Ride to Yosemite for Free: YARTS Summer Vouchers return for Mono County Residents

MONO COUNTY, Calif. (July 09, 2026) - Mono County is pleased to announce that the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) Summer Voucher Program is now active and available to all Mono County residents. This program offers a fantastic opportunity for residents to reserve free tickets on YARTS, providing convenient transit from Mono County to Yosemite National Park.

Important details for the 2026 season:

• New Online Application: For the first time, residents can now apply completely online for the voucher program, making the application and approval process faster and easier.
• Park Entrance Fees: Please note that YARTS tickets no longer include Yosemite National Park entrance fees. Program vouchers cover the bus fare only; park entrance fees must be paid separately upon entry.

YARTS remains an exceptional, stress-free option for visiting Yosemite. It offers a relaxing way to experience the park without the worry of driving, mountain traffic, high gas prices, or searching for parking. Passengers can simply sit back and take in the spectacular scenery right from the bus windows. YARTS is a perfect option for point-to-point hikers tackling one-way trails, families planning a scenic picnic at Tuolumne Meadows, or anyone looking to enjoy a day hike down in the Valley.

"We are thrilled to see the YARTS Summer Voucher Program active again this year," said Supervisor Jennifer Kreitz, Chair of the Mono County Board of Supervisors. "This initiative is a testament to our commitment to providing valuable resources for our residents, allowing them to easily access and enjoy the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park and the surrounding areas without the challenge of driving and parking."

Supervisor Paul McFarland added, "This program is a wonderful benefit for our community and a great way to visit Yosemite National Park. When you leave the driving to YARTS you can sit back, enjoy the mountains and meadows and know that you're doing your part to reduce traffic congestion in Yosemite. We encourage all eligible Mono County residents to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity."

To receive free YARTS tickets, residents simply complete a short application and provide proof of Mono County residency. Once approved, applicants will receive a voucher number equal to the cost of their bus fare. When purchasing YARTS tickets online, enter the voucher number at checkout. The voucher will cover the cost of the fare, reducing the total to $0, and the ticket purchase will reserve seats on the bus. Please allow up to five business days for applications to be processed. The Summer Voucher Program is available to Mono County residents of all ages and runs through September 30, 2026.

How to Apply
Applications can be accessed and submitted directly online via the Mono County YARTS Summer Voucher Program Page. Alternatively, applications can be requested by emailing [email protected], or completed in person at the Mono County Community Development offices:

• Mammoth Lakes Office: 1290 Tavern Road, Suite 138, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546
• Bridgeport Office: 74 N. School Street, Annex I, Bridgeport, CA 93517

Completed hard-copy forms and proof of residency can be submitted via mail to PO Box 347, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, by email, or in person at the office locations listed above. Vouchers can be delivered via email, mail, or picked up in person.

To view current routes and plan your trip, check out the official YARTS Highway 395 / 120E Schedule. For telephone assistance, please contact the Mono County Community Development staff at (760) 924-1800.

About YARTS: The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) is a public transit system that provides bus service into Yosemite National Park from communities in the surrounding region. YARTS operates year-round service on Highway 140 from Merced, and seasonal service on Highways 120, 395, and 41 from communities in Mono County, Tuolumne County, and Fresno/Madera Counties.

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