Yosemite Gateway Motel Lee Vining, Lee Vining
About the Hotel
Yosemite Gateway Motel is situated in Lee Vining, just 14 miles from the eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park. This area features stunning views of Mono Lake and serves as a base for outdoor activities in the Eastern Sierra. The motel attracts visitors interested in skiing, hiking, bird watching, and photography, among other pursuits. The location is historically significant, as it provides access to natural wonders like Mono Lake and the scenic June Lake Loop.
Location
Lee Vining is readily accessible via Highway 395, with clear directional signs for comfort in navigation. The motel is just 14 miles from the picturesque Yosemite National Park, making it an ideal stop for visitors. Nearby attractions include Mono Lake, Bodie State Historic Ghost Town, and the June Lake Loop, all contributing to the region's allure. Seasonal road closures on Highway 120 typically affect access to the area from late October to late May.
Rooms
Guest accommodations at Yosemite Gateway Motel include various room types, each offering distinct views and amenities. All rooms feature Direct TV with HD programming, a coffee maker, and a private bathroom. Options range from standard queen and king beds with shared balconies to family units with multiple beds and shared bathrooms. Some rooms boast additional amenities like microwaves, refrigerators, and air conditioning, although not all accommodations have cooling systems.
Eat & Drink
The motel does not have an on-site restaurant, but guests can access a variety of dining options in nearby Lee Vining. The town features several cafes and eateries, providing choices that cater to different tastes. Additionally, the motel is conveniently located near local shops where guests can find snacks and refreshments. Options in Mammoth Lakes are also available for those willing to venture a bit further.
Leisure & Business
Yosemite Gateway Motel offers outdoor amenities like sun terraces with views of Mono Lake for guest relaxation. While there are no dedicated business facilities, free WiFi is available throughout the property, allowing guests to stay connected. The area is rich with recreational activities including hiking, fishing, skiing, and kayaking. Notably, Mono Lake Tufa Reserve and various hiking trails are just a short distance away.
Select your room type
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Getting around
A list of all available modes of transport
Facilities
General
- Non-smoking rooms
- Wi-Fi
- Parking
- Express check-in/ -out
- No pets allowed
- Vending machines
Sports & Fitness
- Canoeing
- Skiing
- Hiking
- Horseback riding
- Cycling
- Fishing
Services
- Housekeeping
Children
- Cribs
Spa & Leisure
- Sun terrace
Room features
- Heating
- Sitting area
- Terrace
Media
- Flat-screen TV
Location
Reviews and Ratings
The hotel is conveniently located for exploring Yosemite and Mono Lake, with friendly staff and a quiet atmosphere for relaxation. However, the rooms facing the main road can be noisy and a bit dark, and the dining prices are steep despite being average.
My stay at the hotel was a mix of positives and negatives. The location was right across from the restaurants in Lee Vining, which was convenient, but the rooms were disappointing as they faced a busy main road with heavy traffic noise even at night. Remember to keep doors and windows closed after sunset to minimize the noise. The hotel's location was ideal for exploring Tioga Pass and accessing Yosemite, with gorgeous views over Mono Lake and easy access to Route 395 and Route 120. Although the initial room rate advertised seemed reasonable at $129, be mindful of potential drawbacks like the noise levels.
The hotel rooms were spacious but had thin walls and uncomfortable beds. The smell of smoke lingered despite being a non-smoking environment. Conveniently located right off the street.