The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Memorable Road Trip in and Around Yosemite National Park

You may be looking for an unforgettable California road trip or just to visit the state’s most breathtaking National Parks, there are lots of options the vicinity of Yosemite.

Create a memorable trip that will leave you with experiences and beautiful drives as well as hiking trails. Here are the five most memorable road trips in Yosemite National Park that you should consider for your next adventure.

1. Tioga Road

Tioga Road, a 72.2-mile-long route that runs between Big Oak Flat Information Station Big Oak Flat Information Station and Lee Vining Junction Lee Vining junction with US Route 395 is a route that crosses Yosemite’s most awe-inspiring pass, Tioga Pass. This beautiful drive is among the most scenic in the state of California. It is filled with great spots along the route.

Your first destination you’ll come across you’ll find Tuolumne Grove, home to around a dozen gigantic sequoias, and also a trail which offers breathtaking views within the park.

You can also go for just a few minutes of hiking to Lembert Dome, a granite slab that’s a little bit the same as Half Dome but much smaller in size. If you’re up for it you can try the 6-mile loop hike that leads to Mount Hoffman for even more stunning panoramas. It’s truly an unforgettable experience!

2. Wawona Road

Wawona Road has been deemed one of the most picturesque drives in Yosemite National Park. It is famous for the spectacular views in the direction of El Capitan and Half Dome Two major tourist attractions within the Valley.

Also, it has a fascinating background with Galen Clark, the first governor of the state appointed guardianship of Yosemite, settling here in 1855.

It begins at Tunnel View, and you will drive past Yosemite Valley’s iconic granite cliffs. After that, the picturesque journey takes you through Tunnel Tunnel in California. The Tunnel Tunnel is famous for its long length. The tunnel is worth a visit for anyone visiting Yosemite.

3. Valley Floor Loop

An ideal trail for observing Domes and waterfalls, this mild hike gain only minimal elevation. You can do it within a half-circle 7.2 miles, or in a complete circle that is 11.5 miles to enjoy breathtaking views over Yosemite Valley.

It will take you by El Capitan, Yosemite Falls along with Merced River along the way. You can also take an afternoon break along the sides of the trail to take pictures or enjoy a picnic lunch.

If you’re seeking to be active, try the Mist Trail (Vernal and Nevada Falls) or rent bicycles to cycle through Yosemite Valley at your own time. These trails are stunning at sunset and are very easy.

4. Mariposa Grove

Mariposa Grove, the largest giant Sequoia grove within Yosemite National Park is worth visiting. This trail, known as the Big Trees Loop Trail allows you to look at the famous trees, such as the Three Graces and the Grizzly Giant.

Every 10 to 20 minutes, free buses stop at the stop and transport you to the grove. The trail is four miles long and takes about two hours . It can also be walked round trip.

5. Tioga Pass Loop

One of the most picturesque drives within California, Tioga Pass carves it’s route through the mountains, most of them covered by snow. It’s a spectacular starting point for your Yosemite travels and a must-see for any traveler!

Apart from stunning views, the drive also has certain must-see destinations! One of them is the iconic Tuolumne Grove in which you can see around a dozen gigantic sequoias.

The North Dome can be climbed for stunning views of Half Dome or Indian Arch.

There is also the option of going towards Olmsted Point and scramble up the granite rock for an elevated overview of the area and then continue on through Tenaya Lake. This lake gets little attention and is a wonderful location to relax and soak in the peaceful beauty of the wilderness.