Route
The quickest way to get to Yosemite Park from San Francisco is by car. The drive from San Francisco is roughly 200 miles (322 km) via Highway 140 which takes about 4.5 hours. There are several other routes that one can take to get to Yosemite, but Highway 140 is the most direct.
When you get close to the park, you’ll take a left at Yosemite Arch Rock Gate entrance, then a right onto the park’s Big Oak Flat Road, which will lead you into the heart of the park. This is the route that most people take when driving from San Francisco.
An alternative is to take Highway 120 through some beautiful high Sierras into Yosemite’s Tioga Pass Entrance and follow the Tioga Road west. It’s about a two-hour drive from San Francisco to the Tioga Pass Entrance. Once you reach the Tioga Pass Entrance, you’ll be about 20 miles (32 km) from Yosemite Valley which visitors usually call the heart of the park. Tioga Road takes you right into Yosemite Valley, and is the most scenic way to enter the park.
Park Regulations
All vehicles are required to have bear-resistant containers when entering Yosemite National Park. The containers must be kept in all areas of the park, even when the vehicle is in motion. If you don’t have a bear-resistant container, you can purchase one at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center.
The speed limit within the park is 45 mph. Please stick to this speed limit or you may be subject to a fine or even worse, bear strikes. There are also many areas of the park designated for no motor vehicles, so please make sure to follow all the signs posted. It is illegal to go off-roading in these areas.
Also, camping in Yosemite requires a permit. If you don’t have one, you’ll be subject to a fine. There are check-in stations at campgrounds where rangers will check for permits. You must both have a valid camping permit and valid identification to camp in Yosemite.
Finally, alcoholic beverages are not allowed in Yosemite Valley Park. There are several locations that offer special dispensations for this rule, but for the most part, all alcohol must be consumed outside of the park. Violators may be subject to a fine or even arrest.
Stay
There are over one thousand campsites in Yosemite. You can make reservations for some, while other sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Prices range from $18 – $30 a night. There are also plenty of lodges and hotels in and around Yosemite, with rates starting at around $100/night.
If you would like luxury accommodations, there is a five-star hotel called The Ahwahnee. It is located right in the heart of Yosemite Valley and offers stunning views of Yosemite Falls. Room rates start at around $400/night. There are also other luxury hotels located outside the park, such as Tenaya Lodge, which offers a slightly lower rate than The Ahwahnee.
Sightseeing and Activities
Yosemite has some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. There are numerous impressive waterfalls, sprawling meadows, and enormous granite cliffs. One of the most popular activities in Yosemite is hiking, either day hikes or extended backpacking trips. There is also plenty of rock climbing, both traditional and sport.
If you’d like to view Yosemite from the air, there are several companies that offer helicopter and sightseeing tours in the area. You can also take a steam train ride on the Yosemite Mountain and Sugar Pine Railroad, which runs between the Mariposa Grove train depot and El Portal Station. The Yosemite Valley Floor Tour is another great way to explore the park, with buses running every hour and daily guided hikes.
Finally, Yosemite offers a variety of educational programs for all ages, from ranger-led hikes and natural history walks, to night programs and even junior ranger activities. So there is plenty to keep everyone entertained during your stay.
Accessibility
Yosemite is very accessible for those with physical disabilities. There are plenty of accessible trails and ramps to help those in wheelchairs or with walkers. There are also accessible campsites and shuttle lines. You can access a shuttle by calling the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and requesting a pick-up at any of the bus stops.
If you require a wheelchair, you can borrow one at the Visitor Center or rent one from the Yosemite Medical Clinic. There are a few medical clinics near the park, but Yosemite has its own medical clinic that provides affordable services for visitors.
The Yosemite Valley Visitor Center also offers accessible tours. These tours are designed to accommodate the needs of individuals with hearing, vision, physical and learning disabilities. The tours are led by a trained ranger and last about 90 minutes.
Food and Shopping
If you’re looking to pick up some souvenirs or snacks, there are many shops located in Yosemite Valley. You can find everything from clothes to books to handmade crafts, and even organic snacks. There are also several restaurants and cafes in Yosemite Valley, many of which source their ingredients locally
If you’d like to cook your own meals in the park, there are plenty of grocery stores located nearby. You can also purchase food in the national park by visiting the store located at the Curry Village. This store has everything from food and drinks to camping gear and supplies.
Safety
It is important to stay safe while enjoying the beauty and wilderness of Yosemite. While there are some rangers or campground attendants to help with occasional issues, it’s best to be prepared when hiking or camping in the back country. Be sure to let someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back, and always pack the essentials – water, a first aid kit, a flashlight and a map.
Bears and other wildlife are also an ever-present danger in Yosemite. Stay alert, and never approach wildlife. Do not try to feed them – it is illegal in the park. Also, be mindful of rivers and streams. Strong currents can be dangerous and even fatal. So, be sure to use caution and have fun!
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to hike, sightsee, or just take in the natural beauty of Yosemite, it can be a rewarding experience. Be sure to plan ahead, and check the regulations and safety guidelines for the park. With some extra preparation, you’re sure to have the time of your life in Yosemite.
