First time to Yosemite

Question

We will be picking up our rental car in Fisherman’s Wharf in SF at 8:30 on sept 9. Driving to Yosemite and staying at Tenaya Lodge. From google maps it seems we won’t get to Yosemite valley until 12:30 or 1. And then another 1.5 hours to the lodge. We have an all day tour the next day with Discover Yosemite that will cover Glacier Pt, Mariposa Grove and the Valley . My question is should we try to go into Yosemite Valley that first day on our own or will it be too busy in the Afternoon? I looked at Tioga Road but I think we would be more interested in the Valley.

Answer

Given your schedule, driving from San Francisco to Yosemite and then on to Tenaya Lodge, you’re looking at roughly a 4–5 hour drive including breaks. Arriving at Yosemite Valley around 12:30–1 PM means you’ll hit the park in the middle of the afternoon, which is usually a busier time, especially near popular viewpoints and parking areas.

Here’s a breakdown of considerations:

Traffic and crowds: September is still a popular time, though slightly less busy than peak summer months. Even in mid-September, Yosemite Valley can get crowded in the afternoon, especially at iconic spots like Tunnel View, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan viewpoints.
Parking: Afternoon parking in the valley can be challenging. Shuttle services run on a set schedule, but if you arrive late, you may need to park a bit further from key landmarks and walk.
Time constraints: Since you have an all-day tour the next day covering Glacier Point, Mariposa Grove, and the Valley, you might not need to rush into the valley on your own that first day.

Options to consider:

Option 1 – Scenic stops only: Drive into Yosemite Valley briefly to take a few iconic photos at Tunnel View or Bridalveil Fall, then continue to Tenaya Lodge to settle in. This minimizes stress and still gives you a taste of the Valley without fighting traffic.
Option 2 – Skip the Valley on Day 1: Head straight to Tenaya Lodge, enjoy the amenities, and rest for your full-day Discover Yosemite tour. You’ll be fresh and able to enjoy the Valley and other attractions without feeling rushed.
Option 3 – Quick short hike: If you arrive with extra energy, consider a short, easy hike near the lodge or along the valley floor, such as Lower Yosemite Fall Trail. It’s a way to stretch your legs and get a bit of sightseeing without committing to the full Valley experience that day.

Overall, since you have a full-day guided tour planned, it may be more practical to take it easy on your arrival day. A few scenic photo stops and a relaxing evening at Tenaya Lodge can make your trip more enjoyable and reduce stress from afternoon crowds.

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