Explore Yosemite for Free: Mono County's YARTS Voucher Program Now Active

MONO COUNTY, Calif. (July 24, 2025) – 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 pilot program offers a fantastic opportunity for residents to reserve free tickets on YARTS, providing convenient and environmentally friendly access through Yosemite National Park and surrounding communities. A reservation on YART also provides residents with free entrance at Yosemite National Park!

The YARTS Summer Voucher Program aims to enhance accessibility to Yosemite National Park for local residents, promoting sustainable transportation options and reducing traffic congestion.

"We are thrilled to see the YARTS Summer Voucher Program active again this year," said Lynda Salcido, Chair of the Mono County Board of Supervisors, (District 5). "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 hassle of driving and parking."

Supervisor Paul McFarland, (District 3)  added, "This program is a wonderful benefit for our community. It not only offers a cost-effective way to travel but also supports our efforts to promote public transportation and reduce traffic congestion in Yosemite. We encourage all eligible Mono County residents to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity."

To receive free rides, individuals must fill out an application and show proof of residency. Once processed, eligible participants will receive a voucher number that must be entered when making a reservation online. Applications may take up to five business days to process. This free voucher program will continue until the end of the summer season (September 30, 2025).

YARTS offers multiple routes throughout Mono County. The Summer Voucher Program can be utilized by residents of all ages, and adults traveling with children (17 and under) only require one voucher per adult.

How to Apply: Applications are available here, by emailing CommDev@mono.ca.gov, or in person at the Mono County Community Development offices, located at 1290 Tavern Road, Suite 138, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546, and 74 N. School Street, Annex I, Bridgeport, CA 93517.

Completed forms and proof of residency can be submitted via mail to PO Box 347, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546; or by email; or in person at the office locations above. Vouchers can be picked up in person at either the Bridgeport or Mammoth Lakes Community Development office or delivered via email or mail.

For telephonic assistance, please contact 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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