Yosemite to Mammoth Lakes is 90-120 miles (145-193 km), depending on the route.
The drive from Yosemite National Park to Mammoth Lakes typically takes 2.5-4 hours via Tioga Pass (seasonal) or longer via alternate routes. Distance varies by starting point (e.g., Yosemite Valley vs. Tuolumne Meadows) and road conditions. Always check for closures, especially in winter.
Key Routes & Distances
- Tioga Pass Road (SR 120 East): ~90 miles (145 km), fastest but closed Nov-May/June due to snow.
- Southern Route (SR 41 + US 395): ~150 miles (240 km), year-round but adds ~1.5 hours.
- Northern Route (SR 120 West + US 395): ~120 miles (193 km), scenic but slower (3.5+ hours).
Drive Time Comparison by Route
| Route | Distance | Drive Time (No Stops) | Seasonal Access | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tioga Pass (SR 120 East) | ~90 miles (145 km) | 2.5-3 hours | Late May-October | Tuolumne Meadows, Olmsted Point |
| Southern Route (SR 41 + US 395) | ~150 miles (240 km) | 4-4.5 hours | Year-round | Bass Lake, Fresno, Bishop |
| Northern Route (SR 120 West + US 395) | ~120 miles (193 km) | 3.5-4 hours | Year-round (delays possible) | Groveland, Sonora Pass (seasonal) |
Factors Affecting Travel Time
- Road Closures: Tioga Pass closes with snow (typically November-May/June). Check road status before trips.
- Traffic: Summer weekends add delays, especially near Yosemite Valley exits.
- Weather: Chain controls or storms can double drive times on US 395.
- Starting Point: From Yosemite Valley, add 30-60 minutes vs. leaving from Tuolumne Meadows.
Best Time to Travel
- Summer (June-September): Tioga Pass open; ideal for shortest route. Crowds peak July-August.
- Fall (October-November): Tioga Pass may close early; southern route safer but longer.
- Winter (December-April): Only southern/northern routes viable. Carry chains; expect delays.
- Spring (May): Tioga Pass often opens late May-check updates for exact dates.
Alternate Transportation Options
- Shuttle Services: Seasonal buses connect Yosemite to Mammoth (e.g., YARTS + Eastern Sierra Transit). Reservations required.
- Private Tours: Guided van services offer door-to-door transport (4-6 hours, ~$150-$300 per person).
- Rideshare: Limited availability; coordinate in advance via forums or apps.
Scenic Stops Along the Way
- Tioga Pass Route: Olmsted Point (iconic Half Dome views), Tenaya Lake (swimming), Mono Lake (tufa towers).
- Southern Route: Bass Lake (boating), Fresno's Forestière Vineyards, Alabama Hills (movie filming site).
- Northern Route: Groveland's historic downtown, Sonora Pass (hiking), June Lake Loop (fall colors).