MERCED, CA (September 29, 2025) – The end of September marks the conclusion of all seasonal summer service operated by the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) to Yosemite. The transition to its winter service begins on October 1st and runs through May 2026. The winter service provides access to Yosemite National Park via the Highway 140 corridor with four, east-bound runs available out of Merced and Mariposa daily along with three options for west-bound trips. Tickets are now available on the YARTS website at www.yarts.com.
“Visiting Yosemite in the wintertime has a magical feel to it,” said Serenity Anderson, Transit Director for YARTS. “As the cold and snow settles into the Valley, YARTS allows for a warm and comfortable ride to Yosemite without the worry of driving in the elements.”
YARTS offers a number of discounted rates, which makes the service affordable for families. Children under five are always free and each child between the ages of 6 and 12 years-old ride free if accompanied by a full-fare paying adult. Discounted rates for children aged 13-17 years old, veterans, seniors and ADA passengers are also available. In addition, college and university students are still able to receive free round-trip passes on YARTS through the end of year. Applications for the passes can be found on the YARTS website and sent to [email protected].
All YARTS buses are equipped with lavatories and provide ample undercarriage and overhead storage for personal items. For more information about fares, free passes, schedules, routes, or to make your reservation for your winter or spring trip, please visit www.yarts.com or call (877) 989-2787.
YARTS is a California Joint Powers Authority comprised of the Counties of Merced, Mariposa, Tuolumne, Madera, Mono, and the City of Fresno in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, National Park Service and United States Forest Service. The Merced County Association of Governments provides administrative services and operational support for YARTS.
