Three Favorite Yosemite Area Fall Drives
Although there’s no shortage of great scenery in Yosemite National Park, the drive to and from this California treasure can also be a treat for the senses. That’s especially true in the fall when the leaves start to change colors, and there’s a hint of autumn in the air. So take it slow and enjoy the journey — and the scenery — on one or more of these Yosemite area fall drives.
Sonora Pass
www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/stanislaus/recarea/?recid=21873
Sonora Pass tops the list of Yosemite area fall drives. Although Highway 120 is the most popular western route to Yosemite, Highway 108, which traverses Sonora Pass, makes a nice alternative. Not only is this route less crowded, but it also boasts a number of scenic stops along the way. As an added bonus, since it’s not recommended for trailers it’s pleasantly devoid of larger vehicles.
The route begins just east of Sonora as it winds through pine forests, before the grade gets increasingly steeper and the greenery is replaced with massive granite formations. You’ll probably spot some snowfields at the 9,624 summit before the road continues downhill on the east side, and passes hidden waterfalls from the melting snow. The road ends at Highway 395, where you can go south to Yosemite or north to Carson City. It’s a 97-mile drive but allow several hours for the journey, as there are lots of steep grades and curves along the way. And don’t forget to stop at Donnell Vista for a stunning wheelchair-accessible view of the namesake mountain reservoir.
Tioga Road
www.nps.gov/yose
This scenic route goes right through Yosemite National Park, and connects Crane Flat on the west with Highway 395 on the east. The 39-mile road features some of the most dramatic scenery in the park, as it transitions from forests and meadows to lakes and granite domes, before it crosses Tioga Pass at the 9,945 foot elevation point.
There are a number of scenic viewpoints along the way, but Tenaya Lake is a must-stop. The most accessible spot to take in this alpine lake is the easternmost one, which features a large parking lot with accessible parking spaces. From there, an accessible asphalt and boardwalk path winds through the forest, crosses a bridge and ends on the lakeshore. There are several picnic tables there, but the accessible one is set on an asphalt pad, while the others are in sand. It’s a pleasant spot to enjoy the view, even if you don’t pack along a lunch.
June Lake Loop
www.junelakeloop.org
Last but not least on the list of Yosemite area fall drives is the June Lake Loop. This scenic route is located on the east side of Yosemite, and it’s a prime leaf peeper pick in the fall. And since it’s just a short detour off of Highway 395, it’s easy to do on the way to or from the national park.
From Mammoth Lakes head north on Highway 395 for about 20 miles, then take a left on Highway 158 at June Lake Junction. The 15-mile June Lake Loop travels past June, Gull, Silver and Grant Lakes, before it rejoins Highway 395 just north of the Highway 120 East junction. There are several places to stop along the way for great lake views; and this drive is especially scenic in the fall when the Aspens put on a very colorful show. There are a number of pullouts along the way, and you can also stop off for lunch in June Lake Village.
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