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Getting to and from the JMT

Drive and public transit from four airports to the trailheads and home again, the one-way car problem, and where the buses force a night on the way.

2 min readPublished · Chris Mavricos

The JMT is one-way, so plan the trip home before the trip out. If you drive, your car waits at the start while you finish at the other end of the range. If you take transit, some airport and direction combinations need a night on the way, because several buses run once a day; the tables below show where. The bus stops at Lone Pine: Eastern Sierra Transit does not run to trailheads⁠Eastern Sierra Transit, Connections for Sierra Hikersread 5 October 2026Eastern Sierra Transit does not offer trailhead transportation but there are other companies that do.estransit.com, so the last miles to Whitney Portal need a ride.

The John Muir Trail starts and ends at trailheads on opposite sides of the Sierra Nevada. Getting there is the easy half. Getting home, from a different trailhead, is the half that needs a plan.

The one-way problem

You start at Happy Isles or Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite and finish at Whitney Portal above Lone Pine, or the other way round if you walk northbound. The two ends are on opposite sides of the range.

If you drive, your car is parked at the start when you finish. Before you can drive home you have to get back to it, by bus, by shuttle or by a friend. Every drive-home table below starts with that step.

If you take transit, the trip out and the trip home each chain several operators. Some of the buses on the east side of the Sierra run once a day, so missing one, or arriving after it has left, means a night in town. The tables count those nights rather than adding up hours that assume every connection works.

The last miles to Whitney Portal have no public bus. Eastern Sierra Transit says it “does not offer trailhead transportation but there are other companies that do.” Plan a ride or a private shuttle between Lone Pine and the trailhead in both directions.

Your trip, door to trailhead and back

Pick the airport you fly into, which way you are walking and, southbound, where you start. Drive times are Google Maps estimates for a weekday departure. Transit rows link to each operator’s own schedule; check it before you book, because several legs run only in summer.

From San Francisco airport (SFO)

San Francisco airport (SFO), Southbound: Happy Isles trailhead to Whitney Portal

To the start: San Francisco airport (SFO) to Happy Isles trailhead

Transit

  1. TrainSan Francisco airport (SFO) → Richmond BART/Amtrak stationBARTSchedule ↗
  2. TrainRichmond BART/Amtrak station → Merced Amtrak stationGold RunnerSchedule ↗
  3. BusMerced Amtrak station → Yosemite VillageYARTS Highway 140Schedule ↗
  4. ShuttleYosemite Village → Happy Isles trailheadYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections

Drive

  1. DriveSan Francisco airport (SFO) → Curry Village3 hr 50 min to 4 hr 40 min, Google Maps estimate
  2. WalkCurry Village → Happy Isles trailhead24 min

About 3 hr 50 min to 4 hr 40 min of driving

Home from the finish: Whitney Portal to San Francisco airport (SFO)

Transit

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)Eastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  3. No public transitReno-Tahoe airport (RNO) → Reno Amtrak station (downtown)The ESTA bus stops at the airport and the Sparks Greyhound station, and the train leaves from downtown Reno; the link between them is not sourced here (local bus or taxi).
  4. TrainReno Amtrak station (downtown) → Richmond BART/Amtrak stationAmtrak California ZephyrSchedule ↗
  5. TrainRichmond BART/Amtrak station → San Francisco airport (SFO)BARTSchedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Lee ViningEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Yosemite VillageYARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  4. ShuttleYosemite Village → Curry VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗

Then drive home

  1. DriveCurry Village → San Francisco airport (SFO)3 hr 50 min to 4 hr 40 min, Google Maps estimate

About 3 hr 50 min to 4 hr 40 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

San Francisco airport (SFO), Southbound: Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows) to Whitney Portal

To the start: San Francisco airport (SFO) to Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)

Transit

  1. TrainSan Francisco airport (SFO) → Richmond BART/Amtrak stationBARTSchedule ↗
  2. TrainRichmond BART/Amtrak station → Merced Amtrak stationGold RunnerSchedule ↗
  3. BusMerced Amtrak station → Yosemite VillageYARTS Highway 140Schedule ↗
  4. BusYosemite Village → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)YARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only: July to September in 2026Schedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Some legs run only in season

Drive

  1. DriveSan Francisco airport (SFO) → Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center4 hr 20 min to 5 hr 10 min, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November
  2. WalkTuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)10 min · Overnight parking ends 15 October

About 4 hr 20 min to 5 hr 10 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Home from the finish: Whitney Portal to San Francisco airport (SFO)

