🌉 From San Francisco to the Parks: Transportation Tips for National Park Adventures

#transportation San Francisco isn’t just about fog, food, and steep hills — it’s also a killer launchpad for exploring some of California’s most iconic national parks. Whether you’re renting a car or planning a guided escape, here’s how to make the most of it 👇 🚗 Driving Yourself = Best Flexibility If you want to hit multiple parks or stop for roadside hikes and tiny towns, rent a car (or campervan) from SFO or downtown SF. Top parks within driving distance: 🌲 Yosemite National Park – 4 hrs 🌳 Muir Woods National Monument – 45 mins 🏞️ Point Reyes National Seashore – 1.5 hrs 🌄 Lassen Volcanic National Park – 4.5–5 hrs 🌁 Golden Gate National Recreation Area – in the city! 💡 Driving Tips: Leave early to beat Bay Area traffic Book Yosemite day-use reservations in advance (required in peak season!) Fill up on gas and snacks before entering parks — remote areas have limited services 🚌 No Car? No Problem — Take a Tour! Several companies run guided day and overnight trips from San Francisco to nearby parks. Great if you don’t want to drive or only have a day or two. 🎯 Best for: Solo travelers International visitors People short on time or experience with mountain roads 🚄 Public Transit + Shuttles (Limited, But Possible) 🛤️ Yosemite via public transit: Take the train (SF > Merced) + national park shuttle into Yosemite Valley Slower but doable — especially for overnight visits 🌲 Muir Woods Shuttle: Available seasonally from Sausalito or Marin Combine with a ferry ride across the bay = perfect car-free adventure Reserve tickets early 🧭 Quick Tips for Park Trips from SF: ✅ Download offline maps before heading into the mountains ✅ Always check weather + road conditions (especially for Yosemite & Lassen) ✅ Layer up — coastal parks = foggy, mountain parks = chilly at night ✅ Weekends = crowded. Try visiting midweek for thinner crowds and easier parking