At an elevation of 3,031 m (9,943 ft ), Tioga Pass represents the highest highway pass in the Sierra Nevada. Serving as an entry point for Yosemite National Park, the 95 km (59 mi) stretch of road is considered to be one of the most scenic drives in the Sierras, according to National Geographic magazine. The road winds through forests and meadows and hugs the edge of Tenaya Lake. Along the way, you'll pass by the granite outcroppings and cliffs that Yosemite is known for--you can often spot rock climbers on the cliff faces. The pass features lots of off-the-beaten-path hiking opportunities and numerous picnic spots. Take a look at our Yosemite National Park travel route planner to schedule your visit to Tioga Pass and learn about what else to see and do during your holiday.
Tioga Pass reviews
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If you enjoy hairpin turns, scenery that you would expect in the movies, and tons of adventures, drive this road. It was arduous to drive once the sun went down. Olmsted Point and Tuolumne Meadows...
If you enjoy hairpin turns, scenery that you would expect in the movies, and tons of adventures, drive this road. It was arduous to drive once the sun went down. Olmsted Point and Tuolumne Meadows... more »
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Tioga Pass is the mountain pass in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Tioga Pass (state route 120) is the entry point from the eastern side to Yosemite National Park. During spring tourists look...
Tioga Pass is the mountain pass in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Tioga Pass (state route 120) is the entry point from the eastern side to Yosemite National Park. During spring tourists look... more »
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You must get there before the snow (late Oct/early Nov), because they close the pass. But it's a beautiful drive; hope you catch a sunny day. Allow lots of extra time for stopping and walking around, taking pictures.
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Very beautiful as always! Both Lake Ellery and Tioga Lake were iced over.. The road is closed before Yosemite.
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