Tioga Pass is the eastern gateway to Yosemite National Park and serves as the highest highway pass in California and the Sierra Nevada with its highest elevation at 9,945 feet. 😲
Tioga Road (Highway 120) offers a 46-mile scenic drive from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass.
My husband and I explored Tioga Pass and Tuolumne Meadows for the first time in 2024. We went on a bunch of hikes and saw breathtaking scenery.
It was an unforgettable trip, and we fell in love with that area! 💛
Exploring Tioga Road offers an incredible experience to see towering granite peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and lush meadows.
While Yosemite Valley is the park’s most visited area, Tioga Pass and Tuolumne Meadows offers a stunning high-country adventure that many visitors overlook.
Typically open from June through November, the road’s seasonal nature makes it an exclusive experience worth planning for.
If you’re wondering, “Is Tioga Pass open?” be sure to check the latest road conditions on the National Park Service website or the California Department of Transportation before your trip.
If Tioga Pass is open, plan a trip! 🙌
This guide covers everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to Tioga Pass and Tuolumne Meadows.
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Tioga Pass in Yosemite: Know Before You Go
Tioga Pass Road
Originally built in 1883 as the Great Sierra Wagon Road, Tioga Road was constructed in just 130 days by the Great Sierra Consolidated Silver Company to support mining operations.
Spanning over 56 miles, it climbed from 4,200 to nearly 10,000 feet in elevation.
Tioga Pass opened to automobiles in 1919 as a dirt road, but with increasing Yosemite visitation, it was fully paved by 1937.
Tioga Pass is the highest highway pass in both the Sierra Nevada Mountains and all of California, reaching an elevation of 9,945 feet at the Tioga Pass Entrance.
As one of California’s most spectacular drives, Tioga Road provides a unique and less-crowded way to experience Yosemite’s dramatic landscapes beyond the popular valley.
Tioga Pass Weather
Due to its high elevation, Tioga Pass experiences unpredictable and often extreme weather conditions.
Summers are generally mild, with daytime highs in the 60s to 70s°F (15 to 25°C), while nights can be chilly.
Early and late-season visits may bring sudden snowfall, and the road is completely closed throughout winter and into spring.
Always check the weather forecast before heading out!
Tioga Pass Entrance (fees + reservations)
The Tioga Pass Entrance marks the eastern boundary of Yosemite National Park.
Located near Lee Vining on Highway 120, this entry point provides access to Yosemite’s high country.
Visitors should be prepared for entrance fees, possible wait times, and seasonal closures due to snow.
Entrance to Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 3-day pass. However, if you have the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, your entry is free!
For those who love exploring national parks, investing in the Annual Pass is a smart choice. At just $80, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!
A reservation will be required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on some days from May 24 through September 1, 2025:
- May 24 – May 26 (Memorial Day weekend) – A reservation is required from 6 AM to 2 PM on Saturday through Monday.
- May 27 – June 14 – A reservation is NOT required at any time.
- June 15 – August 15 – A reservation is required from 6 AM to 2 PM every day.
- August 16 – August 29 – A reservation is NOT required at any time.
- August 30 – September 1 (Labor Day weekend) – A reservation is required from 6 AM to 2 PM on Saturday through Monday.
You can purchase reservations on recreation.gov.
Tioga Pass Elevation
Tioga Road begins at 6,200 feet in elevation at Crane Flat and climbs to its highest point at 9,945 feet at Tioga Pass.
The high altitude means lower oxygen levels, so visitors should take precautions against altitude sickness by staying hydrated and acclimating slowly, especially if traveling from lower elevations.
Tioga Road Status and Tioga Pass Webcam
Tioga Road is open seasonally, typically from late May or early June through November, depending on snowfall and weather conditions.
Visitors should always check the National Park Service website for current road conditions before planning a visit.
You can also check the High Sierra webcam for real-time conditions.
There is also a Tuolumne Meadows webcam (only active in summer).
Brief Tioga Pass History
Long before Tioga Road existed, Indigenous peoples navigated the High Sierra, forging trade routes across the challenging terrain.
