2025 Yosemite National Park Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

#transportation Planning a trip to Yosemite? From scenic drives to shuttle hacks, here’s how to get around smart, so you spend more time chasing waterfalls and less time chasing parking spots 👇 🚗 Driving Yourself (Most Common Option) Yosemite is driveable, but it’s also popular — expect crowds, especially spring–fall. ✅ Ideal for early risers and folks with flexible schedules 🅿️ Main areas like Yosemite Valley fill up by 9 AM in peak season! 💡 Driving Pro Tips: Download offline maps before entering — signal drops fast Fill up on gas before the park — none inside Yosemite Valley Bring $35 for a 7-day vehicle pass OR get the America the Beautiful annual pass for $80 (worth it if hitting 3+ parks) 🚌 Yosemite Valley Shuttle (Free & Easy) 🟢 Runs year-round in Yosemite Valley 🛑 Stops at key spots like: Yosemite Falls Half Dome Village Mist Trail Mirror Lake trailhead 🎯 Perfect for ditching the car once you’re parked — hop on & off all day 🕒 Runs approx. every 10–20 minutes during the day 🚐 Other Free Seasonal Shuttles: 🚌 Mariposa Grove Shuttle (May–Nov) Runs from Mariposa Welcome Plaza to giant sequoia grove 🚌 Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle (summer only) Great for high-country hikes on Tioga Road 🚆 Don’t Want to Drive? Take Public Transit! Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System connects from Merced, Fresno, Mammoth Lakes, and more 🚍 Great for car-free travelers, especially in summer when parking is rough 🚐 Campervans & RVs ✅ Allowed in the park but trickier to maneuver 🅿️ RVs can park in Yosemite Valley day-use lots ⚠️ Some roads have length limits — check before driving in 🛻 Reserve campgrounds well in advance if sleeping in your rig! 🧭 Transportation Tips at a Glance: ✅ Arrive before 8 AM or after 4 PM for easier parking ✅ Stay inside the park or nearby for better access ✅ Check road conditions online — snow & fire impact access ✅ Electric vehicle? There are chargers in Yosemite Valley! ✅ Yosemite Valley = most traffic. Want fewer crowds? Try Tuolumne Meadows or Hetch Hetchy

As one of the world's famous heritage sites of UNESCO, Yosemite National Park, which has been established for 134 years, is definitely worth a visit! Tickets: $35/person Opening hours: 24 hours 1. El Capitan Address: 37°44′32″N 119°38′09″W Features: Almost entirely composed of a very large piece of light-colored granite🔒, formed about 100 million years ago. It is the largest single piece of granite in the world. The entire stone is more than 900 meters (3,000 feet) high and the top is 2,307 meters (7,569 feet) above sea level. It is one of the holy places that rock climbing enthusiasts must visit. Rating: 5/5 2. Yosemite Valley Features: It takes about 10 minutes to drive into the valley. At the intersection of CA-120, CA-49 and CA-41, there are Valley View and Tunnel View. Both locations are great places to see the U-shaped or tiny V-shaped valley. Be sure to take photos here to see the beautiful valley scenery. Rating: 5/5 3. Bridalveil Falls Address: 8592P983+MC Features: The waterfall sways with the strong wind in the valley, just like a bride's veil. The waterfall is 189 meters (620 feet) high. Although it is not particularly tall, it is located in a valley with glacial terrain and is very unique. The local Aboriginal people call it "Pohono", which means "elf in the breeze". Rating: 5/5 #Yosemite #NewYear2025

#holidayseason Visiting Yosemite National Park in winter feels like stepping into a real-life snow globe. The granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome are frosted like holiday cookies, the waterfalls freeze into sparkling ice sculptures, and the entire park glows with that magical “silent night” charm. It’s the ultimate Christmas card come to life. Start your adventure in Yosemite Valley, where the snow-dusted landscape looks like Santa’s sleigh might swoop in at any moment. Yosemite Falls turns into an icy masterpiece, perfect for those Instagram-worthy “Merry Christmas” photos. Bundle up and take a peaceful stroll or strap on snowshoes and trek through trails that make you feel like the star of your own holiday movie. For a dash of winter fun, head to Badger Pass Ski Area, Yosemite’s own winter playground. Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, or awkwardly trying snow tubing for the first time, it’s all part of the festive spirit. Feeling adventurous? Try cross-country skiing while pretending you’re a Christmas courier delivering gifts through the wilderness. Don’t miss the Mariposa Grove, where the ancient giant sequoias stand proudly in the snow, looking like Christmas trees too big for even Santa’s workshop. Walking among them is a humbling and heartwarming experience. And what’s Christmas without cozying up? Warm your hands around a mug of hot cocoa at the Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite’s historic lodge that practically screams holiday cheer with its roaring fireplaces and twinkling lights. Yosemite in winter is pure magic—a place where snow, nature, and the holiday season come together in the most enchanting way. Pack your mittens, grab your Santa hat, and prepare for a Christmas adventure you’ll never forget!

