Bringing my bike to the Valley was one of the best decisions I have made on my many trips there. Everything changed after that visit and there will never be another time (unless in the dead of winter) that my bike will not be there with me. The reason is simple: everything is heightened.

When Yosemite Valley is booming with crowds, it is really hard to make a personal connection. You get an opportunity to make that connection by pedaling through the Valley.

If you are sitting there contemplating if you should lug your bike on your upcoming visit, keep these things in mind:

Traffic - If you have been to the Valley in peak season (or any season for that matter) you know about the crowds. Driving to and from destinations takes up a lot of time and adds headache. There is no better feeling than flying past the rows of cars that are moving at snail pace.

Easier access to locations - In addition to the traffic, there are many destinations that require a little more work to get to. The perfect example being Mirror Lake: you either need to take a shuttle to the halfway point, or walk the one and a half mile or so to get to the lake. Save time by biking- you will be able to see and do more with the extent of your trip.

Go where no cars go - In addition to seeing more spots efficiently, you will actually be able to see spots that most people will not. Check out the bike route here. There are stretches of the bike path that are inaccessible otherwise. This offers a different and personal view to the Valley.

Exercise - I am sure that you will be doing various hikes, climbing, and other physical activities, but there is no better way to add to this by making your travel part of the adventure. Fill your lungs with the fresh Yosemite air as you pedal around.

Pollution - The more people that bike, the less cars there will be. This is one way that you can help contribute to preserving the Valley.

If you are not staying in the Valley, park at any of the Visitor Parking areas listed on this map. From there, you will be able to access all things in the Valley via the designated paths.