San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Road Trip
How long to drive from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park?
The distance from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park is about 170 miles (274 km), and it usually takes around 4 to 5 hours by car, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Driving Routes:
1. Most Direct Route (via I-580 E and CA-120 E):
- Take I-580 E from San Francisco.
- Merge onto I-205 E and then I-5 N.
- Take CA-120 E toward Manteca and follow signs to Yosemite.
2. Scenic Route (via CA-140):
- Follow I-580 E to I-205 E and I-5 N.
- Take CA-140 E from Merced to enter Yosemite through the Arch Rock Entrance.
Top Stops Along the Way:
- Livermore Wine Country: Great for a quick wine tasting.
- Oakdale: Known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World” with cool western vibes.
- Jamestown and Columbia State Historic Parks: Step back in time to the Gold Rush era.
- Groveland: A charming town right before the park entrance.
Here’s a great itinerary to make the most of your journey from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park:
Day 1: San Francisco to Yosemite (Drive: 4-5 hours)
Morning: Departure from San Francisco
- Grab breakfast at a local spot like Mama’s on Washington Square or Tartine Bakery.
- Pack snacks, water, and a camera!
Stop 1: Livermore Wine Country (1 hour from SF)
- Visit Wente Vineyards or Concannon Vineyard for a quick wine tasting.
- Stretch your legs and enjoy the scenic vineyards.
Stop 2: Oakdale (2 hours from Livermore)
- Known as the “Cowboy Capital of the World.”
- Visit the Cowboy Museum or grab a bite at Ferrarese’s Deli.
Stop 3: Jamestown and Columbia State Historic Park (45 mins from Oakdale)
- Step back in time to the Gold Rush era.
- Pan for gold, visit old saloons, and take a ride on the historic steam train.
Afternoon: Arrive at Yosemite
- Enter through the Big Oak Flat Entrance (CA-120).
- Stop at Tunnel View for breathtaking views of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome.
- Settle into your accommodation (inside the park or nearby).
Day 2: Exploring Yosemite
- Sunrise at Glacier Point: Stunning panoramic views.
- Hike the Mist Trail: See Vernal and Nevada Falls.
- Yosemite Valley: Visit Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Half Dome viewpoints.
- Evening: Stargazing at Tuolumne Meadows or Valley Floor.
Day 3: More Adventure and Return
- Optional Hike: Mirror Lake or Mariposa Grove (giant sequoias).
- Drive back to SF with a stop at Groveland (historic gold-mining town) for lunch.
Road Trip Tips:
- Pack Layers: The weather can change quickly.
- Book Accommodations Early: Campsites and lodges fill up fast.
- Bring a Full Tank: Gas stations are sparse around Yosemite.
- Check Road Conditions: Especially in winter (Tioga Pass may be closed).
- Entrance Fees: It costs around $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass.
- Reservations: Some entrances may require reservations during peak seasons.
San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Road Trip map
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