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Local Transportation

Public Transportation Systems

Yosemite National Park offers an effective public transportation system, especially in Yosemite Valley, designed to lessen vehicle congestion and improve visitor experience.

The Yosemite Valley Shuttle System, a free, year-round bus service, operates extensively within Yosemite Valley. It serves major trailheads, lodges, campgrounds, and visitor centers. For most visitors, once you park your car (or arrive by YARTS), this shuttle system becomes your main mode of transport within the Valley.

Shuttle Services

  • Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS): Connects Yosemite with gateway communities.
  • YARTS charges a fare, but the cost often includes the park entry fee, making it convenient.
  • Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle (seasonal): Operates along Tioga Road in summer/early fall.
  • Badger Pass Shuttle (winter seasonal): Connects Yosemite Valley with Badger Pass Ski Area in winter.

Valley Shuttle

Free, year-round service within Yosemite Valley, serving trailheads, lodges, campgrounds, visitor centers.

Route Maps & Hubs

Detailed shuttle maps are available at park entrances, visitor centers, and online. Hubs: Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village, Yosemite Village.

Accessibility

Most Yosemite Valley shuttle buses are wheelchair accessible, making exploration easier for travelers with mobility challenges.

Ticketing & Frequency

Fare Options
  • Yosemite Valley Shuttle: Free for all visitors.
  • YARTS: Fares vary by origin and destination. Purchase online or from drivers.
  • Always check YARTS website for current timetables.
Operating Hours & Tips
  • Yosemite Valley Shuttle: Operates early morning to late evening, every 10-20 min in summer.
  • Park your car once in Yosemite Valley and rely on the free shuttle.
  • Be prepared for longer wait times for shuttles during peak season; consider walking shorter distances.

Yosemite Valley Shuttle Bus

Efficiency

Minimizes traffic & parking issues.

Convenience

Accesses major park points.

Eco-Friendly

A sustainable way to explore.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible options.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing Limited/N/A

Options for taxis and ride-sharing services within Yosemite National Park are extremely limited or nonexistent. The park's focus is on public shuttle systems and private vehicles.

Taxi Availability

  • Taxis are generally not available for hailing or pre-booking within park boundaries.
  • Park focus on public shuttle systems limits private taxi operations.
  • Typical fares and payment methods are not applicable here.
  • No licensed taxi identification or hailing procedures are common.

Ride-Sharing Services

  • Services like Uber or Lyft are not typically available for transport within the park.
  • Limited cellular service and park regulations make ride-sharing impractical.
  • While possible to find a ride-share to a gateway town, it's not common for park travel.
  • YARTS bus service or rental cars are the main options for airport/station transfers.

Yosemite Valley Shuttle Bus

  • A convenient way to get around the park.
  • The shuttle reduces traffic and parking stress in the Valley.
  • Bicycle rentals are available at Curry Village.

Rental Options Overview

Car Rental

Available at major California airports. Needs valid driver's license and credit card. Minimum age typically 21.

Bicycle Rental

Popular in Yosemite Valley. Rentals available seasonally at Curry Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge. 12 miles of paved paths.

Motorcycle/Scooter/Specialty

Not typically available within the park. No tuk-tuks, jeepneys, or similar specialized vehicles for public transport.

Driving & Parking Information

Standard California driving laws apply within the park. Speed limits are strictly enforced. Watch for wildlife on roads, especially at dawn and dusk. Road conditions vary greatly by season.

Road Conditions

  • Check NPS website for current road closures (e.g., Tioga Road, Glacier Point Road).
  • Winter (Nov-Mar): Vehicles may need tire chains or 4x4 capability on park roads.
  • Roads leading into and within the park are often winding and steep. Drive carefully.
  • Watch for wildlife, especially deer, on the roads.

Parking in Yosemite Valley

  • Parking is extremely limited and challenging in Yosemite Valley during peak season (summer).
  • Arrive very early in the morning to secure a spot.
  • Plan to use the park shuttle system if parking spots are unavailable.
  • Parking outside designated areas is prohibited and results in fines.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly

Yosemite Valley is highly pedestrian-friendly with numerous paved paths and trails for walking.

Valley Loop Trail is a long, flat walk.

Walking Tours

The National Park Service often offers ranger-led programs and guided walks.

Check the "Yosemite Guide" or NPS app for schedules.

Bicycle Safety

Yosemite Valley features 12 miles (19 km) of paved bike paths. Bicycles permitted only on paved roads and designated paths.

Helmets are needed for riders under 18. Ride cautiously.

No-Go Areas & Tour Buses

Restricted Zones
  • Off-trail travel in sensitive areas (meadows, restoration sites) is prohibited.
  • Cyclists must not ride on hiking-only trails.
  • Always follow posted signs and regulations for safety and preservation.
Specialized Tours
  • Open-Air Tram Tours: Interpretive tours of Yosemite Valley are seasonal and incur a fee.
  • Glacier Point Tour: Bus tours to Glacier Point are available when the road is open (fee applies).
  • Grand Tour: A comprehensive tour covering Valley, Glacier Point, Mariposa Grove (fee applies).

Accessibility Services

Accessible Transport
  • The Yosemite Valley shuttle is wheelchair accessible.
  • Many paved paths and viewpoints have accessible sections or viewing areas.
  • Accessible lodging options are available at properties like Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Planning Accessible Visits
  • Check the NPS Yosemite accessibility page on the official website.
  • This page details accessible facilities and activities.
  • It assists in planning a visit that suits your mobility needs.

Final Local Transportation Advice

Utilize Yosemite Valley's free shuttle system for efficient sightseeing and to avoid parking challenges. Consider YARTS for park entry without a private vehicle.

For independent travel, book rental cars in advance and be aware of seasonal road closures and winter chain requirements.