Best Times to Visit Yosemite National Park, USA
Quick Answer:
For a truly sophisticated Yosemite experience, aim for late spring, specifically May and June. This is when the park truly bursts with life; imagine the roar of waterfalls at their peak, fed by melting snow, and the scent of wildflowers filling the air. The granite giants are often still dusted with snow, creating a dramatic contrast against the vibrant green meadows. While fall offers stunning golden hues and fewer crowds, and the winter months provide a serene, snow-draped wonderland, the sheer abundance of water and accessible trails in late spring makes it an unforgettable time to explore.
Best Months to Visit:
Airport Code
FAT
Coordinates
37.87°, -119.54°
Top Things to Do
Sunrise Serenity at Tunnel View
Witness the iconic Yosemite Valley unfold before you as the first rays of sun paint El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall in warm hues. Arrive before dawn to secure a prime spot and feel the magic of this legendary vista in quiet contemplation, a truly spiritual start to your day.
Hike to the Top of Vernal and Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail
Embrace the invigorating spray of the Merced River as you ascend the granite steps of the Mist Trail, feeling the raw power of these magnificent waterfalls. For an added challenge and fewer crowds, continue to the top of Nevada Fall for expansive valley views.
Stargazing in Yosemite Valley
Escape the city lights and immerse yourself in the celestial spectacle above Yosemite Valley. Find an open meadow like Sentinel Meadow or El Capitan Meadow after dark, lay back, and marvel at the Milky Way stretching across the inky black sky, a humbling reminder of our place in the universe.
Picnic Lunch at Mirror Lake
Pack a delicious picnic from the Yosemite Valley Lodge Food Court and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the tranquil waters of Mirror Lake, where reflections of surrounding cliffs create a stunning natural art piece. In late summer, the lake may recede, revealing a beautiful sandy beach perfect for relaxing.
💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.
Essential Travel Tips
Don't even think about driving into Yosemite Valley during peak season (late spring through early fall). The free shuttle system is your best friend! Park your car at one of the designated lots outside the valley (like near Yosemite Village) and hop on the shuttle to get around to all the major sights like Yosemite Falls and Mirror Lake. It saves so much hassle and money on gas.
Pack a picnic lunch and snacks! Eating inside the park can get pricey, especially at places like the Ahwahnee Dining Room. Hit up a grocery store in Oakhurst or Mariposa before you get to the park to stock up on sandwiches, fruit, and trail mix. It's a huge money-saver and you can enjoy your meal with an incredible view.
Layers are key, no matter the season. Yosemite's weather can change dramatically from morning to night and with elevation. Bring a waterproof and windproof outer shell, a fleece or down mid-layer, and moisture-wicking base layers. You'll be much more comfortable hiking in the crisp morning air and then shedding layers as the sun warms up.
Be bear aware, seriously! Never leave food or scented items in your car, even for a minute. Use the bear-proof lockers provided at campsites and trailheads. If you do encounter a bear, make yourself look big, make noise, and slowly back away – don't run. It's their home, and respecting their space keeps everyone safe.
Embrace the 'leave no trace' principle. This means packing out everything you pack in, staying on marked trails, and respecting wildlife. Yosemite is a national treasure, and it's up to all of us to preserve its natural beauty for future generations. Take only pictures, leave only footprints.
Try to snag a reservation at the Yosemite Valley Lodge Food Court or Degnan's Kitchen if you want a quick, casual meal inside the valley. They offer decent options at more reasonable prices than the sit-down restaurants. If you're craving something sweet, the ice cream at the Village Store is a classic post-hike treat.
💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.
Weather Details
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 7°C | -2°C | 45°F | 28°F | 100mm | 10 days | 9.7h |
| Feb | 9°C | -1°C | 48°F | 30°F | 90mm | 9 days | 10.7h |
| Mar | 12°C | 1°C | 54°F | 34°F | 100mm | 10 days | 12h |
| Apr | 16°C | 3°C | 61°F | 37°F | 70mm | 9 days | 13.2h |
| May | 20°C | 6°C | 68°F | 43°F | 50mm | 7 days | 14.2h |
| Jun | 25°C | 9°C | 77°F | 48°F | 30mm | 4 days | 14.9h |
| Jul | 28°C | 12°C | 82°F | 54°F | 20mm | 3 days | 14.7h |
| Aug | 28°C | 12°C | 82°F | 54°F | 20mm | 3 days | 13.8h |
| Sep | 25°C | 9°C | 77°F | 48°F | 40mm | 4 days | 12.6h |
| Oct | 18°C | 5°C | 64°F | 41°F | 70mm | 7 days | 11.4h |
| Nov | 11°C | 1°C | 52°F | 34°F | 90mm | 9 days | 10.2h |
| Dec | 7°C | -2°C | 45°F | 28°F | 100mm | 10 days | 9.5h |
All Things to Do in Yosemite National Park, USA
Sunrise Serenity at Tunnel View
attractionWitness the iconic Yosemite Valley unfold before you as the first rays of sun paint El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall in warm hues. Arrive before dawn to secure a prime spot and feel the magic of this legendary vista in quiet contemplation, a truly spiritual start to your day.
Best time: Apr-Oct
Hike to the Top of Vernal and Nevada Falls via the Mist Trail
activityEmbrace the invigorating spray of the Merced River as you ascend the granite steps of the Mist Trail, feeling the raw power of these magnificent waterfalls. For an added challenge and fewer crowds, continue to the top of Nevada Fall for expansive valley views.