As early as 2,000 BC, tribes such as the Miwok on the western slopes and the Eastern Mono used these paths to exchange goods like arrowheads, acorns, berries, pine nuts, obsidian, and salt.
During the California Gold Rush, miners followed these ancient routes in search of fortune.
By the late 19th century, Tioga Pass was formally established as a passage through Yosemite with the construction of Tioga Road.
Originally built for mining, the road was later paved in the 1930s, making Yosemite’s stunning high country more accessible and cementing its place as one of the park’s most scenic drives.
Best Time to Visit Tioga Pass
Seasonal Considerations
The best time to visit Tioga Pass in Yosemite is during the summer months, typically from late June to mid-September.
🌷 And here’s why:
- Tioga Road is open and accessible
- The weather is comfortable and perfect for outdoor activities
- Hiking trails are accessible and snow-free
- Snow may linger in early to mid-summer but should be mostly melted by late summer months
- Wildflowers are blooming and beautiful
- Higher chance of seeing wildlife
If you want to avoid big crowds, consider visiting in the late spring (May), early summer (June), or early fall (October) – just make sure the road is open before you go!
Mid to late summer (July to August) are the busiest months in Yosemite, but hiking conditions are perfect in the high country.
Tioga Pass can be impacted by early fall or late spring snowstorms, so it’s a good idea to check the weather and road conditions before your visit.
Tioga Pass Opening and Closing Dates
The opening of Tioga Pass in Yosemite is a highly anticipated event, but it depends on the amount of snow from the previous winter.
Tioga Road is usually open to vehicles from late May or June until November, with plowing typically starting around April 15.
The road is closed to vehicles during winter, though it’s open to skiers and snowshoers, treated as wilderness during this time.
Clearing usually takes one to two months, but predicting the exact opening date is challenging, as April and May weather plays a significant role in plowing progress.
For the latest updates, check the plowing status for the season.
Preparing Tioga Pass for Opening
Plowing is only a small piece of the puzzle.
Crews must navigate through multiple avalanche zones and clear not only deep snow but also downed trees and rockfall.
After a heavy winter, park facilities and infrastructure may need repairs.
To ensure the safety of staff and visitors, and to protect Yosemite’s high country, essential services like radio, water, restrooms, and waste management must be in place before the road can open.
Winter Activities
Tuolumne Meadows can be reached in winter via cross-country skis, with a variety of routes to choose from. Most skiers begin their journey from Highway 120, about 5 miles east of Lee Vining, or from the Snow Creek Trailhead in Yosemite Valley.
Crane Flat offers marked winter routes for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, from short trips to Crane Flat Lookout (1.5 miles one way) to the longer Gin Flat Loop (6.25 miles roundtrip). Trails are ungroomed and follow natural snow conditions.
Is Tioga Pass Open? Plan the Best Trip Now!
Best Stops on Tioga Road
Starting at the west end of Tioga Road at Crane Flat and traveling east toward the Tioga Pass Entrance, let’s explore the best stops along this scenic route.
Use the interactive map below to help plan your perfect Tioga Road adventure! 🗺️
1. Siesta Lake
Located about 13 miles east of Crane Flat, Siesta Lake is a tranquil alpine retreat perfect for swimming and picnicking.
Its serene atmosphere makes it a popular spot to relax and take in the beauty of the surrounding wilderness.
2. Olmsted Point
Olmsted Point offers breathtaking views of Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and Tenaya Lake, right from the parking lot.
Though it can be busy, there’s plenty of space for vehicles, RVs, and buses.
This is one of my favorite spots along Tioga Road to watch sunrise or sunset and relax after a long day of hiking.
3. Tenaya Lake
Situated just off Tioga Road, Tenaya Lake is the largest natural lake in Yosemite, stretching over a mile long at an elevation of 8,150 feet.
Named after Chief Tenaya of the Ahwahnechee, this stunning lake, formed by Tenaya Glacier, is surrounded by striking granite landscapes.
It’s a perfect spot for picnicking, swimming, and water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Two picnic areas, including one wheelchair accessible, make it an ideal stop for a relaxing break.