Transit

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)Eastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  3. No public transitReno-Tahoe airport (RNO) → Reno Amtrak station (downtown)The ESTA bus stops at the airport and the Sparks Greyhound station, and the train leaves from downtown Reno; the link between them is not sourced here (local bus or taxi).
  4. TrainReno Amtrak station (downtown) → Richmond BART/Amtrak stationAmtrak California ZephyrSchedule ↗
  5. TrainRichmond BART/Amtrak station → San Francisco airport (SFO)BARTSchedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Lee ViningEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)YARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  4. WalkLyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows) → Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center9 min

Then drive home

  1. DriveTuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center → San Francisco airport (SFO)4 hr 10 min to 5 hr 10 min, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November

About 4 hr 10 min to 5 hr 10 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

San Francisco airport (SFO), Northbound: Whitney Portal to Happy Isles trailhead

To the start: San Francisco airport (SFO) to Whitney Portal

Transit

  1. TrainSan Francisco airport (SFO) → Richmond BART/Amtrak stationBARTSchedule ↗
  2. TrainRichmond BART/Amtrak station → Reno Amtrak station (downtown)Amtrak California ZephyrSchedule ↗
  3. No public transitReno Amtrak station (downtown) → Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)The train stops in downtown Reno and the ESTA bus leaves from the airport or the Sparks Greyhound station; the link between them is not sourced here (local bus or taxi).
  4. BusReno-Tahoe airport (RNO) → Lone PineEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  5. No public transitLone Pine → Whitney PortalNo public transit up Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

  1. DriveSan Francisco airport (SFO) → Whitney Portal6 hr 50 min to 8 hr 40 min, Google Maps estimate · Whitney Portal Road: usually May to early November

About 6 hr 50 min to 8 hr 40 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Home from the finish: Happy Isles trailhead to San Francisco airport (SFO)

Transit

  1. ShuttleHappy Isles trailhead → Yosemite VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗
  2. BusYosemite Village → Merced Amtrak stationYARTS Highway 140Schedule ↗
  3. TrainMerced Amtrak station → Richmond BART/Amtrak stationGold RunnerSchedule ↗
  4. TrainRichmond BART/Amtrak station → San Francisco airport (SFO)BARTSchedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. ShuttleHappy Isles trailhead → Yosemite VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗
  2. BusYosemite Village → Lee ViningYARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Lone PineEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  4. No public transitLone Pine → Whitney PortalNo public transit up Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.

Then drive home

  1. DriveWhitney Portal → San Francisco airport (SFO)6 hr 40 min to 8 hr 50 min, Google Maps estimate · Whitney Portal Road: usually May to early November

About 6 hr 40 min to 8 hr 50 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

From Los Angeles airport (LAX)

Los Angeles airport (LAX), Southbound: Happy Isles trailhead to Whitney Portal

To the start: Los Angeles airport (LAX) to Happy Isles trailhead

Transit

  1. BusLos Angeles airport (LAX) → Los Angeles Union StationLAX FlyAway · 35 minSchedule ↗
  2. BusLos Angeles Union Station → Bakersfield Amtrak stationGold Runner Thruway Route 1Schedule ↗
  3. TrainBakersfield Amtrak station → Merced Amtrak stationGold RunnerSchedule ↗
  4. BusMerced Amtrak station → Yosemite VillageYARTS Highway 140Schedule ↗
  5. ShuttleYosemite Village → Happy Isles trailheadYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections

Drive

  1. DriveLos Angeles airport (LAX) → Curry Village5 hr 30 min to 7 hr 20 min, Google Maps estimate
  2. WalkCurry Village → Happy Isles trailhead24 min

About 5 hr 30 min to 7 hr 20 min of driving

Home from the finish: Whitney Portal to Los Angeles airport (LAX)

Transit

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Lancaster Metrolink stationEastern Sierra Transit (395 South)Schedule ↗
  3. TrainLancaster Metrolink station → Los Angeles Union StationMetrolink Antelope Valley Line · 2 hr 9 minSchedule ↗
  4. BusLos Angeles Union Station → Los Angeles airport (LAX)LAX FlyAway · 35 minSchedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Lee ViningEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Yosemite VillageYARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  4. ShuttleYosemite Village → Curry VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗

Then drive home

  1. DriveCurry Village → Los Angeles airport (LAX)5 hr 40 min to 7 hr 50 min, Google Maps estimate

About 5 hr 40 min to 7 hr 50 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Los Angeles airport (LAX), Southbound: Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows) to Whitney Portal

