Yosemite to Lake Tahoe Road Trip

From the blue waters of Lake Tahoe to the granite walls of Yosemite, a Yosemite to Lake Tahoe road trip is a must when visiting California. Whether you love hiking, scenic drives, swimming, or dining, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy on this road trip.

I previously worked as a hiking guide, leading groups on trips from Yosemite to Lake Tahoe. I have packed this itinerary with everything I know from the hot spots to my local favorites to help you plan the best Yosemite to Lake Tahoe road trip!

Where are Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe?

Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe are located in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains in Eastern California.

Lake Tahoe sits on the California-Nevada border about 4 hours east of San Francisco. Yosemite National Park is a few hours south. The western entrances to Yosemite are about 4 hours east of San Francisco.

How far is Yosemite to Lake Tahoe?

The distance from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite is about 4.5 – 5.5 hours apart depending on what part of Lake Tahoe you’re traveling from. South Lake Tahoe is about an hour closer to Yosemite than the north part of the lake.

With scenic views the whole way, the drive from Yosemite to Lake Tahoe is the ultimate California Road Trip. I definitely recommend renting a car for this trip because there is no bus or train from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite.

How Long Should I Spend Driving From Yosemite to Lake Tahoe?

Both Yosemite and Lake Tahoe offer many amazing sites and things to do. While it’s possible to complete this road trip in 3 days that would be a serious rush.

If you have the time, try spending 5 -7 days on your Yosemite to Lake Tahoe Road Trip. Spend at least 2 to 3 nights in Yosemite, and 2 or 3 nights in Lake Tahoe to go hiking, exploring, and relaxing. If you have a couple of extra days it’s worth spending a night on the east side of the Sierra in Lee Vining or on the west side in Coloma or Sacramento.

When to Plan your Yosemite to Lake Tahoe Road Trip

All the seasons offer a variety of things to see and explore on a Yosemite to Lake Tahoe Road Trip. However, depending on your interests will depending when it’s best for you to visit.

Winter

If you love snow and want to ski then visit in winter. Lake Tahoe is surrounded by ski resorts and is a prime skiing location in the United States. Park access is limited in Yosemite during the winter but it’s beautiful to see the valley covered in snow. Winter is the least crowded time of year to visit Yosemite.

Spring

Spring still offers the opportunity for skiing in Lake Tahoe as well as warmer weather in Yosemite National Park. High-elevation roads begin opening in Yosemite in the spring but part of the park is still inaccessible. Because spring is the shoulder season, both Lake Tahoe and Yosemite are less crowded in the spring than in summer.

Summer

The summer brings the warmest weather as well as full road access. However, summer is the busiest time of year. But you can drive from Yosemite to Lake Tahoe via Tioga Pass. Tioga Pass opens during the summer which opens up the opportunity to explore the east side of the Sierra.

Fall

The weather in the fall is cooler and Yosemite and Lake Tahoe are a bit less crowded. This is a great time to visit as all roads are accessible, provided an early snowstorm doesn’t roll in. Temperatures are comfortable for hiking and like in the summer, you can drive through Tioga Pass to explore the east side of the Sierra.

Yosemite to Lake Tahoe Road Trip Itinerary

There are 2 main routes to get from Yosemite to Lake Tahoe. One route follows the east side of the Sierra Nevada mountains and the other route follows the west side.

The east side route is only possible when Tioga Pass through Yosemite is open. Tioga Pass usually opens in the late spring to early summer and closes in the late fall. Check for plowing updates here.

Therefore, I’d recommend driving the east side route during the summer and fall. The mountain roads offer more diverse and dramatic landscapes.

If you’re planning your Lake Tahoe to Yosemite drive during the winter or spring, you’ll have to drive the route along the west side. Tioga Pass, the main route through Yosemite, is closed during the winter. This makes it impossible to drive from Lake Tahoe to Yosemite National Park via the east side.

A common road trip route is from San Francisco to Yosemite to Lake Tahoe, ending in Reno or back in San Francisco. Start and end in whichever city is most convenient for you.

Pro tip: If you fly in and out of the same airport, you’ll likely save a bit of money on a rental car. Because San Francisco is a larger airport the flights and rental cars are often cheaper.

