How Far From LA to Yosemite National Park? Routes & Tips

Planning a trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park? The distance ranges from 280 to 310 miles by road, with an average drive time of 5 to 7 hours depending on the route you choose. Although the straight-line distance is around 210 miles, road conditions, traffic, and weather significantly influence travel time. In this guide, we'll explore the best routes, travel options, and useful tips to help you get to Yosemite National Park smoothly and efficiently.

Direct Distance Between Los Angeles and Yosemite National Park

The direct, straight-line distance between Los Angeles and Yosemite National Park is approximately 210 miles (338 kilometers). However, due to the mountainous terrain and the layout of California’s highway system, the actual driving distance is substantially longer, ranging from 270 to over 350 miles depending on the chosen route. The shortest practical driving route typically covers around 280 miles.

Route Options from Los Angeles to Yosemite

There are several route options travelers can consider when driving from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. Each route offers different advantages in terms of scenery, driving time, and accessibility based on the time of year.

1. Via CA-99 North and CA-41 North (Southern Entrance)

This is one of the most commonly used routes, especially for those entering the park through the South Entrance near Oakhurst:

Estimated Distance: Approximately 280 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 5 to 6 hours (without major delays)
Major Cities Along the Way: Bakersfield, Fresno
Best For: Year-round access; well-serviced highways

2. Via I-5 North and CA-120 East (Big Oak Flat Entrance)

This route offers access through the park’s western entrance and includes scenic stretches through the Sierra foothills:

Estimated Distance: Around 310 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 6 to 7 hours
Major Cities Along the Way: Stockton, Manteca
Best For: Travelers heading into Yosemite Valley from the west; avoids Fresno traffic

3. Via US-395 North and CA-120 West (Tioga Pass – Eastern Entrance)

This route is ideal for a scenic drive along the Eastern Sierra, accessing the park through the Tioga Pass:

Estimated Distance: Approximately 330 to 350 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 6.5 to 7.5 hours
Major Stops: Lone Pine, Mammoth Lakes, Lee Vining
Best For: Summer and early fall travel; highly scenic
Important Note: Tioga Pass (CA-120 through Yosemite’s east entrance) is typically closed from late October to late May due to snow.

4. Via CA-99 North and CA-140 East (El Portal Entrance)

This route offers access through the western part of the park and is often used by visitors heading to Yosemite Valley:

Estimated Distance: About 300 miles
Estimated Driving Time: 6 to 7 hours
Passes Through: Merced, Mariposa
Best For: Access to Yosemite Valley; fewer elevation changes than other routes

Seasonal Considerations

Route accessibility can change dramatically with the seasons:

Winter & Early Spring: Tioga Pass is closed, limiting access to eastern routes. Southern and western entrances via CA-41 and CA-140 are usually open.
Summer & Fall: All major routes are generally open, including the scenic Tioga Pass.
High Traffic Periods: Summer weekends and holidays can significantly increase driving times due to congestion near park entrances and within the park.

Estimated Driving Times Summary

Route	Distance (Approx.)	Estimated Time	Seasonal Access
CA-41 via Fresno	280 miles	5–6 hours	Year-round
CA-120 via Big Oak Flat	310 miles	6–7 hours	Year-round
CA-120 via Tioga Pass	330–350 miles	6.5–7.5 hours	Summer to early fall only
CA-140 via Mariposa	300 miles	6–7 hours	Year-round

When planning your journey, consider not just the physical distance but also terrain, weather conditions, and potential traffic congestion. Always check current road conditions and park entrance status before departure.

Travel Time Breakdown

Understanding the travel time involved in reaching Yosemite National Park from Los Angeles is crucial for planning a smooth and efficient trip. Depending on the mode of transportation you choose—driving, flying, bus, or train—the total duration can vary significantly. Below is a breakdown of the estimated travel times for each transportation method.

Driving Time

Driving is one of the most popular ways to travel from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park due to the flexibility and scenic nature of the route.

Distance: Approximately 280 to 310 miles, depending on the chosen route.
Average Driving Time: 5.5 to 7 hours under typical conditions.
Factors Affecting Time:
- Traffic congestion in the Los Angeles area and on highways such as CA-99 and CA-41.
- Seasonal road closures, especially in winter months when Tioga Pass is closed.
- Road construction or delays on mountain roads approaching the park.

Flying Time

Flying is an efficient option for reducing travel time, though additional time is needed for airport procedures and ground transportation to the park.

Flight Time: About 1 to 1.5 hours for direct flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to the nearest regional airports such as Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) or Merced Regional Airport (MCE).
Total Travel Time (including airport and transfer): 4.5 to 6 hours.
- 1.5 hours for airport check-in and security.
- 1 to 1.5-hour flight duration.
- 1.5 to 3 hours for ground transportation from the airport to Yosemite’s entrance.

