2020 Yosemite Half Marathon
May 9, 2020
Bass Lake, CA
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 9, 2020
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 8, 2020, 12–6pm
Recreation Point Campground
Bib & Packet Pickup
Expo pickup recommended. Other options.
Registration Periods & Pricing
Early: $120 July 12 – Sep. 15
Regular: $145 Sep. 16 – Jan. 26
Late: $165 Jan. 27 – 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.
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.
Rocky mountain and Joshua Tree were the two hardest races I've done, but they were completely worth it! Grand Canyon has so far been my favorite! Beautiful course, spirited people, and amazing staff. Not to mention the race shirts always have great designs! My goal is to complete all NP half marathons. I will be doing Zion, Yosemite, and hopefully Lake Powell next year 2018! Thank you Vaction Races for the fun times and everlasting memories.
Rocky Mountain, Grand Canyon, and Joshua Tree 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.
Sign Up
Registration is now open!
Registration Periods
Early: July 12 – Sep. 15
Regular: Sep. 16 – Jan. 26
Late: Jan. 27 – 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.
Rocky mountain and Joshua Tree were the two hardest races I've done, but they were completely worth it! Grand Canyon has so far been my favorite! Beautiful course, spirited people, and amazing staff. Not to mention the race shirts always have great designs! My goal is to complete all NP half marathons. I will be doing Zion, Yosemite, and hopefully Lake Powell next year 2018! Thank you Vaction Races for the fun times and everlasting memories.
Rocky Mountain, Grand Canyon, and Joshua Tree Runner
Don't Miss a Deadline
Get deadline reminders and 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, or rent a tent from us for an additional charge (no RVs or trailers). Whichever you choose, you still have to reserve a spot. Campsites do not include cots, sleeping bags, pillows, headlamps, cooking stoves and supplies.
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
Other events you're Going to want to put on your list
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
Hey Michelle, Still looking for bibs? I have one to transfer; email me at arpskier@gmail.com if you’re interested
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
Hey Doug, Still looking for bibs? I have one to transfer; email me at arpskier@gmail.com if you’re interested
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
Hey Meghan, Still looking for bibs? I have one to transfer; email me at arpskier@gmail.com if you’re interested
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…!
Quick question — I understand that runners need to take the shuttle from Oakhurst to get to the finish line. But is there a way for my family members (who are not running the race) to get to the finish line area and meet me there?
Hi Dan – Spectators can take a shuttle from the same shuttle pick up spot that the runners get picked up from in Oakhurst. These shuttles will drop spectators off about 3/4 mile from the finish line to walk there.
thanks Kaelee.
I am staying at the Yosemite RV Resort in Coarsegold on the Friday night before the race. I will be in the second heat, which begins at 730 a.m. Just wondering if any other racers might be staying at that campground Friday night — and if I might catch a ride to the shuttle pick up point at Oakhurst with you. thanks!
Good Morning. I have 2 Bibs I need to transfer. Please let me know if you are interested and i will send the link. The transfer process is really easy. Sadly my two friends can’t make it now.
Thank you!
Ben
Hi Ben, is the transfer still available?
Hi, I have one BIB I need to transfer. I got injured and have not been training to be ready for this race. :(
Please let me know if you are interested and i will send the link.
Thanks,
Mani
My bib never got to my address, I forgot to put down my apartment number… where can I get my bib?
Hi Alexandra – We will be able to assign you a new bib at the race if needed. In the meantime, please email megan@vacationraces.com, she handles bib shipment and will be able to help you.
I had my bib mailed to me however I forgot to put my apartment number, the USPS tracking number says it was delivered but I don’t have it…. what else can I do to locate my bib?
Hi Ale – We will be able to reassign you a bib at the event if needed. In the meantime, please email megan@vacationraces.com, she handles bib shipment and will be able to help you.
I was wondering if the race is on rain or shine…the weather forecast says there’s a 40% chance of rain as of now. Thanks!
Hi KT – The race will go on, rain or shine! We’ll email a weather report next week with a more detailed forecast.
I’ve seen some medals have a number at the bottom and some have a silhouette of a runner. Which is on the 2019 Yosemite medal?
Hi Theodore – The bottom of the medal has a cutout that spins. There is a runner on one side and the number of years the race has been running, 5, on the other side.
I have a bib to trnsfer for the half. Please email if interested becky.keeter@yahoo.com
Are we permitted a small charcoal grill or fire pit at our campsite?
Hi David – Yes, you can have a personal grill at your campsite. There won’t be a fire pit at each campsite but there will be some community pits available.