#closetonature #100waystotravel #love_nature #naturebeauty #yosemitenationalpark Our visit to Yosemite National Park immersed us in nature's vibrant beauty, surrounded by endless shades of green. The towering trees, lush meadows, and cascading waterfalls created a serene and refreshing atmosphere. As we strolled through the park's winding paths, the sound of rushing water and birdsong added to the tranquility. The iconic Yosemite Falls, thundering down the cliffs, was a sight to behold, its mist cooling the air around us. At one point, we found a peaceful spot with a view of Half Dome, its imposing silhouette a reminder of nature's grandeur. Interestingly, the serene landscapes reminded us of the iconic wallpaper from Apple's desktop—an image that doesn't do justice to the real beauty of Yosemite. It was the perfect escape, leaving us feeling rejuvenated.

🏔️ Magnificent natural landscapes Yosemite National Park is located in California, USA, and is famous for its spectacular mountains, waterfalls and giant redwood trees. Yosemite Valley is the heart of the park, surrounded by majestic granite cliffs, such as the famous Yosemite Peak and El Capone Peak, attracting countless climbers and photographers to explore. 🌊 The charm of waterfalls The waterfalls in the park are also one of its highlights, especially Yosemite Falls, which is one of the highest waterfalls in North America. When the snow melts in spring, the waterfall is at its most abundant, and the spectacular water flows down, forming a magnificent natural picture that amazes visitors. 🌲 Rich Ecosystems Yosemite National Park has a variety of ecosystems, from alpine meadows to dense forests, and is home to rich flora and fauna. Visitors can observe a variety of wild animals here, including cute squirrels, which often jump between trees, adding vitality and interest to this piece of nature. 🌅 Exploration and Adventure Whether it's hiking, rock climbing or camping, Yosemite National Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for every visitor to enjoy this magnificent natural paradise. The changing seasons add different colors and scenery to this place every year. No matter when you visit, you can always find amazing scenery and share the wonder of nature with squirrels and other wild animals. 📍 Address: California, USA; Tuolumne County, Mariposa County and Madera County 📝 Note: If you want to experience/don’t want to get tired, it is recommended to follow a local tour group; if you are interested in exploring, you can drive and stay for a few more days #Forest #Natural Landscape

Hi adventure lovers! Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable fantasy journey? When you step into the gate of America's Greatest Resort Park, you will be shocked by the magnificent scenery that greets you. The vast wilderness, majestic mountains, blue lakes and lifelike rivers are like nature's canvas, completely immersing you in it. You will feel the freshness in the air, the warmth of the sun, and feel like you are in a dream world. The tree trunks tower into the clouds and the green leaves are whirling, seeming to tell us their own stories. When you get close to the trunk and touch the rough bark, you will feel the power of nature and the pulse of life. You can climb along the tree trunks and wander in this mysterious and magnificent world, as if you have become a part of nature. This indescribable experience will be engraved in your heart and leave you longing to encounter nature again. Next, let’s go to the waterfalls in the park. These water curtain waterfalls will leave you stunned. When you get close to the waterfall, listen to the sound of the water, and feel the coolness of the water droplets splashing on your face, you will be deeply attracted by this magnificent scene. You can choose to enjoy the majesty of the waterfall up close, or venture closer to the bottom of the waterfall and feel the shock of the water spray. This unforgettable view will leave you with a sense of awe and a sense of adventure and beauty. The beautiful American resort park will bring you an unparalleled fantasy journey. This destination not only allows you to appreciate the splendor and beauty of nature, but also allows you to interact with it and become one with it. The feeling it will give you is indescribable and can only be truly understood by experiencing it. This article is just the tip of the iceberg, a truly magical journey awaits you. There, you will personally feel the shock and beauty of nature and create your own unforgettable memories. This magical journey will ignite your inner thirst for adventure and make you want to hit the road in no time. As long as you dare to take risks, this beautiful American resort park will become a haven for your soul, allowing you to find your true self and live in harmony with nature. Don't hesitate any longer! Pack your bags quickly and get ready to explore this unforgettable and magical place! #followstar #Register as a hotel trial sleeper in June #trip