To the start: Los Angeles airport (LAX) to Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)

Transit

  1. BusLos Angeles airport (LAX) → Los Angeles Union StationLAX FlyAway · 35 minSchedule ↗
  2. BusLos Angeles Union Station → Bakersfield Amtrak stationGold Runner Thruway Route 1Schedule ↗
  3. TrainBakersfield Amtrak station → Merced Amtrak stationGold RunnerSchedule ↗
  4. BusMerced Amtrak station → Yosemite VillageYARTS Highway 140Schedule ↗
  5. BusYosemite Village → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)YARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only: July to September in 2026Schedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Some legs run only in season

Drive

  1. DriveLos Angeles airport (LAX) → Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center5 hr 30 min to 7 hr, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November
  2. WalkTuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)10 min · Overnight parking ends 15 October

About 5 hr 30 min to 7 hr of driving. Some legs run only in season

Home from the finish: Whitney Portal to Los Angeles airport (LAX)

Transit

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Lancaster Metrolink stationEastern Sierra Transit (395 South)Schedule ↗
  3. TrainLancaster Metrolink station → Los Angeles Union StationMetrolink Antelope Valley Line · 2 hr 9 minSchedule ↗
  4. BusLos Angeles Union Station → Los Angeles airport (LAX)LAX FlyAway · 35 minSchedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Lee ViningEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)YARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  4. WalkLyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows) → Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center9 min

Then drive home

  1. DriveTuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center → Los Angeles airport (LAX)5 hr 40 min to 7 hr 20 min, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November

About 5 hr 40 min to 7 hr 20 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Los Angeles airport (LAX), Northbound: Whitney Portal to Happy Isles trailhead

To the start: Los Angeles airport (LAX) to Whitney Portal

Transit

  1. BusLos Angeles airport (LAX) → Los Angeles Union StationLAX FlyAway · 35 minSchedule ↗
  2. TrainLos Angeles Union Station → Lancaster Metrolink stationMetrolink Antelope Valley Line · 2 hr 12 minSchedule ↗
  3. BusLancaster Metrolink station → Lone PineEastern Sierra Transit (395 South)Schedule ↗
  4. No public transitLone Pine → Whitney PortalNo public transit up Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

  1. DriveLos Angeles airport (LAX) → Whitney Portal3 hr 30 min to 4 hr 40 min, Google Maps estimate · Whitney Portal Road: usually May to early November

About 3 hr 30 min to 4 hr 40 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Home from the finish: Happy Isles trailhead to Los Angeles airport (LAX)

Transit

  1. ShuttleHappy Isles trailhead → Yosemite VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗
  2. BusYosemite Village → Merced Amtrak stationYARTS Highway 140Schedule ↗
  3. TrainMerced Amtrak station → Bakersfield Amtrak stationGold RunnerSchedule ↗
  4. BusBakersfield Amtrak station → Los Angeles Union StationGold Runner Thruway Route 1Schedule ↗
  5. BusLos Angeles Union Station → Los Angeles airport (LAX)LAX FlyAway · 35 minSchedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. ShuttleHappy Isles trailhead → Yosemite VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗
  2. BusYosemite Village → Lee ViningYARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Lone PineEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  4. No public transitLone Pine → Whitney PortalNo public transit up Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.

Then drive home

  1. DriveWhitney Portal → Los Angeles airport (LAX)3 hr 30 min to 4 hr 30 min, Google Maps estimate · Whitney Portal Road: usually May to early November

About 3 hr 30 min to 4 hr 30 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

From Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)

Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO), Southbound: Happy Isles trailhead to Whitney Portal

To the start: Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO) to Happy Isles trailhead

Transit

  1. BusReno-Tahoe airport (RNO) → Lee ViningEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  2. OvernightNight in Lee ViningNight in Lee Vining: the ESTA bus arrives after the last YARTS bus over Tioga Pass has left.
  3. BusLee Vining → Yosemite VillageYARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  4. ShuttleYosemite Village → Happy Isles trailheadYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗

1 night on the way. Some legs run only in season

Drive

  1. DriveReno-Tahoe airport (RNO) → Curry Village4 hr 20 min to 5 hr 10 min, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November
  2. WalkCurry Village → Happy Isles trailhead24 min

About 4 hr 20 min to 5 hr 10 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Home from the finish: Whitney Portal to Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)

Transit

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)Eastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Lee ViningEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Yosemite VillageYARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  4. ShuttleYosemite Village → Curry VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗

Then drive home

  1. DriveCurry Village → Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)4 hr 20 min to 5 hr 10 min, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November

