Visit Yosemite And More Western Wonders On A Budget: Here’s How

With longer days and warmer weather, it’s the perfect time to hit the open road. If you’re seeking adventure and natural beauty, Yosemite National Park is a top destination, offering unforgettable outdoor experiences.

Here, we’ll share some money-saving tips for your journey there, plus a few other Western road trip destinations to explore.

Your Road Trip To Yosemite National Park

Recognized worldwide for its mountain views, stunning waterfalls and vast biodiversity, a visit to Yosemite National Park in California is a must for any nature lover. Read on for your guide to must-see and must-do activities in and around Yosemite.

Gateway Towns To Visit On The Way

Before entering the park, break up your drive with a stop at one of Yosemite’s historic gateway towns. Here are a few great options to add to your itinerary:

• If you’re coming from Highways 49 and 120, visit Sonora and the nearby Columbia State Historic Park for some Gold Rush-era history.
• From Highway 41, explore the vineyards and tasting rooms of the Madera Wine Trail, or stop by Bass Lake — about a half hour south of Yosemite — for fishing, hiking and even bouldering.
• If you’re traveling along Highway 140, stop by the California State Mining and Mineral Museum in Mariposa before continuing your scenic drive along the Merced River.

Things To Do In Yosemite

Once you make it into the park, purchase your park pass (available on-site for $35 per private vehicle). From there, the possibilities are endless; if you can, set aside at least two or three days to explore everything Yosemite has to offer.

Lodging options inside the park range from tents, RV parks and cabins to motels and hotels, with additional options just outside the park. Wherever you stay, you’ll want to book well in advance to secure the best rates and availability — about 4 million people visit Yosemite National Park each year.

After you’ve checked into your lodging, it’s time to explore! Your park pass grants you access to over 1,000 square miles of wilderness, where you can:

• Hike to iconic waterfalls. Thanks to the region’s glaciers, Yosemite Valley boasts an array of waterfalls, from easy hikes like Bridalveil Fall to more challenging treks to Yosemite Falls.
• Cool off in one of Yosemite’s lakes or take a rafting trip on the Merced River. Swim, boat or raft in the park's lakes and rivers, or fish year-round in the lakes (stream and river fishing is available April-November).
• Test your skills at Yosemite's famous rock climbing spots. Don't forget your wilderness climbing permit!

On Your Way Back

Extend your adventure with a detour to explore nearby national monuments, such as the César E. Chávez National Monument and Muir Woods National Monument. These serene spots offer a peaceful conclusion to your trip.

Go West: Even More Local Road Trips

Looking to extend your vacation or explore a new route? Here are a few more Western destinations to add to your itinerary.

Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Named for the Joshua tree (Yucca brevifolia) species that proliferates the area, Joshua Tree National Park is another popular spot for nature lovers. Sitting at the intersection of two different desert ecosystems, the Southern California park offers hiking, rock climbing and plenty of wildlife. Stay into the later hours or set up camp to enjoy some stellar stargazing.

Lake Tahoe, NV

Lake Tahoe is the largest Alpine lake in North America, straddling the border between California and Nevada. Outdoor activities like swimming, hiking and biking are a big draw, but you can also enjoy South Lake Tahoe’s nightlife as well as multiple historical sites in the region. (And if you’re doing both Lake Tahoe and Yosemite on the same trip, there’s plenty to see along the route!)

Big Sur & Pacific Coast Highway, CA

The Pacific Coast Highway spans over 600 miles of California’s coastlines, offering panoramic Pacific views and plenty of opportunities to explore all the state has to offer. One of the highway’s most popular stops is Big Sur on Highway 1, thanks to its natural beauty and proximity to amenities. Make sure to stop at the small village of Ragged Point (also known as “The Gateway to Big Sur”) for great hikes, surfing and local cuisine.

Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

Spanning nearly 280 miles, Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park houses the world-famous canyon of the same name. Enjoy breathtaking canyon and desert views as you drive, bike, hike or even mule ride through. To extend the adventure further, take a detour to some nearby attractions, including the Aztec Ruins National Monument in New Mexico and Zion National Park in Utah.

Money-Saving Tips For Your Road Trip

Saving money on your road trip is simpler than you think. Check out these easy tips for a more affordable adventure.

Plan Ahead To Save On Activities

While spontaneity can be fun, it can also lead to impulse purchases and higher rates for attractions. Booking in advance ensures your chosen activity is both available and aligned with your budget. You can also explore free and low-cost activities, from museums to national parks to self-guided walking tours.

Use Your Car And Cooler To Your Advantage

Load up your cooler with food and drinks to cut down on fast food or rest-stop purchases. If your lodging has a kitchen, consider prepping one or two meals per day at “home base” and then enjoying the local cuisine for lunch or dinner.

Compare Hotel Rates & Take Advantage Of Perks

If you're not camping or RVing, compare rates across multiple sites to find the best deal. Many hotels offer "best rate guarantee" programs for direct bookings, while third-party sites may provide competitive rates. Be sure to check for onsite perks like complimentary breakfast and free parking when booking.

Whether you're discovering Yosemite or another Western gem, these tips will help you travel smarter and stay within budget!