Whether you're an avid hiker, nature photographer, or simply seeking tranquility in the great outdoors, Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination. 📅 Best time to visit: each season has its own unique charm, so choose the time that aligns with your preferences and activities. Note that summer is the peak time. 🌄 Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit: 1️⃣ Plan ahead and make reservations for camping or lodging well in advance, as Yosemite can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. 2️⃣ Pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. 3️⃣ Don't forget to bring comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water for your outdoor adventures. 4️⃣ Take advantage of the park's ranger-led programs and guided tours to learn more about the park's history, wildlife, and geology.

Many have heard of the ever famous Yosemite National Park that renowned for its amazing views and huge backdrop of giant rock granites, cliffs and waterfall. During August and Sept I feel its the best time of the year because of its dry weather but hot, and this is where the park is filled with many tourists. As this is a tourists attraction there is an entry fee per vehicle of $35 unless you are keen to get the annual park price if you think you want to come back again. Yosemite National Park is HUGE! And if you don't wanna to walk there are several lookout points for you to drive around and view these scenic lookout around the park. But for us, we took the liberty to walk instead, and don't be surprise you will see many locals here sun tanning or just soaking themselves in the water to cool themselves off. The make sure, at least get off your car to do some hike to experience the nature in this National park. #bucketlistreboot #america #unesco #heritagesite #touristsattraction #nationalpark #yosemite #california

#passionpassport Yosemite National Park is in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s famed for its giant, ancient sequoia trees, and for Tunnel View, the iconic vista of towering Bridalveil Fall and the granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome. In Yosemite Village are shops, restaurants, lodging, the Yosemite Museum and the Ansel Adams Gallery, with prints of the photographer’s renowned black-and-white landscapes of the area. #passionpassport #beautifuldestinations #travelphotography #travelinspiration #helloworld #traveladdict #travelworld #nationalpark #travelusa #travelhappiness

One will not regret taking time to travel all the way to Yosemite and staying for a few nights!:) Getting There - it was a 5 to 6 hours drive from Los Angeles Attractions - Breathtaking views of mountain, lakes and valleys Hotels - There are various types of accomodations in the area. Ranging from Condominiums (with BBQ pits) to Lodges (with many facilities) Food - Not to worry if you are staying at Lodges with fully equipped facilities as they would have restaurants there for dining. #wintergetaway #yosemite #nationalpark #holiday #lakes #naturalwonders #nofilters #usatravel #honeymoon

This is Yosemite National Park near San Francisco in the western United States. Even though it's nearby, the United States is so vast that it takes about 4 hours to get there. There are so many things to see, such as huge rocks, large trees, and waterfalls. The trees are really tall and wide. It's quite large, so it takes a lot of time to walk around inside. When we went, there was a forest fire, so it seemed like a lot of the forest was burned on the way there. The road was also a bit dangerous. I think it would be good to take enough time to look around.

🗻 Yosemite National Park is a national park in the USA...which is a national park that hides many different kinds of magnificence. 🗻 Yosemite is located in California and covers an area of ​​almost 2 million rai..many valleys are lined up beautifully. 🗻 There are many trekking routes..no matter what season you go, there is beauty hidden in each season..If ​​you drive past a deer or a wolf, don't be alarmed. #HeartbrokenMountain

stunning place, best pictures are on the afternoon. we stayed at Mariposa and drove at 11am towards Yosemite, dont forget to prebuy your day pass online, from the moment you leave Mariposa, the drive through canyon is stunning, once you get to park its amazement after amazement, we walked the Mist trail, and end up driving to glaciar point for sunset, it you go there before the sun sets, everything looks pink… after completing the walk on this area, next day we decided to make the drive across the park, which takes you through some other magnificent locations, some beautiful lakes, were you can kayak or paddle board… once you are finished that road you have the chance ro start heading to Death Valley National Park #travelinspiration#unforgettableexperiences#hiking#beautifulsunsets#nationalpark#naturalwonders

#Campinglover #Missingtheforest Yosemite National Park @ California It is a famous park that everyone wants to visit. With its pristine nature and full experience of nature, I believe many people see this place without realizing it because it is the background of their Macbook/iMac. In the park, we booked a campsite. It is very spacious. And most importantly, do not leave food outside because deer will definitely come and take it away. The weather is cool and the view is beautiful. You can drive to various points. #shallwego