4. Tuolumne Meadows
At 8,600 feet above sea level, Tuolumne Meadows is a vast, open subalpine meadow, bordered by towering granite domes and lush evergreen forests.
The Tuolumne River winds through this picturesque area, offering incredible hikes and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Several interconnected trails make the meadow a great place to explore for people of all ages.
Though parking can be limited, this peaceful landscape is a must-see!
5. Tioga Lake and Ellery Lake just outside Tioga Pass Entrance
Located just outside the Tioga Pass Entrance are two beautiful high-elevation lakes.
With their tranquil waters and stunning mountain backdrop, Tioga Lake and Ellery Lake are perfect spots to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery.
Tioga Pass Hikes
Tioga Road is home to some of Yosemite’s most beautiful hiking trails.
Exploring Tioga Pass and Tuolumne Meadows is an experience you simply can’t miss!
These trails will leave you in awe. 😍
✨ READ THIS: Best Tioga Pass Hikes for Adventure Lovers
🥾 Here’s a list of incredible day hikes along Tioga Road, arranged from west (Crane Flat) to east (Tioga Pass Entrance):
- Tuolumne Grove Trail – A moderate 2.5-mile roundtrip hike that leads to a small but stunning grove of giant sequoias, perfect for those wanting to see these ancient giants without the crowds of Mariposa Grove.
- Harden Lake – This 5.8-mile roundtrip trail starts near White Wolf Lodge and winds through peaceful forests to a quiet alpine lake, offering a more secluded experience.
- Lukens Lake – A fairly short and easy 2.3-mile roundtrip hike to a tranquil lake surrounded by lush meadows.
- Ten Lakes – A challenging 12-mile roundtrip hike with rewarding panoramic views and access to a series of high-elevation alpine lakes, perfect for solitude and stunning reflections.
- Porcupine Creek Trailhead to Indian Arch and North Dome – A moderate 10.5-mile roundtrip trek leading to North Dome, one of the best viewpoints of Half Dome, with an optional detour to the unique Indian Rock Arch.
- May Lake and Mt. Hoffmann – A scenic 2.4-mile roundtrip hike to May Lake, a pristine alpine gem, with the option to continue up Mt. Hoffmann (5.5 miles roundtrip) for breathtaking 360-degree views of Yosemite.
- Sunrise Lakes Trailhead to Clouds Rest – A challenging 14.5-mile roundtrip hike leading to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in Yosemite, with unparalleled vistas of Half Dome and the surrounding wilderness.
- Murphy Creek Trailhead to Polly Dome Lakes – A moderate 5.5-mile roundtrip hike through peaceful forests to a set of lesser-known lakes, perfect for a quiet retreat in nature.
- Pothole Dome – A short but rewarding 1.2-mile roundtrip hike offering incredible panoramic views of Tuolumne Meadows with minimal effort.
- Cathedral Lakes – A classic Yosemite hike, 9.5-12 miles roundtrip, leading to Lower and Upper Cathedral Lakes, both offering stunning reflections of the towering Cathedral Peak.
- Soda Spring and Parsons Lodge – An easy 1.5-mile roundtrip stroll to natural cold-water springs and the historic Parsons Lodge, with great views of Tuolumne Meadows.
- Glen Aulin – A 11-mile roundtrip hike following the Tuolumne River, featuring waterfalls, cascades, and a scenic High Sierra camp.
- Elizabeth Lake – 4.8 to 7 miles roundtrip, this hike leads to a peaceful alpine lake tucked beneath Unicorn Peak.
- Lembert Dome and Dog Lake – A 5.5-mile roundtrip hike offering a mix of stunning views from Lembert Dome and the serenity of Dog Lake, a perfect combination for a half-day adventure.
- Young Lakes – A challenging 14.3-mile roundtrip trek leading to a series of three stunning alpine lakes, with breathtaking High Sierra scenery.
- Lyell Canyon – A gentle hike along the John Muir Trail, with options for short walks or longer treks into the breathtaking Lyell Canyon, surrounded by towering granite peaks.
