This article describes which public transport methods to use to travel to Yosemite National Park from San Francisco. This option is great for travelers wanting to avoid the hassle of driving.
Why Should I Use Public Transport?
Traveling by public transport is a safer and easier option. You don't need to worry about installing tire chains and you don't need to worry about the possibility of getting stuck in winter driving conditions. Plus, you get to enjoy the convenience of Wi-Fi on the bus or train.
Tire Chains
How to get there
1. San Francisco - Emeryville Station
You'll first need to travel to Emeryville Station. The best way to do this will vary depending on your hotel location. However, the most direct option will usually take your street car and bus about an hour.
2. Emeryville Station - Merced, CA
At Emeryville Station, you can purchase an Amtrak ticket to Merced, CA.
Amtrak:
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The link above will take you to the Amtrak ticket purchase site for the United States and Canada. You can find additional resources to learn more about the railroad system. Unlike most countries that have a state-owned railway system, Amtrak operates using privately owned railroads.
Once you get to the booking page, choose if you'd like a one-way or return trip. Then enter all your information, including departure and arrival points, travel date, number of passengers, details on your baggage, etc. Even if the page is in a different language you will need to enter the location names in English.
When checking a list of English place names, be sure to check everything one last time before you submit.~
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When you search, you will find train departures at different times. The train shown here departed at 7:45 a.m.~
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While you may purchase personal insurance, it is totally optional. Insurance, however, is $9.~
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Tickets can also be bought at the station counter, but to avoid long lines and missing your train, make sure to give yourself plenty of time before your train departs.\ Sites along the way can be nice, and the train ride itself is a part of the experience. Every leg of your journey is more than just a transfer.\ Amtrak trains feature spacious seating, dining cars, and usable wi-fi, along with the nice scenery that comes along with the train ride. \~
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3. \ Merced, CA - YARTS Bus - Yosemite \~
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Upon arriving in \ Merced, CA, the final connection is the YARTS bus to Yosemite.\ This is a large air-conditioned coach with a restroom and power outlets for iPhones and tablets. It also has seat belts and space for larger bags. \ YARTS official website:
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On the map below, follow the blue route line. The bus will stop at all of the marked places.\~
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The bus operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not sell tickets online, so you can buy your ticket to ride at the time of boarding. The boarding points are indicated by the ones in the image below. \~
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YARTS also runs routes to Yosemite from other cities. Check the official website for more info. Before you go, make sure to plan if you will return the same day or if you will stay in Yosemite for several days.
Because a Yosemite entrance pass is valid for seven days after purchase, you can plan your visits to Yosemite for a later date if needed. Please note this guide is for the round-trip excursion from San Francisco to Yosemite; it will not cover an extensive itinerary for sightseeing inside Yosemite.
Returning from Yosemite is Easy.
The return trip is the same as the first trip. You will take the YART bus back to Merced, CA, and then you will take the train back.
