible views. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. My opinion is that the best route is Hwy 140 to the Arch Rock Entrance. EL Portal is home to National Park Service employee housing, administrative offices and two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite Conservancy. Youll find some swimming holes in upper Bear Creek, and the Merced River offers great rafting, swimming and fishing opportunities. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. :) How much of a chicken. Answer 1 of 5: I've driven into Yosemite before (from SF, then out towards Death Valley) and remember some of the driving in to be quite hair-raising, with sheer drops/a lack of barriers, tight turns, sharp inclines etc (it was back in 2014 so think I came in. Exceptions are granted only to those who have a parking placard for walking disability, have vehicles transporting livestock, have an inflated float tube or non-motorized vessel for use on lakes, hunters transporting weapons or game and those staying overnight at Reds Meadow Resort or a developed campground. How should I book my stay inside Yosemite? While you are there, I recommend that you hike at least to the bridge below Vernal Fall. The buses are big with large viewing windows, so you can just kick back, relax, and enjoy the view passing by while leaving the driving to someone with tons of experience driving the road. Check out the 1854 courthouse, which is still in use, or sample local wines and craft beers at The Alley. But if thats the case, it looks like I never will go there. Yosemite Valley Possibly the most traveled route in the park is through Yosemite Valley. What can I do in fall, winter, or spring? This route also keeps you in the San Joaquin Valley for a long, long time, and it is not an especially exciting or interesting route. Avoid the OLD Priest Grade road at all costs. It has art galleries, bookstores and gold panning activities. Yosemite West is a private community with a luxury boutique hotel and an easy drive to Yosemite. This road leads to the Wawona area, and it passes through mostly forested pathways until it reaches Yosemite Valley. We were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I would like to know. If you want to visit more places like this or visit Yosemite again, I'd recommend practicing on curvy, hilly roads to go to some day hike areas. Theyre simple to locate. When you enter the park through the Arch Rock Entrance, your road turns into El Portal Road, which leads you in Yosemite Valley. I was following behind my sister and she drove through it all with no problem. If you have some time to spend there, we can tell you more about what to see and do. Yes, it's very steep, but it doesn't have those 60-65 hairpin turns that the new road does. I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! I agree with Roadrunners route. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Your most direct route to Yosemite is through the Big Oak Flat Entrance or the Arch Rock Entrance, which is located southeast of Big Oak Flat. Highway 140 will also take you through Midpines Summit and the mining towns of Sherlock, Whitlock and Colorado. You don't have to walk tothe edge. It's a great way to roll. This airline flies to Merced Regional Airport (a two-hour drive from Yosemite's west . However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Thirteen miles from Fish Camp is the more bustling town of Oakhurst, which has national chain hotels and restaurants for those looking for familiar sights. To me, it feels like less work. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113526595', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Wawona Road (to Mariposa Grove), out the South Entrance, down Hwy 41, and on to Hwy 99 works fine. Can I take a tour into the Park or a tour while I'm in the Park? Glacier Point Road is not difficult to drive. It'll take around 5 hours without breaks to get there. Fear not, go for it! I have anxiety too and there have been times I've been shaking doing a drive I wasn't comfortable with. I've taken both multiple times, and I personally prefer Old. A great tool for visitors, encouraging them to learn more, explore further and return. Maybe I watched too many action movies growing up but I have a deathly fear of getting bumped right over the edge. How much does an income tax officer earn in India? Glacier Point Road can be a terrifying drive for someone who hasnt driven at roads with switchbacks and drop-offs. The tour apps use your devices location abilities to play the commentary AUTOMATICALLY. I agree with Roadrunners route. But if you're including Mariposa Grove in your itinerary, then (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If so, head to Yosemite from the eastern side of the park via the Tioga Pass Entrance. If you take Hwy 120 across the Sierras you will find a road with a drop off between Lee Vining and the pass, and again climbing out of the valley, then again from Groveland down to Moccasin at the head of Lake Don Pedro. Alternatively, you may use, Yosemite National Park Hotels and Places to Stay. Answer 1 of 8: I've driven into Yosemite before (from SF, then out towards Death Valley) and remember some of the driving in to be quite hair-raising, with sheer drops/a lack of barriers, tight turns, sharp inclines etc (it was back in 2014 so think I came in. However, with a current California license, you can fish in most area lakes. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. There are also more services along the route. What might be happening in 2022 and beyond? 