- Mono Pass Trailhead to Spillway Lake – A moderate 8.2-mile roundtrip hike to an alpine pass with sweeping views, with an optional side trip to Spillway Lake for extra solitude.
- Middle and Upper Gaylor Lakes – A short but steep 3.5-mile roundtrip hike to a cluster of pristine alpine lakes, offering some of the best high-elevation scenery near Tioga Pass.
- Mount Dana – A strenuous but rewarding 5.3-mile roundtrip hike to the summit of Mount Dana, Yosemite’s second-highest peak, with sweeping views stretching into the Eastern Sierra.
🥾 Looking for more adventures in Yosemite? Add these epic hikes to your itinerary!
- Mist Trail vs John Muir Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls (Yosemite Valley)
- Upper Yosemite Fall Trail and Yosemite Point (Yosemite Valley)
- Hike to the top of El Capitan (Yosemite Valley)
- Sentinel Dome and Taft Point (Glacier Point)
- Panorama Trail (Glacier Point)
- Wapama Falls Trail (Hetch Hetchy)
- Chilnualna Falls Trail (Wawona)
Driving Tioga Pass: Safety Tips
1. Check Road Conditions – Tioga Road typically opens late spring to early summer and closes sometime in the fall due to snow. Check current road conditions on the NPS website before heading out.
2. Fuel Up – There are no gas stations along Tioga Road. The closest options are in Lee Vining (east) or Crane Flat (west).
3. Go Slow and Watch for Wildlife – Deer, bears, and other wildlife frequently cross the road, especially at dawn and dusk. Drive the speed limit!
4. Stay Alert for Cyclists and Hikers – Tioga Road is popular with cyclists and has several trailheads with pedestrian crossings.
5. Be Prepared for Rapid Weather Changes – Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly, and afternoon thunderstorms are common.
6. Be Aware of the Effects of High Altitude – Tioga Road reaches over 9,900 feet at Tioga Pass. If you feel lightheaded or nauseous, avoid strenuous activity, stay hydrated, and if symptoms don’t improve, get to lower elevation.
7. Know Where You’re Going – Cell service is limited. Download maps in advance or carry a paper map of Yosemite.
8. Park Safely – Only park in designated areas and never block the road or trailheads.
By following these safety tips, you can enjoy a stress-free and scenic drive along Tioga Road while soaking in Yosemite’s breathtaking high country. 🚗🏔️
Where to Stay
🏕️ Camping Along Tioga Road (Inside Yosemite)
- Crane Flat Campground – This campground is located off Big Oak Flat Road near Crane Flat and offers 162 reservable tent and RV sites with flush toilets and drinking water but no electricity. Max RV length is 35 feet and max trailer length is 27 feet.
- Tamarack Flat Campground – This campground is located off Tioga Road near Crane Flat and offers 52 reservable tent sites with vault toilets but no potable water or electricity. Water can be found at the creek but must be filtered or treated!
- White Wolf Campground – This campground is located off Tioga Road between Crane Flat and Tuolumne Meadows and offers 74 reservable tent and RV sites with flush toilets and drinking water but no electricity. Max RV length is 27 feet and max trailer length is 24 feet.
- Yosemite Creek Campground – This campground is located about 5 miles off Tioga Road west of Tuolumne Meadows and offers 75 reservable tent sites with vault toilets but no potable water or electricity. Water can be found at the creek but must be filtered or treated!
- Porcupine Flat Campground – This campground is located off Tioga Road west of Tuolumne Meadows and offers 48 reservable tent and RV sites with vault toilets but no potable water or electricity. Water can be found at the creek but must be filtered or treated! Max RV length is 24 feet.
- Tuolumne Meadows Campground – This is Yosemite’s largest campground located at Tuolumne Meadows off Tioga Road. There are 304 reservable tent, group, stock and RV sites with flush toilets and drinking water but no electricity. Max RV and trailer length is 35 feet.
