Best Yosemite Shuttle Bus Guide (Useful Tips+Maps+Routes)

We are thrilled to present the “Yosemite Shuttle Bus Guide,” your ultimate resource for seamless exploration within this iconic wilderness. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this guide is your key to navigating the park’s shuttle system with ease.

In this concise guide, we have gathered all the essential information you need: from comprehensive Yosemite shuttle bus route details and maps to invaluable tips that ensure a smooth and memorable journey.

Uncover the magic of Yosemite while leaving nothing but footprints and taking away memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s dive in and make the most of your Yosemite experience!

The Yosemite Valley Shuttle Bus comprises two primary shuttle routes: the Valleywide Shuttle Bus and the East Valley Shuttle Bus. These routes are meticulously designed to provide visitors with access to the most iconic and scenic spots within Yosemite Valley while minimizing traffic congestion and environmental impact.

The Valleywide Shuttle Bus is designed to provide visitors with easy access to major points of interest within Yosemite Valley, minimizing traffic congestion and environmental impact.

The Valleywide Shuttle Bus covers a comprehensive route with strategic stops at key attractions and trailheads, allowing visitors to hop on and off to explore Yosemite’s iconic spots.

• Operation: The shuttle operates year-round, from 7 am to 10 pm, making it a reliable mode of transportation regardless of the season.
• Frequency: Buses run at regular intervals between 12 to 22 minutes throughout the day, ensuring you have the flexibility to plan your exploration.
• Trip Time: The total round trip time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Cost: Free (included in the entrance fee to Yosemite National Park).
• Stops and Attractions:

Stop 1: Yosemite Village Parking

Yosemite Village Parking serves as the starting point for shuttle passengers. It offers convenient parking access for those visiting the village. From here, you can explore the various amenities and services in Yosemite Village, making it an ideal starting point for your Yosemite adventure.

Stop 2: Yosemite Village

Yosemite Village is a bustling hub within the park, offering a wide range of services and facilities. Here, you will find a post office, grocery store, and even an art center. It is a perfect spot to gather all the supplies you need for your journey ahead.

Stop 3: Ahwahnee

At the Ahwahnee stop, you’ll have access to The Ahwahnee Hotel, a historic and architectural masterpiece. Take a moment to marvel at the exquisite design and enjoy the grandeur of this iconic hotel. If time allows, consider stopping for a meal or simply explore the beautiful grounds.

Stop 4: Degnan’s Kitchen

Degnan’s Kitchen is a food court-style dining area offering a variety of options for hungry travelers. Grab a quick bite to eat, refuel, and enjoy a range of dining choices to suit your tastes. It’s a great spot to recharge before continuing your Yosemite adventure.

Stop 5: Valley Visitor Center & Museum

The Valley Visitor Center & Museum is a treasure trove of information about Yosemite’s natural and cultural history. Explore the exhibits, discover the park’s fascinating stories, and gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty that surrounds you.

Stop 6: Lower Yosemite Fall

This stop is your gateway to experiencing the power and beauty of Lower Yosemite Fall. Follow the trailhead to get up close to this stunning waterfall, allowing its mist to refresh and invigorate you. Capture incredible photos and be amazed by the natural wonder.

Stop 7: Yosemite Valley Lodge/Yosemite Falls Parking

At this stop, you can access Yosemite Valley Lodge and the trailhead leading to the awe-inspiring Yosemite Falls. Take in the stunning views and immerse yourself in the grandeur of the falls as you explore the trails and viewpoints in the area.

Stop 8: El Capitan Picnic Area

The El Capitan Picnic Area is an ideal spot to enjoy a meal surrounded by the beauty of Yosemite. With views of the iconic El Capitan granite monolith, you can savor your food in a peaceful, natural setting.

Stop 9: El Capitan Meadow

Pause at El Capitan Meadow to soak in the views of El Capitan. This area is a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. Marvel at the grandeur of the monolith and take your time to appreciate the beauty of the valley.

Stop 10: Cathedral Beach

Cathedral Beach offers access to a peaceful picnic area along the Merced River. Enjoy a serene meal while gazing at the picturesque views of El Capitan. The tranquil ambiance makes this a perfect spot to relax and connect with nature.

