Tioga Pass
Yosemite National Park, California
Road
40 miles | 4,010 ft elevation
Tioga Pass is a scenic road that runs through the northern part of Yosemite National Park from Crane Flat through Tuolumne Meadows and into the town of Lee Vining. In the spring, there is an opportunity to ride Tioga Pass without cars! Every year there is a short window (usually around 3 to 7 days) when snow plowing has been completed but the roads are still closed to vehicles and only bikes are allowed (see details in the Notes below). Riding Tioga Pass is not for the faint of heart as this out and back route will have you climbing and descending for as many miles as you want to endure.
Starting from Tuolumne Grove Trailhead, head east on Tioga Road and begin the first climb. After about 3 miles, you will have a bit of a descent before reaching the next big climb around mile 7. For the next 8 miles you’ll climb through forests, past granite rocks and waterfalls (in the spring). Around mile 15, enjoy the 4-mile descent and the sweeping views as you turn every corner. This route’s turn-around point is just past Yosemite Creek Picnic Area at mile 20, but you can continue on for more miles and when you’re ready, turn around and head back to the starting point.
For another challenging ride that also has “Bikes Only” days, see the Glacier Point route page.
For a leisurely route through the park, see the Yosemite Valley route page.
Hotel Recommendation
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oakhurst-Yosemite Park Area – this hotel is located in the town of Oakhurst, about 16 miles from the Yosemite South Gate entrance (about 40 miles from Yosemite Valley). It is clean and comfortable and offers a free breakfast. You can find grocery stores and restaurant options just down the street.
There are lodging options within the park; however, it can be difficult to secure a reservation so be sure to plan months in advance if you want to stay within the park.
Notes
"Bikes Only" dates and number of days are different every year, as it depends on the snowfall that season and the park’s plowing schedule. If you’re able to make last minute plans, I highly recommend taking advantage of these days! Visit the park’s official Winter Road Closures page for information on road closures and plowing progress.
If you ride Tioga Road during “Bikes Only” days, there are no services available, so plan food and hydration accordingly.
You will need to pay a park entrance fee to enter the park (whether by car, bike or foot).
Reservations to enter the park may be required, so be sure to review the official website for the latest information.
Yosemite is one of the most popular National Parks, so expect crowds and aim to enter the park early in the morning to avoid long lines at the entrance gate.
There are several dining options in Yosemite Valley. Be sure to check hours of operation on the park’s website.
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