New medal for 2019! 
2019 Yosemite Half Marathon
May 11, 2019 | Bass Lake, CA
Countdown to race day!
This is a fast scenic course through the Sierra National Forest just outside Yosemite National Park! Enjoy a peaceful 5 mile run through the trees, a fast 5 mile descent, and a beautiful 3 mile loop around Bass Lake. In May the lake is full and the waterfalls are pumping. There's no better time to visit.
This race sells out quickly every year. Yosemite is calling. See you there!
Quick Info
Race Details
Date: May 11, 2019
Location: Bass Lake, CA
Start Time: 6:00 or 7:30am
Weather: 38 – 72°F
Course Type: Point-to-point
Stroller friendly? No
Disability friendly? No
Dogs allowed? No
Expo
May 10, 2019, 12–6pm
Recreation Point Campground
Bib & Packet Pickup
Expo pickup recommended. Other options.
Registration Periods & Pricing
Early: $110 July 13 – Sep. 9Regular: $145 Sep. 10 – Jan. 27, 2019Late: $160 Jan. 28 – Race Expo
Refund Policy
Refunds available during:
*Early Registration: yes (no fee)
*Regular Registration: yes ($10 fee). *Late Registration: NO
*Refunds not available due to weather
Deferral, Race Transfer, and Bib Transfer available during all registration periods ($20 fee).
Travel & Other Info
Fly Into
Fresno Yosemite Int'l Airport (FAT)
Sacramento Int'l Airport (SMF)
Directions to the expo: Rec. Point, Bass Lake, CA
Lodging
Look for lodging near the town of Bass Lake. The Madera County Tourism site has other helpful recommendations.
Heats & Waves
Need to find out which heat you're in? Log in to your runsignup.com account, click Profile >> Manage Registration >> your heat will be in the race details.
Race Guide
The race guide has the answers to all your questions leading up to the race. Read it today!
The Course
The first 5 miles of our course will start on Fire Rd and is on a rough terrain trail. There is no steep uphill or downhill here, but it’s not exactly flat either.
The last 8.1 miles are identical to our inaugural course. Miles 6-10 are a fast downhill descent on a beautiful paved road. Then after crossing RD-274 (Malum Ridge Rd) you will turn right on N Shore Road. You will run on N Shore Road around Bass Lake until about mile 12.25.
From there you will take a left on S Shore Rd. The race will finish at Recreation Point.
Check out this time lapse video for a rough idea of what the course will look like.
One of my favorite races!!!
I did the Inaugural Half (Oct 10, 2015) and it was one of my favorite races!!!
Yosemite Half Marathon Runner
Aid Stations
Expect about 6 aid stations on the course beginning around mile 3. Aid stations include toilets, water, Gnarly electrolyte drink, Honey Stinger gels, basic first aid supplies, and sometimes more.
All stations are cup-free so plan to bring your own hydration solution or request a free HydraPouch when you register.
Race Package
Registration Periods
Early: July 13 – Sep. 9Regular: Sep. 10 – Jan. 27Late: Jan. 28 – Race Expo
*There is a limited number of entries to each race, and this event may sell out. If the event is sold out, registration will close regardless of registration period.
Such a fun and beautiful race
This was such a fun and beautiful race. And the three days of camping were awesome, right near the finish line.
Yosemite Half Marathon Runner
Don't Miss a Deadline
Sign up to get deadline reminders and to be eligible for giveaways.
Travel & Lodging Info
Get oriented with Bass Lake, Oakhurst, Yosemite National Park, and the surrounding area where the race will take place.
Vacation Races Campground
In addition to hotel or vacation rentals in the city of Oakhurst or around Bass Lake, runners have an option to stay at the official Vacation Races Campground. This is the most convenient (and most fun) place to stay during race weekend! It is located at Recreation Point, where our finish line and race expo will be. You can sleep in your car, tent, hammock, an RV (no hookups), or rent a tent from us for an additional charge. Whichever you choose, you still have to reserve a spot. Campsites do not include cots, sleeping bags, pillows, headlamps, cooking stoves and supplies, or firewood.