I have a bib to transfer for the Yosemite Half….please email me at arpskier@gmail.com if interested. Thanks!
Are you still wanting to transfer your bib?
How does my colleague transfer his bib into my name as I will run for charity on his behalf?
Hi James – Here are the bib transfer 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
This can be done until midnight tonight – otherwise you can transfer it at the expo tomorrow. Only the new runner needs to be present.
What happens if I don’t make the 4 hour cut-off? I get picked up by the van? That’s not the end of the world, right?
Hi Cassandra – Indeed, it is not the end of the world. However, we try to let everyone finish if possible so chances are you will be allowed to finish if you are behind the cutoff.
Is there anyone who’s not going to make it to the race and would like to transfer their bib to someone else?? I have a friend who wants to run it. Please email me at cshadad@gmail.com
Are there medals awarded for top female in each division?
Hi Sarah – Yes – the top 5 in each age group receive a medal. If you placed but weren’t there for the awards ceremony you can order your medal from our online store here:
https://store.vacationraces.com/collections/yosemite-half-marathon/products/ship-your-place-medal
how do I enter my pics for the club hikes?
Hi Theresa – The club hikes have to be submitted within the 72 hours after the race. Email your photos to me at info@vacationraces.com asap and I’ll see if I can them submitted before the pins go out.
I have done so many races, in many different places, but I have NEVER ran a race like this! Being able to go through nature and seeing the landscape with different animals was the most breathtaking experience I have done! I think everyone should at least do one vacation race in their lifetime. The staff is so attentive and the race is so well organized that I absolutely loved it! Can’t wait to sign up for my next one!
Hi Geovanna – Thank you for your kind words. We love where we get to run, and you’re right – everyone should do this! We hope to see you again soon!
How much money does one need to raise if doing a charity bib? Can you choose the charity of your choice? How would one register and what if you’re unable to raise the total amount?
Hi Nic – The amount required for our half marathons is $1000. Each race has its own dedicated charity that we donate to – for example, for Yosemite it is the Yosemite Conservancy. If you have further questions, Cherie at cherie@vacationraces.com, she handles the charity bib program and will be able to help you with anything you need.
Where do you fly into for the yosemite 1/2?
Hi Katie – Most people fly into Fresno or San Francisco.
do you recall when the race sold out last year? thanks!
Hi Steph – The 2019 race sold out in January.
If you do the ‘regular’ entry, does some of the money go to the foundation/charity or does the entire registration go to vacation races organization?
Hi Nicole – Regular registration fees go to the overhead cost of putting on the race.
Hello, my husband and I had to defer last year’s Yosemite half marathon. We would both like to run the May 2020 half marathon. How do we register for this since we have already deferred it?
Hi Rachel – I answered your email with your deferment codes.
If i defered my registration from 2019, how do I register for 2020?
Hi Terri – You should have received an email with your deferment code after the race. I can resend it.
Can I add the campsite option later or am I committed at sign up?
Hi Diane – You can add the campsite later if you would like; however, the campsite at this race always sells out so you might want to add it sooner rather than later if you need it.
Is there leftover merch from previous years I can buy? Specifically stickers. Thanks!
Hi Jace – You can find everything we have left from this year in our merchandise store here:
https://store.vacationraces.com/collections/yosemite-half-marathon
If want something from previous years you can email megan@vacationraces.com to see if we have it in stock.
We are interested in the campsite. What do people do for showers? I looked up the link provided about showers in the area, but I could not find specific shower locations. Thank you!
Hi Joanna – There are not showers at the campground but here are some public shower options in the area:
https://www.google.com/search?sxsrf=ACYBGNT4e3VLMrEdPBIsHGUhP9VEvbT7tw%3A1571867849443&ei=ycywXaHXGuSw0PEPkrSw0A8&q=public+showers+near+oakhurst+california&oq=public+showers+near+&gs_l=psy-ab.1.1.35i39l2j0j0i20i263j0l6.4961.7212..9560…0.2..0.148.2285.4j16……0….1..gws-wiz…….0i71.cKNdwzh8pag
Thanks so much Kaelee. Do some people find this to be an issue? Also, should we plan to bring our own food (maybe more prepared food as to avoid cooking)? Thank you!
I haven’t heard post-race that people found it to be a problem. There are a few eating locations in the area but if you don’t want to eat out you are more than welcome to bring your own food to the campground.
What is the time requirement to run the Yosemite half marathon? We are slow runners.
Hi Lynn – There is a 4-hour time limit for the race – that’s an 18-minute mile.