Why It’s Important to Visit Yosemite & the Southern Gateway in 2025
Yosemite National Park is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world, but recent uncertainties with the 2025 reservation system, national park budget cuts, and road closures have left some travelers unsure about their plans. If you're considering a trip to Yosemite this Spring or Summer, don't let these concerns stop you! Visiting through the Southern Gateway, particularly Oakhurst, CA, offers a reliable, rewarding, and responsible way to experience the park while supporting local communities. Today I’m sharing why planning a trip to Yosemite National Park this year is not only a great idea, but an important decision you can make. If we band together, we can all support the local economies and the park staff during these trying times, as well as preserve this incredible park we’ve come to love dearly.
Bridalveil Fall & Merced River in Yosemite National Park
Highway 140 rockslide (Photo courtesy of Caltrans District 10)
Highway 140 Rockslide
Last week, there was a major rockslide along Highway 140 west of Yosemite National Park, blocking traffic in both directions. As of the writing of this post, there is no estimated timeframe on when the “small car-sized boulders” and debris will be removed. Currently the hillsides are being inspected to gauge stability before crews can begin clearing the large slide. In the meantime, Yosemite visitors can only access the park via Highway 120/Big Oak Flat Road near Groveland or Highway 41/Wawona Road near Oakhurst.
I personally love traveling up through Oakhurst. Unlike Highway 140 and Big Oak Flat Road, Highway 41 is generally free from major rockslide concerns, making it the perfect route for those looking for a stress-free adventure into Yosemite. Always check the official Yosemite NPS website for the most up-to-date road conditions, and call (209) 372-0200 (press 1, then 1) for the latest tire chain requirements.
Viewing Half Dome from Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park
Support Park Staff
No matter what your political views are, the reality is many of our nation’s parks are often crowded during the busy summer months, and the potential of any staffing shortages paired with no reservation system can leave these natural treasures in a vulnerable state. So, what can we do in response? One might think that choosing not to visit Yosemite is the answer, but the truth is the park needs our help now more than ever. Lighten the load of a strained park staff as you recreate responsibly, pack in and pack out, stay on designated trails, and encourage other park visitors to do the same. I like to pack an empty trash bag with me to pick up any carelessly discarded garbage. There are also plenty of volunteer opportunities with the Yosemite Conservancy, as well as an annual cleanup event each year called the Yosemite Facelift hosted by the Yosemite Climbing Associated. If we all do our part individually, we can make a huge impact together.
Yosemite Adventure Co along Highway 41 in Oakhurst, CA
Support Local Businesses
Over the past week, I’ve had the opportunity to meet with local business owners and residents in Oakhurst and the surrounding areas, and there’s no denying it...uncertainty about park access has been hitting some of these communities. Yosemite’s gateway towns rely heavily on tourism, and with no official word yet on a reservation system for the summer, some people are canceling their plans. Many businesses in Oakhurst, Bass Lake, and Coarsegold have reported a drop in tourism compared to previous years. These communities are part of what makes the Yosemite experience so special, providing visitors with critical lodging, dining options, and activities outside the park. These amenities help support the park’s infrastructure throughout the year (particularly in the busy summer months), and the small businesses that provide these services need our support now more than ever.
Sierra Massage Therapy in Oakhurst, CA
Shopping at Artifacts Imports in Oakhurst, CA
Things to Do in Yosemite’s Southern Gateway
Your Yosemite experience isn’t just about the park itself—there’s plenty to see and do in the surrounding areas! Last year I put together a comprehensive list of things to do in Madera County, which you can check out in my Fossils to Falls Road Trip blog post. In the coming weeks, I’ll be posting more content on 41 Things to Do Around Highway 41 in partnership with Visit Yosemite Madera County, so stay tuned! Below are some of my favorites on that list:
Yosemite Adventure Co: Rent off-road vehicles or take a guided tour for an exhilarating adventure in the Sierra National Forest. Last week I took an unforgettable ride on an ATV equipped with snow tracks. More info here.