🏨 Lodging Near Big Oak Flat Entrance
- Rush Creek Lodge at Yosemite – Rush Creek Lodge is just 1.5 miles from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat Entrance, set on a beautiful 20-acre forested hillside. It’s a perfect base for your trip, with a heated outdoor pool, two hot tubs, a playground, and cozy rooms (many with sunset views and private decks).
- Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite – Evergreen Lodge is a forested retreat in Mather, just 1 mile from Yosemite’s Hetch Hetchy Entrance. The 20-acre property features a heated pool, hot tub, playground, game room, and an on-site restaurant, bar, and general store. Guests can also enjoy ping pong, billiards, and easy access to hiking, biking, and fishing.
- Yosemite Westgate Lodge – Yosemite Westgate Lodge is a comfy, convenient stay just 13 miles from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat Entrance. The spacious rooms come with a 32″ flat-screen TV, fridge, microwave, and coffee maker. On-site, guests can enjoy a seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, playground, and nearby hiking trails.
- Yosemite Rose Bed and Breakfast – Yosemite Rose Bed and Breakfast is a beautifully crafted replica of a famous Bay Area mansion, built with an Italianate Revival style in the late 1800s. Located just 30 minutes from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat Entrance, this B&B includes the elegant manor house and a caretaker’s cabin.
- Yosemite Lakes RV Resort/Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes – Just 15 minutes from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat Entrance, this resort is a favorite for its unbeatable location and variety of lodging, including RV sites, tent camping, cabins, cottages, and even yurts.
🏨 Lodging Near Tioga Pass Entrance
- Lee Vining Motel – Lee Vining Motel is conveniently located just 13 miles from the Tioga Pass Entrance. The motel features family-friendly rooms, all equipped with flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms stocked with free toiletries and free WiFi. Some rooms even include a kitchen with a fridge for added convenience.
- Lake View Lodge – Lake View Lodge, located 13 miles from Yosemite’s Tioga Pass Entrance, offering a variety of accommodations, including rooms, cottages, and cabins, that come with a microwave, fridge, coffee maker, TV, and private bath. Guests can relax in the shared garden and picnic area overlooking Mono Lake and grab a bite at the on-site Garden House Coffee Shop (open seasonally).
- El Mono Motel and Latte Da Coffee Cafe – El Mono Motel and Latte Da Coffee Cafe is a small family-run motel and coffee house, located 13 miles from Yosemite’s Tioga Pass Entrance. Each of their eleven guest rooms offers its own unique charm, thoughtfully decorated and comfortably furnished. Guests can relax in the outdoor garden seating area and enjoy fresh, organic fare from the on-site café.
- Mono Vista RV Park – This pet-friendly, family-owned park, located 13 miles from Yosemite’s Tioga Pass Entrance, offers tent sites, spacious RV sites (both pull-through and back-in), and four group tent areas – all with picnic tables and grills. RV sites offer water, electricity, and most include sewer and cable. Guests have access to clean restrooms and 24-hour showers with free tokens.
- Gull Lake Lodge – Gull Lake Lodge, located 25 miles from Yosemite’s Tioga Pass Entrance, offers guest rooms with free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, a full kitchen with a dining area, and a private entrance. The cozy cottage option adds extra comfort with a fireplace and private patio. The lodge is just a short walk to Gull Lake and about half a mile from the heart of June Lake Village.
✨ Having trouble finding the perfect place to stay near Yosemite?
Don’t worry, I got you covered! I created an ultimate guide to help you find a place to stay when visiting Yosemite National Park. I’ve broken everything down by town, organized by the park entrance they’re closest to.
From there, I list different types of accommodations, including hotels, resorts, B&Bs, vacation rentals, campgrounds, and RV parks. Click the button below and explore top-rated places to stay outside of Yosemite, based on your travel style, budget, and the parts of the park you plan to visit!
How to Get to Tioga Pass
Tioga Pass, the eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park, is accessible via Highway 120 and serves as a stunning gateway to the park’s high country.
Your route will depend on your starting location.
If you are traveling from Yosemite Valley, take Big Oak Flat Road or El Portal Road to Tioga Road (Highway 120) and continue east toward Tuolumne Meadows and Tioga Pass.
