Yosemite Area Hotels: El Portal, Midpines, Mariposa

This might seem like old news, but it still affects travel to Yosemite along CA Hwy 140. In April, 2006, a rock slide damaged Highway 140 east of Mariposa between the Yosemite Bug Hostel and Cedar Lodge. The road is once again open, but with a section of one-way, controlled traffic about 20 miles east of Mariposa. You can check the status of the highway online. Vehicles more than 28 feet long are not allowed and should use Highway 120 through Groveland or Highway 41 through Oakhurst.

Besides being located along the most beautiful drive into Yosemite, the lodging along Highway 140 has the advantage of being on the Yosemite Area Transit (YARTS) bus line, giving you a way to get in and out of the park without having to drive your car and hassle with parking. It stops at most of the locations on our list.

Over an hour's drive from the Yosemite entrance, Mariposa is too far away to be a practical place to stay on your Yosemite vacation, but it is served by YARTS. If you decide to stay there, our guide to finding a place to stay will help you choose your lodging.

• Cedar Lodge: They have 211 rooms, in several types, a swimming pool, and two restaurants and are just a few miles from the Yosemite entrance. Compare prices and read guest reviews at Tripadvisor.
• KOA Midpines: One of your most economical options, this KOA has Kamping Lodges that sleep 4-6 people and have kitchens but shared restroom and shower facilities. Bring sleeping bags or bed linens.
• Yosemite Blue Butterfly Inn: Geared toward adults, with 5 suites.
• Yosemite Bug: With rooms, tent cabins and dormitory-style accommodations, Yosemite Bug is a rustic-style resort. Read guest reviews and compare prices on Yosemite Bug at Tripadvisor.

Our favorite place to stay on Highway 140 is Yosemite Resort Homes, a cluster of lovely vacation rentals that are one of the area's best-kept secrets.

• Indian Flat Campground: 25 RV sites with hookups, some with sewer, 25 tent sites, two cabins. Guests can use the outdoor pool at the lodge next door.
• KOA Midpines: 28 full hook-up sites (18 pull-thrus),21 water/electric sites; 26 tent sites.