More Details »
Race Day
For a detailed itinerary, parking & shuttle info, etc. visit the Race Details page »
Club Hikes
To help you make the most out of your visit to Yosemite National Park, we've put together some recommended "Club Hikes". Do these with 72 hours after the race and you can earn free Vacation Races memorabilia.
Yosemite Falls
Nevada Falls
Half Dome
Clouds Rest
2018 Yosemite Half Marathon Race Info
Other events for you to love
Is there a time limit to be done by?
Hi Rachel – There is a 4-hour time limit for the race.
Can campsites be reserved after registration?
Yes, you’ll just need to log back into your RunSignUp profile and update your registration settings.
Can you “walk” the race 8nstead of jogging/running?
Hi Elle – Yep! We have walkers at every race – just be sure you can finish in the 4-hour time limit.
What is the race shuttle route? Need to know this so that I can pick a location that the bus will stop at. Thank you .
Hi Ronald – There will be one shuttle pick up location in Oakhurst, near the high school. You will need to drive to that location to get on the shuttle.
Thank you. Does Vacation Races still offer the flat rate of $75.00 to
Military. I have done the 2016 Zion and 2016 Lake Powell Halfs at that rate.
I have already made reservations at Yosemite Sierra Inn for May 10-12.
Need to confirm military rate. Is there a military rate code when registering?
There is a military rate but it has been changed to a percentage, which if registering during early bird registration will come out to be about $75. You will see the military question on page three of registration – the discount will be given at checkout.
Thank you very much.
Regarding the free training plans (awesome, by the way!!) do they take into account the fact that the race will be mostly downhill, and training will probably require special attention to that?
Hi Christina – Yes, they training plan is catered to each specific course.
Is there a way to get a refund later if I end up not able to run the race?
Hi Audrey – You will be able to get a full refund during early bird registration (until September 10th), a full refund minus a $10 processing fee during regular registration (until January 28th), and refunds will not be available during late registration (after January 28th).
If I have a different start time than my friends, can I change my start time to run with them?
Hi Tammy – Yes, you can start at the same time as your friends.
Hi there,
I’m super excited for this race, it will be my first year doing this. Just a quick question about lodging – where is the best place to stay in regards to location to the race? After the race, I plan on camping but prior, I would love a comfortable room so I can get a good rest.
Hi Tyler – The shuttle pick up is in Oakhurst so you might want to check into lodging there:
https://www.google.com/maps/search/lodging+in+Oakhurst,+CA/@37.348916,-119.7515225,12z/data=!3m1!4b1
Who can I speak to about volunteer options?
Hi Sophia – Please email info@vacationraces.com for any volunteer questions.
Are there any 2019 Yosemite race dates or weekends where both the half-marathon and 5K are run?
Hi Bentley – There is only the half marathon distance at the Yosemite race, no 5k.
Are campers allowed in the finish line campground or just vehicles and tents?
Hi Stefanie – Campers are allowed but there are no hookups.
If we are staying in the Pines area, will there be any carpools/shuttles to the main Oakhurst staging area?
Hi Chad – There will not be race shuttles from The Pines but you are welcome to guest post on our Facebook page, Yosemite Half Marathon, to connect with other runners about carpooling.
What day is the camp charge for? Day before race?
Hi Chris – The campsite is available Thursday at 3pm through Sunday at 9am.
How do i change my heat information on the Registration
Hi Sudharsan – Please email info@vacationraces.com to have your heat changed.
How can I confirm my registration for the Yosemite half?
Hi Alan – I have re-sent your confirmation email. You can also log in to your RunSignUp account and view your registration there.
Is there a minimum age limit?
Hi Alesa – There is not an age limit, as long as the runner can finish in the 4-hour time limit.
I sent a friend of mine my special link for them to register and it didn’t work. In fear that the run would fill up, he just registered directly with the website. I hear we may get a surprise if we recommend someone, how can i get credit for this. :) THANK YOU!
Hi Carmen – I apologize for the delayed response. I am checking with our marketing director and will let you know what I find out.
Hi, is this open to international application?
Hi Syahirah – Yes, international runners can run this event.
Is this race a qualifier for TCS New York marathon?
Hi Candice – It is not.
