A Tioga Pass road trip is the perfect scenic escape, if you’re looking to enhance your Yosemite itinerary and escape the crowds. This route offers fewer crowds than Yosemite Valley and some of the park’s most spectacular views.
Eric and I, along with our pups Tinkerbell and Maple, loved this drive and found it to be one of the best day trips in Yosemite. The best part? There’s something for everyone – whether you love short hikes, soaking in views from the car, or need a dog-friendly adventure.
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Table of Contents
- Road Trip Itinerary
- Frequently Asked Questions About Your Tioga Pass Road Trip
- Final Thoughts on Our Tioga Pass Road Trip
Tioga Pass Road Trip Itinerary
Here’s your ultimate guide to a Tioga Pass road trip from Crane Flat Gas Station to Lee Vining, featuring our favorite stops and tips!
Start of Your Tioga Pass Road Trip: Crane Flat Gas Station
If you’re heading out early (which we highly recommend), Crane Flat Gas Station is a great place to fill up and grab a few snacks for the road. Services are few and far between once you hit the higher elevations, so make sure you’re prepared before starting your journey.
Now, buckle up – let’s hit the road!
1. Tuolumne Grove
🥾 Hike: 2.5 miles round trip
Our first stop was Tuolumne Grove, home to some of Yosemite’s most majestic giant sequoias. While the road leading to the grove is dog-friendly, dogs aren’t allowed on the trails. We had Maple join us on the walk to the trailhead, and then Eric waited with her at the picnic area while I explored the grove solo. The towering sequoias here are smaller than those in Mariposa Grove, but the experience is more peaceful and less crowded.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re not in the mood for hiking, the parking lot offers educational displays and lovely scenery before continuing your road trip.
2. Olmstead Point
🚶♂️ Short walk for panoramic views
Olmstead Point is a must-see stop on Tioga Pass, offering stunning panoramic views of Tenaya Canyon and Half Dome in the distance. Eric and I couldn’t get enough of the scenery—this was one of his favorite spots! You can enjoy the views from the parking lot, but for more solitude, take the short trail down for an even better vantage point.
The parking lot is dog-friendly, so we let Tinkerbell and Maple stretch their legs as we sipped coffee made from our cute little pour over coffee maker while gazing at the granite peaks. It truly felt like we were on top of the world.
💡 Pro Tip: This spot is perfect for a mid-morning snack or coffee and some quick photos – have your camera ready!
3. Tenaya Lake
🚶♂️ Dog-friendly sidewalk along the lake
Tenaya Lake, often called the “Jewel of the High Country,” was an absolute highlight. We parked, leashed up Maple (Tinkerbell stayed back for a nap), and took a stroll along the lake’s edge on the paved sidewalk. The crystal-clear water reflected the surrounding peaks, making it a perfect place to stop and relax. Eric and I took in the view while Maple enjoyed the peaceful setting.
It felt like a hidden alpine paradise, and it is not nearly as busy as the lake and river down in the valley. Tenaya Lake an ideal spot for a lakeside picnic or a refreshing break.
💡 Pro Tip: The beach area and trails aren’t dog-friendly, so stick to the paved sidewalk if you’re traveling with pets. Bring snacks and a blanket—this is the perfect spot to unwind.
4. Tuolumne Meadows + Soda Springs
🥾 Short walk to Soda Springs
Next on our journey was Tuolumne Meadows, a vast subalpine meadow filled with wildflowers in the summer. Since dogs aren’t allowed on the trails, we left the pups in the camper while we explored the Soda Springs trail. This short walk leads to a natural carbonated spring that has historical significance—John Muir and Teddy Roosevelt once walked these grounds!
The meadow is absolutely breathtaking, and even when it’s busy, it never feels crowded. You could easily spend hours wandering and admiring the diverse landscapes.
💡 Pro Tip: If you love history, Soda Springs is a must-visit. The area has fascinating stories about early settlers and the native Ahwahneechee people.
