Today, we’re hitting the open road for a California classic: a road trip from Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite National Park. This road trip will take you through the geothermal wonders of Mammoth Lakes to the granite giants of Yosemite National Park. We’re taking the legendary Tioga Pass, a scenic route that winds through mountains, sparkling past turquoise lakes, and offers jaw-dropping views around every bend.
Now, full disclosure, I wasn’t always a road trip pro. My first attempt at navigating Tioga Pass involved a near meltdown (turns out, altitude sickness is a real thing!), a wrong turn that led me to a herd of very curious deer, and a desperate Google Maps search for the nearest gas station (because rookie mistake – don’t forget to fill up before you climb!). But, some delicious Mammoth donuts were there to save the trip (more on that later).
When Should I Travel from Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite?
Tioga Pass, the crown jewel connecting Mammoth and Yosemite, is a seasonal gem. It typically opens in late May/early June and closes around November, depending on snowfall. So, when planning your trip, keep Mother Nature’s schedule in mind. More updated information on the road can be found here.
Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite Road Trip
With the “when” sorted, let’s dive into the “where” and “wow” of this road trip. Here’s a breakdown of the must-see stops along the way, complete with mileages and estimated times (remember, these are estimates, feel free to adjust based on your pace and picture-taking breaks!).
Pro Tip: Download the National Park Service app for real-time information on road closures, weather conditions, and even suggested hikes based on your location.
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🚗Mile 0: Mammoth Lakes
- Grab a coffee, stock up on snacks, and soak in the mountain vibes before the scenery truly explodes
- Maybe grab those donuts, cheese bread and/or pies I mentioned – they’re legendary!) @ Shea Shatz Bakery before hitting the road. Grab a dozen or two,I don’t think you will regret it.
🚗Mile 30 (45 minutes): June Lake Loop
Here’s where the magic begins. The first stop on the Tioga Pass Road is one of my favorites. I am just a sucker for alpine lakes and nothing will stop me from stopping at each one. Here’s what to do:
- Explore four stunning lakes: June, Gull, Silver, and Grant.
- Shop at the small town that has some inns, cute shops and a food truck park
- Rent a kayak or paddleboard for an adventurous exploration ( give or take approx 1 hour)
- Find a scenic spot for a relaxing brunch or lunch with a postcard-perfect view( this is exactly what we did, for lunch we had donuts)
🚗Mile 40 (15 minutes): Lee Vining Canyon
My second gasp of wonder came at Lee Vining Canyon. Pulling over at the overlook, I was greeted by a panoramic vista of dramatic towering cliffs unfolding before you. The vastness of Lee Vining Lake stretching out below, framed by the rugged canyon walls, was like a scene straight out of a painting.
You might even spot some bighorn sheep grazing on the mountainside. On a clear day, you might even spot Mount Dana, the second-highest peak in Yosemite.
In spring, keep an eye out for vibrant wildflowers adding a splash of color to the landscape. Pull over at the designated viewpoint to take in the panorama.
Also side note: if you are feeling hungry, this is your last chance to grab a bite to eat before entering Yosemite, so stock up on snacks at the Mobil Station (mile marker 50).
This spot is also a popular location for photographers, especially during sunrise and sunset. The golden light paints the landscape in a magical glow. But even if you’re not a pro with a fancy camera, a simple phone snap will capture the beauty of this place
🚗 Mile 57 (30 minutes): Tioga Pass (elevation 10,083 ft)
Now comes the crown jewel: Tioga Pass itself at mile marker 60. Buckle up for breathtaking panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Take a moment to soak it all in (and catch your breath at this high altitude!). It can be chilly here, especially in the mornings and evenings, so dress in layers.
🚗 Mile 61 (10 minutes): Tuolumne Meadows
We entered the subalpine wonderland of Tuolumne Meadows, and let me tell you, this place is a feast for the senses.
Wildflowers, in a kaleidoscope of colors, carpeted the meadows. The granite domes, like ancient sentinels, rose majestically in the distance. And the gurgling, crystal clear Tuolumne River added a melodic soundtrack to the whole scene.
We opted for a short stroll along the Soda Springs Trail. We saw a grove of giant sequoia trees, some dating back thousands of years. It was an easy walk, perfect for soaking in the beauty of the meadows and capturing some stunning photos. But for the more adventurous souls, there are plenty of challenging hikes in the area.
🚗 Mile 70 (10 Minutes)- Olmstead Point
Prepare to be humbled again at Olmsted Point. A short, paved trail leads you to a viewpoint offering stunning vistas of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the surrounding granite giants.
Clouds Rest, another Yosemite giant, also dominates the view, and Tenaya Lake shimmers like a turquoise jewel in the distance.
This is a must-do stop for photographers and anyone who appreciates a jaw-dropping panorama.
I spent a good chunk of time here, snapping photos, marveling at the scenery, and trying to spot any intrepid hikers scaling Half Dome. This little stop ended up being one of the highlights of the trip.
Related Reads: Epic Road trip from San Francisco to Mt. Shasta
🚗 Mile 72 (20 minutes): Tenaya Lake
Our final stop is Tenaya Lake. This pristine lake, crystal clear and reflecting the surrounding mountains, is a sight to behold. The crystal-clear water, reflecting the snow-capped peaks, was an absolute stunner. I could have easily spent hours just sitting by the shore. Tenaya Lake is a popular spot for sunset picnics. Pack a blanket, some snacks (and maybe some of those aforementioned donuts!), and have the best night as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues.
Here, you can also rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the lake from a different perspective.
