When traveling from Los Angeles to Yosemite, Amtrak provides a relaxing and stress-free travel experience. Amtrak Los Angeles to Yosemite is a great option whether you’re searching for an environmentally responsible option or just want to take in the stunning scenery of California. To guarantee a seamless trip, this book offers all the necessary information on routes, schedules, and travel advice.
Amtrak Routes Details from Los Angeles to Yosemite
The following table lists every important detail and facts for Amtrak routes from Los Angeles to Yosemite:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Amtrak Route | San Joaquins or Coast Starlight |
| Departure Station | Los Angeles Union Station (LAX) |
| Arrival Station | Merced (MCD) or Fresno (FNO) |
| Distance to Yosemite | Merced: ~75 miles; Fresno: ~60 miles |
| Travel Time (Train) | Los Angeles to Merced: ~6 hours; Los Angeles to Fresno: ~5.5 hours |
| Total Travel Time | Approximately 6-8 hours (depending on connections) |
| Frequency | Amtrak San Joaquins: Multiple daily departures; Coast Starlight: Once daily |
| YARTS Frequency | Multiple daily departures from Merced and Fresno (seasonal variations apply) |
| Ticket Booking | Amtrak tickets: Available online or at stations; YARTS tickets: On bus or online in advance |
| Cost (Amtrak) | Los Angeles to Merced/Fresno: ~$30-$50 (one way, depending on class and discounts) |
| Cost (YARTS) | Merced/Fresno to Yosemite: ~$12-$15 (one way, depending on destination within Yosemite) |
| Luggage Policy | Amtrak: 2 carry-on bags, 2 checked bags (fees may apply); YARTS: Limited space for luggage |
| Accessibility | Amtrak and YARTS offer accessible services for passengers with disabilities |
| Seasonal Considerations | YARTS operates year-round but with reduced frequency in winter; check schedules in advance |
| Scenic Highlights | Coast Starlight: Coastal and mountain views; San Joaquins: Central Valley landscapes |
| Amenities on Amtrak | Wi-Fi, café car, power outlets, comfortable seating |
| Park Entrance Fee | Yosemite National Park: $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days); included in YARTS fare for some |
| Additional Tips | Book Amtrak from Amtrak’s Official Website and YARTS tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons |
Yosemite to Los Angeles Amtrak Routes
The Amtrak routes from Los Angeles to Yosemite are shown in this table.
| Route Name | Starting Point | Transfer Point(s) | Ending Point | Approximate Travel Time | Mode of Transfer | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Joaquins | Los Angeles | Merced, CA | Yosemite National Park | ~8-10 hours | Amtrak Thruway Bus (Route 15) | Scenic Central Valley views, Wi-Fi access on trains and buses, comfortable seating. |
| Pacific Surfliner | Los Angeles | Bakersfield, CA → Merced, CA | Yosemite National Park | ~10-12 hours | Amtrak train → Connection to San Joaquins | Coastal views from the Surfliner transitioning to Central Valley scenery, smooth transitions. |
| Alternative Option | Los Angeles | Fresno, CA | Yosemite National Park | ~9-11 hours | Amtrak train → Amtrak Thruway Bus | Direct transfers available at Fresno station, picturesque landscapes en route. |
Amtrak Schedule from Los Angeles to Yosemite
Since there is no direct Amtrak service to Yosemite National Park, travelers must take an Amtrak train to a nearby station (such as Merced or Fresno) and then transfer to a YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) bus to reach Yosemite.
