Closest Airport to Yosemite National Park: 7 Best Choices
Planning a trip to Yosemite National Park and wondering which airport is the best option for your journey? Yosemite’s stunning landscapes and iconic natural landmarks draw millions of visitors each year, but its remote location in the Sierra Nevada mountains means that getting there requires some thoughtful planning. Fortunately, there are several airports nearby, each with its own advantages depending on where you’re traveling from and what kind of experience you’re after.
Whether you prefer a short drive, a scenic road trip, or access to major airlines, here are the seven best airport options for flying into Yosemite National Park.
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Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT)
Distance to Yosemite: 65 miles to the southern entrance, about 2 hours’ drive
Fresno Yosemite International Airport is the closest major airport to Yosemite National Park. Located about 65 miles from the park’s southern entrance, it’s an ideal option for visitors looking for the most direct route. Fresno Yosemite International offers flights from several major U.S. cities, and because it’s a smaller airport, navigating it is typically quick and easy.
Once you land in Fresno, the drive to Yosemite will take you through picturesque foothills and small towns, offering a scenic introduction to the park. The airport also offers rental car services, making it easy to transition from air travel to the road. If you’re flying from within California or nearby states, Fresno is often the most convenient and quickest option for getting to Yosemite.
Merced Regional Airport (MCE)
Distance to Yosemite: 75 miles to the Arch Rock Entrance, about 2 hours’ drive
Merced Regional Airport, while smaller than Fresno’s, is another excellent option for reaching Yosemite National Park, particularly if you’re looking for a quieter, hassle-free travel experience. The airport is located approximately 75 miles from Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance, and while its flight offerings are limited to select regional flights (primarily from Los Angeles), it offers a unique perk—Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) buses.
These buses run directly from the Merced airport to Yosemite, making it possible to reach the park without renting a car. This is a great option if you’re looking for an eco-friendly and stress-free way to get to the park while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Sierra foothills along the way.
Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH)
Distance to Yosemite: 42 miles to the eastern entrance, about 1 hour’s drive
For those visiting Yosemite during the summer and looking for an adventurous road trip, Mammoth Yosemite Airport is a fantastic option. Located just 42 miles from Yosemite’s Tioga Pass entrance, Mammoth provides a unique opportunity to explore the eastern side of the Sierra Nevada, which is often less crowded but equally stunning.
Keep in mind that Tioga Pass is typically closed during the winter months due to snow, so Mammoth Yosemite Airport is primarily an option for summer visitors. The drive from Mammoth to Yosemite offers dramatic views of alpine lakes, granite cliffs, and expansive wilderness. While the airport primarily serves smaller regional flights, it’s a perfect starting point for those wanting a scenic approach to the park.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Distance to Yosemite: 170 miles to the Big Oak Flat Entrance, about 4 hours’ drive
San Francisco International Airport is one of the largest and most accessible airports for travelers coming from across the globe. It’s located about 170 miles from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat entrance, and while the drive is longer (approximately 4 hours), the airport offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
San Francisco is also a fantastic gateway city for those who want to explore more of California before heading to Yosemite. From SFO, you can easily rent a car and make the journey to the park, with opportunities to stop along the way at scenic destinations like the California wine country or even historic Gold Rush towns. The drive may be longer, but for many, the convenience of SFO’s numerous flight options makes it a top choice.
Oakland International Airport (OAK)
Distance to Yosemite: 150 miles to the Big Oak Flat Entrance, about 3.5 hours’ drive
Oakland International Airport is another excellent choice for visitors traveling to Yosemite from out of state or abroad. Slightly closer to the park than San Francisco International, Oakland offers many of the same flight routes but often with fewer crowds and quicker access through the airport.
Located about 150 miles from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat entrance, the drive from Oakland is just over 3.5 hours. You’ll pass through the Central Valley and Sierra foothills, offering a scenic transition from the urban Bay Area to the natural beauty of Yosemite. Additionally, flights into Oakland can sometimes be cheaper than San Francisco, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
San Jose International Airport (SJC)
Distance to Yosemite: 180 miles to the Big Oak Flat Entrance, about 3.5 to 4 hours’ drive
San Jose International Airport is located about 180 miles from Yosemite National Park and offers another convenient Bay Area option for those looking to fly into California and then drive to the park. The airport is known for its ease of use, with shorter lines and less congestion than San Francisco International, making it a favorite among travelers looking to avoid the busy hubs.
While the drive from San Jose to Yosemite is around 4 hours, it offers a relaxed, scenic route that passes through rolling hills and farmlands. San Jose is also a good choice if you plan to explore the tech-savvy city or the nearby Silicon Valley area before or after your trip to Yosemite.
Sacramento International Airport (SMF)
Distance to Yosemite: 170 miles to the Big Oak Flat Entrance, about 3.5 hours’ drive
Sacramento International Airport is often overlooked but is one of the most efficient and stress-free airports for reaching Yosemite. Located about 170 miles from the park, it offers a manageable drive time of around 3.5 hours. Sacramento’s airport is smaller and easier to navigate than San Francisco or Oakland, but it still provides a solid selection of domestic flights.
The drive from Sacramento to Yosemite takes you through the heart of California’s Central Valley, where you’ll pass through agricultural landscapes and small towns. Sacramento itself is worth exploring if you have time, with its Gold Rush history and vibrant arts scene, but for those focused on Yosemite, this airport offers a less crowded, more relaxed travel experience.
Choosing the Right Airport for Your Yosemite Adventure
When deciding on the best airport for your trip to Yosemite National Park, there are several factors to consider: proximity, convenience, flight options, and whether you plan to explore other parts of California along the way. Fresno Yosemite International Airport offers the closest and most direct access, making it the top choice for those who want to get to the park quickly. However, airports like San Francisco International, Oakland International, and Sacramento International provide greater flexibility with flight options and additional opportunities for exploring the state.
No matter which airport you choose, your journey to Yosemite will be filled with natural beauty, whether you take a short drive from Fresno or a scenic road trip from the Bay Area. Yosemite’s iconic granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and ancient sequoias await—so start planning your adventure today!
Top Tips for Traveling from the Airport to Yosemite
- Renting a Car: Most visitors to Yosemite opt to rent a car through DiscoverCars upon arrival at the airport. This gives you the freedom to explore the park and its surrounding areas at your own pace. All of the airports mentioned above offer major rental car services.
- Consider YARTS: If you prefer not to drive, consider taking the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS). This bus service runs from Merced, Fresno, and Mammoth Lakes and provides a convenient and eco-friendly way to reach the park.
- Plan for Seasonal Road Closures: If you’re traveling to Yosemite in winter or early spring, be aware that some of the park’s roads, including Tioga Pass, may be closed due to snow. This can affect your route and travel time, particularly if you’re flying into Mammoth Yosemite Airport.
- Bring the Right Gear: Depending on the time of year you visit, Yosemite’s weather can vary greatly. Be sure to pack accordingly, especially if you’re visiting in winter when snow and ice are common.
- Book Accommodations Early: Yosemite is a popular destination, and lodging within the park fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Whether you’re camping or staying in a hotel, it’s essential to book your accommodations well in advance.
Yosemite National Park is a destination like no other, offering unparalleled natural beauty and countless opportunities for adventure. While it may take a bit of planning to get there, the journey is part of the experience. From the towering granite cliffs of El Capitan to the misty spray of Yosemite Falls, your trip to Yosemite is sure to be one filled with unforgettable memories.