5. Nunatak Nature Trail
🐾 Dog-friendly, easy interpretive trail
If you’re looking for a peaceful, dog-friendly trail, Nunatak Nature Trail is a gentle 1.2-mile loop with interpretive signs about Yosemite’s glacial history. We loved this trail because it was perfect for walking with Tinkerbell and Maple while learning more about the geological past of the area.
The trail winds through meadows and boulders, alongside an alpine lake, offering beautiful views of the surrounding peaks. It’s an easy hike and a great way to take a break from driving.
💡 Pro Tip: This trail is located outside the park boundaries, just 2 miles from the Tioga Pass entrance. It’s perfect for travelers with dogs looking for a quiet, educational walk.
6. Ellery Lake
🐾 Dog-friendly alpine lake
Further along Tioga Road, just outside the park boundaries, you’ll find Ellery Lake. This stunning glacial lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and offers a peaceful spot to fish, relax, or take in the views. Eric and I parked the camper, let the dogs explore, and stretched our legs. It was the perfect final stop on our road trip before heading into Lee Vining.
Ellery Lake’s alpine beauty is breathtaking, and it’s often much quieter than lakes within Yosemite, which makes it ideal for unwinding.
💡 Pro Tip: Stop here for a quiet moment of reflection. If you plan to turn around and back into the park, Ellery Lake is the perfect way to end your adventure.
Final Stop: Lee Vining
By the time we reached Lee Vining, we were happily tired after a full day of adventure. If you want to extend your trip, Lee Vining is a great base for exploring the Eastern Sierra. We chose to grab a quick meal and enjoy the sunset before heading back.
Check out our guide to summer adventures in the Eastern Sierra: Summer Adventures in the Eastern Sierra
💡 Pro Tip: Enjoy the peacefulness of the Eastern Sierra with a meal in Lee Vining before heading back into Yosemite.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your Tioga Pass Road Trip
What is the best time to visit Tioga Pass?
Tioga Pass is usually open from late May/June through mid-October, but snow conditions can affect this. Always check the NPS website for the most current road status before heading out.
Do I need a reservation for Yosemite’s Tioga Pass?
During peak season (April to October), Yosemite requires a reservation for entry. Reservations can be made on recreation.gov, so be sure to plan ahead.
What should I pack?
Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and a camera! Make sure to have layers of clothing as temperatures can change quickly, especially at higher elevations.
Where can I bring my dog with me?
While some areas of Tioga Pass aren’t dog-friendly, places like the paved viewpoint at Olmstead Point, the paved sidewalk at Tenaya Lake, and Nunatak Nature Trail are perfect for exploring with your pups.
How can I visit this place responsibly preserving it for future generations?
As always, practice Leave No Trace principles—pack out what you pack in and respect the pristine beauty of this incredible landscape.
Final Thoughts on Our Tioga Pass Road Trip
Driving along Tioga Pass was one of the most peaceful and visually stunning experiences we’ve had in Yosemite. The towering peaks, serene lakes, and wide-open meadows gave us a new appreciation for the park’s diverse landscapes. Eric and I loved how different this part of Yosemite felt from the busy valley, and our dogs had a blast at the dog-friendly spots.
If you’re visiting Yosemite and want to add a relaxing yet adventure-filled road trip to your itinerary, Tioga Pass is a must. We’re so glad we took the time to explore this less-traveled route, and we can’t wait to return.
[…] If you have extra time, don’t miss the scenic drive up Tioga Pass into Yosemite National Park. The road offers breathtaking views and access to Tuolumne Meadows and Tenaya Lake. Be sure to check for seasonal closures and timed entry reservations, especially during summer. For more tips, check out our Tioga Pass Road Trip article. […]
[…] make sure to check the road status before planning your visit. We have an entire article about an epic Tioga Pass Roadtrip Itinerary highlighting dog-friendly and non-dog-friendly stops along the […]