martavis

Driving from Las Vegas to Yosemite in March, what would be the best route? I'll be staying at Yosemite Lodge in the Valley. Thanks in advance.

janis

You can't get into Yosemite from the east in March because Tioga Pass is closed.

So your best bet would be to take I-15 to Barstow, Hwy 58 to Bakersfield and then hwy 99 north throught the San Joaquin Valley to Fresno or Merced.

J_Correa

I agree with janis. This is the most direct route.

marta

Thanks, Janis and JCorrea. I'm wondering if it is such a good idea to go to Yosemite in March. I could use those two extra days for Carmel and Santa Barbara, and postpone Yosemite. Any suggestions? Thanks!

janis

No - Yosemite is wonderful in the winter/early spring. You won't have any trouble getting there - you just need to up through the valley instead of over the Sierras.

(Carmel/SB are wonderful too but there is no reason to put off seeing Yosemite)

lahainaluna

I agree with janis, Yosemite is beautiful in the winter. It is quite and surprisingly peaceful compared with the summer. It feels private, like visiting Disneyland while it is closed to the public.

curmudgeon

Well, you do have to be prepared for potential snow on the higher sections of roads in March (even the south and west entrances) and possible chain requirements. I've enjoyed Yosemite in winter, but if you have the option, it might be good to pick a warmer/drier time for your first visit.

utahtea

Heck, it can snow in April, May, June and July in Yosemite. I'd keep your plans for Yosemite. Or course in the later months it won't close the roads do I would keep an eye on the Weather Channel before you left.

December Pictures at Yosemite:

http://www.utahtea.lithium.com/december_28yosemite.htm

Feb. Pictures at Yosemite:

http://www.utahtea.lithium.com/yosem...swan_feb03.htm

In Feb. there wasn't any snow in the valley.

Utahtea

easytraveler

Much as I love the California coast, I would agree with the others on Yosemite for March.

Besides, the coast can be really rough in bad weather and that may not be much fun. March is still rainy season for California.

Go for Yosemite!