If you are planning a trip to Yosemite National Park, you may be wondering which airport is closest to this breathtaking destination. Yosemite is located in the heart of California’s Sierra Nevada mountains, making it a bit more remote compared to other national parks. However, there are a few airports that serve as gateways to Yosemite, each offering its own advantages and considerations.
The closest major airport to Yosemite is Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), which is approximately 65 miles from the park’s south entrance. This airport offers direct flights from several major cities, making it a convenient option for travelers. From Fresno, you can easily rent a car and drive to Yosemite, enjoying the scenic journey along the way.
Another option is the Merced Regional Airport (MCE), located about 80 miles from Yosemite. Although it may not have as many flight options as Fresno, it is still a viable choice, especially if you prefer a smaller and less crowded airport. From Merced, you can take a shuttle or rent a car to reach Yosemite.
If you are looking for a larger airport with more flight options, you may consider San Francisco International Airport (SFO) or Oakland International Airport (OAK). Both airports are approximately 200 miles from Yosemite, which means you will have a longer drive to reach the park. However, they offer a wide range of domestic and international flights, making them convenient choices for travelers coming from far away.
When choosing an airport for your Yosemite adventure, it is important to consider factors such as flight availability, proximity, and your personal preferences. No matter which airport you choose, you are in for a memorable experience as you explore the stunning beauty of Yosemite National Park.
The Closest Airports to Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is a breathtaking destination located in California, attracting millions of visitors each year. If you are planning a trip to this magnificent park, it is important to know the closest airports for your convenience. Here are the airports closest to Yosemite National Park:
- Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT): Located approximately 65 miles away from Yosemite’s South Entrance, Fresno Yosemite International Airport is the closest option for those flying into the area. This airport offers a range of domestic flights and car rental services, making it a convenient choice for travelers.
- Merced Regional Airport (MCE): Situated around 80 miles from Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance, Merced Regional Airport is another option for visitors. While it may not have as many flight options as Fresno Yosemite International Airport, it provides closer proximity to the park’s western entrance.
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO): Although a bit further away at approximately 180 miles, San Francisco International Airport is a major hub with numerous international and domestic flights. This airport offers a wider range of flight options and is ideal for travelers looking to combine their Yosemite trip with a visit to the Bay Area.
- Sacramento International Airport (SMF): Located around 170 miles from Yosemite National Park, Sacramento International Airport is another option for travelers. This airport offers various flight options and is a popular choice for those exploring both Yosemite and the capital city of California.
When planning your trip to Yosemite National Park, consider these airports for the shortest travel distance. From the moment you step off the plane, you will be one step closer to experiencing the natural wonders of this incredible destination.
Fresno Yosemite International Airport
Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is located in Fresno, California, and serves as a convenient gateway for travelers visiting Yosemite National Park. With its close proximity to the park, it offers a convenient option for those looking to explore the natural wonders of Yosemite.
The airport is approximately 65 miles (105 kilometers) north of Yosemite Valley, making it the closest major airport to the park. It serves as a hub for several major airlines, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Travelers arriving at Fresno Yosemite International Airport can easily rent a car or take a shuttle to reach Yosemite National Park. The drive to the park takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic and weather conditions.
The airport itself offers a variety of amenities and services, including parking facilities, dining options, and car rental services. It also has a number of hotels located nearby, making it a convenient choice for those looking to stay overnight before or after their visit to Yosemite.
| Airport Code | Location | Distance to Yosemite Valley |
|---|---|---|
| FAT | Fresno, California | 65 miles (105 kilometers) |
Overall, Fresno Yosemite International Airport is a convenient and accessible option for travelers planning a trip to Yosemite National Park. Its proximity to the park, along with its range of flight options and amenities, make it a popular choice for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Yosemite.
Merced Regional Airport
Merced Regional Airport is located in Merced, California and is the closest airport to Yosemite National Park, approximately 70 miles away. The airport offers both private and commercial flights, making it a convenient option for travelers visiting the park.
Despite being a regional airport, Merced Regional Airport has a surprisingly modern terminal with amenities such as a rental car desk, baggage services, and a cafe. It is also well-connected to major cities in California, with direct flights to San Francisco and Los Angeles.