In the Yosemite National Park you will come across Vernal Falls. A 317 foot water fall that falls into the Merced River. The falls run all year round but at certain points of the year they break into multiple strands when the volume of water decreases. Highly recommended, must visit! #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

Yosemite Falls are popular with visitors from around the world. Much of the water that crashes down the falls and into the lake below comes from snowmelt. Yosemite falls itself is the fifth highest waterfall in the world and from top to bottom it is 2,425 feet. The falls are at their most spectacular in May and June, once the snow has melted the falls become a trickle and you then need to wait for the cooler weather again. #summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

Yosemite Yosemite National Park is an American national park. It is a beautiful and charming natural heritage. It is a dream place for many people. This place is famous for its magnificent granite cliffs, half-dome peaks, beautiful large waterfalls, and a forest that is still rich with many wild animals, especially the black bear, which is the symbol of this place. #MissingNature

Winter starting in yosemite valley, with snow started to pouring the valley it’s a magical view .... #newyearstrip #christmastrip #wintergetaway

It's a short hike to see some amazing views when venturing through Yosemite National Park -- it's a great spot to explore with friends. #yosemite #np #seeyourcity

The United States West must travel - Yosemite National Park valley, forests, streams, lakes, waterfalls, cliffs, rocks, meadows, Yosemite, absolutely worthy of the name. Yosemite National Park is located in northeastern California and is approximately 3 hours northwest from Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park. It features spectacular granite cliffs, hundreds of meters of waterfalls, clear blue waters, crystal clear lakes, rich flora and fauna, and more than 1

After the LA National Park in Los Angeles, walk into the desktop of the Macbook as Apple's loyalty powder, the Apple system boot interface punches a wave! The game in Yosemite National Park in the dry season in September is really not the best choice, but the autumn is high, many hiking trails, the temperature is right, tourists are not the main reason why I want to brush the Yosemite! US National Park Tickets Super recommended everyone buys a year-round ticket for 60! Within a year, 5 people in a car can play in 59 national parks in the United States. It is really super-conscience! The domestic 5A scenic spot moves more than 100 tickets and really can't afford to play! route selection

Yosemite National Park Two-Day Tour - DAY1 Yosemite National Park is one of the most important national parks in the United States, one of the most beautiful and most visited national parks in the western United States, with the Grand Canyon National Park Yellowstone National Park is the same name. The park is centered on the Yosemite Valley, with the Merced River passing through the canyon, as well as some waterfalls, including the famous Yosemite Falls. Many of the attractions you have are often used as photographers. If you use an Apple computer, you know that many wallpapers are shot in Yosemite. In fact, Yosemite is best spent more than 2 days to play slowly to get its essence. On the first day, we entered the park from Ximen. After a long winding mountain road to the mountainside, we immediately parked in the valley side viewing parking lot after passing through the drill tunnel, and we can enjoy the panoramic view of Yosemite Valley. To the left of the tunnel view is El Capitan, the far side is the Half Dome and the main peak of Cloud Rest, the right is the Glacier Point and the Bridalveil Fall, and the bottom is winding. The Merced River. The Year Emirates Rock is a giant gray-black granite stone up to 900 meters high that can be seen throughout Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point. The Half Dome is one of the landmarks of Yosemite National Park and is a place for many rock climbers and hikers to pilgrimage. It is said that watching the half dome in the sunset will be very shocking. Unfortunately, we are worthy of the sun. Under the mountains, the blue waters reflect several peaks such as Polly Dome, Medlicott Dome and Tenaya Peak across the lake. Walking on the path around the lake, people can't help but feel that the wind is blue, the sun is blue, and even the whole person is infiltrated by the cool blue.

Short-term hiking Yosemite Park arrogant Yosemite is a natural paradise in the eyes of old beauty, remember Apple's desktop beauty map? Even the driver of the guide admitted that he liked this place more than Huangshi. However, it is now a dry season, the waterfall flow is relatively small, and it is necessary to bring a poncho near the bridal waterfall during the flood season. Yosemite is a glacier trough on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada. The bottom of the valley is wide and the valley is steep. It has the typical characteristics of a icy U-shaped valley. There are many overhangs on both sides. The tributaries are injected to form a series of waterfalls. Yosemite Falls The drop is 435 meters, the highest in North America. This is a great place for camping and hiking, and there are also many RVs coming here for a holiday. Walk through the giant cedar forest, starting at the sentinel dome parking, the end is the glacier point, the whole journey is about 2 hours. There are 2 ramps in the middle, you have to follow the signs, don't get lost. In addition to the cold in the forest at night, there are bears! The mobile phone has a signal during the walk, and the google map can be used normally. In case there is no signal, you have to go down the mountain before dark. Kushiro has to the top of the mountain, and the other is to go down the mountain. It is recommended to download offline maps in advance in the National Park. We stayed at the hotel at the entrance to the park and the night view was very beautiful.