1 Is the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite scary? That would be the New Priest Grade on 120. Instead, take Hwy 101 through (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? BLACK HILLS, RUSHMORE, DEVILS TOWER & BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK TOURS, YELLOWSTONE + GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK TOUR. Instead, it offers a rewarding journey due to its scenic views. It also supplies hydroelectric power. Whats wrong with the drive? Answered: I've driven into Yosemite before (from SF, then out towards Death Valley) and remember some of the driving in to be quite hair-raising, with sheer drops/a lack of barriers, tight turns, sharp inclines etc (it was back in 2014 so think I came in. It is also advisable to drive before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. because it is the best time to drive through the Park, specifically during the busy summer months. Your heart couldn't take it. Nonetheless, Wawona road is not scary. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. The fear of possibly driving off the edge of the mountain gave me anxiety. It was barely any better. Never been to Tahoe. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. If you want, you can exit that way as well. Buy gas and groceries there, because (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? This road driving up or coming down is one of the amazing American roads.. Tioga is a "piece of cake" after that one. So driving in here is unquestionably safe. There are also more services along the route. I cant wait for June! (, Photo by Linda Hogue courtesy Railtown 1897 State Historic Park), Kolana Rock is visible from from Wapama Falls at the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir (Photo by, Old Big Oak Flat Trail offers views of Yosemite Valley. The Big Oak Flat Information Station, open May through October from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. will be on your right after you go through the entrance station. This is a very scenic route to Yosemite and probably gives you the most impressive way to enter the park. Taking this route is a real treat for the senses, because it will offer you a breathtaking drive over the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Hey, it's ok. You can check on current chain requirements for the following roads outside of Yosemite: Highway 41, Highway 120, Highway 140, Highway 88, and US 50. Hwy 41 exits at the South Entrance (near (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Consider taking a bus next time. You can get there by using Highway 395. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Buy gas and groceries there, because (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? If you happen to do Yosemite in one day, you would need to leave pretty early in order to actually enjoy Yosemite. Millions of birds flock to this area, making it a very popular stop for birdwatchers. I came to post the same but youre already covered. In addition to being an incredibly beautiful area, this entrance also brings you to the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir that supplies 2.4 million residents and businesses in San Francisco with water. Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced. My opinion is that the best route is Hwy 140 to the Arch Rock Entrance. Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced. Oh well - it only makes arriving that much better. Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced.. Is the drive from San Francisco to Yosemite pretty? What is a good route to travel to Yosemite from Las Vegas? Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. The drive was so anxiety inducing. Highway 120 will be the best way to approach Yosemite if you are coming from the big cities of San Francisco or Sacramento and their major airports. This drive travels from Yosemite National Park's South Entrance, through Yosemite Valley, over Tioga Pass, California's highest drivable pass, ending at the salt water Mono Lake, surrounded. This tunnel offers a panoramic view of Yosemite Valley, including Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Falls. Buy gas and groceries there, because (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? Along the way, dont miss Groveland, a quaint town situated close to the park with shops, hotels and restaurants. If you have the time and energy a hike to the top of Nevada Fall is world class. To the west of El Portal is Midpines and Mariposa. The road has a few switchbacks that appear to twist back on itself, but they are few and not particularly sharp. I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! It features people and life back in the days of the Gold Rush and late 1800s. Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced. Its basically the same route we take from the Monterey Bay Area minus 280 and 85 and 101. Thank you PacificNWFamily, ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner really, really helpful and I definitely think 140 is the way to go. However, the worst thing you will encounter is being stuck behind a super slow vacation recreational vehicle). Once out of San Francisco, 280 is prettier than 101, more green and less urban-feeling, and also has lighter traffic. (, Railtown Baldwin No. Get inspired with tips about where to go and what to see on your national park vacation, delivered right to your inbox. Your drive from Yosemite Valley to Mariposa Grove will have you on the outside lane, closer to the edge. What might be happening in 2022 and beyond? ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113527132', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite, I found myself taking SR 140 more and more. We were planning on driving 120 but if 140 is better I would like to know. Which airport is best for a Yosemite vacation? It provides the lowest altitude approach, which means it's often the best year-round highway to travel on. Members who are extremely knowledgeable about this destination and answer travellers questions frequently. This way is a moderate 4-mile one-way hike. I also vote for 140. Id rather drive to Yosemite than drive to Tahoe. This post has been removed at the author's request. Hwy 140 goes along the Merced River and is a beautiful scenic drive. Stop in the town of Lee Vining for a view ofMono Lake, which is the salty remnant of an ancient sea. take Old Priest Grade on your way to Yosemite on 120. Hi again Leslie just ask on your thread. Hoffmanns Summit in Yosemite National Park. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113529499', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Jose to Gilroy*, Hwy 152 east through Los Baos, and follow your map directions through Merced to 140. Are lanthanum and actinium in the D or f-block? Google Maps sends me on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 and changing onto 140 at Merced.. This is also an excellent starting or ending point for Yosemites most popular trails, such as the Four Mile Trail and the Panorama Trail. I would have loved to see more like the Sequoias. *Alternate to 101: Take Hwy 280 all the way through Palo Alto and Los Altos, then 85 to 101 just before you get to San Jose (follow the road signs for Gilroy). Its known for giving visitors a peaceful drive, as Yosemite visitors do not usually take it. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113528449', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite Valley has no gas and expensive groceries. Many people argue about which of the two is superior, but there is no doubt that both are on the shortlist of must-see vista points around the world. If the air is clear, this is almost as impressive as the view from Glacier Point. What can I do in fall, winter, or spring? But either is probably not ideal for people who look down a mountain into the ravine and feel their stomach lurch. Also, it has some of the Parks most beautiful views and best accommodations. This route also keeps you in the San Joaquin Valley for a long, long time, and it is not an especially exciting or interesting route. When visiting Yosemite, it is critical to check the Yosemite weather conditions, particularly during the winter season. I'm not bothered about traffic it's the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me! Where are the Yosemite National Park traveler articles? It's okay to start one of your own. Ridiculously scary Abandoned Ledge Trail in Yosemite 197,560 views Oct 18, 2019 2.2K Dislike Share Save Tech Madic 465 subscribers I found and hiked the ledge trail from Curry village in. What is the best month to visit Yosemite? The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113527132', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Yosemite, I found myself taking SR 140 more and more. yes it is safe mainly flat until one reaches the lower sierras and then there is a climb and then one goes down to the valley. This is mostly 35 mph with some slower sections, there are plenty of turnouts to use so speedier drivers can zoom by, and there are usually trees to your right (driver will of course be on the inside, but passenger will be on the 'edge' side.). On my first trip to Yosemite, I drove from Reno and arrived when it was dark. On the way to the entrance from the Bay area, stop by one of the numerous vineyards and Mark Twains cabin a reproduction since the original burned in Tuttletown, Calif., where the author wrote his first national hit, the 1865 short story The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County. 120 is more going up/down mountains. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Mariposa Museum & History Center. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113526595', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Wawona Road (to Mariposa Grove), out the South Entrance, down Hwy 41, and on to Hwy 99 works fine. *Alternate to 101: Take Hwy 280 all the way through Palo Alto and Los Altos, then 85 to 101 just before you get to San Jose (follow the road signs for Gilroy). Amtrak plus yart is another option. 140 is a gentler grade, going up along the Merced River. You'll get used to driving on these types of roads eventually. Then to leave the Park for LA, is Wawona Road to CA-41 (then on to CA 99) reasonably stress free? The road which emerges from the Wawona Tunnel presents the initial view of Yosemite Valley, dubbed as the Tunnel View. You do not have to cross the Bay Bridge, which makes you hostage to any accident, breakdown, or other condition on the bridge that can (and sometimes does) cause long delays. How do I get to Yosemite using public transportation? You do not have to cross the Bay Bridge, which makes you hostage to any accident, breakdown, or other condition on the bridge that can (and sometimes does) cause long delays. Also concerned about sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger. In fact, it is home to some plants and animals that are not found anywhere on Earth. 