Visitors coming from the Eastern Sierra can reach Tioga Pass by following U.S. Highway 395 to Lee Vining, then taking Highway 120 west into the park.
🚙 Renting a vehicle is the most common option to get to Yosemite – check out rentalcars.com or discovercars.com.
✈️ For those flying into the region, the closest major airports are Reno-Tahoe International Airport and Fresno Yosemite International Airport.
⛽ When planning to drive along Tioga Road, it is important to fuel up before entering the park by stopping at the Crane Flat gas station or somewhere in Lee Vining.
The distance between Lee Vining and the next gas station at Crane Flat is approximately 60 miles.
🚍 For those looking to explore Tuolumne Meadows and Tioga Pass without driving, public transportation is available in the summer months.
Amtrak and YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) provide bus connections to Tuolumne Meadows, and a shuttle service operates within the Tuolumne Meadows area.
Additionally, the park concessioner offers a summer tour bus between Tuolumne Meadows and Yosemite Valley.
The above transportation services require a reservation so make sure to plan in advance!
First Timer Tips for Visiting Tioga Pass
🛣️ Check Road Conditions – Tioga Road (Highway 120) is seasonal and typically opens late May to early June and closes by November due to snow. Always check the latest road status before your trip.
🌄 Start Early – Arrive early in the day to avoid traffic, secure parking at popular trailheads, and get a head start on hiking trails before potential afternoon thunderstorms roll through.
⛽ Fuel Up in Lee Vining or Crane Flat – There are no gas stations along Tioga Road. The closest fuel stops are in Lee Vining (east) and Crane Flat (west).
🥶 Pack Layers – Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly at high elevations, especially in the mornings and evenings.
🍌 Bring Extra Food and Water – Services are limited along Tioga Road, so pack plenty of snacks, water, and meals if you plan to spend the day exploring.
😮💨 Be Prepared for High Elevation – Tioga Road climbs from 6,200 feet at Crane Flat to 9,945 feet at Tioga Pass. Due to many visitors coming from lower elevation, altitude sickness is a risk. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and acclimate properly.
🚌 Use Public Transportation – In summer, YARTS and in-park shuttles provide transportation, helping reduce traffic and parking challenges.
🐻 Watch for Wildlife – Keep an eye out for marmots, deer, and black bears. Drive cautiously and never feed wildlife.
📶 Plan for Limited Cell Service – Phone service is spotty or nonexistent along most of Tioga Road, so download maps and directions in advance.
🏞️ Don’t Rush the Drive – Stop at scenic viewpoints, hike short trails, and take in the incredible alpine lakes, meadows, and granite domes. There’s so much beauty to see along Tioga Road!
🐶 Know the Pet Rules – Pets are not allowed on hiking trails or inside park buildings. They are permitted on roads, in parking areas, in most campgrounds, and on paved bike and pedestrian paths, but must be leashed at all times.
🚵♀️ Follow Bicycle Restrictions – Bicycles are only allowed on roads and paved bike paths. They are not permitted on hiking trails within the park.
🧺 Use Designated Picnic Areas – If you’re planning a meal break, head to Yosemite Creek Picnic Area, one of the two picnic areas at Tenaya Lake, or the Lembert Dome Picnic Area.
Tioga Road Map
Tioga Pass: 1-Day Itinerary
Family-Friendly 1-Day Itinerary
This itinerary is designed for families looking for a mix of scenic stops, easy hikes, and picnicking along Tioga Road.
🌄 Morning
- Stop at Olmsted Point
- A great first stop with panoramic views of Half Dome and the High Sierra.
- Short, easy walk to the viewpoint.
- Explore Tenaya Lake
- One of the most family-friendly stops along Tioga Road.
- Swim, kayak, or paddleboard in Tenaya Lake or hike 2.7 miles around the lake.
- Eat breakfast at one of the two picnic areas at the lake.
🌤️ Midday
- Hike to Soda Springs and Parsons Lodge (1.5 miles roundtrip, easy)
- Easy, flat trail starting from the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center.
