Let Someone Else Drive: YARTS Opens the Door to Yosemite’s Quieter Seasons
Winter service begins October 1, with free round-trip passes available to eligible Mariposa and Merced County residents.
Living near Yosemite doesn’t always mean making time to enjoy it. Sometimes, a day in the park stays on the “we should do that” list while work, errands and everything else fill the calendar.
With fall arriving, YARTS is offering another reason to put that trip on the schedule—and leave the driving to someone else.
The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System will begin its off-peak Highway 140 service on October 1, connecting Merced and Mariposa with Yosemite through the fall, winter and spring. According to its announcement and published winter timetable, the season runs through May 27, 2027, with four eastbound trips and three westbound return options. Travelers can review departure times in the YARTS winter schedule.
For mountain-area residents, the route offers a way to make the journey part of the outing. Instead of watching the road, passengers can watch the scenery, visit with a traveling companion or simply settle in for the ride.
“The wonder of Yosemite doesn’t have an off-season. In fact, some of the most memorable moments happen after summer is over,” said Serenity Anderson, transit director for YARTS.
“Whether you’re coming for fall colors, winter scenery or a peaceful spring day in the mountains, YARTS makes it easy to leave the car behind and enjoy the trip from the moment you board.”
The winter service follows Highway 140 through communities including Catheys Valley, Mariposa, Midpines and El Portal before reaching Yosemite Valley. Oakhurst-area readers planning to use it would need to connect with that corridor; this is the Highway 140 winter schedule, rather than service from Oakhurst along Highway 41. Route information
Mariposa County residents also have an opportunity to make the trip more affordable. Through the Low Carbon Transit Operations Program, eligible residents of Mariposa and Merced counties can receive one free adult round-trip ticket per resident while funding lasts.
Applicants must provide proof of residency. Approved participants receive an emailed coupon code to use when reserving their trip online; the voucher itself cannot be presented on the bus. Reservation or transaction fees may apply. The free-pass application is available through YARTS.
Families have additional fare options. Children ages 5 and younger ride free, and one child ages 6–12 can ride free with each paid adult fare. Reduced fares are available for additional children and teens, seniors ages 62 and older, veterans and passengers with disabilities. Fare details
YARTS buses have onboard restrooms and storage for personal belongings. Before choosing a departure, passengers should check the return schedule as well, allowing enough time for the day they have in mind.
Tickets for the off-peak season are available now. For reservations, schedules and additional information, visit YARTS.com or call 877-989-2787.