Bus Travel Time

Taking a bus is a cost-effective but slower option.

Available Services: Carriers like Greyhound and Amtrak Thruway Motorcoach offer service to nearby cities such as Merced or Fresno.
Total Journey Duration: 8 to 10 hours or more.
- Includes transfer wait times and connecting transportation to the park.
Considerations: Bus schedules may have limited frequency and fewer direct connections.

Train and Bus Combination

For travelers who prefer rail, Amtrak offers service from Los Angeles to Merced, where you can connect to a YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) bus.

Train Travel Time (LA to Merced): Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
Bus Travel Time (Merced to Yosemite Valley): 2 to 2.5 hours.
Total Travel Time: 8.5 to 10 hours.
Advantages: Scenic and relaxing option, with minimal driving required.

Comparative Summary

Transportation Method	Estimated Total Time	Notes
Driving	5.5 to 7 hours	Most flexible; depends on route and season
Flying	4.5 to 6 hours	Fastest overall; includes airport and transfer time
Bus	8 to 10+ hours	Cheapest, but slowest
Train + Bus	8.5 to 10 hours	Scenic and comfortable; requires coordination

These time estimates can help you weigh the pros and cons of each mode of transport based on your schedule, budget, and travel preferences. Always account for seasonal delays, especially in winter, and check the latest transportation schedules for accuracy.

Driving from Los Angeles to Yosemite

Driving is one of the most popular and flexible ways to travel from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. The distance between Los Angeles and Yosemite Valley, the park’s main visitor area, is approximately 280 to 310 miles, depending on the route taken.

Route Options and Distances

Via CA-99 N and CA-41 N: One of the most common routes, this path takes you through the Central Valley and into the park via the South Entrance near Oakhurst. Total distance is about 310 miles.
Via I-5 N and CA-120 E: This route brings you through Manteca and enters the park through the Big Oak Flat Entrance. It offers a more direct path if you’re heading toward the northern part of the park. Distance is around 280–300 miles.

Estimated Driving Time

Under normal conditions, the drive from Los Angeles to Yosemite Valley takes between 5 to 7 hours. Travel time varies depending on:

Time of day and traffic, especially when leaving LA
Weather and road conditions
Seasonal road closures within the park

Best Stops Along the Way

Some recommended stops include:

Fresno: A good midpoint for fuel, food, and rest.
Oakhurst: A charming town with lodging, dining, and proximity to the South Entrance.
Mariposa: Known for its Gold Rush heritage and scenic beauty.

Parking Information at Yosemite

Yosemite offers several parking lots near major points of interest such as Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point (seasonal), and Tuolumne Meadows (seasonal). During peak seasons, parking fills up early, especially between 9 am and 3 pm. Visitors are encouraged to use the Yosemite Valley Shuttle for in-park transportation.

Seasonal Considerations for Driving

Winter (November–April): Some park roads, including Tioga Pass (CA-120 through the Sierra), are closed due to snow.
Spring and Summer: Ideal for road conditions, though traffic increases significantly.
Chains: Tire chains may be required during winter and early spring.

Flying to Yosemite from Los Angeles

Flying can significantly reduce travel time, especially for those seeking convenience or arriving from outside California.

Nearest Airports to Yosemite

Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT): About 65 miles from the South Entrance.
Merced Regional Airport (MCE): Approximately 75 miles from the park.
Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH): East of the park, accessible via Tioga Pass (seasonal).

Airlines Serving These Routes

Major airlines such as American Airlines and United Airlines operate direct flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Fresno and Merced. Flight duration is typically 1 to 1.5 hours.

Transportation from Airports to the Park

Options include:

Rental cars (most convenient)
Private shuttles (available from Fresno and Merced)
YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) from Merced

Cost Considerations

Airfare can range from $100 to $300 round-trip, depending on the season and booking time. Additional costs include ground transportation and potential baggage fees.

Time-Saving Benefits

While flying cuts down on driving time, total travel duration depends on airport procedures, layovers, and ground transfers. In many cases, flying can reduce total travel time by 2–3 hours.

Bus Travel Options

Taking a bus from Los Angeles to Yosemite is a budget-friendly choice, though it involves transfers and longer travel times.

Available Bus Services

Greyhound: Offers service from Los Angeles to Merced.
YARTS: Connects Merced to Yosemite National Park.

Schedule Information

Buses often depart in the morning and afternoon. YARTS schedules are seasonal and vary based on park access conditions.

Cost Comparison

Greyhound tickets: $30–$60 one-way
YARTS fare from Merced to Yosemite: $12–$25 one-way

Pickup and Drop-Off Locations

Greyhound departs from downtown Los Angeles stations.
YARTS buses pick up at Merced Transpo Center and drop off at major Yosemite locations, including Yosemite Valley Visitor Center.