There are 27 national parks in California, but only Yosemite National Park and Yellowstone National Park and Grand Canyon National Park are called the three major national parks in the United States. Apple's screensaver pattern is taken from Yosemite. There are quite a few different natural landscapes in the park, which is rare compared to other parks. Let me talk about his location, the park is located in the Midwest of California, and it takes only 4 hours to drive from San Francisco. This is why every time the summer park is full, the hotel needs to be booked in advance for a reason. Yosemite was once the home of the ancient Indian Ahwahnechee tribe. Yosemite means the murderers and is used by the surrounding tribes to describe the ancient Indians living in Yosemite. In the park you can visit the museum to learn more about history and to go to the village ruins.

Here’s how to make the most of a Yosemite day trip this summer 🖋️ Reservations are a must from 6am–2pm (June 15–Aug 15). Book early—we checked 3 days before & it was fully booked 😭 🎫 $2 nonrefundable fee per ticket. New slots open 7 days before your visit. 🚗 Entry fees: $35/car | $30/motorcycle | $20 for walk-ins & cyclists 📆 Your reservation covers 3 full days—make the most of it! ⚠️ Be early! We got there exactly at 2pm and still had to wait an hour in a queue 🌲 Leave Mariposa Grove for last unless you’re up for a hike. It’s ideal for a short stop, but that shuttle line can really drag. 🛏️ We stayed in Courtyard Fresno (about 1.5h drive) en route to SF, but if time allows, stay near the park — it’s worth it 🌅 Summer perks = longer days. Sunset hits around 8:30pm 🤢 Motion alert: The road up is seriously winding. If twisty turns make you queasy, prep accordingly 📍Yosemite National Park, CA #yosemite #yosemitenationalpark #usa #usnationalparks

#postandearn From granite peaks to ancient trees and desert skies, California’s national parks offer incredible diversity — and yes, you can see the best in just one epic week. 🚗✨ ⸻ 🗓️ Day 1 – Yosemite National Park 📍 Stay: Yosemite Valley • See El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls • Easy walk: Lower Yosemite Falls Trail • Sunset at Tunnel View = magic 🌟 Tip: Book entrance reservations early! ⸻ 🗓️ Day 2 – Yosemite (Glacier Point + Mariposa Grove) • Drive to Glacier Point for jaw-dropping views • Visit Mariposa Grove to walk among giant sequoias 🌟 Early morning = fewer crowds & golden light ⸻ 🗓️ Day 3 – Sequoia National Park 📍 Drive: ~3.5 hrs south • Visit General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth • Hike Moro Rock for 360° Sierra views 🌟 Stay overnight in nearby Three Rivers or camp in the park ⸻ 🗓️ Day 4 – Kings Canyon National Park 📍 Right next to Sequoia • Scenic drive along Kings Canyon Scenic Byway • Hike to Zumwalt Meadow or Roaring River Falls 🌟 Less crowded than Sequoia, just as stunning ⸻ 🗓️ Day 5 – Drive to Death Valley 📍 Drive: ~6 hrs • Scenic stops en route • Sunset at Zabriskie Point or Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes 🌟 Stay at Furnace Creek or Stovepipe Wells ⸻ 🗓️ Day 6 – Death Valley National Park • Sunrise at Dante’s View • Visit Badwater Basin (lowest point in North America!) • Explore Artist’s Palette for surreal desert colors 🌟 Start early — it gets HOT ⸻ 🗓️ Day 7 – Joshua Tree National Park 📍 Drive: ~4 hrs south • See the unique Joshua Trees & boulders • Hike Hidden Valley or Barker Dam • Sunset at Keys View 🌟 Finish your trip with desert serenity ⸻ 🚗 Quick Tips • Get the America the Beautiful Pass 🎟️ • Bring lots of water, snacks, sun protection, and layers • Book lodging or campsites early, especially in summer • Use offline maps (some parks have no service) ⸻ 💬 Final Thought In just 7 days, you’ll experience alpine cliffs, ancient forests, desert sunrises, and stargazing dreams. California’s parks are wild, wide, and waiting — and this is the road trip of a lifetime. 🌄🌴💫