Stop 11: Four Mile Trail

Begin your journey on the Four Mile Trail at this stop. The trail is a challenging hike that leads to Glacier Point, rewarding your efforts with panoramic vistas of Yosemite Valley. Capture breathtaking photographs as you ascend to higher elevations.

Stop 12: Housekeeping Camp/ Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center

This stop provides access to Housekeeping Camp, where you can enjoy camping by the Merced River. Additionally, you can explore the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center to learn about the park’s rich history and conservation efforts.

Stop 14: Curry Village (eastbound)

Curry Village, known for its iconic tent cabins, offers a variety of accommodations and amenities. Take a stroll through the village, grab a meal, and consider exploring the nearby hiking trails that depart from this area.

Stop 15: Upper Pines Campground

Access the Upper Pines Campground at this stop. Nestled within the valley, this campground offers a serene setting for camping. Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings as you settle into your campsite.

Stop 16: Happy Isles

The Happy Isles stop serves as the trailhead for the Mist Trail and other hiking trails. Prepare to embark on adventures like the iconic Mist Trail, which leads to the impressive Vernal Fall footbridge.

Stop 17: Mirror Lake

This stop provides access to the trailhead for the Mirror Lake Loop. As you journey along this trail, you’ll encounter reflective views of Half Dome and the stunning cliffs that surround the area.

Stop 18: Lower Pines Campground

Lower Pines Campground is another camping option within the valley. Experience the serenity of camping by the Merced River, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Yosemite.

Stop 19: Curry Village (westbound)

Complete your journey by returning to Curry Village. Reflect on the day’s adventures, consider exploring more of the village’s offerings.

The East Valley Shuttle Bus in Yosemite National Park is designed to provide visitors with convenient access to key points of interest within the eastern part of Yosemite Valley. This service aims to reduce traffic congestion, promote sustainable transportation, and enhance the visitor experience.

• Operation: The shuttle starts operating in late summer. It runs from 7 am to 10 pm, making it a reliable mode of transportation regardless of the season.
• Frequency: Buses run at regular intervals between 8 to 12 minutes throughout the day, ensuring you have the flexibility to plan your exploration.
• Trip Time: The total round trip time is about 50 minutes.
• Cost: Free (included in the entrance fee to Yosemite National Park).
• Stops and Attractions:

Stop 1: Yosemite Village Parking

Yosemite Village Parking serves as the starting point for shuttle passengers. It offers convenient parking access for those visiting the village. From here, you can explore the various amenities and services in Yosemite Village, making it an ideal starting point for your Yosemite adventure.

Stop 2: Yosemite Village

Yosemite Village is a bustling hub within the park, offering a wide range of services and facilities. Here, you will find a post office, grocery store, and even an art center. It is a perfect spot to gather all the supplies you need for your journey ahead.

Stop 12: Housekeeping Camp/ Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center

This stop provides access to Housekeeping Camp, where you can enjoy camping by the Merced River. Additionally, you can explore the Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center to learn about the park’s rich history and conservation efforts.

Stop 14: Curry Village (eastbound)

Curry Village, known for its iconic tent cabins, offers a variety of accommodations and amenities. Take a stroll through the village, grab a meal, and consider exploring the nearby hiking trails that depart from this area.

Stop 15: Upper Pines Campground

Access the Upper Pines Campground at this stop. Nestled within the valley, this campground offers a serene setting for camping. Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings as you settle into your campsite.

Stop 16: Happy Isles

The Happy Isles stop serves as the trailhead for the Mist Trail and other hiking trails. Prepare to embark on adventures like the iconic Mist Trail, which leads to the impressive Vernal Fall footbridge.

Stop 17: Mirror Lake

This stop provides access to the trailhead for the Mirror Lake Loop. As you journey along this trail, you will encounter reflective views of Half Dome and the stunning cliffs that surround the area.

Stop 18: Lower Pines Campground

Lower Pines Campground is another camping option within the valley. Experience the serenity of camping by the Merced River, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Yosemite.

Stop 19: Curry Village (westbound)

Complete your journey by returning to Curry Village.

The Mariposa Grove Shuttle Bus is an integral part of the Yosemite National Park experience, designed to provide visitors with access to the majestic Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. This shuttle service offers a convenient and sustainable transportation option for exploring one of the world’s most renowned groves of giant sequoia trees.

