Why not bypass the car traffic for your summer vacation and travel by train instead? A five-minute walk over the tracks from Public Market Emeryville is the Emeryville Amtrak station.

Many folks are familiar with travel to San Jose or Sacramento via the Capitol Corridor route. But another line, the San Joaquins, also stops in Emeryville and boasts destinations including Yosemite National Park, via a dedicated motorcoach connection. A 7:40 departure will have you in the Park by 2:45.

The relaxing ride (WiFi included) winds through California’s Central Valley. Riders are free to lounge in roomy seats, get up to stretch their legs or grab a bite to eat and take in the views en route to Yosemite.

After a quick stop in Merced and a scenic Thruway bus ride through Mariposa and El Portal, Yosemite awaits. Waterfalls, giant sequoias, scenic overlooks and winding trails throughout 1,169 square miles of parkland are just a few of this national treasure’s highlights.

The Thruway bus drops riders off in the heart of Yosemite Valley where the Park’s free shuttle provides frequent service to all the main attractions and hotels in the main part of Yosemite Valley: Curry Village, the Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Lodge and various campsites and natural wonders.

Renowned for its granite cliffs, Half Dome and El Capitan are two of the formations made famous by photographer Ansel Adams. Yosemite Valley is open year-round for camping, hiking, and climbing.

Learn more here about how to visit the park WITHOUT worrying about parking.