- View bubbling Soda Springs and historic Parsons Lodge.
- Picnic Lunch at Lembert Dome Picnic Area
- Shaded picnic tables available near Tuolumne Meadows.
- Restroom facilities nearby.
⛅ Afternoon
- Hike Pothole Dome and Tuolumne River (2.5 miles roundtrip, easy to moderate)
- Choice to hike to just Pothole Dome (1 mile roundtrip) or to both the dome and river (2.5 miles roundtrip).
- Explore Tuolumne Grove
- See giant sequoia trees
- Hike the Tuolumne Grove Trail and see the Dead Giant Tunnel Tree (2.5 miles roundtrip, moderate)
Adventurous Explorer 1-Day Itinerary
For those who want more hiking, rock scrambling, and stunning viewpoints, this itinerary focuses on epic adventures along Tioga Road.
🌄 Early Morning
- Hike to Clouds Rest (14.5 miles roundtrip, challenging)
- Start at Sunrise Lakes Trailhead for a challenging but rewarding hike to one of the best views in Yosemite.
- See 360-degree views of Half Dome, Tenaya Canyon, and the High Sierra.
- Requires good fitness level and an early start.
🌤️ Afternoon
- Relax at Tenaya Lake
- After a strenuous hike, relax by the lake or take a quick dip in the cold, alpine waters.
- Eat a packed lunch at one of the picnic areas.
⛅ Late Afternoon
- Hike to Lembert Dome (2 miles roundtrip, moderate to hard)
- Begin from the parking area near Tuolumne Meadows Lodge.
- A short but steep climb to an epic 360-degree view over Tuolumne Meadows.
- This is a great spot to watch sunset but remember to bring a headlamp!
- If you’re too tired after hiking Clouds Rest to climb to the top of Lembert Dome, you can take the trail around the dome for a scenic, 2.8-mile loop.
- Watch Sunset at Olmsted Point
- One of the best places to watch sunset in Yosemite National Park.
- Look for alpenglow on the surrounding granite domes.
FAQs: Tioga Pass
-
Can I drive through Tioga Pass without a reservation?
Depends. You do need to pay an entrance fee or show an annual pass. Some days require a reservation. However, you do not need a reservation if you enter Yosemite before 6 AM and after 2 PM.
-
Is Tioga Pass open in November?
Tioga Pass typically closes sometime in November but check the National Park Service website for more information.
-
Is Tioga Pass open in December?
Tioga Pass is typically closed in December due to heavy snowfall.
-
Is Tioga Pass open in May?
Tioga Pass is typically open from late May or early June through November, but the exact opening date can vary year-to-year depending on weather conditions. You’ll need to check the current status on the National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information.
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Is Tioga Pass open in winter?
Tioga Pass is closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall and hazardous driving conditions.
-
When does Tioga Pass open?
Tioga Pass typically opens in late May or early June, depending on snowpack levels.
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How long does it take to drive across Tioga Pass?
It typically takes a little over an hour to drive across the Tioga Pass Road.
Conclusion
Is Tioga Pass open yet? 🤔
If so, get your booty over there and start exploring one of the most beautiful places in all of Yosemite!
Tioga Road offers an incredible experience with stunning landscapes, diverse hiking trails, and serene alpine scenery.
Plan ahead, check road conditions, and prepare for an adventure you won’t forget! 🙌
If this guide inspires you to explore Tioga Pass and Tuolumne Meadows, I’d love to hear about your adventure.
Leave a comment and share your experience!
🤩 Yosemite Trip Planning Resources
- How to Spend One Day in Yosemite: A First Timer’s Guide
- Where to Stay Outside of Yosemite (best places in 2025)
- 12 Best Tioga Pass Hikes for Adventure Lovers
- 10 Must-Do Easy Hikes for All Skill Levels
- Best Yosemite Waterfall Hikes: Complete Guide
- Ultimate Guide to Visiting Yosemite in May
- Hetch Hetchy Hikes: Explore This Hidden Gem
- Best Spots to Find Giant Sequoia Trees in Yosemite
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