Getting There & Away: Yosemite National Park

Air Travel

Major Airports

For visitors traveling from a distance, flying into a nearby airport is the first step. Several airports serve the Yosemite region, each offering different levels of convenience and connections. For flight deals, check out Dollar Flight Club.

Closest & International Hubs

Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT): Closest to south entrance (2-2.5 hr drive).
San Francisco International Airport (SFO): Major international hub (3.5-4 hr drive).
Oakland (OAK) & San Jose (SJC): Other Bay Area options (3.5-4 hr drive).

Flight Details & Transfers

All major U.S. Airlines serve these airports. SFO, OAK, and SJC are the main gateways for international flights, connecting directly from many global hubs. FAT has more limited international direct flights. Compare flight options with Skyscanner.

Seasonal & Transfer Options

Seasonal Prices: Flight prices peak during summer (June-August) and major holidays.
Rental Car: Most common and recommended transfer option for flexibility. Book in advance.
YARTS: Bus service directly from Fresno, Merced, Mariposa, and other gateway towns.

Airport Facilities

All listed airports offer a full range of facilities and services, including various car rental agencies, dining options, and retail shops.

Booking Advice

Book flights well in advance, especially for peak travel periods, to secure the best rates. Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) often present better value.

Transfer Options from Airports

Rental Car Flexibility

Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the park.
Book your rental car in advance, especially during peak season.
All major U.S. Rental car companies are available at airports.
Compare rates at DiscoverCars.com for good value.

YARTS Bus Service

YARTS provides direct bus service from various gateway towns.
YARTS connects with Amtrak train stations in Merced and Fresno.
Check YARTS schedules, as service varies by season.
This option offers a way to reach the park without a private vehicle.

Border Crossing N/A

Domestic Travel

Not applicable for domestic travel within the U.S. Yosemite National Park is entirely within California.

No International Border

There are no international border crossings to consider when traveling to Yosemite.

Intra-State Journey

Your journey to Yosemite will be an intra-state one, following California's regulations.

Land Transportation

Train & Bus Connections

Amtrak offers train services that connect to gateway cities near Yosemite. The San Joaquins line serves Merced and Fresno. From these cities, you transfer to the YARTS bus service, which takes you directly into Yosemite Valley.

Public Transport Details

Amtrak: Connects to Merced (for Highway 140) and Fresno (for Highway 41).
YARTS: Main public bus service into Yosemite from gateway communities.
YARTS fare often includes park entry, a cost-effective option.

Self-Driving Considerations

A valid driver's license is needed. For international visitors, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your original license if it is not in English. Carry vehicle registration and proof of insurance.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road conditions vary greatly by season. Check NPS website for closures.
Winter Driving (Nov-Mar): Tire chains or 4x4 capability often needed. Carry chains always.
Winding Roads: Drive carefully, observe speed limits, watch for wildlife.

Yosemite Valley Road in Winter

Winter Driving Advisory

Tioga Road (Highway 120 East) and Glacier Point Road close seasonally due to heavy snowfall.
Traffic: Yosemite Valley experiences heavy traffic and parking issues during peak season.
Arrive early to secure parking or rely on the park's shuttle system.

Sea/River Arrivals N/A

Yosemite National Park is an inland destination, located in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Therefore, sea or river arrivals are not applicable as a means of reaching the park.

No Water Routes

There are no ferry services or cruise ports connected directly to the park.
While the Merced River flows through Yosemite Valley, it is not a transportation route for arrival.
Recreational rafting on the Merced River is popular, but not for park access.

Departure Information

Exit Fees: No specific exit fees apply when leaving Yosemite National Park itself.
Airport Taxes: Standard U.S. Airport departure taxes are included in your airline ticket for international flights.
Departure Timing: Allow ample time to exit the park, especially on peak season weekends; traffic queues happen.

Winter Check: If departing in winter/early spring, check road conditions and chain requirements again.
Flight Buffer: For flights, allow extra time for the drive to the airport for potential traffic.
Fuel: Plan to fuel your vehicle before leaving the park; gas stations are limited and often more expensive inside.

Travel Tip

Book flights and rental cars well in advance, notably for peak season travel. This practice often provides better rates and availability.

Getting There & Away