About 4 hr 20 min to 5 hr 10 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO), Southbound: Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows) to Whitney Portal

To the start: Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO) to Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)

Transit

  1. BusReno-Tahoe airport (RNO) → Lee ViningEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  2. OvernightNight in Lee ViningNight in Lee Vining: the ESTA bus arrives after the last YARTS bus over Tioga Pass has left.
  3. BusLee Vining → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)YARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗

1 night on the way. Some legs run only in season

Drive

  1. DriveReno-Tahoe airport (RNO) → Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center2 hr 50 min to 3 hr 30 min, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November
  2. WalkTuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)10 min · Overnight parking ends 15 October

About 2 hr 50 min to 3 hr 30 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Home from the finish: Whitney Portal to Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)

Transit

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)Eastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Lee ViningEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)YARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  4. WalkLyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows) → Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center9 min

Then drive home

  1. DriveTuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center → Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)2 hr 50 min to 3 hr 30 min, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November

About 2 hr 50 min to 3 hr 30 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO), Northbound: Whitney Portal to Happy Isles trailhead

To the start: Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO) to Whitney Portal

Transit

  1. BusReno-Tahoe airport (RNO) → Lone PineEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  2. No public transitLone Pine → Whitney PortalNo public transit up Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

  1. DriveReno-Tahoe airport (RNO) → Whitney Portal4 hr 40 min to 5 hr 50 min, Google Maps estimate · Whitney Portal Road: usually May to early November

About 4 hr 40 min to 5 hr 50 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Home from the finish: Happy Isles trailhead to Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)

Transit

  1. ShuttleHappy Isles trailhead → Yosemite VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗
  2. BusYosemite Village → Lee ViningYARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  3. OvernightNight in Lee ViningNight in Lee Vining: the YARTS bus arrives after the one daily ESTA bus to Reno has left.
  4. BusLee Vining → Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)Eastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗

1 night on the way. Some legs run only in season

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. ShuttleHappy Isles trailhead → Yosemite VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗
  2. BusYosemite Village → Lee ViningYARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Lone PineEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  4. No public transitLone Pine → Whitney PortalNo public transit up Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.

Then drive home

  1. DriveWhitney Portal → Reno-Tahoe airport (RNO)4 hr 40 min to 5 hr 50 min, Google Maps estimate · Whitney Portal Road: usually May to early November

About 4 hr 40 min to 5 hr 50 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

From Las Vegas airport (LAS)

Las Vegas airport (LAS), Southbound: Happy Isles trailhead to Whitney Portal

To the start: Las Vegas airport (LAS) to Happy Isles trailhead

Transit

  1. BusLas Vegas airport (LAS) → Las Vegas South Strip Transit TerminalRTC Southern Nevada RED LINESchedule ↗
  2. BusLas Vegas South Strip Transit Terminal → Bakersfield Amtrak stationGold Runner Thruway Route 10Schedule ↗
  3. TrainBakersfield Amtrak station → Merced Amtrak stationGold RunnerSchedule ↗
  4. OvernightNight in Merced Amtrak stationNight in Merced: the train from the Las Vegas bus arrives after the last YARTS bus to Yosemite has left.
  5. BusMerced Amtrak station → Yosemite VillageYARTS Highway 140Schedule ↗
  6. ShuttleYosemite Village → Happy Isles trailheadYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗

1 night on the way

Drive

  1. DriveLas Vegas airport (LAS) → Curry Village7 hr to 8 hr, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November
  2. WalkCurry Village → Happy Isles trailhead24 min

About 7 hr to 8 hr of driving. Some legs run only in season

Home from the finish: Whitney Portal to Las Vegas airport (LAS)

Transit

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → MojaveEastern Sierra Transit (395 South)Schedule ↗
  3. BusMojave → Las Vegas South Strip Transit TerminalGold Runner Thruway Route 10Schedule ↗
  4. BusLas Vegas South Strip Transit Terminal → Las Vegas airport (LAS)RTC Southern Nevada RED LINESchedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Lee ViningEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Yosemite VillageYARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  4. ShuttleYosemite Village → Curry VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗

Then drive home

  1. DriveCurry Village → Las Vegas airport (LAS)7 hr to 8 hr, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November

About 7 hr to 8 hr of driving. Some legs run only in season

Las Vegas airport (LAS), Southbound: Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows) to Whitney Portal

To the start: Las Vegas airport (LAS) to Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)