If relaxation is your priority, take a short hike around the shore for scenic views from all angles. Simply relax on the shore and take a deep breath of fresh mountain air, letting the beauty of the alpine setting wash over you.
🚗 Mile 88 (30 minutes): Glacier Point
While I didn’t have time on this trip to venture up to Glacier Point, it’s definitely on my list for next time. The thought of those jaw-dropping views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome is enough to make me want to pack my bags right now.
Be aware, Glacier Point requires a separate park entrance fee and may have limited accessibility depending on the season.
Related Reads: Best Road Trip from San Francisco to Mammoth Lakes
🚗 Mile 102 (45 minutes): Yosemite Valley
Now the adventure at Yosemite Valley begins – exploring waterfalls, hiking through giant sequoia groves, and marveling at the sheer scale of nature’s handiwork (I am talking about Half Dome and El Capitan).
If you’re feeling like a mellow stroll, wander through places like Cooks Meadow or take the Lower Yosemite Falls Trail for a relaxing walk with incredible scenery.
Or if you are up to something more challenging, tackle trails like Upper Yosemite Falls, Vernal and Nevada Falls (get ready to get misted), or the challenging 4-Mile Trail that takes you all the way up to Glacier Point (epic views, guaranteed!).
Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls Trail ( my favorite hike of all time)
And speaking of epic views, you gotta check out Tunnel View. It’s just a short hop outside the main valley, but the payoff is HUGE.
This iconic viewpoint lets you gaze down on a valley carpeted with forest, with El Capitan, Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and Bridalveil Falls all posing for a jaw-dropping photo op.
Bonus Tip: Since you’re approaching Yosemite from the east, you get to skip the crowds at the main entrance. Shh, it’s our little secret!
Best Places to Stay in Mammoth Lakes
The beauty of this road trip is the flexibility it offers. You can choose to base yourself in Mammoth Lakes and explore Yosemite as a day trip, or split your stay between Mammoth Lakes and Yosemite Valley to fully experience both destinations.
So, let’s ditch the travel brochure talk and get real about where to stay on during your trip from Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite
- Camp Out Under the Stars (Budget-friendly: $15-40/night): Mammoth Creek Campground lets you rough it (or, you know, “commune with nature”) without the rough price tag. Picture basic campsites and RV hookups – perfect for those who want to experience the outdoors without, like, selling a kidney. We stayed here in our campervan, and it has just what you need.
- Mid-Range Resort Vibes ($200-400/night): The Westin Monache Resort is all about comfort and killer views. Think cozy digs, stunning mountain panoramas, and enough pools and hot tubs to satisfy your inner mermaid (or merman!)
- Luxury Like a Rockstar ($500+/night): Feeling fancy? The Mammoth Mountain Inn is dripping with history and luxury. Think fireplaces crackling in your room, swanky on-site dining, and even ski-in/ski-out access in the winter.
Best Places to Stay in Yosemite Valley
Now, Yosemite Valley. This place is magical, but snagging a room can be like winning the lottery (especially during peak summer and holidays). Here’s the lowdown:
- Camp Like a Champ (Reservations Required – $60-100/night): Feeling adventurous? Housekeeping Camp offers pre-pitched tents with beds and basic amenities. Like, glamping for the not-so-glamorous (but still awesome!)
- In-Park Lodge Life ($300-800/night): Yosemite Valley Lodge puts you right in the heart of the action. Imagine comfy rooms with waterfall views and everything a stone’s throw away.
- “Luxury fit for Royalty” is Japanese for “Be prepared to spend some serious cash!” – $1200+/night): Ah, the legendary Ahwahnee Hotel. This historic landmark is Yosemite royalty. Think luxurious rooms、 Michelin-starred dining, and jaw-dropping views. Just be prepared to pay a king’s ransom for the experience.
Pro Tip: No matter where you choose to stay, booking EARLY is key. Yosemite lodging fills up faster than you can say “Half Dome.”
Outside the Park (more availability)
- El Portal: This gateway town offers a variety of hotels and lodges at a more affordable price point than staying inside the park. It’s a short drive from the Yosemite Valley entrance.
- Oakhurst: Located at the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park, Oakhurst offers a wider selection of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.
Remember:
- Lodging inside Yosemite Valley fills up fast, especially during peak season (summer and holidays). Book your accommodations well in advance to secure your spot.
- Consider your budget and desired amenities when choosing your stay.
- Staying outside the park can offer more flexibility and affordability, but you’ll need to factor in the cost of park entrance fees and gas for driving into the park.
What to Pack for a Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite Road Trip
- Snacks – Ultimate Hiking Snack RX Bars
- A long sleeve shirt perfect for sun protection – Lululemon Swiftly or Lululemon Swiftly TShirt
- Sun Hat– Wide Brim Sun Protection Hat
- Sunscreen– SPF 60+ Sunscreen La Roche Posay
- Water Pack– Camelback 2 L Water
- Hiking Shoes– Merrels Edge 3 Shoes
- Hiking Pants– Lightweight Quick Dry Hiking Pants
- Light Rain Coat/ Windbreaker (for Mist Trail)- Outdoor Research Rain Jacket
Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite Road Trip Conclusion
This itinerary is just a suggestion, feel free to adjust it based on your interests and time constraints. Want to spend more time exploring Mammoth Lakes? Go for it! Craving a longer hike? Pick a different trail! The beauty of this road trip is the flexibility.
My personal highlight? Definitely the drive through Tioga Pass. Witnessing the dramatic shift in landscape from Mammoth’s volcanic wonders to Yosemite’s granite giants was truly awe-inspiring. I truly hope you guys enjoy this post and please share if you found it helpful. It really helps!
