Fly & Drive guide
Fly into MCE, drive to Yosemite Valley
Your route
MCE
Merced Regional Macready Field
Yosemite Valley
About 2 h 3 min · 78 mi by car, no stops. Estimate only.
Your arrival plan
01Flights to MCE
Compare fares into Merced Regional Macready Field.
Find flightsPartner link · Aviasales · Photo: Daniel Tanner · CC BY-SA 4.0
02Car at MCE
Pick up at the airport and drive straight to Yosemite Valley. Compare rental companies in one search.
Compare rentalsPartner link · EconomyBookings · Photo: TTTNIS · CC0
03Store extra bags
Early arrival or late flight home? Drop luggage nearby and keep the car light for the park.
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04 · First night near Yosemite Valley
Sleep close after the drive so day one starts in the park.
04Hotels near Yosemite Valley
Compare hotels and lodges on the way in, with free-cancellation filters.
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04Cabins & homes near Yosemite Valley
Whole homes and cabins for families or groups who want a kitchen and space.
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Before you land
Reservations
Valley Floor Access and Overnight Stay Protocols
Yosemite does not require an entrance reservation in 2026, but the entrance fee still applies. Book Valley campsites and lodging separately through the providers linked by NPS, and check official requirements for other years and activities.
Official reservation infoBest time to fly in
May – June, September – October
Quick answers
What is the closest airport to Yosemite Valley?
Merced Regional Macready Field (MCE) is the nearest commercial airport we route from.
How long is the drive from MCE to Yosemite Valley?
Roughly 2 h 3 min (about 78 miles) by car, without stops. Times are estimates.
Do I need a reservation to visit Yosemite Valley?
Yosemite does not require an entrance reservation in 2026, but the entrance fee still applies. Book Valley campsites and lodging separately through the providers linked by NPS, and check official requirements for other years and activities.