Yosemite VR Experience: Immerse yourself in Yosemite’s wonders through an innovative virtual reality experience narrated by Bryan Cranston in downtown Oakhurst. More info here.
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad: Take a scenic ride on an authentic steam train through the towering pines of the Sierra Nevada. These tracks were once a lifeline for logging operations in the early 1900s, carrying massive sugar pine logs down from the mountains. Today, they carry visitors from all over seeking to enjoy a taste of the past and the beauty of the Sierra Nevada! More info here.
Bass Lake: This beautiful spot offers endless adventures, breathtaking views, and a whole lot of fun! Stop by Miller’s Landing to rent patio boats, jet skis, and more. Abundant wildlife can be found here too, including black bear, mule deer, osprey, and bald eagles!
Art Galleries & Museums: Explore the rich history and vibrant art scene in Madera County. Right now the Renaissance 40 Exhibition is taking place at the Yosemite Gateway Art Center, which showcases a wide range of artwork about Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada.
Shopping: Enjoy a great selection of gifts, specialty items and vintage finds at Oakhurst Giftworks, as well as unique rocks, minerals, jewelry, and clothing at Artifacts Imports.
Sierra Massage Therapy: After a full day of adventuring in the park, enjoy a much-needed massage. Book a variety of services including Swedish, couples, deep tissue, prenatal, facial red light therapy, as well as hot stone and Himalayan salt stone treatments. More info here.
The Inelle Hotel in Oakhurst, CA
Where to Stay in Yosemite’s Southern Gateway
From luxury resorts to cozy cabins, the Southern Gateway along Highway 41 offers a variety of lodging options to fit every traveler's needs:
Luxury & Boutique Stays: The Chateau du Sureau, The Inelle, and Tenaya at Yosemite provide upscale accommodations.
Family-Friendly Lodging: The Pines Resort on Bass Lake and hotels like Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn are great for groups.
Budget-Friendly Options: Choose from charming motels, campgrounds, and all kinds of unique vacation rentals that fit your budget.
Bee’s Bakery Cafe in Oakhurst, CA - Avocado Toast and Chicken & Waffles
Where to Eat in Yosemite’s Southern Gateway
No road trip is complete without amazing food! Here are some of my favorites in Oakhurst:
South Gate Brewing Company: Craft beers and farm-to-table menu with something for everyone.
Bee’s Bakery Cafe: A cozy brunch spot known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and creative takes on classic breakfast and lunch dishes.
El Cid Mexican Cuisine: A favorite for authentic Mexican dishes with generous proportions.
O.M.F.G. Fantastic Grub: A vibrant eatery serving up bold flavors and hearty comfort food with a fun, casual twist.
Deli Delicious: Hearty sandwiches and friendly service for visitors on-the-go.
Snow Track Tour with Yosemite Adventure Co in Sierra National Forest
Plan Your Yosemite Trip with Confidence
Despite the current uncertainties, Yosemite remains one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit. By choosing to visit Yosemite this year via the Southern Gateway, you ensure a more reliable and rewarding experience while supporting the communities that make this region so special. So, start planning your adventure today and make the most of your Yosemite journey! One of the best resources to help you plan your visit is the Oakhurst Visitor Center. Stop by in person or check out all the great things to do in this region online at YosemiteThisYear.com.
Yosemite VR Experience at the Yosemite Cinema in Oakhurst, CA
In Summary
Thanks so much for joining this me this week in Yosemite National Park and its southern gateway communities. For a virtual visit of my time in Oakhurst, make sure to watch my Behind the Blog video located at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad along Highway 41
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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Planning a Yosemite National Park trip in 2025? With reservation uncertainty, budget cuts, and road closures from a Highway 140 rockslide, many travelers are unsure about visiting. But don’t cancel your plans! Entering through Oakhurst, CA, offers a reliable, rewarding way to explore the park while supporting local businesses. Discover why visiting Yosemite this year is more important than ever.