Ever wished for a road trip that started with neon lights and ended with mountain hikes? Then a Las Vegas to Yosemite road trip deserves a place on your bucket list. You’ll go from people watching on the Vegas strip to stargazing across peaks and valleys. Plus, the desert landscape between the two destinations is packed with photo-worthy stops, ranging from ghost towns to hot springs.

We’re covering everything you need to know about this one-of-a-kind adventure. By the end, you’ll have practical travel tips, insider insights and details on the best time of year to make the trek. If you’re craving a road trip that’s as dynamic as it is quirky, this one has your name written all over it.

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How Long Does it Take to Get to Yosemite from Las Vegas?

The drive from Las Vegas to Yosemite usually takes 7 to 9 hours, depending on your chosen route and traffic. The distance of the most popular routes ranges from 400 to 500 miles, so plan for a few stops to break up the drive. 

 Luckily, there’s no shortage of must-see attractions along the way, making the drive anything but boring. So don’t just ask “How far is Yosemite from Las Vegas?” — ask what makes the drive special, because this trip isn’t meant to be rushed.

Fastest and Most Popular Route from Las Vegas to Yosemite

Want to know the fastest way to get from Vegas to Yosemite National Park? When Tioga Pass is open (typically late May through October), the quickest and most scenic route is via I-15 N to US-395 N, then west on CA-120 through Tioga Pass. This 400-mile route takes approximately 7 to 8 hours and winds through spectacular desert and alpine scenery, including the Eastern Sierra. 

When Tioga Pass is closed for the season, you’ll need to take a southern detour: follow I-15 N to CA-58 W, then CA-99 N to CA-41 N, entering the park via the South Entrance near Oakhurst. This route adds a bit of time (about 8 to 9 hours total), but it takes you through major towns like Barstow, Bakersfield, and Fresno, where you can grab a bite, stock up on supplies, or recharge your EV.

Alternative Scenic Routes from Las Vegas to Yosemite Park

Want to explore off the beaten path? If you have extra time, these alternative routes offer unique landscapes and memorable moments that are well worth a detour.

• Sequoia National Forest: Take CA-178 or CA-99 west via Bakersfield for access to Grant Grove and Hume Lake. There, you can walk amongst the magical sequoia trees, hike quiet trails and take in mountain views before continuing your journey.
  
  
• Lake Isabella: If you head towards Bakersfield via Death Valley, Lake Isabella offers a serene nature stop. This scenic body of water nestled in the Sierra foothills has picturesque picnic spots. Pull over for lunch with a view. Make a day of it and rent a boat on the lake (and let the water wash away the sins of your Vegas trip).
  
  
• Coarsegold & Oakhurst: Enjoy laid-back, small-town vibes in these gateway towns. Coarsegold offers a blend of Gold Rush history, outdoor recreation and quaint cafes and shops. Oakhurst is known for flavorful local eateries, antique stores and overall rustic charm. Both towns make the perfect stop for snacks or souvenirs before heading into the park.
  
  
• Bass Lake: Looking for a relaxed day on the water? Bass Lake, just south of Yosemite, is known for its accessible shores with plenty of areas to picnic, sunbathe or launch a kayak. You can find welcoming waterfront restaurants on both sides of the lake, as well as general stores where you can grab supplies for Yosemite.

• Tioga Pass: Make a dramatic entrance into Yosemite via Tioga Pass, the highest highway pass in California. Known for its breathtaking scenery, like alpine lakes and blooming meadows, Tioga Pass is widely considered the most beautiful way into Yosemite. However, this route is only open during the summer months (typically late May through October). Check the National Park Service website before you travel.

• Lone Pine & Alabama Hills: See where classic Western films and more recent blockbusters like “Iron Man” and “Django Unchained” were filmed. The area's dramatic rock formations and Mount Whitney views create the perfect backdrop for action-packed stories.
  
  
• Manzanar National Historic Site: Take a moment to contemplate the past at this preserved WWII Japanese-American internment camp. It offers a moment of reflection between Lone Pine and Bishop.
  
  
• Mammoth Lakes: Explore a lively mountain town with a stop at Mammoth Lakes. Between world-class dining and ski resorts, relaxing hot springs and miles of hiking trails, Mammoth Lakes is worthy of a multi-day stay.

No matter how you choose to approach Yosemite, these detours offer more than just a scenic drive — they’re experiences in their own right.

When is the Best Time to Take the Las Vegas/Yosemite Road Trip?

Our favorite time to travel from Las Vegas to Yosemite is late September through October. The brutal summer temperatures will have mellowed out in the desert regions of Las Vegas through Death Valley. Meanwhile, the idyllic Tioga Pass leading into Yosemite will still be open, and the weather is warm enough to take advantage of the park’s many outdoor activities. Here’s what you can expect during each season in the park.

