Yosemite Area Transportation System (YARTS)

In recent years, there has been much publicity about highway crowding in Yosemite. Visitors can lose time and patience getting into Yosemite Valley and trying to find a parking space. To avoid Yosemite gridlock, try the Yosemite Area Transportation System (YARTS for short), particularly if you are going into Yosemite for a day trip.

The service operates year-round along CA 140 between Merced and Yosemite Valley. During the summer months when Tioga Pass is open, YARTS also offers one round trip a day between Mammoth Lake and Yosemite Valley.

Round trip fare varies depending on where you get on, but is mostly in the $10 to $15 range. When considering the price, remember that you will not have to pay the $20 per car entrance fee to get into the park.

Buses run frequently during the day and early evening with stops in Mariposa, Midpines and El Portal. Call (877) 989-2787 (toll free) or (209) 372-4487 or get the schedule online

NOTE: In April, 2006, a rockslide damaged Highway 140 east of Mariposa between the Yosemite Bug Hostel and Cedar Lodge. As of early September, 2006, CalTrans reported that the road is once again open, with a section of one-way, controlled traffic about 20 miles east of Mariposa. You can check the status of the highway online. Vehicles over 28 feet long are not allowed and will continue to use Highway 120 through Groveland or Highway 41 through Oakhurst.