Navigate With Ease

Getting Around

From YARTS buses to Yosemite to local transit and ride-sharing — explore Merced and beyond without the stress.

YARTS — Your Ride to Yosemite

The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) is the easiest way to get from Merced to Yosemite National Park. Buses depart daily from the Merced Amtrak station, following the scenic Highway 140 corridor with stops at key trailheads and destinations within the park. No parking hassles, no stress — just sit back and enjoy the ride.

View YARTS Schedules

A blue YARTS charter bus driving on a mountain highway with granite peaks and evergreen trees in the background.

Local Options

Around Town

Getting around Merced itself is easy with several convenient options.

Interior view looking down the aisle of an empty modern charter bus with dark plush seating and blue overhead lighting.

Public Transit

The Bus, Merced County Transit

The Bus operates fixed-route service throughout the City of Merced and Merced County. It's an affordable way to get between hotels, downtown, UC Merced, and shopping areas. Most routes run Monday through Saturday with limited Sunday service.

Route Maps & Schedules

Close-up of a person's hand opening the door of a black luxury sedan.

Drive Yourself

Car Rentals

If you prefer the freedom of your own wheels, several car rental agencies operate in the Merced area. Renting a car gives you maximum flexibility to explore the region at your own pace — from downtown Merced to the foothill communities along the way to Yosemite.

Utilizing rideshare apps and local taxi services for seamless navigation around downtown Merced.

On Demand

RideShare & Taxis

Uber and Lyft are available in the Merced area, though availability can vary depending on the time of day. For guaranteed service, local taxi companies also operate in the area. Ride-sharing is a great option for getting to restaurants and nightlife downtown without worrying about parking.

A downtown Merced street looking toward the Merced Theatre's red-tipped tower

Self-Powered

Walking & Biking

Downtown Merced is very walkable, with shops, restaurants, and attractions clustered within a few blocks along Main Street. The city also has expanding bike lanes and paths — a great way to explore the neighborhoods on a sunny Central Valley day.

At a Glance

Choose Your Mode

Three easy ways to explore Merced and reach Yosemite — pick the pace that suits you.

YARTS to Yosemite
Daily service from Merced Amtrak station. ~2.5 hrs to Yosemite Valley. The most relaxing way to get to the park.
Drive Yourself
Rent a car for maximum flexibility. Highway 140 is the most scenic route to Yosemite from the western side.
Walk Downtown
Downtown Merced is compact and walkable. Park once and explore shops, restaurants, and nightlife on foot.