Yosemite National Park Scenic Routes, Driving / Auto Tours

Yosemite National Park
> Scenic Drives

Travel the Yosemite roads in and around Yosemite National Park to experience the most inspiring scenic drives and to see the breathtaking vistas of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Yosemite driving tours are numerous. You can enjoy all the beauty of the region in and around Yosemite National Park from the comfort of your own vehicle.

Yosemite Valley Loop

Of all Yosemite drives, the Yosemite Valley loop is the most popular. The awesome landscapes show you why this park is so famous for its views. Although the valley is usually crowded, it’s a must-see when you come to the park.

Tioga Road

Of course, you can take your pick of any one of the Yosemite National Park roads, but don’t leave out the Tioga Road. Traveling over Tioga Pass is something to experience, and you’ll also find a great many opportunities for some outdoor fun along the way.

Wawona Road

When traveling the Wawona Road, you will want to stop at the Mariposa Grove to see the Giant Sequoias, and in Wawona, an Old West town with hiking trails and a Pioneer History Center to explore.

Glacier Point Road

Glacier Point Road is one of the Yosemite Park roads that leads you to some stellar views of the valley and the sights that make Yosemite so popular. You’ll find hiking trails all along the way so you can get out and stretch and get some exercise in the fresh mountain air.

Big Oak Flat Road

Start your journey along Big Oak Flat Road by visiting the Merced Grove of Giant Sequoias, then stop off at the Tuolumne Grove to see more, with a great self-guided trail that will further enhance your visit.

El Portal Road

Along El Portal Drive, between the Yosemite Valley and El Portal, California, you will marvel at the sights, particularly the Merced River Canyon in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and rafting.

Hetch Hetchy Road

At the end of the Hetch Hetchy Road you’ll discover the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and the O’Shaughnessy Dam where you can embark on hikes to see cascading waterfalls.

Sierra Vista Byway

This byway travels through meadows and forests, past towering peaks and huge granite outcroppings. Visit unique sights along the way, including the Ross Cabin, Mammoth Pool and Mile High Vista.

Highway 108

Travel from Sonora, California to Bridgeport on a route that offers breathtaking scenery. You will see the Columns of the Giants in the Stanislaus National Forest and travel over Sonora Pass.

Highway 120

Start at Chinese Camp and travel through the Sierra Nevada region, enjoying the sights as you go. It’s a drive the whole family will enjoy and one you should make when visiting Yosemite National Park.

Highway 140

Along this scenic route, you can stop in the town of El Portal, finding exciting whitewater rafting, hiking and much more. Visit Mariposa, California to see some interesting history contained in its two museums.

Highway 4

This mountainous highway takes you across Ebbetts Pass and gives you access to a number of outdoor activities.

Highway 41

From Yosemite to Oakhurst, California is a short yet inspiring drive with plenty to do along the way. Ride the Sugar Pine Railroad, fish in Bass Lake. The fun never ends.

Highway 49

Here you will discover 100 miles of scenic beauty as you travel the route of the 49ers of Gold Rush Days. Mining towns and historic sites flourish along the path you’ll take from Oakhurst south of Yosemite to Vinton near Frenchman Lake.

Vehicle Restrictions

You should always be aware of all vehicle restrictions when you are traveling to Yosemite National Park, so your trip will be safe and trouble-free.

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