Journey Duration

Total travel time by bus can take 9 to 12 hours, including transfer wait times.

Booking Tips

Book early for the best rates.
Combine services into a single itinerary where possible.
Check seasonal YARTS schedules ahead of time.

Combined Train and Bus Journey

A scenic and comfortable alternative, this method combines Amtrak train service with a YARTS bus transfer.

Available Train Routes

Amtrak San Joaquins Line: Operates from Los Angeles Union Station to Merced.

Connection Points

In Merced, passengers transfer from train to YARTS for direct service into the park.

Total Journey Time

Train: Around 6–7 hours
YARTS bus: 2 hours
Total travel time: Approximately 8–10 hours

Cost Breakdown

Amtrak fare: $40–$70 one-way
YARTS fare: $12–$25 one-way
Total: $52–$95, depending on booking class and season

Booking Procedures

Tickets can be purchased via Amtrak’s website.
YARTS tickets are available online or onboard (subject to availability).

Luggage Considerations

Amtrak allows carry-on and checked baggage.
YARTS has space for luggage but may have restrictions during peak seasons.

Comparison of Transportation Methods

Cost Analysis

Driving: Fuel + park entrance ($35/vehicle), approx. $70–$100 total
Flying: $150–$400 (flight + car rental/shuttle)
Bus: $50–$85 one-way
Train + Bus: $52–$95 one-way

Time Comparison

Driving: 5–7 hours
Flying: 4–6 hours (including airport time)
Bus: 9–12 hours
Train + Bus: 8–10 hours

Convenience Factors

Driving: Most flexible, ideal for exploring the park
Flying: Fastest but dependent on transfers
Bus: Least expensive but slowest
Train + Bus: Comfortable, scenic, and eco-friendly

Seasonal Availability

Winter road closures and chain requirements can impact driving routes.
YARTS and some air routes are seasonal or limited in winter months.

Best Options for Different Types of Travelers

Families: Driving or flying with rental car
Backpackers/solo travelers: Train + YARTS or bus for cost efficiency
Eco-conscious travelers: Train + YARTS for low emissions
Time-sensitive travelers: Flying with direct ground transport options

Factors Affecting Journey Length

When planning a trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park, or vice versa, several key factors can significantly influence the total journey time. Whether you’re driving, flying, or using public transportation, understanding these variables is essential for accurate trip planning and a smoother travel experience.

Distance and Route Selection

The direct driving distance from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park is approximately 280 to 310 miles, depending on the chosen route. The most common driving routes include:

Via CA-99 N and CA-41 N: This is one of the most direct and popular routes, taking travelers through Fresno and into the park via the South Entrance. It typically takes 5 to 6 hours under normal conditions.
Via I-5 N and CA-120 E: This route offers access via the Big Oak Flat Entrance and may be preferable for those heading to the northern parts of the park.
Scenic Route via US-395 N: This option is longer and often used during summer months when the Tioga Pass (CA-120 through the Sierra Nevada) is open. It offers breathtaking views but can take upwards of 7 hours or more.

The selected route can impact travel time significantly, especially when factoring in road types (interstate vs. mountain roads) and traffic conditions.

Traffic Conditions

Traffic congestion is a major factor, particularly when departing from or arriving in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Peak traffic times—weekday mornings and late afternoons—can add considerable time to the journey. Additionally, holiday weekends and school vacation periods can lead to increased congestion on highways and within Yosemite itself, especially near entrance stations and popular trailheads.

Weather and Seasonal Road Closures

Weather plays a critical role, particularly in winter and early spring. Snow and ice can lead to:

Closure of Tioga Pass (CA-120): This high-elevation road typically closes from late October to late May or early June, depending on snowfall. Its closure can reroute travelers to southern entrances, increasing journey length.
Chain control requirements: During snowy or icy conditions, vehicles may be required to use snow chains or switch to all-wheel drive, reducing speed and increasing travel time.
Visibility and hazardous conditions: Rain, fog, or snow can slow travel and make mountain driving more challenging.

Always check the National Park Service and Caltrans websites for current road conditions and weather alerts before departure.

Road Construction and Delays

Seasonal road maintenance and infrastructure improvement projects can cause partial road closures or delays along routes leading to Yosemite. For example:

Highway 41 and 140 frequently undergo maintenance, especially during spring and summer.
Construction zones may include single-lane traffic or scheduled closures that require detours.

Real-time updates are available through Caltrans QuickMap and the official Yosemite road conditions hotline.

