What To Do While Waiting To Get Into Yosemite National Park

When travelers plan a California vacation, Yosemite National Park is often at the top of their must-see list. However, there may be times when the park is temporarily closed due to unforeseen circumstances such as wildfires or government shutdowns OR if you don't have a reservation (when required) and are waiting for your time to get in.  While a closed Yosemite can be disappointing, it doesn't mean your vacation has to be canceled. There are plenty of exciting and unique activities to explore in the surrounding areas of Bass Lake, Oakhurst, Ahwahnee, Fish Camp, Coarsegold, Raymond, and Madera, ensuring that your trip to the region remains memorable. Here's a comprehensive guide on what to do if Yosemite National Park is closed:

Bass Lake and North Fork Areas:

1. Enjoy Bass Lake: Take advantage of the beautiful Bass Lake for boating, hiking, biking, fishing, shopping, and dining. Rent a speedboat, kayak, or paddleboard to explore the lake's serene ambiance.

2. Hiking: Discover breathtaking trails such as the Way of the Mono Trail, Goat Mountain from Teaford Saddle, Spring Cove campground, and Willow Creek-Angel Falls-Devils Slide. Each hike offers incredible views of Bass Lake and ranges from easy to moderate difficulty levels. Don't forget to watch for the majestic Bald Eagles of Bass Lake.

3. Pack a Picnic:  Enjoy the Day Use Picnic areas for a serene and leisurely lunch.

4. Afternoon Pick-me-up: Savor a locally roasted coffee from South Fork Coffee Mill. 

5. Mountain Biking: Embark on scenic mountain biking adventures around the lake, suitable for intermediate and advanced riders.

6. Shop and Dine: Explore the unique shops and savor delicious meals with stunning lake views at various eateries in the area.

7. Sierra Mono Museum: Visit the Sierra Mono Museum and Cultural Center in North Fork to learn about the local culture and history.

8. The Center of It All: North Fork is known as the “Exact Geographic Center of California." Find the official marker and travel back through history at historic landmarks like the Old Mill Site and the Stagecoach Stop. 

9. Locally Grown Products: Discover delicious local produce at The Gnarly Carrot 

10. Apple Picking: Experience apple picking at a 30-acre Organic Apple Farm, a delightful family activity. 

11. Scenic Byway: Drive along the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway, which offers ten points of interest, picturesque vistas, and fresh alpine air.

Oakhurst, Ahwahnee, and Fish Camp Areas:

1. Adventure Activities: Try off-roading with Yosemite Adventure Company or test your lumberjack skills at Yosemite Axe Throwing.

2. Virtual Reality: Immerse yourself in Yosemite's beauty with virtual reality and other movie experiences at Yosemite Cinema.

3. Art and History: Explore art galleries in Oakhurst and step back in time at Fresno Flats Historic Village & Park.

4. Shopping: Hunt for treasures at thrift and gift stores throughout the region. Try something new and get a permanent bracelet at Grace's Loft.

5. Put Hair on Your Chest: While sampling local whiskey, vodka, and more at Oakhurst Spirits.

6. Family Fun: Enjoy family-friendly activities like walking along the Oakhurst River Parkway, reveling at the playground at the Oakhurst Community Park, or visiting the Talking Bear to hear what life was like for a California Grizzly.

7. All Aboard: Don’t miss a world-class attraction, with daily rides on the historic steam train at Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad.

8. Wine Lovers Paradise: Sip and savor local wines at Idle Hour Winery & Kitchen and Yosemite Wine Tails.

9. Entertainment: Attend live music events at local venues and live performance art at the Golden Chain Theatre.

10. Experience the Nightlife: Try stargazing or flashlight hikes when you stay at Tenaya at Yosemite.

Oakhurst, Ahwahnee, and Fish Camp Areas (Cont.): 

1. Wellness: Book a forest bathing experience or practice yoga at The Queens Inn by the River.

2. Channel the Inner Cowboy: Go horseback riding through the Sierra Nevada, then shuffle your boots at The Snowline Saloon's line dancing nights.

3. Local Heritage: Explore Native American heritage at the Wassama Round House State Historic Park.

4. Outdoor Exploration: Pack a picnic and explore Ahwahnee Hills Regional Park, walk, run, bike, and admire sculpture art structures at Sierra Meadows.

5. Cast a Line: Spend a day (or two) fishing in the many lakes and streams of the Sierra Nevada.

6. Unique Experiences: Pan for real gold at the Angry Bear Mining Co. 

7. Foodie Paradise: From a gastro brewpub with local craft drafts and dishes to handmade ice cream and sweet treats, Oakhurst has breakfast, lunch, and dinner covered. 

8. Wine and Dine: Savor a food-lovers experience at The Elderberry House at Chateau du Sureau. The Cellar Bar offers craft cocktails and a la carte dishes.

9. Relaxation: Treat yourself to a massage at A Stone’s Throw Massage, Mountainside Mobile Massage, Spa du Sureau, or Ascent Spa. While you are here, book a hotel or vacation rental with a hot tub.

Coarsegold and Raymond Areas:

1. Historic Village: Explore the Coarsegold Historic Village and discover the area's history at the Coarsegold Historic Society & Museum.

2. Outdoor Adventures: Hike around Eastman Lake and Hensley Lake and birdwatch to discover native bird species of Madera County.

3. Unique Exhibits: Learn about the eight-legged residents of the area at the Tarantula Exhibit inside the Coarsegold Historic Village. Explore the Charles Miller Museum and return to a bygone era at the Raymond General Store.

4. Gaming: Try your luck at Chukchansi Gold Resort and Casino.

Madera and Chowchilla Areas:

1. Wine Tasting: Sip award-winning wines along the Madera Wine Trail and the Yosemite Sierra Wine Road. While in the region, visit other powerhouse wineries such as Ficklin Vineyards and CRU Winery.

2. Farm Fresh Delights: Discover delicious California produce at the Tesoro Viejo Farmers Market and Axis Coffee Bar and Eatery.

3. Fossil Discovery: Visit The Fossil Discovery Center of Madera County and explore their massive collection of Columbian Mammoth fossils. 

4. Museums and Fine Art: Dive into history at the Madera Courthouse and Museum, and enjoy spectacular works of art at the Circle Gallery.

5. Natural Exploration: Enjoy fishing, kayaking, biking, and birding at Sycamore Island.

6. Guided Adventures: Experience guided naturalist hikes or horseback rides to some of the most unique places in the state with the Sierra Foothills Conservancy.

Outside The Box 

1. Aerial Adventure: Take an aerial tour of Yosemite National Park with Airborrn Aviation for a unique perspective.

2. Whitewater Bound: Raft down the magnificent Merced River, the Tuolumne River, or the Kings River! (Seasonal)

Whether you decide to explore by foot, horseback, or ATV,  there are plenty of memorable moments waiting for you in Madera County. We hope to see you soon!