Las Vegas to Yosemite

[Andyboy]

I'm driving from Vegas to Yosemite in a few weeks and just wondering if any one had done it and what advice there might be? Also interested if people have any must do's while in Yosemite?

Thanks

[vtgts300kw]

Did it a few years ago. I'll try remember the stunning piece of blacktop we took. Saw 2 cars in the 2 hours we were on the road, and I remember thinking we were driving on perfectly sealed tarmac, higher than NZ's highest peak.

edit: Highway 168 to Big Pine.

Edited by vtgts300kw on Saturday 20th August 03:51

Edited by vtgts300kw on Saturday 20th August 03:53

[llewop]

We did it a few years ago - had a stop-over in Death Valley to break up the journey and see something/somewhere a bit different.

Do keep an eye on your fuel level vs where the next petrol station might be, vaguely recall them not being as common as you'd like!

[BuzzLightyear]

We did the trip a few years ago, although Yosemite to Vegas and it's a great drive. We had a long detour because the Tioga (sp) Pass was closed due to snow and the route we did take was so steep that the brakes on the hire car (Dodge Durango V8 Hemi )started smoking!

The changes in terrain and temperature are breath-taking; driving through snow-lined passes in the morning and stopping inDeath Valley that evening where it was still 37 degrees at 7pm. Mono Lake is on the way IIRC and is also worth seeing.

Yosemite itself is amazing and you can also see the giant sequoias. We stayed just outside Yosemite Park in the Park View Lodge (again, IIRC), on the side of the River Merced and would recommend it if you haven't already booked accommodation.

As the roads are so good and clear, it's tempting to put your foot down a bit - just watch out for speed traps and, as suggested, keep an eye on your fuel. Also there are parts of the route so steep, there are signs advising you to switch off your air-con although this shouldn't be an issue if yo have a decent, newish car.

I usually make a point of not visiting the same place twice. California is the one exception I'd make.

Have a great time.

[Roo]

Did it a few years ago. Easily doable in a day if that's what you need to do.

We were heading to Lee Vining so just outside the eastern entrance.

Watch out for Benton if you go that way.