OPEN: Highway 395 through Lee Vining has opened

Question

As of 8 pm Saturday, May 24 the closure of Highway 395 through Lee Vining , in both directions,, has been lifted and Highway 395 is not open, with caution to watch for fire crews.

Tioga Pass ( Highway 120, is scheduled to open 8am on Monday, May 26, as announced earlier.

Answer

This update is great news for anyone planning to travel through the Eastern Sierra or enter Yosemite via Tioga Pass. The reopening of Highway 395 through Lee Vining and the confirmed opening time for Tioga Pass means access to the park’s high country and east-side routes will soon return to normal.

Here’s a detailed overview of what this means for travelers and what to keep in mind as you plan your route.

Highway 395 Reopened (with caution)

As of 8 pm on Saturday, May 24, Highway 395 through Lee Vining is open again in both directions. Travelers should be aware that fire crews may still be present in the area, so reduced speeds and heightened attention are recommended.

Expect occasional delays or slow-moving traffic in areas where crews are working.
Services in Lee Vining (gas, food, lodging) should be accessible as normal.
If smoke had been an issue previously, conditions should now be improved, but always check air quality if sensitive.

Tioga Pass (Highway 120) Opening

Tioga Pass is scheduled to open at 8 am on Monday, May 26. This opening gives travelers access to one of the most scenic routes into Yosemite, including the high country areas from Tuolumne Meadows to Olmsted Point.

Expect typical opening-day conditions: cold mornings, possible wet or icy patches, and crews doing last-minute maintenance.
Parking at popular viewpoints (Olmsted Point, Tenaya Lake, Tuolumne Meadows) may be limited during peak hours.
Restrooms and some early-season services may still be limited depending on conditions.

How This Affects Travel Plans

With both major routes functioning, visitors can confidently plan east-side to west-side crossings, or incorporate stops in Mammoth Lakes, June Lake, or Lee Vining while still accessing Yosemite’s high country.

If you’re coming from Nevada or Southern California via 395, your trip should now be smooth.
If you planned to enter Yosemite from the east for a day trip, Tioga Pass will now make this feasible.
For anyone traveling in the first few days after the opening, start early to avoid crowds and improve parking odds.

Final Tips

If you're planning to cross Tioga Pass soon after opening, make sure to bring layers, check road updates the morning of travel, and prepare for slower traffic as many visitors will use the reopened route.

This is one of the most beautiful drives in California, so as long as you stay aware of remaining fire crew activity and early-season mountain conditions, you can expect a smooth and scenic journey.