Travel Note
We’re so excited you’ll be joining us for our wedding in Yosemite Valley! We know the park can be a little tricky to plan for, so we’ve gathered all the information you might need to make your trip as smooth (and fun!) as possible. From getting to the park, finding a place to stay, and navigating the valley, to tips on what to pack and explore while you’re here, this page has you covered. Whether you’re coming for the wedding only or planning to spend a few extra days soaking in the scenery, we hope this guide helps you feel prepared and excited for our Yosemite adventure.
Travel Note
We recommend: Fresno Yosemite International Airport 2.5h drive to Yosemite Valley Many car rental options YARTS bus option Other airports: (closest) Merced Regional Airport 2h drive to the valley Car rental options in Merced not at the airport YARTS bus option (most flight options) San Francisco International Airport 4h drive to the valley Many car rental options
Travel Note
We recommend entering Yosemite through the western entrances for the smoothest drive and easiest access to Yosemite Valley. From the western entrances, it's about a 30-60 minute drive to Yosemite Valley. We don't recommend using the Tioga Pass entrance on the east side. The Pass typically closes in November due to snow and is ~2hrs from Yosemite Valley. Gas & Travel Tips There are gas stations in Yosemite National Park, but beware there are none in Yosemite Valley where the venue is located. The nearest stations to the venue are about 30 minutes West from the Valley. If you're like Taylor, you'll be paranoid and fill up in the towns near the park entrances. GPS GPS and Google Maps can be unreliable in Yosemite Valley, so following posted road signs is your best guide. Chains & Winter Driving Chains are required in snowy or icy conditions, usually November through April. Although snow in October is becoming less and less likely, it is still possible. Rental cars generally don’t provide chains, but all vehicles—including rentals with all-season tires—must comply with chain requirements. Alternative to Driving If you prefer not to drive or worry about chains, you can park your car at a YARTS bus stop on Highway 140 (e.g., Mariposa or El Portal, depending on current chain controls) and take YARTS into and out of the valley. YARTS Bus Website: www.yarts.com Comfortable transit from Merced, Fresno, Mammoth Lakes, and Sonora. A great option if you’d rather not drive—just check pick-up and drop-off times. Wildlife Reminder Yosemite is home to wildlife, especially bears. Never leave food or scented items in your car or unattended, and always follow speed limits to keep both wildlife and guests safe. Yosemite Park Info Entrance fee: $35 per vehicle Parking: Free around the valley floor
Travel Note
Room Block Info Group Code: 16O4H2 Booking site: www.travelyosemite.com After searching, click “Have a Promo Code?” to enter the group code and view room block options. Dates: October 29–November 1 You may book 1, 2, or 3 nights (we recommend at least 2). We’ve set aside a small block of 20 rooms at The Ahwahnee and Yosemite Valley Lodge, but please don’t feel any pressure to book within the room block. We recommend first searching without the group code to explore all available lodging options, including Curry Village. Staying in Yosemite Valley is the most convenient option for the venue, though there are also wonderful and easily accessible places to stay just outside the valley, including El Portal, Wawona, and Yosemite West. For additional options, we recommend exploring other lodging websites as well as Airbnb or VRBO. And because this is Yosemite 🌲, there are plenty of campgrounds and glamping options for our adventure-inclined guests!
Travel Note
The best way to explore Yosemite Valley is by taking advantage of the free daily shuttle service (7:00 am–10:00 pm), or by biking or walking. Parking can be limited, so we recommend parking once at central areas like Yosemite Village or Curry Village and leaving your car there for the day. The Valleywide and East Valley shuttle routes make it easy to reach popular trails, viewpoints, lodging, and visitor centers—no car required! Transportation Options at a Glance Free Valley Shuttles: The easiest way to get around, with two routes connecting major stops throughout the Valley. Biking: A fun and flexible option! Yosemite has plenty of bike paths and rental locations. Walking: Many must-see spots are close together and connected by scenic walking paths. Driving: Personal vehicles are allowed, but traffic and limited parking can make driving tricky during busy times.
Travel Note
No need to worry! There are plenty of dining options in Yosemite Valley. Each lodge offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and groceries are available at the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center. The Arch Rock Entrance via El Portal is only 30mins away from Yosemite Valley. You can find gas and groceries here.
Travel Note
For most everything you could need, visit www.yosemite.com For trail and road closures, visit www.nps.gov