• Spring (March to May): Spring is the ideal time to visit if you want mild temperatures and fewer crowds in major destinations like Yosemite and Las Vegas. The high summer temperatures haven’t arrived yet, and you’ll enjoy cool desert nights on the Nevada stretch of your trip. Plus, Spring is when you can catch the vibrant wildflowers blooming across Yosemite’s many meadows. Just note that some higher elevation areas might still be closed due to snow. 

• Summer (June to August): Summer is the best time to enjoy uninterrupted access to Yosemite’s attractions and you can cool off in the park’s bodies of water (always check swimming rules before diving in). Keep in mind that summer is the busy season in the park. Reservations might be required, and you should plan to arrive at major attractions early to avoid lines. It’s a good idea to book accommodations in advance, too. Campsite reservation info can be found here. While summer weather in the desert can be unforgiving, there is no shortage of swimming pools or air-conditioned casinos to cool off in Las Vegas. Just be sure to pack plenty of water for the drive from Vegas to Yosemite, in case you face car troubles.

• Fall (September to November): Nature photographers should visit Yosemite in the fall at least once (but once you see it, you’ll want to return year after year). The park offers stunning fall foliage. What seems like every color of the rainbow takes over the trees and mountain peaks. Some travelers prefer fall’s cooler temperatures and light crowds, too, which offer a tranquil experience. On the Vegas side of the trip, fall is when the temperature finally comes down, allowing you to enjoy more outdoor activities comfortably. 

• Winter (December to February): A snow-covered Yosemite is an enchanting sight. Waterways freeze over and fresh powder decorates the mountain peaks. This is the ideal time to visit the park for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some snow sports like cross-country skiing or ice skating in Curry Village. Some roads may be closed due to snow, especially near Tioga Pass. Check road conditions beforehand, and make sure your vehicle is equipped for winter driving. Winter happens to be one of the only times when the weather is bearable enough in Death Valley for outdoor activities. If you’re looking to explore this stretch of the drive further, winter is the ideal time to go. 

Luckily, every section of this route offers its own type of year-round charm. Just keep in mind that the journey from Vegas to Yosemite covers multiple climates, so pack for desert heat and mountain chill.

What is the Drive from Las Vegas, NV to Yosemite National Park Like? 

The drive from Las Vegas to Yosemite is a mixture of desert landscapes, wide open roads and winding paths through peaks and valleys. A combination of dusty ghost towns and surreal roadside attractions breaks up the drive, and frequent natural treasures provide the chance to hike, swim or picnic. 

Winter roads traveler tip: If you’re traveling in the colder months, make sure to take an AWD or 4WD vehicle. Check chain requirements before you go — you might have to show your chains to gain access to some sections of the road.

Is there a Scenic Drive from Las Vegas to Yosemite?

Tioga Pass is arguably the most scenic drive from Las Vegas to Yosemite. However, there are several picturesque routes. Death Valley, with its sand dunes and colorful rock formations, is haunting and enchanting in its own right. Between Death Valley and Yosemite, you can drive through Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest and witness some of the oldest trees on earth.

Is the Drive to Yosemite Pretty?

The drive to Yosemite is stunning. With its blend of dreamy desert landscapes, mystical forests and majestic mountains, the Vegas to Yosemite drive boasts impressive diversity. Picture-worthy sights only increase as you get closer to the park’s many entrances.

5 Must-See Stops Along the Way from Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park

Ready to go from casinos and wild crowds to mountain tops and wildlife? It’s time to enjoy a road trip to Yosemite National Park. Las Vegas is the perfect place to kick things off. Below are 5 must-see stops between Sin City and one of America’s most popular national parks.

1. Hoover Dam (~30 miles from Las Vegas)

The Hoover Dam is a hydroelectric power plant that harnesses the flow of the Colorado River. Visitors can walk across it, snapping photos of this feat of engineering from high above its rushing waters. It also provides sprawling views of nearby Lake Mead. Guided tours are available for those who want access to more restricted areas, as well as historical insights.

2. Death Valley National Park (~2 hours from Vegas)

If your travels take you through Death Valley National Park, you won’t be disappointed. This awe-inspiring stop contains famous natural formations, including Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America. The basin’s salt flats, almost extraterrestrial in appearance, are a reminder of lakes that evaporated long ago. At the extreme opposite end of sights, there’s Dante’s View, located 5,475 feet above sea level and offering sweeping views of Death Valley. 

3. Sequoia National Forest (~2.5 hours to Yosemite’s South Entrance)

Loop a national forest visit into your road trip with a drive through Sequoia National Forest, known for its towering trees and serene landscapes. You can step into a real-life fairytale at Crescent Meadow, brimming with wildflowers in the spring. Enjoy the sunset (or sunrise for early birds) at Moro Rock, an enormous granite dome offering panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. And, don’t forget to pay a visit to the General Sherman tree in Sequoia National Park, the largest tree on earth by volume. 

