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Yosemite lodging Late may`early june

For lodging near Yellowstone, we are staying two nights in Fish Camp and 4 nights near the Big Oak Entrance. Is this too much on the western side? Can we visit Mammoth Lakes for the day or is it too far?

It sounds like your lodging plan focuses heavily on the western and southern parts of Yosemite, which is convenient for Yosemite Valley, Mariposa Grove, and Glacier Point, but it does limit your access to the high country like Tuolumne Meadows and areas toward Mammoth Lakes.

Regarding Mammoth Lakes:

  • From Fish Camp or the Big Oak Flat/Mariposa area, a day trip to Mammoth Lakes is technically possible but challenging. The drive from Yosemite Valley to Mammoth Lakes via Tioga Pass (Highway 120 East) is around 2.5–3 hours one way without stops.
  • Late May to early June may still have snow at higher elevations, and Tioga Pass often opens in late May to early June depending on the snowpack, so check current road conditions. If the pass is closed, the drive would be impossible or require a huge detour around the southern Sierra.
  • Even if the pass is open, a round trip would be 5–6+ hours of driving, leaving limited time to enjoy Mammoth Lakes, especially with family considerations.

Alternative suggestions:

  • Focus on Yosemite’s highlights accessible from your western-side lodgings: Yosemite Valley, Mariposa Grove, Glacier Point (if open), and Wawona. These areas can easily fill your 4-day itinerary.
  • If you really want to see Mammoth Lakes or the eastern Sierra, consider staying at least one night near Lee Vining or Mammoth Lakes to break up the drive and enjoy the area without being rushed.
  • Consider shorter day trips closer to your lodging, like Hetch Hetchy or Tuolumne Grove (depending on road conditions), to experience more of the park without the long drive.

Overall, staying entirely on the western side is convenient for Yosemite Valley and southern attractions. A Mammoth Lakes day trip from your current lodging is possible only if Tioga Pass is open and you are comfortable with a long drive, but it may not be worth the time and effort for a full family experience.

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