No matter what time of year you choose to visit the Bass Lake and Yosemite area, you’re guaranteed to enjoy some incredible views along the Sierra Scenic Byway.
Whether it’s your first trip to Yosemite or your hundredth, a scenic drive through the area is a great way to enjoy not only great views, but also many towns, recreation areas, hiking trails, and more. From snow-capped mountains to flowering trees in the spring, the beautiful landscape is a uniquely beautiful experience.
Now, if you’re ready to start planning a drive for your trip, check out this list of five things that you should know about the Sierra Scenic Byway!
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#1. There are two byways
There are actually two scenic byways in the area. The first is the Sierra Heritage Scenic Byway. This 70-mile road stretches from the San Joaquin Valley all the way up the western slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, ending up in Kaiser Pass Meadow.
The second is the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway. This byway is 100-miles long, beginning near the town of North Fork and also ending in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range.
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#2. You’ll want a full day to explore each byway
If you truly want to enjoy everything on each of these scenic byways, you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time. In other words, expect to spend between four and five hours driving. Also, keep in mind this does not include the hours you’ll want to spend exploring the resort towns located along the Sierra Heritage Scenic Byway. After all, there is much to be enjoyed including outdoor activities like hiking and fishing, or stopping to take photos at the many great look-out spots located on each road.
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#3. You’ll enjoy plenty of history during your drive
From known areas where the Mono Indian tribe once gathered, to Globe Rock, a boulder balanced high on a perch that President Theodore Roosevelt once posed in front of, each of the scenic byways offers a glimpse into the history of the area and of the founding, growth, and protection of Yosemite National Park.
Take a historic walking tour in Clovis, a resort town located on the Sierra Heritage Scenic Byway. Explore historic buildings in each of the towns that you’ll travel through. Visit the Museum of the Central Sierra. Or, you can shop some of the antique stores located in many of the towns and maybe even take a piece of history home with you!
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#4 There are plenty of outdoor activities to help stretch your legs along the way
Horseback riding, hiking, fishing, and mountain biking are just a few of the ways that you can escape from your car and squeeze in some exercise while driving one of the scenic byways. Pack your own gear or visit one of the many vendors located on each byway.
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#5. You may want to pack extra batteries for your camera
While cute towns and exciting outdoor adventures definitely await you on either of the scenic byways, the beautiful landscapes are sure to be the highlight of your drive. If you aren’t pressed for time, be sure to stop at each of the look-outs and recreation areas along the way to take in the sights and snap a few photos-just don’t be surprised when that turns into several hundred photos!
After a long day of driving and exploring, there’s no better way to relax than with a stay at The Pines Resort. And if you need a day to recover, a visit to The Pines Spa is a great way to unwind! Visit our website today to start planning your next visit!
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