The Mariposa Grove Shuttle Bus provides service from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza (near South Entrance) to the Mariposa Grove. The Welcome Plaza has about 300 parking spaces and usually fills up by late morning. Arrive by mid-morning to increase your chances of finding a place to park.

GOOD TO KNOW: To visit Mariposa Grove, you need to take the shuttle bus, when buses are operating. No private vehicles are allowed. The road is only open to vehicles displaying a disability placard.

PRO TIP: When Shuttle Service is not available, you can access Mariposa Grove via a two-mile hike (each way) on the Washburn Trail or the Mariposa Grove Road (each has approximately 500 feet in elevation gain). During winter, trails may be snowy and/or icy.

• Operation: The shuttle usually starts operating around April 1 and ends at about November 30.
• Frequency:

June 9 through September 7: 8 am to 7 pm (the last bus leaves Mariposa Grove at 8 pm). Buses pick up about every 10 minutes.

September 8 through November 7: 8 am to 5:30 pm (the last bus leaves Mariposa Grove at 6:30 pm). Buses pick up about every 15 minutes.

November 8 through November 30: Weather permitting, 8 am to 3:30 pm (the last bus leaves Mariposa Grove at 5:00 pm). Buses pick up about every 15 minutes.

• Trip Time: The total one-way trip time is about 10-15 minutes.
• Cost: Free (included in the entrance fee to Yosemite National Park).
• Stops and Attractions:

Stop 1: Mariposa Grove Arrival Area

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is the park’s largest stand of giant sequoias, with about 500 mature sequoias in the grove. The shuttle will take you to the arrival area.

GOOD TO KNOW: The best way to explore the area is by taking some of the trails in the area.

Big Trees Loop Trail (easy) – 0.3 miles (0.5 km) loop from the trailhead, 30 to 45 minutes (wheelchair accessible). This trail features the Fallen Monarch and interpretive panels on the life and ecology of giant sequoias. This loop is relatively flat and is wheelchair accessible.

Grizzly Giant Loop Trail (moderate) – 2 miles (3.2 km) loop from the trailhead, 1.5 to 2 hours. This trail will take you past notable trees such as the Bachelor and Three Graces, the 3,000-year-old Grizzly Giant, and California Tunnel Tree.

Guardians Loop Trail (strenuous) – 6.5 miles (10.5 km) round trip from trailhead, 4 to 6 hours. This trail will take you past many famous features including the fallen Wawona Tunnel Tree, the Telescope Tree, and the Mariposa Grove Cabin.

Mariposa Grove Trail (strenuous) – 7 miles (11.3 km) round trip from trailhead to Wawona Point, 4 to 6 hours. This wide and relatively smooth trail follows a route that people have used to access the grove for generations. See famous sequoias such as the Bachelor and Three Graces, the Faithful Couple, and the Clothespin Tree along this somewhat strenuous route to the upper reaches of the grove. Continue to historic Wawona Point, an overlook with panoramic views. The total elevation gain is 1,200 feet (366 m).

Stop 2: Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza

The Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza is a key entry point for visitors seeking to explore the remarkable Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite National Park. This newly designed facility serves as a hub for information, orientation, amenities, and a starting point for experiencing the awe-inspiring beauty of the giant sequoias.

GOOD TO KNOW: Restrooms and drinking water are available.

Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle services in the greater Tuolumne Meadows area. It typically runs from mid-June through mid-September (dates vary from year to year).

The shuttle provides service between Tuolumne Meadows and Olmsted Point every half hour between 7 am and 7 pm.

GOOD TO KNOW: Tuolumne Meadows Shuttle is not free. Check prices HERE. This service is provided by Yosemite National Park’s licensed concessioner: travelyosemite.com

The Tuolumne Meadows Hiker’s Bus is a specialized transportation service offered in Yosemite National Park, providing hikers with convenient access to the stunning alpine landscapes and hiking trails of Tuolumne Meadows, a high-elevation area known for its breathtaking beauty and unique ecosystems.

GOOD TO KNOW: The Tuolumne Meadows Hiker’s Bus is not free. It is operated by the Yosemite National Park concessioner. For prices and schedule check HERE.