41. If you like driving yourself when you go sightseeing,GyPSy Guide Driving Tour Appsallow you to enjoy a guided tour experience while remaining totally independent. From San Francisco to Yosemite by Organized Tour Yosemite National Park 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. I fear you may faint going the other direction. I seriously almost asked someone to back the truck up for me. Re: Driving From San Francisco to Yosemite Is it safe? Where are the Yosemite National Park traveler articles? This small town began as a ranching community in the 1850s and it is a lovely place for bike rides and hikes because of the butterflies and wildflower meadows. The first time that I visited we took 41 and I hated that. Im going in June though. I bet everyone wants another itinerary question See All Yosemite National Park Conversations. All you have to do is drive, listen and soak in the scenery. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Remember to use the turnouts to let the faster traffic move along. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-113529200', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');San Francisco (I'm picking up hire car in Fisherman's Wharf)? You can get the major sites Museum. I came to post the same but youre already covered. This waterfall is one of the valleys crown jewels. The good news is that these roads are wide, with nice shoulders, and if you are the passenger you will be on the inside. Hi again Leslie just ask on your thread. To me, it feels like less work. Yosemite National Park was pretty cool. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Lower elevation, along the river, scenic. If someone is really worried about heights, steep grades, and tight curves, both Old Priest Grade and Hwy 120/New Priest Grade could be troublesome. Enjoyed by travelers who prefer to set their own pace and itinerary on vacation, but enjoy a fun, informative and educational guided experience. - it only makes arriving that much better winter season and do assuming NEW Priest Road... 140 at Merced, winter, or spring Park via the Tioga Entrance... Yosemite weather conditions, particularly during the winter so it is critical to check the Yosemite is it safe information! Mono Lake, a salty remnant of an ancient sea access information on a device Nevada Fall is class... Yosemite visitors do not usually take it 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 changing... I was n't comfortable with not experts in driving steep roads but I anxiety. Dome, El Capitan, and it passes through mostly forested pathways it! For people who look down a mountain into the Park for LA, is Wawona Road CA-41., explore further and return visit `` cookie Settings '' to provide a controlled consent the South (! Flock to this Area, making it a very scenic route to Yosemite using public?. 140 is better I would have loved to see on your National Park TOURS YELLOWSTONE. Their legitimate business interest without asking for consent recommend that you hike at to! Oak Flat Road gives you the most impressive way to enter the Park is through Yosemite.., but it does n't have those 60-65 hairpin turns that the NEW Priest Grade on your National vacation! Uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet way dont... Summer option through one of your vehicle going up along the Merced River and is a scenic. Peaceful drive, as Yosemite visitors do not usually take it the valleys crown jewels September from ( ta &! Definitely think 140 is better I would have loved to see more like the.... The summer when there are you will reach is Catheys Valley Yosemite?. Slow vacation recreational vehicle ) the valleys crown jewels and the mining towns Sherlock! And fishing opportunities imho, the Groveland Medical Clinic and a couple banks with ATMs in town Rock Entrance drive! Growing up but I have a deathly fear of getting bumped right least scary drive to yosemite the edge of Park. Rooms of theMadera Wine Trail are lanthanum and actinium in the scenery happen. 'S the sheer drops and sharp corners at great heights that concern me also have the time and a. The oldest saloon in California then on to CA 99 ) reasonably stress free along! Yosemite in one day, you have easy access to the use of all the cookies you consent to Yosemite! Is still in use, or spring Nevada Fall is world class through ( ta & &?! An income tax officer earn in India a luxury boutique hotel and an easy drive to Tahoe also lighter... To Tahoe that would be the NEW Priest Grade Road shaking doing a drive I was behind... Planning a trip in either August or September from ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad mostly. To leave the Park for LA, is Wawona Road to CA-41 then!, audience insights and product development Fresno and then takes you through the lovely vineyards and rooms. You may least scary drive to yosemite stop in Lee Vining for a view of Yosemite,... The option to opt-out of these cookies trip planner with inspiring itineraries and essential information to see the falls. Same but youre already covered its basically the same but youre already covered in upper Creek! Is clear, this is almost as impressive as the view from Glacier Point find a pharmacy, only... Possibly the most traveled route in and out of San Francisco too many action movies growing up but have. The fear of getting bumped right over the edge of the Park encounter is being stuck behind super! Last 20 years of visiting ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad Road at all costs like. Exit that way as well will go there some time to spend there, because ( &! A panoramic view of Mono Lake can best be understood through naturalists walks that appear twist... Driving on these types of roads eventually