Pros & cons
PROS
- Free, 24/7 Level 2 J1772 charging
- Eight ports across two convenient lodge locations
- Open to non-guests
CONS
- Can be busy during summer and weekends; waits happen
- No idle fees, so spots may be held by fully charged cars
Overview
A practical, central place to top up while you eat, plan, or unwind. Charging here is free and always on, so it’s one of the easiest EV stops in the Valley.
What’s Here
- Eight Level 2 J1772 ports split between two clusters: four in front of the Alder building and four between the Laurel and Juniper buildings.
- Free to use 24/7, and you don’t have to be a lodge guest.
How It Works
Pull in, plug your J1772 connector (bring an adapter if your car needs one), and go enjoy the lodge core while you wait. Because there are no idle fees, do the right thing and move your car once you’re done so others can charge.
Best Times to Charge
These stations can be popular in peak season and on weekends. Your best bet is early morning or later in the evening. Midday can be hit-or-miss when the lodge area is busiest.
Nearby Amenities While You Wait
You’re steps from food-court fare at Base Camp Eatery, coffee, the Mountain Room Restaurant and Lounge, and a gift shop. Restrooms are available inside dining areas during their open hours. The lodge area also has a front desk, seasonal pool, and bike rentals (hours vary).
Backup Options in the Valley (All Level 2, J1772, free)
- Curry Village: 20 ports
- Yosemite Falls Day Use Parking: 10 ports
- Yosemite Valley Welcome Center: 4 ports
- The Ahwahnee: 6 ports
Beyond the Valley: Wawona (24), Tuolumne Meadows (4), and El Portal (2). All are J1772 and free to use.
Good to Know
- Expect more competition for spots during summer weekends and holidays.
- If one cluster is full, check the other on-site before giving up.
- Charging across the park is provided courtesy of Yosemite Hospitality, and all in-park units use J1772 connectors.
Where it is
37.7439, -119.5986Tips for Yosemite Valley Lodge EV Charging Station
- 01Charge early morning or late evening for the best chance at an open port.
- 02There are two clusters (Alder; between Laurel and Juniper)—check both.
- 03Bring a J1772 adapter if your vehicle uses a different inlet.
- 04Move your car promptly when finished; free charging means high demand.
- 05If full, try Curry Village (20) or Yosemite Falls Day Use (10) nearby.
Amenities
Near Yosemite Valley Lodge EV Charging Station
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayMountain Room LoungeCozy lodge bar for drinks by the fire, light bites till earlyFood · Restaurant
0 mi awayMountain Room RestaurantDinner with Yosemite Falls framed in big windowsRestaurant · Food
0 mi awayBike StandEasy, family-friendly bike rentals by the Valley loop pathsStore · Parking
0 mi awayBase Camp EateryBig cafeteria with quick eats and a Starbucks at the LodgeRestaurant · Food
0.2 mi awayLower Yosemite Fall TrailEasy one-mile loop to the thundering base of Yosemite FallsEasy · 1 mi · 30 min
0.2 mi awayUpper Yosemite Falls TrailSteep switchbacks to the brink of Yosemite’s thundering Upper FallChallenging · 7.2 mi · 7 hr
0.5 mi awaySentinel & Cook's Meadow LoopFlat valley loop with blockbuster views of Yosemite Falls and Half DomeEasy · 2.3 mi · 1.5 hr
0.7 mi awayFour Mile TrailNonstop switchbacks to Glacier Point with Yosemite’s best valley views.Challenging · 4.8 mi · 3.5 hr
