Julia Parker, Indian Cultural Demonstrator in Yosemite National Park, boards a YARTS bus in Yosemite Valley. Parker, who has worked in Yosemite for over 40 years, has been a regular rider of YARTS since the program’s inception in 2000.
NPS Photo
The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) celebrated its one millionth rider this summer. Long-time Yosemite National Park employee Julia Parker, Indian Cultural Demonstrator and regular YARTS rider, had the honor of being the one millionth rider. Parker has been riding YARTS from Midpines to Yosemite Valley since the inception of the program. Parker will be presented with a certificate and a keepsake photograph to commemorate this occasion.
“We congratulate YARTS on this signature milestone,” stated Don Neubacher, Yosemite National Park Superintendent. “Public transportation plays a key role in helping visitors enjoy Yosemite and relieves traffic congestion. YARTS is a critical component of the park’s future transportation strategy.”
YARTS began operating in May, 2000 and provides regularly scheduled public transit service into Yosemite National Park and the gateway communities. YARTS provides service to park visitors and employees on Highway 140 through Mariposa County year round, traveling between Merced and Yosemite Valley. During the summer, service is also provided on Highway 120 between Mono County destinations and Yosemite Valley through Tuolumne Meadows and between Sonora and Yosemite Valley through Groveland. Gear such as bicycles and hiking equipment can be brought on any YARTS bus.
Visitors are highly encouraged to use the YARTS service when visiting Yosemite National Park from gateway communities. All entrance fees into the park are included in the bus fare. Once in Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows, visitors can utilize the free in-park hybrid shuttle buses that provide transportation to most of the popular destinations.
