If you’re short on time, have stamina, and have strong coffee (lots of it), this day trip from San Francisco to Yosemite might be the best single glorious day trip from SF you will ever take. While Yosemite deserves a much longer stay, it’s surprisingly achievable as a one day trip from San Francisco. This one day trip to Yosemite from San Francisco itinerary is all about maximizing your experience, hitting iconic sights, and squeezing in a few hidden gems – all while hopefully dodging the crowds.
Is a day trip to Yosemite worth it
Yes, a day trip to Yosemite from San Francisco is absolutely worth it! Even with limited time, you can experience iconic sights like Yosemite Falls and Glacier Point, squeeze in breathtaking hikes, and get a taste of Yosemite’s magic. If you do it, wake up at 4:30am, get out the door at 5 and get there at 9, enjoy the day, then leave at like 3 or 4pm.
Best Route to take on a SF to Yosemite Day Trip
For a oneday trip to Yosemite from San Francisco, the best route and entrance depend on your priorities
Fastest Route with some scenery (3.5 hours)
- Route: Take CA-120 E directly from San Francisco to Yosemite Valley.
- Entrance: Arch Rock Entrance (via CA-140 E).
- Benefits: This is the quickest way to get into the park and maximizes your time for exploring.
More scenic route with some stops (4 hours)
- Route: Take I-205 E and CA-99 N to CA-140 E. This route takes you through rolling hills and farmlands.
- Entrance: El Portal Entrance (via CA-140 E).
- Benefits: Offers more scenic driving compared to CA-120 E.
If you don’t feel like driving, there are also plenty of tours that are offered from San Francisco
Tips to Maximize Your Day Trip to Yosemite
- Get there extra early… plan to be in the Valley by 7:00 am at the latest. (Earlier is better!)
- Get an America The Beautiful Pass to be able to access all National Parks for just $80!
- Consider parking outside the main valley area and utilizing the convenient shuttle system to avoid crowded parking lots.
- Avoid the Summer. The time of year makes a difference: Yosemite is the most crowded during the summer, so I would recommend doing a day trip other times of the year. In summer, you can spend one hour alone finding parking.
- The Yosemite Valley (West Entrance) is easier and a great way to maximize your day trip to Yosemite. You can experience many highlights in a limited time frame without needing strenuous hikes and or waste driving time.
- Pack a cooler: Save time by bringing your own food and drinks for the day.
Parking in Yosemite Valley
Finding parking within Yosemite Valley can be challenging, especially during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot in one of the large public parking areas:
- Yosemite Village Parking
- Lower Yosemite Fall Parking
- Curry Village Parking ( my go to)
- The National Park Service website provides real-time information on parking availability.
PARK ONCE and use the shuttle to get around the Valley. You will deal with congestion but with some patience you can find a spot. You may expect to spend at least 30 minutes finding a parking spot during peak season. I usually park in the back by Curry Village and then just take a shuttle around. Shuttles are free, and during peak hours, run every 15 minutes. There are also bike rentals available at the park.
Day Trip From San Francisco to Yosemite Itinerary
Here’s your ultimate guide to maximizing your trip from San Francisco to Yosemite in just one day!
It’s crucial to note that Yosemite National Park requires a reservation for entry between April 20th and October 27th to manage visitor congestion. Secure your reservation in advance through the National Park Service website ) to avoid disappointment.
Leave San Francisco
Your adventure begins before dawn. Grab a steaming cup of coffee, pack your camera gear, snacks, and layers – Yosemite mornings can be chilly. Hit the road by 4:30 AM, aiming for a 3.5-hour drive (170 miles) to Yosemite Valley.
- Tip: Download podcasts or audiobooks for the drive. Cell service can be spotty in the park, and these will keep you entertained on the drive.
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Stop 1: Tunnel View
Arrive at Tunnel View, a strategically placed viewpoint offering a comprehensive perspective of Yosemite Valley.
- This iconic vista showcases the valley floor cradled by towering granite cliffs, including El Capitan and Half Dome and many waterfalls including Yosemite Falls.
- Parking is scarce but people don’t stay long. People stop for 5-10 minutes for the fabulous view and background for photos so be patient and parking will open up. I recommend looking for parking right away when you come out of the tunnel.
Stop 2: Cooks Meadow
After soaking in the majesty of Tunnel View, consider a quick stop at Cook’s Meadow (2.5 miles from Tunnel View). This expansive meadow offers a different perspective of Yosemite Valley, with panoramic views encompassing Lower Yosemite Fall, Half Dome, and Glacier Point.
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Stop 3: Sentinel Rock
Next, head towards Sentinel Rock (3 miles from Cook’s Meadow). This towering granite monolith stands sentinel (guard) over Yosemite Valley, opposite Yosemite Falls.
- A short walk from the parking area offers several viewpoints to capture Sentinel Rock in all its glory.
- See Sentinel Rock, Half Dome and El Capitan
Stop 4: Bridalveil Fall
After snapping a million pictures (trust me, you will), continue down into the valley and head towards Bridalveil Fall.
- Park your car at the lot and make your way to the trail leading to the base of the 620ft falls. Part of this trail is on the John Muir Trail
- Climb the rocks while being sprayed with the coldest mist you can imagine and stand in awe under a giant rainbow as the light and water reflect
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Stop 5: Mirror Lake
After capturing the majesty of Bridalveil Fall, continue on the trail for another mile or so. Here, nestled amongst towering pines, lies the idyllic Mirror Lake. This small lake’s calm surface perfectly reflects the surrounding landscape, creating a scene reminiscent of a mirrored postcard.
- Early morning hours often provide the most still conditions for capturing the perfect reflection.
- Check for updates of the trail here
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Stop 6: Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America, is a must see for your day trip to Yosemite. Here is a live webcam of Yosemite Falls, that I love checking from time to time. The sight and sounds of gushing falls never get old.
- The Lower Yosemite Falls hike to the base is relatively easy, and the payoff is incredible. Standing beneath this cascading behemoth, you’ll truly understand the power and scale of nature.
Stop 7: Lunch at Ahwahnee Hotel or Yosemite Valley Picnic Areas
By this time you probably just want to sit ( and nap) and eat. There are many restaurants available in the park( can be pricey )
- Ahwahnee Hotel offers several different eats, expect a line though
- My personal favorite is grabbing your food and having a picnic at one of the many picnic areas in Yosemite Valley
Stop 8: Vernal and Nevada Falls
Continuing on the John Muir Trail, you can see Vernal and Nevada Falls. This could be the last place you will see for the day depending on what time you want to leave the park. I would say its the perfect last stop.
- It is a solid 3-4 hour hike round trip, if you are willing to put in some effort. Views are unbeatable and you get to see the waterfalls up close.
- Vernal Falls is one of the most iconic falls in Yosemite and is a perfect drop down; a must see
- For something more challenging, tackle trails like Upper Yosemite Falls, (get ready to get misted), or the challenging 4-Mile Trail that takes you all the way up to Glacier Point.
Tip: Pack plenty of water and snacks for the hike. There are no facilities on the trail, so plan accordingly. Also, wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support – the terrain can be uneven and slippery.
Conclusion
The return drive to San Francisco (approximately 3.5 hours) offers a chance to unwind and relive the day’s adventures. Depending on the time you leave the park, you should not hit much traffic on the way back . I recommend you leave the park no later than 4 pm, so you can have enough time on the road to make stops if you need to.
