Tips for Going to & Coming Back from
Yosemite to Modesto
This guide is for all Modesto locals and visitors planning to venture out to Yosemite National Park this summer. Here are a few helpful transit tips to get you from the valley floor up to the mountains and back home again in a breeze. Embarking on this iconic journey means navigating a mix of steep mountain passes, hidden roadside gems, and changing traffic patterns along the way. Planning the highway route ahead of time ensures a stress-free commute so everyone in the car can simply relax and enjoy the changing scenery.
Morning Departure and the Drive Up on Highway 120
Leave Early to Beat the Crowd: Starting the drive before 8 AM is the best way to avoid long lines for breakfast and fuel. Grabbing a quick coffee and pumping gas in Oakdale early ensures a smooth run before the roads get busy.
Drive the Mountain Pass with Caution: After passing the Yosemite Junction, Highway 120 shifts into the winding, ascending turns of New Priest Grade Road. Drivers must stay steady and focused, as this two-way mountain pass features intimidating steep drops right outside the passenger windows.
Enjoy the Shaded Forest Entrance: Entering the Groveland area brings immediate shade as giant pine trees block out the morning sun. Rolling down the windows to catch the crisp mountain breeze while cruising past the historic buildings makes for a classic road trip experience.
Arriving and Navigating the Gates
Anticipate Roadside Maintenance Delays: Travelers should expect occasional stop-and-go traffic due to active summer road construction and tree clearing. Fortunately, the maintenance crew is highly efficient, keeping wait times brief and providing a great opportunity to take in the fresh mountain air.
Have Your Gate Pass Ready: Pulling up to the entrance booth with your park pass and ID ready makes getting through the gates a total breeze. The ranger will check your cards, hand them right back, and give you a free park map so you can head straight into the valley.
Lookout for Unexpected Changes in the Road: Most of the roads here are one-way, so make sure you know which lane to be in before your next turn. You will lose cell service, so pay close attention to the physical map and lookout for road signs. One wrong turn means no shortcuts and a frustrating 20-minute re-routing process. Keep an eye out for the upcoming roundabout where you exit for the Ahwahnee Hotel or the Welcome Center.
The Afternoon Journey Home
Exit via Highway 140 for a Smoother Ride: When it is time to head back to Modesto, taking the Highway 140 exit offers a completely different, peaceful experience. This route follows winding streams and rivers at a gentle grade, offering a relaxing alternative to the steep mountain descent of Highway 120.
Collect Souvenirs at a Discounted Price: While custom local artwork is available at the central valley shops, stopping at the Yosemite Gift Shop in Mariposa on the way home reveals keychains, apparel, and a giant collection of every rock and gem you can think of at a lower cost.
Head Back to Modesto at Sunset: Wrapping up a long day of exploring allows your group to unwind and chat about the best views of the day during the drive home. Leaving the park via the lower highway ensures a calm, scenic transition back into the Central Valley just as the day cools down.