Yosemite to Lake Tahoe Route by Season

Summer & Fall	Winter & Spring
San Francisco	San Francisco
Yosemite National Park	Yosemite National Park
Tioga Pass, Yosemite	Sonora
Lee Vining & Mono Lake	Calaveras Big Trees State Park
Bodie State Historic Park	Coloma
Bridgeport	Placerville
Lake Tahoe	Lake Tahoe
Coloma	Sacramento
Sacramento	San Francisco
San Francisco

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park covers around 750,000 acres, meaning there is plenty to see and explore in the park. Whether you like gentle strolls through a meadow, strenuous day hikes, or hanging out by a waterfall, Yosemite has plenty of options for you.

Stroll through Cooks Meadow

1-mile loop, flat

Starting just behind the Yosemite Valley Lodge, take the paved path around Cooks Meadow, one of the highlights in Yosemite. This easy walk is suitable for all visitors including those in wheelchairs.

You’ll cross the Merced River over Sentinel Bridge and then continue along the neverending views of the high granite walls and stunning views of Yosemite Falls.

Hike up Vernal and Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail

6.4 miles round trip; 2200 foot gain

With a name like the Mist Trail, you’ll definitely want to pack your jacket for this hike. The Mist Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Yosemite National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass two rushing waterfalls, Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls.

Depending on your hiking ability, you have a few options for this trail; you can hike a paved trail to the base of Vernal Falls and then turn around. You can continue up to the top of Vernal Falls then turn around. Or you can complete the whole loop and see both Vernal and Nevada Falls.

Hike the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail

6.6 miles out & back, 3250 foot gain

Yosemite Falls is one of the most iconic falls in Yosemite National Park. Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America dropping 2,425 feet. The hike to the top of Upper Yosemite Falls is steep and not for the faint of heart, however, the views looking down on the valley are pretty impressive.

This is a steep hike up slick granite rock so watch your footing and pack plenty of water.

Hike to Columbia Rock

2.2 miles out & back, 1000 foot gain

If you want something a little shorter than the Upper Yosemite Falls Hike then Hike to Columbia Rock! It’s about 1 mile into the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail and offers some of the best views looking down on the valley.

You’ll see Half Dome standing tall and the Merced River flowing below. The hike up to Columbia Rock is steep but worth it. If you hike just past the Columbia Rock viewpoint you’ll reach the middle of Yosemite Falls where you can relax in the shade and enjoy the mist of the falls on your skin.

Visit Mariposa Grove

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the largest Sequoia Grove in Yosemite National Park. Walk amongst some of the largest trees in the world here.

The Big Trees Loop is a 0.3-mile flat loop suitable for all visitors to the park. If you want to continue a bit further, the Grizzly Giant Loop is a 2-mile loop that gains 300 feet. This loop highlights some of the best trees in Mariposa Grove including the California Tunnel Tree, the Grizzly Giant, the Fallen Monarch, and the Bachelor & Three Graces.

Grab a Drink or Dinner at the Ahwahnee Hotel

The Ahwahnee Hotel is a historic landmark hotel in Yosemite that offers luxury accommodations and fine dining. I love grabbing a cocktail and soft pretzel here on one of my relaxing days. The outdoor patio has views of Half Dome. The inside of the Ahwahnee Hotel, also known as the Majestic Hotel, has tall ceilings with fancy chandeliers, a huge ballroom, and beautiful stone fireplaces.

It’s a lovely place to enjoy a fancy dinner but make sure you call ahead to make reservations as the Ahwahnee books up early.

Grab a Pizza at the Pizza Deck

If you’re looking for a more casual meal, and the best food option following a hike, grab a pizza and beer at Yosemite’s Pizza Deck. Located in Curry Village this woodsy eatery makes delicious pizzas and even has vegan and gluten-free options.

If pizza isn’t your thing there is a large dining hall right next store with a variety of food options ranging from homestyle cooked dinners to bakery bites.

Check out Glacier Point

Glacier Point is one of the most iconic viewpoints in Yosemite National Park. You’ll have stunning 180-degree vistas overlooking about one-third of the whole park!

The walkways around Glacier Point are paved and wheelchair accessible. There is a gift shop at the top. Get up here early to avoid the crowds because parking is very limited.