In case of no rooms available in the park is their other places you guys recommend like camp grounds were we can camp out prior to the race ?
Hi Santiago – We don’t recommend staying in the park as is quite a distance from the shuttle pick up area in Oakhurst. Find a hotel in Oakhurst or Bass Lake (about a 15 minute drive to Oakhurst), or here are some camping options: https://www.google.com/maps/search/camping+near+Bass+Lake,+CA/@37.3510786,-119.5619408,13z/data=!3m1!4b1
Are there camping sites available to participants?
Hi Maria – The Vacation Races sponsored campground at Recreation Point is sold out, but here are some other options in the area: https://www.google.com/maps/search/camping+near+Bass+Lake,+CA/@37.3510786,-119.5619408,13z/data=!3m1!4b1
I’m going to have to cancel my camping reservation. Don’t know how to offer it to you!
Campsites don’t open up when someone cancels, as they are oversold counting on those cancelations.
If I register individually under the charity bib option, can I change to a team and add people later?
Hi Shyla – Yes, you can create/manage a team by following these instructions:
1. Sign In to RunSignUp
2. Go to your Profile
3. Click Manage Registration
4. Click Team from the menu option
5. Share, update details, and manage your Group/Team from here
At the expo can you pick up another racer’s packet and bin in addition to your own?
Hi JB – Yep! Just be sure to have a copy of their ID, like a picture on a phone.
Hello, I would like to transfer my race entry from Yosemite to Grand Tetons. I am so disappointed to not go to Yosemite, but the timing is not going to work out.
Hi Sherry – You can transfer your registration to another race by following these instructions:
1. Sign In to RunSignUp
2. Go to your Profile
3. Click Manage Registration next to the registration that you would like to transfer
4. Click the Transfer to Another Race menu item
5. Find the race that you would like to transfer into and click the Start Transfer button
6. Register for the new race and your Race Transfer Credit will be applied at the checkout
You can find this information on our website on the Policies page.
My friend may not be able to run the Yosemite race. Is it possible to transfer her bib to someone else? Thanks
Hi Jennie – A bib can be transferred to another runner by following these instructions:
1. Sign In to RunSignUp
2. Go to your Profile
3. Click Manage Registration next to the registration that you would like to transfer to another person
4. Click the Transfer To Another Runner menu item
5. Fill out all required fields
6. Select either Transfer as a Gift or Transfer for Refund
7. New runner will receive an email with a link to register
You can find this information on our website on the Policies page.
Hi Kaelee, do you know of anyone else looking to transfer their race bib? Thanks! Ryan
Hi Ryan – I don’t – check this page and the event page on our Facebook page.
Hi Jennie, I am trying to sign up but it is sold out. I will buy your friends bib if she would like to sell it?
Hi Jennie, please let me know if you’re still looking to transfer your friends race bib. Thanks! Ryan
I’m also interested in purchasing your friend’s bib if she can’t go. I’d be so grateful!
Hi, is the registration for the Yosemite race full? In the home page it shows that it is still available but when you try register, after entering your information it says “full”. Which one is it?
Hi Maurizio – We were able to open up 50 more spots, but they will go fast so register asap!
Where is the Expo?
Hi Michelle – The expo will be held at Recreation Point at Bass Lake.
Can I be put on a cancellation list? I would like to sign up but just found out registration is full. Do you plan to open more spots?
Hi Trudi – There is not a wait list. The best way to get into the race is to find someone who is selling their bib on the Yosemite Half Marathon event page on our Vacation Races Facebook page.
Hi Folks, I was a little slow in registering and am looking to see if anyone can no longer go and wants to transfer their race bib. Happy to pay the full price. Please email me at rywilliams05@gmail.com or transfer to my email directly with the “Transfer for Refund” option. Thanks – Ryan
Hi, looking for 2 bibs for my husband and I. Please email me at mchawla8@gmail.com if you’re selling – thanks!
Hi, if I am running through Sierra Club, do I still need to register through VR for a charity bib?
Hi Geet – You will need to register with the Sierra Club.
Is the Yosemite half sold out for 2019?