Mode of Transportation

If opting to fly, the journey length can vary depending on flight availability and connections. Nearby airports include:

Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT): About 90 miles from Yosemite’s South Entrance, approximately a 2-hour drive.
Merced Regional Airport (MCE): Closer to the park but with limited commercial flight options.

Time spent on airport transfers, layovers, and ground transportation to the park must be considered, often making the total travel time comparable to driving directly.

Time of Year and Tourist Volume

High visitor volumes in summer months (June–August) and during major holidays can increase wait times at park entrances, reduce parking availability, and slow internal park travel. Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) may offer quicker access, but with variable weather conditions.

Once inside Yosemite National Park, the time it takes to reach specific destinations—such as Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, or Tuolumne Meadows—varies based on internal traffic, road conditions, and parking availability. During peak periods, internal shuttles and road congestion may add an hour or more to the trip.

Summary of Key Journey Length Factors

Factor	Impact on Journey Length
Route chosen	Can vary travel time by 1–2 hours
Traffic congestion	Adds 30 minutes to 2+ hours
Weather and road conditions	May extend travel or require rerouting
Seasonal road closures	Can alter route and increase time
Construction delays	Adds unpredictable wait times
Mode of transportation	Flying may save or lose time depending on connections
Park entrance wait times	15 minutes to over an hour in peak season
Internal park navigation	Additional 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on destination

Awareness of these factors and proactive trip planning can help travelers minimize delays and make the most of their journey between Los Angeles and Yosemite National Park.

Planning Your Journey

Best Times to Depart

Timing your departure from Yosemite to Los Angeles can greatly influence your travel experience. To avoid heavy traffic, especially near urban areas like Fresno, Bakersfield, or the Greater Los Angeles region, it’s best to leave early in the morning. Weekdays typically have less congestion than weekends, and avoiding peak hours (7–9 AM and 4–6 PM) is advisable. During summer or holiday weekends, Yosemite Valley can become crowded, so plan to leave before 8 AM if you're heading out from within the park.

Recommended Rest Stops

The drive from Yosemite to Los Angeles spans approximately 280 to 310 miles, depending on your chosen route, and takes around 5 to 7 hours. It’s wise to plan rest stops to stretch, refuel, and enjoy regional attractions. Popular stops include:

Oakhurst (on CA-41): A convenient town just outside Yosemite’s South Entrance with gas, food, and lodging.
Fresno: A larger city with full amenities and dining options.
Bakersfield: Ideal for refueling and grabbing a meal before the final leg to LA.
Kettleman City: Known for its large travel plaza, including food courts and clean restrooms.

Fuel Stations

Fuel availability is limited inside Yosemite National Park, so it is recommended to fill up before entering or immediately after exiting the park. Gas stations are available in:

Wawona (within the park, near the South Entrance)
El Portal (near the Arch Rock Entrance)
Oakhurst, Mariposa, and Groveland (depending on your route)

Along the major highways (CA-99, I-5), fuel stops are plentiful, but it’s still important to monitor your fuel levels, especially through remote or mountainous stretches.

Accommodation Options Along the Route

If you prefer to break up the drive, several towns offer overnight lodging:

Mariposa and Oakhurst: Both are close to Yosemite and offer a range of hotels, motels, and inns.
Fresno: A good midway point with a wide selection of accommodations, from budget to mid-range.
Bakersfield: Another suitable overnight option with many national hotel chains.

Booking ahead is recommended during peak months (May through September) and on weekends.

Weather and Seasonal Considerations

The time of year can significantly impact your route planning. In winter and early spring, some roads like Tioga Pass (CA-120 East) are closed due to snow, meaning you’ll have to exit via the western or southern entrances. Chain controls or snowy conditions may also affect travel times and safety, especially in higher elevations.

During summer, wildfires or heavy visitor traffic can lead to temporary road closures or delays. Always check the National Park Service (NPS) website and Caltrans for real-time road conditions and closures before you depart.

Reliable GPS or smartphone navigation apps (such as Google Maps or Waze) are essential, but be aware that cell service is limited within Yosemite and in some mountainous areas. Download offline maps or bring a printed road map as a backup.

Emergency Preparedness

Before setting off, ensure your vehicle is in good working condition—check tire pressure, fluid levels, and have a full tank of gas. Bring water, snacks, a first aid kit, and basic tools. In winter, carry tire chains if required.

Make note of emergency contact numbers and rest areas, and inform someone of your travel plans and expected arrival time.

Whether you're road-tripping or flying in, traveling from LA to Yosemite involves more than just checking the mileage. With variable drive times, seasonal closures, and multiple travel options, choosing the right route and planning ahead is key. Driving offers flexibility, while options like trains and shuttle buses serve budget-conscious or eco-minded travelers. Pack smart, stay informed, and enjoy your Yosemite adventure!