Tioga Road Drive

Trip ideas while visiting Yosemite National Park in California

Tioga Road Drive

If you’re looking to admire stunning vistas in Yosemite National Park without putting in a lot of effort, consider taking a scenic drive along Tioga Road. This road stretches from the lower part of Yosemite Valley to a high elevation of almost 10,000 feet, providing breathtaking panoramic views throughout the journey. Starting at the Tioga Pass entrance station on the park’s eastern side, the road covers approximately 50 miles before reaching its endpoint near the Hodgdon Meadow campground in the west.

Tioga Road offers numerous pullouts where drivers can pause and capture the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings. One highly recommended spot is Olmsted Point, where you can witness hikers conquering the legendary Half Dome. At this location, there’s a convenient parking lot that allows you to step out of your car and explore the vicinity. Additionally, many people find joy in pausing to appreciate the majestic Pothole Dome and Lembert Dome, observing hikers as they ascend the granite peaks. It’s advisable to traverse the road at a leisurely pace, taking frequent breaks to seize memorable photo opportunities.