| Segment | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak San Joaquins | 6:50 AM | 12:15 PM | ~5 hours 25 minutes | Departs from Los Angeles Union Station (LAX) to Merced (MCD). |
| YARTS Bus Connection | 1:00 PM | 3:30 PM | ~2 hours 30 minutes | Departs from Merced Amtrak Station to Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. |
| Total Travel Time | 6:50 AM | 3:30 PM | ~8 hours 40 minutes | Includes train and bus travel times. |
Alternative Schedule for Los Angeles to Yosemite via Fresno
Here is a table for traveling from Los Angeles to Yosemite via Fresno using Amtrak services:
| Segment | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak San Joaquins | 7:00 AM | 12:30 PM | ~5 hours 30 minutes | Departs from Los Angeles Union Station (LAX) to Fresno (FNO). |
| YARTS Bus Connection | 1:30 PM | 3:30 PM | ~2 hours | Departs from Fresno Amtrak Station to Yosemite Valley Visitor Center. |
| Total Travel Time | 7:00 AM | 3:30 PM | ~8 hours 30 minutes | Includes train and bus travel times. |
Why Choose Amtrak for Los Angeles to Yosemite Adventure?
The following table lists the benefits and special features of using Amtrak for a trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite:
| Reason | Details |
|---|---|
| Scenic Journey | Amtrak routes like the Coast Starlight offer breathtaking views of California’s coast, mountains, and valleys. |
| Eco-Friendly Travel | Trains produce fewer emissions per passenger compared to cars or planes, making it a greener choice. |
| Stress-Free Travel | Avoid the hassle of driving through traffic, navigating highways, and finding parking. |
| Comfortable Amenities | Enjoy spacious seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and a café car for snacks and meals. |
| Cost-Effective | Affordable ticket prices, especially when compared to gas, car rentals, and parking fees. |
| Relax and Unwind | Use travel time to relax, read, or enjoy the scenery instead of focusing on driving. |
| Family-Friendly | Amtrak is a great option for families, with spacious seating and the ability to move around. |
| Seasonal Flexibility | YARTS operates year-round, making it a viable option for both summer and winter trips. |
| Unique Experience | Train travel offers a nostalgic and memorable way to reach one of America’s most iconic parks. |
Tips for Traveling from Los Angeles to Yosemite via Amtrak
The following table offers advice on how to arrange a comfortable and enjoyable trip when taking Amtrak from Los Angeles to Yosemite:
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Book Early | Reserve Amtrak and YARTS tickets ahead of time. |
| Check Schedules | Confirm train and bus timings in advance. |
| Charge Devices | Bring portable chargers for the trip. |
| Arrive Early | Be at the station 30 minutes before departure. |
| Plan for Delays | Allow extra time for potential delays. |
| Enjoy the Scenery | Relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way. |
The Solo Traveler’s Social Guide for Amtrak Los Angeles to Yosemite
- Amtrak’s Observation Car: Natural conversation starter
- Yosemite Volunteer Desk: Meet park stewards
- Curry Village Fire Pit: Evening storytelling hub
Safety Tips for Amtrak to Yosemite from Los Angeles
- Designated “buddy hike” bulletin board at visitor centers
- Ranger-led solo traveler meetups (summer weekends)
- Amtrak’s solo traveler seating options
Last Words
A great option to take in California’s splendor without having to deal with the work of driving is to take the Amtrak from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park. On your way to one of America’s most famous parks, you may relax and take in the breathtaking scenery thanks to the smooth train and bus connections.
Some Favorite Amtrak Routes
- Amtrak Union Station to Los Angeles
- Amtrak Los Angeles to California
- Amtrak Los Angeles to Sacramento
- Amtrak Los Angeles to Chicago
- Amtrak Los Angeles to San Luis
- Amtrak Los Angeles to Las Vegas
FAQs for Yosemite to Los Angeles on Amtrak
Approximately 6-8 hours total (5 hours train to Merced + 2 hours YARTS bus).
No, you’ll take Amtrak San Joaquins to Merced then transfer to YARTS bus.
San Joaquins to Merced, then YARTS bus into Yosemite Valley.
30−60 for train, plus 15−15−25 for YARTS bus (one-way).
Multiple departures daily from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM from LA Union Station.
Amtrak Police: 1-800-331-0008, Yosemite Dispatch: 209-379-1992.