Arrival Information

To reach Yosemite National Park, you may fly, drive, or travel by train, or bus to major cities such as San Diego, Los Angeles, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento, Fresno, or Modesto, then pass through smaller gateway communities such as Merced and Mariposa en route to Yosemite. From these cities visitors enter the park by bus or private vehicle via Highways 120, 140, or 41.

Roads in and around Yosemite are generally clear of snow throughout the winter season except for the Tioga Pass Road from Crane Flat to Lee Vining, and the Glacier Point Road beyond Badger Pass Ski Area, which are both closed in winter.

Although all major roads are kept well-plowed throughout the snow season, the National Park Service requires that drivers of private vehicles carry tire chains. Of all the entrance roads, Highway 140 from Merced is the lowest in elevation and is the least likely to require chains.

By Air

To Fresno:

There is air service to Fresno from several cities throughout the U.S., but at this time there is no regular bus service between Fresno Yosemite International Airport (5175 E. Clinton Way, 559-498-4095) and Yosemite Valley. Visitors arriving in Fresno will need to arrange their own rental cars. Airlines serving Fresno include Allegiant, American, America West, Horizon, United, and U.S. Airlines.

To Merced:

The only commercial airline available is Sky West. Some charter airline services are offered through Noble Aviation (209-722-7300), and tie-down space is available for 38 private planes. Contact the Merced Municipal Airport, 20 Macready Drive, 209-385-6873.

By Bus

From Merced:

The VIA/Gray Line offers bus service from the Merced Airport daily, as well as from the Merced Amtrak station and Transportation Center to the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and Yosemite Lodge. The bus stops in Mariposa, KOA Campground, Midpines, Cedar Lodge, El Portal and the Parkline Motel and Restaurant. Deluxe coaches run several times a day between Merced and Yosemite, with additional trips between Yosemite and Mariposa. Wheelchair-lift available with advance notice. Obtain a schedule from the Yosemite Lodge Tour Desk, Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, or by calling VIA at 209-384-1315, or in California 800-369-PARK. Tickets may be purchased from the driver.

The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) offers similar bus routes daily, as well as from locations along Highway 120. Click here for the YARTS schedule. Their phone number is 1-877-989-2787.

By Train

AMTRAK serves San Diego, Los Angeles, Fresno, San Jose, San Francisco, and Sacramento to and from Merced/Riverbank, and connects with VIA bus lines for direct service to Yosemite Valley. Fares include bus travle and park entrance fee. For fares, schedules, and information, call 800-872-7245.