Happy Isles parking, directions, etc

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#1

I have a few driving related questions here:

  1. What is the best way to get from Fresno to Happy Isles?

  2. Where should I park in Happy Isles

  3. Where should I pick up my permit? What are directions to get there (driving)?

  4. How much time should I leave for all of this? Assuming that I arrive in Fresno at 10 AM, when can I expect to first set foot on the trail?

Thanks!!
Bob

Bob

#2

Bob: When I head to Yosemite from San diego I go through Fresno and stop at Oakhurst for the night (Hwy 41 all the way from Fresno to the Park entrance). If I recall correctly, it’s about 45 minutes from Fresno to Oakhurst. Then the next morning, I head out early (6:00 am) from Oakhurst and reach the Park entrance in about 15 minutes. From there, it’s about another 45 minutes to the Valley (avoiding traffic this early). Go straight to the Wilderness Center in the Village to get your Wilderness Permit and directions/parking pass to the backpackers parking lot clostest to Happy Isles (about a mile from the trailhead). I would go early (if you can) as it’s a zoo on the trail at Happy Isles for the first couple of miles or more, particularly if you decide to take the Mist Trail. The John Muir Trail will be the less crowded alternative to the top of Nevada Falls.

Having said that, in direct answer to your question, if you’re going straight from Fresno to the Valley at 10:00 am, I would assume at least 2 hours, depending upon the traffic. By the time you check in at the Wilderness Office and get to the trailhead, assume another hour, at least. Hopefully, you can be on the trail by 1:00 pm or 2:00 pm latest.

Have a great hike!!

Sherpa Steve

#3

Bob: I forgot to mention that there are time deadlines each day for picking up your permit (BTW, no permits necessary if you are day hiking). If you have a wilderness permit reservation I think (but not certain) that it must be picked up by 10:00 or 11:00 am that day or you risk losing it. Also, 40% of the Wilderness Permits are issued on a first come first served basis each day (or the day before), but they usually go fast and early (possibly even the day before). So you may want to plan accordingly. You may also want to contact the Wlderness Permit office at 209-372-0740 or check http://www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness/permits.htm#reserve for more info. Once you have obtained your permit the ranger will give you directions to the backpackers parking lot closest to Happy Isles. I hope this helps. Good luck.

Sherpa Steve

Sherpa Steve

#4

Steve,

Thanks for the advice. I checked with the permit office and if you tell them in advance, they will hold the permit to closing time.

Thanks!
Bob

Bob