El Portal California, CA Info

Sitting at 1,939 feet, El Portal, CA serves as the western gateway to Yosemite National Park. This small California town is situated in rural Mariposa County and is partly under the jurisdiction of the park service. The town also boasts several small businesses that cater to tourists.

Translated to mean "the gateway", El Portal, CA sits at the western boundary of massive Yosemite National Park, one of Northern California's top tourist attractions and the centerpiece of many California vacations. Each year, millions travel here to enjoy all the area has to offer, from awesome natural beauty to amazing outdoor activities including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, boating, rafting, and much more.

El Portal is a small unincorporated town situated along California State Route 140 and the mighty and picturesque Merced River. The city is under partial jurisdiction of the National Park Service and park officials and other park partners have offices located in the town which can provide information to those who are planning to travel to the park.

The town of El Portal, CA provides basic amenities for visitors and locals, including a post office, community center, general store, and a few small lodging options. El Portal lodges offer better prices than in-park accommodations so some travelers plan to stay here rather than in Yosemite.

One of the premiere activities in El Portal, California is the opportunity to raft on the mighty Merced River. The portions of the river at El Portal and below offer fabulous runs, including exciting Class III and IV whitewater that will knock your socks off!