For those looking to travel to Yosemite National Park, Merced Regional Airport provides easy access to the park by offering various transportation options. Renting a car from the airport is a popular choice, as it allows visitors to explore the park at their own pace. Additionally, shuttle services and private car services can be arranged for a more convenient and hassle-free journey.
Overall, Merced Regional Airport is a convenient and well-equipped airport for travelers heading to Yosemite National Park. With its proximity to the park and transportation options, it is a great choice for those looking for a hassle-free travel experience.
Mammoth Yosemite Airport
The Mammoth Yosemite Airport (MMH) is the closest airport to Yosemite National Park, located in the town of Mammoth Lakes, California. It is about 12 miles from the park’s eastern entrance.
This small regional airport offers direct flights from several major cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Denver. It is served by major airlines such as United Airlines and Alaska Airlines.
Upon arrival at the airport, visitors can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach Yosemite National Park. The drive from the airport to the park takes about 45 minutes.
The Mammoth Yosemite Airport is a convenient choice for travelers who want to explore the beautiful landscapes and attractions of Yosemite National Park without having to travel long distances.
Sacramento International Airport
Sacramento International Airport is located in Sacramento, California, and is the closest major airport to Yosemite National Park. It is approximately 150 miles away from the park, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking to visit Yosemite.
The airport offers a variety of domestic and international flights, with major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines operating from its terminals. Travelers can easily find flights to Sacramento International Airport from various locations across the United States and other countries.
Once you arrive at Sacramento International Airport, there are several transportation options available to reach Yosemite National Park. You can rent a car from one of the car rental agencies located at the airport, or you can take a shuttle service or hire a private car service.
The drive from Sacramento International Airport to Yosemite National Park takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. The most common route is to take Interstate 5 south to Highway 120 east, which will take you directly to the park’s entrance.
Before embarking on your journey to Yosemite, it is important to plan ahead and check the current road conditions, as well as any entry restrictions or closures that may be in effect. The park’s website and visitor center can provide up-to-date information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Sacramento International Airport offers a convenient and accessible gateway for travelers visiting Yosemite National Park. With its range of flight options and proximity to the park, it is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Yosemite.
Oakland International Airport
The Oakland International Airport is one of the main airports that visitors can choose to fly into when visiting Yosemite National Park. Located in Oakland, California, it is approximately 174 miles and a 3-hour drive away from the park.
With multiple airlines offering flights to and from Oakland International Airport, it is a convenient choice for travelers. Some of the major airlines that operate at this airport include Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines.
Once visitors arrive at the Oakland International Airport, there are several options for getting to Yosemite National Park. The most convenient and popular option is to rent a car at the airport and drive to the park. The drive takes you through scenic California landscapes, making it a pleasant journey.
If driving is not an option, visitors can also take a shuttle or a bus service offered by various companies that operate between Oakland and Yosemite National Park. These services provide a convenient and affordable way to reach the park without having to drive.
Overall, the Oakland International Airport is a viable option for travelers planning a visit to Yosemite National Park. With its convenient location, multiple airlines, and various transportation options, it offers a hassle-free way to reach the park and begin your adventure in the stunning natural beauty of Yosemite.
San Francisco International Airport
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is one of the major airports serving the Bay Area and is located approximately 190 miles west of Yosemite National Park.
It is a well-connected airport offering numerous domestic and international flights, making it a convenient option for travelers visiting Yosemite.
From SFO, visitors can choose to rent a car or take public transportation to reach Yosemite. Rental car companies are available at the airport, and it is about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive to the park.
Alternatively, public transportation options include taking a shuttle bus or a combination of train and bus to reach Yosemite.
Shuttle services such as the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) offer convenient transportation options from SFO to Yosemite Valley and other parts of the park.
Travelers can also take the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) train from the SFO airport to the Richmond station, and then transfer to an Amtrak train to Merced. From Merced, they can take a YARTS bus to reach Yosemite Valley.
Overall, San Francisco International Airport provides easy access to Yosemite National Park for travelers coming from both domestic and international locations. Whether by car or public transportation, visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of Yosemite after a convenient journey from SFO.