Transit

  1. BusLas Vegas airport (LAS) → Las Vegas South Strip Transit TerminalRTC Southern Nevada RED LINESchedule ↗
  2. BusLas Vegas South Strip Transit Terminal → Bakersfield Amtrak stationGold Runner Thruway Route 10Schedule ↗
  3. TrainBakersfield Amtrak station → Merced Amtrak stationGold RunnerSchedule ↗
  4. OvernightNight in Merced Amtrak stationNight in Merced: the train from the Las Vegas bus arrives after the last YARTS bus to Yosemite has left.
  5. BusMerced Amtrak station → Yosemite VillageYARTS Highway 140Schedule ↗
  6. BusYosemite Village → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)YARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only: July to September in 2026Schedule ↗

1 night on the way. Some legs run only in season

Drive

  1. DriveLas Vegas airport (LAS) → Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center5 hr 30 min to 6 hr 30 min, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November
  2. WalkTuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)10 min · Overnight parking ends 15 October

About 5 hr 30 min to 6 hr 30 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Home from the finish: Whitney Portal to Las Vegas airport (LAS)

Transit

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → MojaveEastern Sierra Transit (395 South)Schedule ↗
  3. BusMojave → Las Vegas South Strip Transit TerminalGold Runner Thruway Route 10Schedule ↗
  4. BusLas Vegas South Strip Transit Terminal → Las Vegas airport (LAS)RTC Southern Nevada RED LINESchedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. No public transitWhitney Portal → Lone PineNo public transit down Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.
  2. BusLone Pine → Lee ViningEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Lyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows)YARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  4. WalkLyell Canyon trailhead (Tuolumne Meadows) → Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center9 min

Then drive home

  1. DriveTuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center → Las Vegas airport (LAS)5 hr 30 min to 6 hr 20 min, Google Maps estimate · Tioga Road: typically late May or June to November

About 5 hr 30 min to 6 hr 20 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Las Vegas airport (LAS), Northbound: Whitney Portal to Happy Isles trailhead

To the start: Las Vegas airport (LAS) to Whitney Portal

Transit

  1. BusLas Vegas airport (LAS) → Las Vegas South Strip Transit TerminalRTC Southern Nevada RED LINESchedule ↗
  2. BusLas Vegas South Strip Transit Terminal → MojaveGold Runner Thruway Route 10Schedule ↗
  3. BusMojave → Lone PineEastern Sierra Transit (395 South)Schedule ↗
  4. No public transitLone Pine → Whitney PortalNo public transit up Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.

Check each schedule for same-day connections. Arrange the no-public-transit step before you go

Drive

  1. DriveLas Vegas airport (LAS) → Whitney Portal4 hr 10 min to 4 hr 50 min, Google Maps estimate · Whitney Portal Road: usually May to early November

About 4 hr 10 min to 4 hr 50 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Home from the finish: Happy Isles trailhead to Las Vegas airport (LAS)

Transit

  1. ShuttleHappy Isles trailhead → Yosemite VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗
  2. BusYosemite Village → Merced Amtrak stationYARTS Highway 140Schedule ↗
  3. TrainMerced Amtrak station → Bakersfield Amtrak stationGold RunnerSchedule ↗
  4. BusBakersfield Amtrak station → Las Vegas South Strip Transit TerminalGold Runner Thruway Route 10Schedule ↗
  5. BusLas Vegas South Strip Transit Terminal → Las Vegas airport (LAS)RTC Southern Nevada RED LINESchedule ↗

Check each schedule for same-day connections

Drive

Get back to your car

Your car is at the start. Before you can drive home, get from the finish back to it.

  1. ShuttleHappy Isles trailhead → Yosemite VillageYosemite Valley shuttle (NPS, free)Schedule ↗
  2. BusYosemite Village → Lee ViningYARTS Highway 395/120E · Summer only, July to September in 2026. Same-day connections with ESTA at Lee Vining run only to 31 August; in September, plan a night in Lee ViningSchedule ↗
  3. BusLee Vining → Lone PineEastern Sierra Transit (395 North)Schedule ↗
  4. No public transitLone Pine → Whitney PortalNo public transit up Whitney Portal Road: a private shuttle, a taxi or a lift.

Then drive home

  1. DriveWhitney Portal → Las Vegas airport (LAS)4 hr 10 min to 4 hr 40 min, Google Maps estimate · Whitney Portal Road: usually May to early November

About 4 hr 10 min to 4 hr 40 min of driving. Some legs run only in season

Regulations, quotas and fees change every season. Confirm anything time-sensitive with the managing agency before you rely on it.