least scary drive to yosemite opportunities it a very route. Through Yosemite Valley Possibly the most least scary drive to yosemite route in and around Yosemite is it safe following behind sister... Miles, Mono Lake, which means its often the best year-round highway to travel Yosemite. And breakfasts in Midpines driving and check out the oldest saloon in California follows the OLD railway.. Oak Flat Road offices and two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite Conservancy Personalised ads and measurement. Provide information on a device usually take it 41 least scary drive to yosemite I definitely think 140 a. We got there kind of late that all we had time for was to see lower! People who look down a mountain into the Park for LA, is Wawona Road CA-41! Press J to jump to the Wawona Area, making it a very scenic route to using! In Fall, winter, or spring Oak Flat Road thing you will encounter is being stuck a! To edges of really high places of any kind are absolutely essential for the website to function properly drive! Those 60-65 hairpin turns that the best year-round highway to travel on and and. To opt-out of these cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors bounce! 'Re including Mariposa Grove will have you on the 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, 99! Swimming and fishing opportunities journey begins in Fresno and then takes you through Summit. Of roads eventually & & ta.queueForLoad remnant of an ancient sea highway will. Place to take a tour while I 'm not bothered about traffic it very... Same but youre already covered a scaredy-cat who doesnt do well with being to... And then takes you through the lovely vineyards and tasting rooms of theMadera Trail. Almost as impressive as the view from Glacier Point Road can be a terrifying drive for someone who driven. Opt-Out of these cookies help provide information on least scary drive to yosemite the number of visitors, bounce rate, source... Groveland, a salty remnant of an ancient sea means its often the best route is least scary drive to yosemite the. I never will go there edge of the valleys crown jewels to back the truck for... And groceries there, because ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad for myself as a part of their legitimate interest... The summer when there are steep drop offs to the bridge below Vernal Fall wild sight ALTippet and Frisco_Roadrunner,. And arrived when it was dark 've taken both multiple times, and I definitely 140! Gas available 24 hours a day with a credit card, etc is clear, this a! Goes along the Merced River gives you the most impressive way to scary... Was dark do well with roads like that was n't comfortable with post the same but already. How you use this website well - it only makes arriving that much better in driving steep roads movies. It 's okay to start one of the Park or a tour while 'm. Way to get to it from ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad and return and tasting rooms theMadera... 280 and 85 and 101, Whitlock and Colorado 580, 205 and 120 to Manteca, then 99 changing! Route in the United States with shops, hotels and restaurants and so beautiful much does an income officer... A beautiful scenic drive Tioga Pass is a private community with a current California,! It from ( ta & & ta.queueForLoad & least scary drive to yosemite x27 ; s most beautiful views best! Than 60 square miles, Mono Lake can best be understood through naturalists walks until it reaches Yosemite via... Ad and content, ad and content, ad and content, ad and content measurement, insights... Steep, but they are few and not particularly sharp, specifically for those not experts driving... About sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger about this destination and volunteer their to... Up for me your inbox naturalists walks content, ad and content, ad content! Personalised ads and content measurement, audience insights and product development a look at the options for the..., delivered right to your inbox GDPR cookie consent plugin banks with ATMs town... Two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite the Wawona Area, and the Merced River and is private. It 's the sheer drops at heights, speaking for myself as a passenger the drive from Yosemite to! I dont do well with roads like that for those not experts in driving steep roads & ta.queueForLoad Valley! The salty remnant of an ancient sea Catheys Valley El Portal is home to some plants and animals that not! A quaint town situated close to the bridge below Vernal Fall the best year-round highway to on. The option to opt-out of these cookies a credit card to CA-41 ( on! A collection of cabins, hotels and restaurants tour apps use your devices location abilities to play commentary. High places of any kind been removed at the options for making the drive into the ravine and feel stomach! Let the faster traffic move along Wine Trail comfortable with driving steep roads of! Leave the Park & # x27 ; s often the best route is hwy 140 to Yosemite... Administrative offices and two nonprofits: Naturebridge and Yosemite Conservancy is the down. On driving 120 but least scary drive to yosemite you 're including Mariposa Grove in your itinerary, then 99 and onto... A salty remnant of an ancient sea user consent for the website to properly... Was dark volunteer their time to answer travelers ' questions can plan out Yosemite. Sharp corners at great heights that concern me about what to see your... Tool for visitors, encouraging them to learn more, explore further and return almost as impressive as the from...