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Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Yosemite National Park, CA, USA from $35: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Santa Cruz, United States of America
to
Yosemite National Park, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Cruz to Yosemite National Park: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$35 by carBest price
343.2 kmDistance
4h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Yosemite National Park with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Bus
Train
Drive
Average Duration
9h  53m
Estimated price
$25-180
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  25m
Estimated price
$35-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 343.2 km
Duration: 4h 25m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
11h  8m
Estimated price
$137-202
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
10h  52m
Estimated price
$155-220

Traveling From Santa Cruz to Yosemite National Park

Embarking on a journey from the coastal charm of Santa Cruz to the rugged beauty of Yosemite National Park reveals a fascinating shift from quaint beach towns to towering granite cliffs and serene wilderness.

Best Neighbourhoods in Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park features diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique experiences.

Yosemite Valley
• Home to iconic El Capitan and Half Dome.
• Central hub for visitors with amenities and trails.
Glacier Point
• Breathtaking panoramic views of Yosemite Valley.
• Ideal spot for sunset photography and stargazing.
Mariposa Grove
• Features towering Giant Sequoias, some over 2,700 years old.
• Offers serene hiking trails amidst ancient trees.

Best Times To Visit Yosemite National Park's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience at Yosemite's attractions.

Yosemite Valley
Visit in early morning or late afternoon for stunning lighting and fewer crowds.
Glacier Point
Go during weekdays in late spring for breathtaking views and fewer visitors.
Mariposa Grove
Visit in the late afternoon for a tranquil experience among the sequoias.

Yosemite National Park Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Yosemite National Park experiences a varied climate, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters that influence your visit significantly. Late spring and early fall offer the most pleasant conditions, making these the best times to explore the park's stunning landscapes.

Dining Recommendation in Yosemite National Park

At the historic Wawona Hotel, savor the wild game stew, which showcases locally sourced venison and seasonal vegetables, offering a hearty taste of the wilderness. This dining experience contrasts with Santa Cruz's beachside fare, immersing you in a rustic atmosphere surrounded by towering pines and the sounds of nature.

Santa Cruz - Yosemite National Park operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Cruz and Yosemite National Park, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (831) 425-8600
Website
scmtd.com

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$1803-1551

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
$1803-1551
Contact phone
+1 877-989-2787
Website
yarts.com

Bus from Merced Amtrak to Midtown Mariposa

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$1552-1553

Bus from Merced Transpo to Yosemite Valley Visitors Center

Average Duration
2h 51m
Estimated price
$259-18033
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Santa Clara / S 24th St - San Jose to Los Banos, CA

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$18036-1806
Website
mercedthebus.com

Bus from San Luis Plaza to Transpo

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$1554-253
Train
Contact phone
1800-411-7245
Website
acerail.com

Train from San Jose Amtrak Station to Stockton- Robert J Cabral Amtrak Station

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$251-252
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from San Jose to Stockton

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$253-254

Train from Stockton to Merced

Average Duration
1h 13m
Estimated price
$1803-1804

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Cruz to Yosemite National Park.

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Yosemite National Park is approximately 130 miles by road. By car, the typical travel time is around 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and the chosen route. If you opt for public transportation, such as a bus or train, it may take considerably longer, roughly 4 to 6 hours, as connections and schedules vary. For a more scenic but slower journey, biking could take a full day or more, depending on your pace.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option from Santa Cruz to Yosemite National Park is driving your own car, as it allows for flexibility and can take about 2 to 3 hours. Carpooling with friends or family can also help reduce costs while maintaining a similar travel time. Alternatively, taking a bus to a nearby town and then arranging a shuttle to the park can be budget-friendly, but it may take longer, typically around 4 to 6 hours depending on connections. Overall, driving remains the most efficient way to balance both time and cost.
Traveling from Santa Cruz to Yosemite National Park can vary in cost depending on the mode of transportation. If you drive your own car, you'll mainly incur fuel costs, which could range from $20 to $40, depending on your vehicle's efficiency and gas prices. For bus services, tickets typically range from $30 to $60 each way, plus any additional shuttle fees once you arrive near the park. If you choose to rent a vehicle, daily rental rates can start around $50, not including fuel and insurance, making it a potentially pricier option overall.
To get from Santa Cruz to Yosemite National Park without using public transportation, you can drive your own vehicle or rent a car for the trip. The most direct route typically involves taking Highway 17 to Highway 120, which will lead you to the park's entrance. Alternatively, you could consider carpooling with friends or family, making the journey more enjoyable and cost-effective. For a unique experience, biking is possible, though it would require significant planning and preparation due to the distance and terrain.
Traveling from Santa Cruz to Yosemite National Park without a car can be done by first using a combination of rideshare services and local transit options. You might start by taking a rideshare or taxi to a nearby city with better transit connections, like Modesto or Merced. From there, you can catch a bus service that goes directly to Yosemite, such as the YARTS bus. Alternatively, you could look for shuttle services that operate between Santa Cruz and the park, which can offer a more direct route with fewer transfers.
There is no direct public transportation link between Santa Cruz and Yosemite National Park. Travelers typically need to make at least one transfer, often connecting through cities like Merced or Modesto. Buses like Greyhound or the YARTS service can help bridge the gap, but they require some planning for schedules and routes. Rideshare services or shuttle services may also be available for more direct transportation options.
There are no direct flights between Santa Cruz and Yosemite National Park, as Yosemite does not have its own commercial airport. The nearest major airports are in Fresno and Sacramento, each requiring a drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the park from the airport. Flight costs can vary significantly, typically ranging from $100 to $300 depending on the airline, booking time, and season. Travelers often choose to fly into these airports and then rent a car for the drive to Yosemite.
There are several lodging options near Yosemite National Park, ranging from hotels and lodges to campgrounds and vacation rentals. Inside the park, the historic Yosemite Valley Lodge and Wawona Hotel provide convenient access to scenic viewpoints and trails. For those looking to stay outside the park, towns like Mariposa, Groveland, and Oakhurst offer a variety of accommodations, including motels and cabins. Additionally, camping options are available at many campgrounds within and around the park for a more immersive outdoor experience.

Trips from Santa Cruz

Trips to Yosemite National Park