Do you love to have a plan?
Get the inside scoop for your upcoming vacation —> this itinerary is the most detailed, epic, and easy-to-follow guide to the park!
STEP ONE: Choose a Time of Year
>> When should I go? <<
Your first task is going to be quick — we’re just getting warmed up. Grab a piece of paper, a notebook, a spreadsheet…whatever it is you like to take notes on. You’ll want to keep it handy so that you can keep your research in one place.
Right now, let’s choose a time of year that you want to visit Yosemite.
Each season in this park is unique and can give you a completely different experience depending on when you go. Let’s talk through the pros and cons so that you can make an informed decision on the best time of year for you!
Special note: You may already have a pretty good idea of when you will be able to go. For example, traveling during the summer might be the only time of year you can take your family. I totally understand, but keep reading. Let’s make sure you know what to expect while you’re there.
Winter (December – March)
A visit to Yosemite during the winter can be absolutely enchanting!
During the winter months, Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and part of the road to Glacier Point are the only areas of the park that can be accessed by car.
Ice skating, snowshoeing, and skiing are just a few of the activities you’ll find available during the winter months. February is a popular time to be in the park because of the famous “Firefall.”
What You Need to Know
- The snow scares away most travelers, so winter is a fantastic time of year to visit the park if you don’t want to fight through the crowds!
- Winter temperatures in Yosemite often hover around freezing so be sure to pack your warmest winter clothes.
- Several hotels and restaurants in Yosemite Valley stay open year-round.
- Roads leading into Yosemite Valley and Wawona are generally open year-round, but tire chains are often required. The Tioga Road is closed during the winter, as well as the Glacier Point Road beyond the Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area.
- Plan on all Yosemite trails being covered in snow.
- More information for planning a winter trip in Yosemite can be found here.
Spring (April – May)
If you love waterfalls, then springtime is the perfect time for you to be in Yosemite! This gorgeous park comes alive with roaring rivers, budding trees, and active wildlife.
Crowding during the spring is manageable, mostly because not everything is open yet.
What You Need to Know
- Spring is waterfall season! Water levels are extremely high, and water pours into Yosemite Valley from the steep cliffs!
- The Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road are still closed through the most of the springtime months, with reopening dates usually occurring at the end of May.
- You’ll find a good variety of lodging options available during the spring, but most campgrounds don’t open until the summer.
- The popular trails in Yosemite Valley will likely be mostly clear of snow, but most backcountry trails may still be covered in snow. If you’ve got your heart set on backpacking, waiting a few more months will likely yield a better outcome.
Summer (June – September)
The great thing about Yosemite during the summer is that everything is open! You’ll have numerous lodging and dining options, plus access to all of the main points of interest, tours, programs, and visitor centers.
Your options are endless during the summer, but that comes with a price….crowds. Be prepared to share the amazing sights of Yosemite with people from all over the world during the popular summer season.
What You Need to Know
- As mentioned above, the crowd level during the summer is high. This will impact your trip in some way, as you will likely not be able to get places as quickly as you’d like or enjoy the sights without distraction. July and August are the busiest months, so if you must take a trip during the summer I suggest aiming for June!
- To better avoid the crowds and traffic jams common to Yosemite during the summer, you’ll definitely want to have a solid plan, like this detailed itinerary! Having a plan will minimize wasted time and make your trip much more enjoyable.
- Summer is wildfire season in Yosemite. You may find air to be smoky from nearby fires, areas may be closed, or fire restrictions may be in place.
- Waterfalls tend to dry up or have a very low flow by August. If you have your heart on seeing Yosemite Fall or getting “misted” by the Mist Trail, try to plan your trip earlier in the summer.
Autumn (October – November)
A quiet solitude begins to fall over the Yosemite landscape as the busy summer crowds start to die off. A chill fills the air as the animals and plants begin to prepare for winter…and it’s magical!
Autumn in Yosemite is fabulous. A few highlights of a trip during this season include fall colors, fantastic wildlife watching, and more elbow room to enjoy the sights.
What You Need to Know
- While October still sees a fair amount of crowds, it is still substantially less than during the summer months. A visit in November is nice but can be unpredictable because of winter road closures.
- Most campgrounds within the park are closed for the season by the beginning of October, but many hotels and restaurants in Yosemite Valley stay open year-round.
- Autumn weather in Yosemite is completely unpredictable. Be prepared for every kind of weather — rain, snow, hail, sun, wind, biting cold, etc. Come prepared!
- The Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road typically close for the season sometime in November.
- Even though snow may fall during your Autumn trip, many backcountry trails are still snow-free and accessible in October.
Well, there you have it! I know….it’s a lot of information about the seasons of Yosemite. But now you’re ready to make a decision.
Let’s complete Step One. Decide what season is going to be best for your trip to Yosemite and write it down!
Now you’re ready for Step Two.
Click NEXT to find out how long you should plan to stay in the park!
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