Frequently Asked Questions About Yosemite

TRANSPORTATION (IN-PARK & PUBLIC)

Do I need a reservation to enter Yosemite National Park?
Can I drive my own car into the park?
Where can I get public transportation?
Why is a regional transportation system needed?
How does the Valley Shuttle Bus differ from the Valley Floor Tour?
Can I ride a bus up/down to Glacier Point so I can hike down/up?
Is there a bus that goes to Tuolumne Meadows?
Is there a bus that goes to Wawona and the Mariposa Grove?

Do I need a reservation to enter Yosemite National Park?
No, reservations are not required to enter the park, however, they are required at campsites and hotels within the park. Campsite reservations can be made at 800-436-7275 and lodging reservations at 559-252-4848. Reservations should be made well in advance.

Can I drive my own car into the park?
Yes, private passenger vehicles are welcome to enter the park, however, public transportation is also available for visitors wanting to utilize this mode of transportation.

Where can I get public transportation?
Daily bus service runs year-round to Merced. There are connections in Merced and Fresno with Greyhound and Amtrak. For current bus schedule and fares, call YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System at 1-800-98-YARTS or 1-800-989-2787). YARTS offers daily bus service to El Portal, Mariposa, Merced, and Mammoth Lakes (summer). For more information go to the YARTS website at yarts.com. For information on Amtrak fares, contact your travel agent or call 1-800-USA-RAIL.

Why is a regional transportation system needed?
In 1980, increasing automobile traffic was identified in Yosemite's General Management Plan (GMP) as the "single greatest threat to enjoyment of the natural and scenic qualities of Yosemite." Vehicle traffic has increased dramatically, damaging both natural resources and the quality of the visitor experience. From 1993 to 1996, the park entrance was closed several times each year due to gridlock in the Valley. Greatly reducing the number of vehicles in the Valley will allow the elimination of some roads, parking areas and support facilities.

The preferred method of reaching the General Management Plan's goal of "markedly reducing traffic congestion" is to institute a regional transportation system that would allow visitors to leave their cars outside the park and travel by shuttle bus into and around Yosemite Valley. The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation Strategy (YARTS) group - consisting of representatives from local and state government and the NPS - is working on developing a reliable, convenient and affordable alternative transportation system.

How does the Valley Shuttle Bus differ from the Valley Floor Tour?
The shuttle bus is a free transportation service to various visitor service facilities and points of interest in the eastern portion of Yosemite Valley. The drivers do not provide any specific sightseeing narration along the way. The Valley Floor Tour is a guided two-hour tour of Yosemite Valley (including a stop at Tunnel View) and is available for a fee. Tickets can be purchased at YCS Tour Desks.

Can I ride a bus up/down to Glacier Point so I can hike down/up?
Yes. Hikers can take the Glacier Point Tour one way when the Glacier Point Road is open. Make reservations at YCS tour desks. Reservations cannot be made for Glacier Point to the Valley. One way rides to the Yosemite Valley are space available only, do not count on there being seats available.

Is there a bus that goes to Tuolumne Meadows?
In the summer (typically July 1 to early September), there is a daily bus that runs round-trip from Yosemite Valley to Tuolumne Meadows for a fee. It is designed to let day hikers and backpackers off and on at trailheads, while also providing a tour. There is also a free shuttle bus that runs on a regular schedule in the Tuolumne Meadows area in summer. It makes regular stops between May Lake and the Tioga Pass.

Is there a bus that goes to Wawona and the Mariposa Grove?
There is no shuttle bus service from the Valley to Wawona. Once in Wawona, there is a shuttle bus which runs from the Wawona Store to the Mariposa Grove Parking Area during summer. Encourage visitors to use the free service as parking in the grove during the summer is extremely difficult.