Expert: Ernest Tufft - 11/23/2009

Question
Hi, We are planning a family visit to the west coast. We are managing the part from LA to San Francisco. But then .. What is the best way to go from San Francisco leaving Monday 21st, Dec to Yosemite. Where do we stay, what do we do? We are a couple in our 40's - good shape and 3 kids b/w the age 12 - 16years. Our intention is to fly from there to Las Vegas on the 22nd. So we need to take the airport also into consideration.
Thanks a lot,

Answer
Heriette,

I'm not aware of any airport close to Yosemite that will take you to Las Vegas.  Probably the closest would be in Fresno, but many people drive from Yosemite to Las Vegas via Tioga Pass in summer.  Unfortunately, Tioga Pass is closed in winter.  The drive from San Francisco to Yosemite in winter would via the El Portal "all-weather" entrance--the main entrance into the valley from Merced.  There are excursion buses from San Francisco to Yosemite.  Go to the Yosemite National Park website for more details about all of this.  Be careful of imitation websites that have you staying outside the park.  During December, you'll want to stay right in Yosemite Village, or possibly Camp Curry.  Hope this helps...