Hi Vivian – Yes, the Yosemite Half is sold out this year. You still have a couple options: sign up for a charity bib or find a runner selling their bib. The best place to find someone selling their bib is on the Yosemite Half Marathon event page on our Vacation Races Facebook page.
Find out more about our charity bib program here:
https://vacationraces.com/charitybibs/
Greetings
Will be unable to participate due to injury. Anyone interested in my bib? Email me, ardieart@gmail.com. Hope for next year.
Hi, I hope this is still available! Would love to purchase your bib! I am sooo sorry to hear about your injury! Mollysilver4@gmail.com
Did you seem this bib already? If not, very interested. Badly to pay extra. Want to run with my wife. Thanks so much. Douglas kubacki. Psychooh@aol.com
Hi Ardis
I can buy your bib if you still have.
How do I confirm my registration? I can’t seem to find the email or remember if I got an email :/
Hi Sarah – I don’t see a registration with this email address. Please email me at info@vacationraces.com with your name and another email if you have one and I can search that way.
Thanks just sent email now!
If anyone has a bib they want to sell, please let me know!! My little sister signed up and we planned to do this together and I didn’t realize it would sell out so fast while I was trying to get the money! Please email me thank you so much!!
Molly
Are you still looking for a bib? You can email me at michelleshively7@gmail.com
Hi there. Looking for 2-6 bibs for our team Ventucky Derby that wants to run. Please email me at Benhopps@yahoo.com
Wondering if anyone is selling a bib, my cousin is coming out to run the half and just told me about it. I want to run it with her so if anyone is willing to sell a bib let me know
Are you still looking for a bib? You can email me at michelleshively7@gmail.com
If I want to add people to my team is that possible to do despite the race being sold out?
If not, is there anyone interested in selling their bibs? I have 3 people that want to come.
Hi Michelle – You can add runners to your team if they are already registered. If they are not registered they will need to find a bib to purchase and then may join your team during the bib transfer process.
I have two bibs that I need to transfer. Please email me if you are interested.
Hi Michelle! I’ve got 2 bibs because of a family medical emergency. Please email me if you still need any. marisaleecleveland@gmail.com
Hi. Found out late. Looking for a bib if possible in case anyone can’t go. Willing to pay extra. Please let me know. Thanks so much.
Are you still looking for a bib? You can email me at michelleshively7@gmail.com
I have two bibs that I need to transfer for the Yosemite Half Marathon race. Please email me at soniabailey928@gmail.com if you are interested.
What are the alternate options for bib pick up?
Hi Nicole – If you’re not able to make it to the expo to pick up your bib, it can be mailed to you (option available until one month before the race), picked up race morning, or picked up by another runner, as long as they have a copy of your ID.
How do I find out my start time? I don’t see it under race management.
Thank you!
Hi Bev – Log in to your runsignup.com account >> click profile >> click manage registration next to the race you’re referring to >> your start time will be in the race details.
Looking for a bib- anyone have one for transfer?
I do if you’re still interested! megan.coon92@yahoo.com
I am camping for the Yosemite race and I would like to bring my dog (service animal.) I don’t plan on running with her, I just wanted to know if she was allowed to camp with me.
Hi Susan – Yes, you can have your dog with you at your campsite.
Is there tracking for this race?
Hi Ronald – There is not runner tracking for this race. We’ve tried it in the past but the area is too remote and the tracking isn’t very accurate.
Looking to purchase a bib — please email me at metzlermatt@gmail.com if you’re selling!
Are wireless headphones allowed during the race?
Hi Jo – Yes, headphones are allowed.
I have a bib for transfer! Please email me at megan.coon92@yahoo.com if you’re interested.
Hi there, I am trying to figure out how to Transfer and pay for two bibs. Could you please instruct me, thanks!
Hi Kendall – Here are the bib exchange instructions:
1. Sign In to RunSignUp
2. Go to your Profile
3. Click Manage Registration next to the registration that you would like to transfer to another person
4. Click the Transfer To Another Runner menu item
5. Fill out all required fields
6. Select either Transfer as a Gift or Transfer for Refund
7. Click ‘Transfer Registration’
8. New runner will receive an email with a link to register
Yeah! Go You… thanks for the details and see you all in 18ish days…!