Tioga Pass Panoramic Road

Take a journey through some of the most stunning landscapes in the United States with the Tioga Pass Panoramic Road. This 196km route starts in Crestview and ends in Moccasin, taking you through the towns of June Lake and Tioga Pass, as well as the Yosemite National Park. Along the way, you'll see breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Mono Lake, and the Tuolumne Meadows. The best time of the year to drive is during the summer months when the roads are in good condition and the weather is mild. You can easily manage this road trip in one day, making it perfect for a weekend getaway. It's suitable for all levels of drivers and can be done on a moderate budget, making it a great way to create lasting memories.

Crestview is a small town located in Okaloosa County, Florida, United States. It is situated along the Emerald Coast, a 65 mile stretch of pristine beaches. This makes it an ideal starting point for the “Tioga Pass Panoramic Road” road trip. Crestview is home to many attractions, with its close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and its many parks, including Fred Gannon Rocky Bayou State Park and Blackwater River State Park. For those interested in historical sights, the town also has a number of museums and monuments, such as the Air Force Armament Museum and the Crestview Veterans Memorial. For those travelling by air, the closest international airport to Crestview is the Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS), located in Valparaiso, FL, about 30 miles away. Car rentals are available at the airport, making it a convenient option for those looking to take the “Tioga Pass Panoramic Road” road trip. Crestview offers plenty to see and do, making it the perfect starting point for a road trip. With its beaches, parks, museums and monuments, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Welcome road-trippers! We are excited to invite you to explore the beautiful route from Crestview to June Lake. This 9mi drive will take you less than an hour and it is part of a larger tour. In Crestview, you can visit the historic Olio-Baker House, the oldest house in the town, built in 1885. You can also take a stroll in the Crestview Heritage Park, visit the Crestview Community Center and admire the beautiful architecture of the Crestview City Hall. In June Lake, you can enjoy the stunning views of the June Mountain Ski Area, the June Lake Marina, and the Gull Lake Park. You can also take a walk along the June Lake Loop Trail, visit the June Lake Beach, and enjoy a picnic in the June Lake Park. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. We hope you have a wonderful road trip!

Welcome to the June Lake - Tioga Pass road trip stage! Get ready to explore some of the most beautiful places in the United States! This stage of the tour is about 30mi long and you can drive it in less than 1 hour. Start your journey in June Lake, a small town in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, known for its stunning mountain views and crystal clear waters. Here you can enjoy some of the best fishing spots in the area, or take a boat tour on the lake. Continue your journey to Tioga Pass, located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. This pass is the highest highway crossing in California and offers breathtaking views of the mountains. Here you can take a hike on the John Muir Trail or admire the beauty of the Tenaya Lake. Don't forget to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your road trip!

Welcome to the Tioga Pass to Yosemite National Park Road Trip stage! This 22mi drive will take you fewer than 1 hour, and you’ll be able to see some of the most amazing sights in the area. Start your journey at Tioga Pass, where you can find the highest highway pass in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Here, you can take in the stunning views of the alpine meadows, granite domes, and deep valleys. Continue your journey to Yosemite National Park, where you can take in the breathtaking beauty of the park. From the iconic El Capitan to the majestic Half Dome, you’ll be able to experience the wonders of nature in this unique and special place. Make sure to take some time to explore the ancient giant sequoias, as well as the vast meadows and rivers. You can also take a dip in the crystal clear waters of Tenaya Lake. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Have a great trip!

Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for a thrilling and spectacular road trip from Yosemite National Park to Moccasin! This 62-mile journey will take you fewer than 2 hours and will be full of unforgettable experiences. Start your journey in Yosemite National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the natural wonders of Half Dome and El Capitan, two of the most iconic rock formations in the world. Then, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Merced River and explore the many trails and waterfalls. Continue your journey to the small town of Moccasin, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the area and explore the local attractions. Visit the historic Moccasin Ranch, where you can learn about the history of the area and the culture of the local people. Be sure to check out the nearby Yosemite Valley Museum, where you can learn more about the history and culture of the Yosemite region. The journey from Yosemite National Park to Moccasin is one of the stages of a larger tour. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

The road trip "Tioga Pass Panoramic Road" ends in Moccasin, United States. Located in Mariposa County, Moccasin is a small, idyllic town with plenty of attractions for visitors. The Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad is a must-see for history buffs. This historic steam train runs through the beautiful Sierra National Forest, offering a unique glimpse into the past. For animal lovers, the Mariposa County Zoo is a great destination. It is home to more than 50 species of animals, including tigers, leopards, and bears. For those who prefer to explore the outdoors, Moccasin has plenty of hiking trails to choose from. The area is also known for its stargazing opportunities, with the nearby Sierra National Forest offering the perfect backdrop for star-gazing. For those looking for an adventure, the Merced River offers plenty of opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and rafting. The nearby Lake McClure is also great for fishing, swimming, and other water activities. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT). From there, it is just a short drive to Moccasin. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous outdoor escape, Moccasin has something for everyone. With its beautiful scenery, historic attractions, outdoor activities, and much more, Moccasin is the perfect destination to end the Tioga Pass Panoramic Road trip.

Before you set off

The Tioga Pass Panoramic Road, also known as California State Route 120, stretches 196 kilometers (122 miles) from the town of Lee Vining at the eastern entrance of Yosemite National Park, through the stunning Tioga Pass, and on to the community of Moccasin. This scenic byway traverses some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, including serene June Lake, the otherworldly Mono Lake, and the expansive Tuolumne Meadows. It provides Roadtrippers with an immersive experience into the heart of the High Sierra, perfect for a memorable day Trip or an extended exploration.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• June Lake: A picturesque mountain loop with shimmering lakes, ideal for fishing, boating, and hiking.
• Yosemite National Park: An internationally renowned World Heritage Site featuring majestic cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoias.
• Sierra Nevada Mountains: Experience the grandeur of one of North America's most impressive mountain ranges with countless photo opportunities.
• Mono Lake: An ancient saline soda lake, over 1 million years old, known for its unique limestone formations called tufa towers.
• Tuolumne Meadows: A breathtaking high-elevation meadow, offering a peaceful respite and excellent trails for hikers of all levels.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time to drive the Tioga Pass Panoramic Road is typically from late May or early June to October, aligning with the seasonal opening of the Tioga Pass, which is dependent on snow levels.

Potential Risks:

• Seasonal closure of the Tioga Pass due to heavy snowfall typically occurs from November to May.
• Drivers must be cautious of wildlife on the Roads, particularly at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
• The high elevation of the pass, peaking at 9,943 feet, may lead to altitude sickness for some individuals; it's advisable to acclimatize and stay hydrated.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Tioga Pass is the highest highway pass in the Sierra Nevada and California, providing access to Yosemite's high country.
• The drive along the Tioga Pass is considered relatively easy, but it offers many opportunities for more challenging adventures off the main Road.
• While the Trip can be experienced on a moderate budget, there are also options for luxury accommodations and fine dining in the surrounding areas.
• Along the route, Roadtrippers can enjoy a plethora of activities such as hiking, rock climbing, photography, bird watching, and stargazing, given the area's clear skies and minimal light pollution.

A good choice for:

Embarking on a journey along the Tioga Pass Panoramic Road is not just a Road Trip; it's an adventure into some of the most majestic natural landscapes that the United States has to offer. Whether you are seeking thrilling outdoor activities or the serenity of the Sierra Nevada, this route provides an unforgettable experience that combines both the thrill of exploration and the peace of nature.