Introduction to Yosemite National Park Yosemite National Park is renowned for its unique landscapes, waterfalls, and giant sequoia groves. The park's most famous attractions include Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Mirror Lake, and more. Yosemite Falls: One of the highest waterfalls in North America, standing at 285 meters tall, it cascades down in three tiers. Its spectacular views can be admired from multiple vantage points in the valley. The falls are especially breathtaking in spring after the winter thaw. El Capitan: The world's largest single granite cliff, with a vertical height of nearly 910 meters, is a mecca for rock climbers. Its majestic form often serves as a backdrop for films and advertisements. Mirror Lake: A glacial lake with a serene surface, where the blue sky, white clouds, distant mountains, and forests are beautifully reflected, creating a mesmerizing and enchanting scene. Four Seasons: Yosemite National Park offers distinct scenery throughout the year. Autumn, with its crisp air, is the best time for stargazing, as the Milky Way seems within reach. Winter transforms the park into a skiing paradise, with snow-covered sequoias and granite cliffs painting a picturesque landscape. Giant Sequoias: The park is home to the world's largest grove of giant sequoias. These ancient trees, some over a thousand years old, set records for both height and diameter, making them a striking highlight of the park. Yosemite National Park is not only a paradise for nature lovers but also a holy grail for photography enthusiasts, attracting thousands of visitors each year to explore its natural beauty.

Embark on a Budget-Friendly Adventure in Yosemite Nestled on the western slopes of California's Sierra Nevada lies a natural wonder that captivates countless travelers—Yosemite National Park. Here, you'll find towering granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, serene lakes, and vast meadows. Drawing 4 million visitors annually, this guide will help you unlock an affordable Yosemite adventure! Transportation Guide Getting to the Park • By Air: Five airports serve Yosemite—San Francisco International (SFO), Los Angeles International (LAX), Fresno Yosemite International (FAT), Merced Regional (MCE), and Oakland International (OAK). Renting a car at the airport (often cheaper than in the city) is recommended. From San Francisco, take Big Oak Flat Road (CA SR 120) to enter via the West Gate; from Los Angeles, head north on Yosemite Freeway (SR 41) to the South Gate. Alternatively, take YARTS buses from Merced Regional Airport. • By Bus: Take Greyhound to Merced, then transfer to YARTS (regional buses available at airports/Greyhound stations). The 3-4 hour one-way trip from Merced to Yosemite Valley costs $25 roundtrip for adults ($18 for seniors/children). • By Car: The most popular option, with 3-4 hour drives from nearby cities. Three western entrances (CA-120, CA-49, CA-41) and one eastern entrance (CA-120, closed in winter). Note: Limited cell service—download offline maps. Year-round gas stations at Wawona, Crane Flat, and El Portal. Park Transportation • Shuttles: Free valley shuttles run every 30 minutes (7am-7pm), with extended hours (7am-10pm) for eastern valley lodges. Glacier Point shuttles (4-hour roundtrip) depart Yosemite Lodge at 8:30am, 10am, and 1:30pm daily. • Bikes: Two rental locations in the valley (9am-6pm, last rental by 4:45pm). Bring driver's license/passport. Hours vary by weather. Budget Tips • Tickets: $35/vehicle (7-day pass) or purchase an America the Beautiful annual pass. Reservations ($2/vehicle) required on February weekends (8th-23rd) and peak summer dates. • Dining: Multiple dining options, but expect crowds on weekends/holidays. Reasonably priced groceries available, though meals are expensive ($30-40 for breakfast). Pack snacks/water for hikes. • Extras: Additional costs for campgrounds, climbing lessons, etc. Arrive early for limited parking at popular spots. Accommodations Book park lodgings early. Nearby Mariposa offers budget-friendly alternatives with diverse options—from cozy B&Bs to affordable hotels—plus easy park access. Must-See Highlights Stand atop 7,214-foot Glacier Point for panoramic views of Half Dome and Cloud's Rest. Capture sunset hues on Half Dome at Geology Hut. Witness North America's tallest waterfall (Yosemite Falls) April-June or February's rare "firefall" phenomenon. Discover endless wonders in Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows. Pack your bags for this unparalleled natural spectacle—without breaking the bank!