Drive this road for the surreal contrast of snowy peaks and alpine meadows without the Yosemite Valley crowds. It only stays open from June to October, so time your trip accordingly. Spend at least three hours pulling over at Tenaya Lake for a freezing dip. If you cannot hike, the adaptive high country tours are worth the $180 to see the jagged skyline. Skip it if you hate winding, cliff-edge roads with zero cell service.