4. Fresno (~1-1.5 hours to Yosemite)

Get your last dose of city life before you reach Yosemite in Fresno. With plenty of restaurants and malls, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal and grab any last-minute hiking gear before continuing your journey. You can even enjoy a slice of nature serenity within the city at the Forestiere Underground Gardens, a hidden gem created by a Sicilian immigrant in the 1900s. This hand-carved subterranean dwelling contains 65 rooms, including a chapel and ballroom, as well as active fruit trees and grapevines. 

5. Mariposa (~45 minutes to Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance)

Enjoy the charming town of Mariposa before venturing into the park. It offers a blend of history and modern amenities. The California State Mining and Mineral Museum gives a peek into the area’s mining heritage, while the quaint downtown area contains beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings. Stop by the Mariposa County Courthouse, the oldest operating courthouse west of the Rockies.

Choosing the Right Entrance to Yosemite National Park

Yosemite has five main entrances, each one offering a unique vantage point and connecting to different gateway towns/cities. Coming from Las Vegas, there are three convenient entrances: Big Oak Flat, Arch Rock and South Entrance. 

Big Oak Flat Entrance (Via CA-120)

Big Oak Flat is the entrance you’ll reach coming from the central route (off the CA-140). From this entrance, you can easily access Yosemite Valley, known for its recognizable features like El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall. You’ll pass through Groveland, CA, to get to this entrance. It’s also the closest entrance to the Bay Area, so if you want to continue onward, you can tackle our San Francisco to Yosemite road trip in reverse. 

Arch Rock Entrance (Via CA-140)

If you’ll be staying near Mariposa Grove or other areas near the southern region of Yosemite, Arch Rock Entrance is a natural choice. Upon entering Arch Rock, you’ll be greeted by the giant granite formation after which the entrance is named. You’ll also enjoy nearly instant views of the Merced River, and within 10 to 15 minutes, you’ll be able to see the valley floor.

South Entrance (Via CA-41)

If you take the US-95 N and CA-41 N route, you’ll find yourself at the South Entrance. Situated near the famous Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, this entrance offers a nearly immediate opportunity for hiking. Take a moment to pull over at Tunnel View, a popular overlook offering a sweeping first view of Yosemite Valley, including El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Fall.

Learn more tips and get helpful info with our guide on how to visit Yosemite.

Tips for a Smooth Las Vegas to Yosemite Road Trip

A fun trip starts with a little preparation. While the roads between Las Vegas and Yosemite are mostly manageable, here are some tips to ensure a smooth journey.

• Check Road Conditions Ahead of Time: Yosemite’s roads are subject to closure, especially during the winter months. Always check road conditions before leaving to ensure your desired route is open/safe to travel.

• Pack emergency road gear. There can be long stretches of road that have no services between Las Vegas and Yosemite. It’s a good idea to pack a jug of gasoline, as well as reflective cones to alert others to your presence if you need to pull over.

• Pack for Weather Variability: Between the desert region of Las Vegas and the mountain peaks of Yosemite, you’ll experience a wide range of weather. Make sure to pack for both warm and cold weather. The higher elevation parts of Yosemite can be cold, even in the summer, while the desert portions of this route can be scorching hot. Layers, sunscreen and plenty of water are essential.

• Book Hotel Stays in Advance: If you’re visiting during the busy season, it’s important to book accommodations early. If you wait, you might find that most places are booked, or prices are too high. Yosemite’s on-site locations, including the lodges and campsites, fill up very early. Las Vegas hotel prices can triple during the summer, so book early and consider mid-week travel.
  
  
• Know the Entry Fees and Reservation Rules: Don’t get caught off guard by entrance fees. Yosemite currently charges $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. During peak season, entry reservations and campsite bookings may be required. Check the official Yosemite site for up-to-date policies before you go. The Sequoia National Park entrance fee ranges from $20 to $35 per vehicle.
  
  
• Use a Paper Map as a Backup: Plan your trip with a physical road map and pack it with you to reference along the way (cell service can be unreliable in some areas of the park). Our road atlas and national park guide can also give detailed information on trailheads,  campsites and points of interest in Yosemite..

Plan ahead, and your Las Vegas to Yosemite road trip can be as seamless as it is thrilling.

Keep the adventure going beyond Yosemite. Our guide on the best California road trips offers even more iconic routes through the Golden State.

Plan Your Road Trip from Vegas to Yosemite with Rand McNally Maps

There’s no road trip quite like the one from Las Vegas to Yosemite. Transitioning from the flashing lights and crowded sidewalks of Las Vegas to the towering trees and romantic valleys of Yosemite is a special experience. So take your time, pull over often and soak it all in. 

Want insider tips? Use our detailed maps and road atlases to plan your road trip. Our products ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date directions. Plus, they offer peace of mind that you’ll find your way, even when cell service is limited. Ready to explore? Viva Las Vegas (and Yosemite)!