This is one of the most spectacular roads in America. It ascends almost 3000 feet for Lee Vining to the Yosemite Park entrance station. A bit scary with no guard rails, but they would be wiped out every Winter by the falling rocks and snow. CalTrans does a great job maintaining this road.
The Tioga Road from Lee Vining to Yosemite is a twisty turning road through beautiful country. There are many lakes with lovely reflections just along the road. You can also make side trips to a section of redwoods or other lakes which require limited hiking. The Tolumne Meadows is also a lovely section but was quite dry when we went through with no wildflowers of any consideration.
What a variety of scenery along this road! From the Tuolumne Grove of Sequoias, Olmstead Point, Tenaya Lake, Tuolumne Meadows, Tioga Pass, and the quick drop down to Mono Lake. Cruising this road and taking in all the scenery was marvelous. The only downside was all the speedsters riding your car's butt because they are in such a hurry to go enjoy themselves.
The area is so beautiful and serene! Much cooler and less crowded than in Yosemite Valley and Mariposa Grove. Definitely the best place at the park!
Numerous view point to see the valley and mountains. The road while twisty and windy is not a difficult drive at this time of year. Very large elevation changes.
There are many opportunities to pull off and take pictures. This drive is best done in a convertible.
I drive this road once or twice a year. It is never as stunning as in fall! Just look at the photos. Tioga Pass is situated at almost 10,000 feet and not always open due to snow. Check ahead for Highway 120, Caltrans, or check the Yosemite National Park website for road conditions. If approaching from Highway 395 you can drive up to the gate of Yosemite without having to pay a fee. However, if you want to continue into Yosemite, park fees apply. If approaching from Yosemite NP you will have already paid your fee at another entrance gate. Show your receipt as you are driving past the Tioga gate. Photos enclosed.
Looking to get a great view of the Sierras?Tioga Pass Road (Highway 120) is one of the better ways to get an up close and personal look at the stunning granite peaks and panoramic vistas offered by the Sierra Nevada mountains. Take your time, your camera and a picnic lunch and take a leisurely drive through some of the most majestic views of the Sierras. As you drive, you'll be treated to breathtaking vistas of mountains that, in places, tower to over 12,000 feet (Tioga wanders up and down between, 8,000 and 9,000 feet). Make sure to stop along the way at the various trail heads and vista points and above all - don't rush!!! Too many people go flying along this road without taking the time to check out the beauty of nature.Make sure to stop at Olmsted Point for a photo opportunity. Also, Tioga and Ellery Lakes at the top of the eastern side of Tioga Road are beautiful areas to stop and take photos and enjoy the beauty of the Sierra. There are many other places to stop as well, such as Yosemite Creek, May Lake, Ten Lakes (trail head) and the list goes on.If you're heading eastbound, you will be treated to the road as it descends the Pass towards Mono Lake. It is an absolutely AWESOME view.East-bound or west-bound, you can't go wrong!
Tioga Road is amazing~ so very beautiful everywhere you look. I wish that my husband and I had more time to stop at all of the places along the way. If you are ever in Yosemite this is a MUST DO! If I recall it takes about 11/2 to 2 hours to drive the full length of Tioga Road from the Valley to Lee Vining.
Gas up before heading up into Tioga Pass country.Be ready for snow and ice.Some fantastic scenery. Keep eyes open for deer, coyotes and porcupines.