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Best time to travel to and from Yosemite

My family and I will be visiting Yosemite, 10th-12th August. We will be driving in and out from Mariposa. When should we leave in the morning and come back, to best avoid the traffic?

Visiting Yosemite in August means you’ll be there during peak summer season, so traffic and crowds can be heavy, especially in Yosemite Valley. Planning your drive times carefully can make a significant difference in your experience.

Driving into Yosemite from Mariposa:

  • Try to leave Mariposa early in the morning, ideally around 6:30–7:00am. This will get you into the park before the main influx of day visitors and before parking lots fill up at popular trailheads.
  • If you leave later than 8:00am, expect slower traffic and limited parking at key spots like Yosemite Valley, Tunnel View, and Glacier Point Road (if open).
  • Consider stopping at a viewpoint like Tunnel View first to get your iconic photo without the crowds.

Driving out of Yosemite back to Mariposa:

  • Late afternoon traffic tends to be heavy as visitors leave the park around 4:00–6:00pm. If possible, plan to leave mid-afternoon, around 2:30–3:00pm, to avoid the longest lines at park exits.
  • If you prefer a more relaxed pace and don’t mind a later drive, leaving after 6:30–7:00pm may also work, as most day visitors will have exited by then.
  • Be aware that the sun sets relatively early in August (around 8:00pm), so plan accordingly if you leave later in the evening.

Additional tips:

  • Check for any traffic alerts or road closures before your trip, especially for Tioga Pass and Glacier Point roads.
  • Pack snacks, water, and sunscreen so you can maximize time in the park without needing to leave for basic necessities.
  • Use the park shuttle system in Yosemite Valley if you plan to park once and visit multiple spots. It can save time and reduce stress finding parking.

In summary, an early morning departure from Mariposa and a mid-to-late afternoon or early evening exit will help you avoid the heaviest traffic and make your Yosemite visit much more enjoyable.

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