YARTS bus in Yosemite National Park
Credit: YARTS
April 14, 2022 - MERCED – Reservations for the 2022 summer season are now open for trips to Yosemite National Park on board YARTS. The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System operates year-round coach service from Merced and Mariposa to Yosemite but will transition to its expanded summer service schedule on May 16, 2022. Seasonal summer service also begins from Sonora and Groveland on May 16, from Fresno and Oakhurst on May 9, and from Mammoth Lakes on June 15, 2022.
Passengers riding into Yosemite on YARTS do not need a day-use pass issued by the National Park Service and YARTS fares always include the gate entrance fee. Reduced ticket prices are available for seniors, disabled passengers, veterans, and older children. Children under five are always free and those between the ages of 6 and 12 years-old ride free if accompanied by a full-fare paying adult.
Interested individuals can make their travel plans now by reserving seats on any of the four corridors at yarts.com. Reservations are highly encouraged to ride YARTS as only a limited amount of walk-on tickets will be issued.
“People who choose to ride YARTS quickly appreciate its value in terms of time and affordability,” said Christine Chavez, Transit Manager. “With the Valley shuttles scheduled to run all summer and the high price of gas, going carless into Yosemite is even more appealing this year.”
All YARTS buses are equipped with lavatories and some COVID-19 mitigation measures are still in place. In accordance with federal regulations, passengers are required to wear face masks when riding YARTS until May 3 under the current TSA security directive for mask use while on public transportation and transportation hubs. For more information about YARTS schedules, fares, routes, to reserve tickets, or apply for free passes for Merced or Mariposa residents, visit www.yarts.com or call (877) 989-2787.
YARTS is a California Joint Powers Authority comprised of Merced, Mariposa, Tuolumne, Madera and Mono Counties in partnership with Fresno Council of Governments, Caltrans, Federal Highway Administration, National Park Service and the United States Forest Service. The Merced County Association of Governments provides administrative services and operational support for YARTS.
Source: YARTS