*In 2022 Glacier Point Road was closed for reconstruction to the road. The plan is to reopen in 2023 but there will be 30-minute delays as construction continues.

Hike Half Dome

If you can score the coveted permits to hike Half Dome then you’re ready to venture on one of the most popular and spectacular hikes in Yosemite National Park.

Half Dome is most completed as a long day hike but can be turned into a backpacking trip too. Either way, it’s important to start your trip early so that you reach the Half Dome cables early in the day. The final 400 feet via the Half Dome cables to the summit require aren’t for the faint of heart, however, views are surely rewarding.

Tioga Pass, Yosemite National Park

Tioga Pass is a stunning Yosemite drive through the park’s high country. And it’s the perfect road to take from Yosemite Valley to the east side of the park to continue on your way from Yosemite National Park to Lake Tahoe.

There are many can’t-miss stops along the way and plenty of hikes located right off of the route.

Enjoy Panoramic Vistas at Olmsted Point

Olmsted Point is the best roadside lookout from Tioga Pass Road. From Olmsted Point, you can see Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and look down to Tioga Lake in the distance.

Sitting at about 8,000 feet in elevation lots of granite and little vegetation make up the landscape. Glacial erratics, large boulders left behind, sit at the top of Olmsted Point. Have fun roaming around on the slabby granite while taking in the views.

Swim in Tenaya Lake

Tenaya Lake is a large alpine lake located right off Tioga Pass Road. It’s one of the most impressive spots in the high country of Yosemite. Bright clear blue water is surrounded by steep granite domes and peaks.

There are plenty of roadside pull-offs near the lake and there’s also a large sandy beach area located on the east side of the lake. It’s one of my favorite spots for a midday picnic or swim!

Stroll through Tuolumne Meadows

Tuolumne Meadows are stunning sub-alpine meadows and the largest meadows in Yosemite National Park. Surrounded by domes and granite peaks with the Tuolumne River cutting through, you must stop here when driving along Tioga Pass.

It’s also a popular spot to see wildlife. I’d recommend hiking out to Soda Springs. From Tioga Pass Road it’s a 1 mile out and back flat hike through the meadows to a bubbling spring. No one really knows why these springs exist but if you dare to taste them, prepare for a minerally taste.

Hike Up Lembert Dome

1.8 miles out & back, 700-foot gain

If you’re looking for a hike a little easier than Half Dome, then hike up to Lembert Dome for stunning 360-degree views looking at all of Yosmite’s high country. Like the top of Half Dome, Lembert Dome has a steep ascent to the summit, on a round granite dome.

The stone is very grippy but if you’re scared of heights you might be a little uncomfortable, however, the summit views are well worth it.

Hike Out to Clouds Rest

12 miles out & back, 3100 foot gain

If you’re looking for a long day hike with some of the most stunning views in the park hike out to Clouds Rest. It actually sits about 1000 feet higher than Half Dome and from the top offers 360-degree views of the whole park.

The trail to Clouds Rest is well-maintained however, the top is a bit of a rock scramble. Prepare yourself for exposure with steep drop-offs as you near the summit. Careful footing and some hand use are beneficial as you near the top and are rewarded with stunning views.

Lee Vining & Mono Lake

Located at the end of Tioga Pass Road (or the beginning) is a quaint small town called Lee Vining. Lee Vining sits on the shores of Mono Lake, a saline soda lake that actually has a volcano in the center of it. Mono Lake is famously known for its tufa rock formations.

The town of Lee Vining is small but it has a few lodging options and places to eat. It’s definitely worth checking out Mono Lake. Head to Mono Lake South Tufa Area for stunning views of the calcium carbonate tufa towers with the High Sierra peaks in the distance. It’s a stunning spot for sunrise or sunset.

Bodie State Historic Park

As you continue north of Highway 395 you’ll pass the turnoff for route 270 to check out Bodie State Historic Park. It’s a unique California State Park, now a famous ghost town. This abandoned gold-mining community has everything from an old school, homes, mining equipment, a church, and more.

Walk around on a self-guided tour or sign up for a guided public tour to learn even more about the park.

Bridgeport

Just north of Bodie is the cute small town of Bridgeport. Highway 395 runs right through the center of the town. There are small motels and inns, a general store, a few restaurants, and some historic buildings.

My favorite place to hang out or grab a bite to eat is Big Meadows Brewing Company and Growlers Eatery. They’re located right next to each other and are a classic Bridgeport stop.

Topaz Lake

The next notable stop along your drive from Yosemite to Lake Tahoe is Topaz Lake. It’s located just over the border of Nevada, and therefore, home to a casino located on the state line.

There isn’t a whole lot to do here but it’s a good place to stretch your legs. There are a few day lake areas where you can hang out beside the lake.

Lake Tahoe

Emerald Bay

Sand Harbor

Sand Harbor State Park is one of my favorite places around Lake Tahoe. It’s a protected area with large sandy beaches and boulders in the water. It’s an iconic photo spot in Lake Tahoe.

Here you can rent kayaks, go on a kayaking tour, swim in the water, or wander along the boardwalks and read fun facts about the lake.

The Sand Harbor parking lot fills up year-round and reservations are now required throughout the summer. Parking is not permitted along the side of the road.

Hike Mount Tallac

10.5 miles out & back, 3300 foot gain

Mount Tallac is one of the highest peaks in the Lake Tahoe Basin. The hike starts gradually as it passes Fallen Leaf Lake but as you cross into Desolation Wilderness it’s a steep ascent up to the summit.

Mount Tallac is one of the harder trails in the area however it offers rewarding 360-degree views. You’ll see the entirety of Lake Tahoe and the basin as well as the high peaks that rise in Desolation Wilderness.

Pro Tip: make sure you’re comfortable with the altitude. Mount Tallac reaches almost 10,000 feet in elevation so take your time on the ascent, drink plenty of water, and if you don’t feel well, turn back.

Go Skiing

If you’re visiting Lake Tahoe in the winter or early spring you should definitely head to one of the ski resorts. Lake Tahoe is home to the largest concentration of ski resorts in North America, with over 11 downhill resorts.

With such diverse terrain, this is one of the best ski areas in the United States.

Heavenly Village

If you’re staying in South Lake Tahoe then you definitely want to spend some time in Heavenly Village. Located at the base of Heavenly Ski Resort this area is filled with shops, hotels, restaurants, and live music every night.

Everything is within walking distance in Heavenly Village. It’s also possible to pay for a ride up the Heavenly Gondola where you can enjoy views of Lake Tahoe at the top and dine in a cafe. 

Downtown Truckee

If you’re staying on the north side of the lake then Downtown Truckee is one of the cutest places to stroll around and grab a bite to eat. There are a bunch of shops, bars, restaurants, and cafes. The downtown is also located right along the railway. If you like history, check out the Truckee Railroad Museum.

My favorite thing to do in Truckee is walk along the Legacy Trail which follows the Truckee River.

Coloma

Known as the first spot where gold was found and the best spot to whitewater raft on the American River, Coloma is a fun spot if you’re looking to continue your adventure after Lake Tahoe.

Whether you leave Lake Tahoe from South Lake Tahoe via Highway 50 or Highway 80 in the north part of the lake, it’s about an hour and a half drive.

If you like history Coloma is the perfect place to learn about the start of the California Gold Rush. And if you’re an adrenalin seeker, then rafting is the activity for you!

Sacramento

Also, on your way home from Lake Tahoe is California’s capital, Sacramento. There’s quite a lot to explore in Sacramento. From fine dining to breweries to walks along the river to the Old Sacramento Historic District.

It’s a great place to stop and explore on your way back to San Francisco or to spend a night and hang out.

What to Pack for a Lake Tahoe to Yosemite Road Trip

You’ll have to tweak your wardrobe depending on what time of year you’re planning your Yosemite to Lake Tahoe road trip however, this is a general idea of everything you need.

• Clothing layers – puffy jacket, rain jacket, warm base layer
• Comfortable hiking boots or trail runners
• Quick-drying hiking pants
• Sun hoodie
• Gloves
• Sun hat
• Warm hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunblock
• Headlamp
• Day hiking backpack
• Road maps – downloaded offline & paper
• First aid kit
• Snacks
• Water
• Water filter

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A Yosemite to Lake Tahoe road trip is a bucket list adventure. Enjoy some of the highlights that California has to offer. Learn about the history of the landscape and the state, hike through dramatic landscapes, dine on delicious meals, and enjoy the ride!