Best time: May-Oct
Stargazing in Yosemite Valley
natureEscape the city lights and immerse yourself in the celestial spectacle above Yosemite Valley. Find an open meadow like Sentinel Meadow or El Capitan Meadow after dark, lay back, and marvel at the Milky Way stretching across the inky black sky, a humbling reminder of our place in the universe.
Best time: Jun-Sep
Picnic Lunch at Mirror Lake
foodPack a delicious picnic from the Yosemite Valley Lodge Food Court and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the tranquil waters of Mirror Lake, where reflections of surrounding cliffs create a stunning natural art piece. In late summer, the lake may recede, revealing a beautiful sandy beach perfect for relaxing.
Best time: Apr-Jul
Explore the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
attractionWalk amongst the ancient giants of the Mariposa Grove, feeling dwarfed by the sheer scale and majesty of these colossal sequoia trees. Take the shuttle to the Upper Grove for a more secluded experience and stand in awe of the Grizzly Giant and the California Tunnel Tree.
Best time: Apr-Nov
Discover the Ansel Adams Gallery
shoppingImmerse yourself in the timeless black and white photography of Ansel Adams at his namesake gallery in Yosemite Valley. Beyond his iconic works, discover contemporary artists inspired by the park's grandeur, and perhaps find a unique print to capture the spirit of your visit.
Best time: Year-round
Evening Amble through Yosemite Village
culturalAs dusk settles, take a gentle stroll through Yosemite Village, enjoying the quiet ambiance and perhaps catching a ranger program at the Yosemite Theater. The historic buildings take on a charming glow, and the absence of daytime crowds allows for a more intimate appreciation of the park's cultural heart.
Best time: Year-round
Winter Wonderland at Glacier Point (when accessible)
attractionIf the road is open, experience the breathtaking panorama of Yosemite Valley blanketed in snow from Glacier Point. The silence is profound, broken only by the crunch of snow underfoot, and the stark beauty of the snow-capped peaks is an unforgettable sight.
Best time: Dec-Mar
Planning your Yosemite National Park, USA adventure? Enhance it with a customizable private tour guide via GoWithGuide—perfect for exploring beyond the city.
Getting Around Yosemite National Park, USA
Yosemite Valley Shuttle (Free)
This is the absolute best way to get around Yosemite Valley during peak season (roughly April through October). It's a free, hop-on-hop-off service that connects all major viewpoints, trailheads, and lodging within the Valley. It significantly reduces traffic congestion and parking headaches.
YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System)
YARTS offers bus service from gateway communities like Merced, Fresno, Mammoth Lakes, and Sonora into Yosemite Valley and other park areas. It's a great option if you're coming from outside the immediate park vicinity and want to avoid driving and parking entirely.
Private Vehicle (with reservations)
Driving your own car offers the most flexibility to explore different areas of the park, including Tioga Pass (seasonal) and Glacier Point. However, during peak season, a reservation system is often in place for entry into the park.
Bicycle Rentals
Yosemite Valley has miles of paved bike paths, making cycling a delightful and efficient way to see the sights. It's especially good for exploring the Valley floor at your own pace and accessing areas that might be crowded with cars.
Hiking
While not a 'transportation' in the traditional sense, hiking is the primary way to experience Yosemite's grandeur up close. Many iconic viewpoints and waterfalls are only accessible on foot, offering a truly immersive experience.
💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.
Similar Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the absolute best time to visit Yosemite to see the waterfalls at their peak, without the overwhelming summer crowds?
For that magical combination of roaring waterfalls and manageable crowds, aim for late April or early May. The snowmelt is usually at its peak, creating spectacular cascades, and you'll miss the peak summer rush. Just be aware that Tioga Pass and Glacier Point Road might still be closed due to snow, so plan your itinerary accordingly.
I'm planning to drive into Yosemite Valley. What's the secret to actually finding parking, especially during peak season?
Honestly, the 'secret' is to arrive ridiculously early, like before 8 AM, or consider using the park's shuttle system once you're in the Valley. Parking fills up by mid-morning, and circling endlessly is a frustrating waste of precious park time. If you're staying in the Valley, many lodges offer parking, which is a huge perk.
Beyond the iconic Tunnel View, what's a less-crowded spot that offers a similarly breathtaking vista of Yosemite Valley?
For a truly jaw-dropping, less-trafficked view, head up to Inspiration Point. It requires a bit of a hike (about 2.5 miles roundtrip from the Pohono Trailhead), but the panoramic perspective of the Valley, El Capitan, and Half Dome is absolutely worth the effort. It feels like you've discovered your own private overlook.
I've heard about bears in Yosemite. What's the most important thing to remember about food storage to keep both myself and the bears safe?
The golden rule is: never leave food, toiletries, or anything with a scent in your car, even for a minute. Bears have an incredible sense of smell and can break into vehicles. Always use the provided bear-proof food lockers at campsites and picnic areas, and if you're hiking, carry your food with you and dispose of all trash properly.
Are there any 'local' dining spots or experiences within or near Yosemite that offer a taste of the region beyond typical park fare?
While options inside the park are limited, consider packing a gourmet picnic with local Sierra Nevada cheeses and bread to enjoy at a scenic spot like Sentinel Beach. If you're venturing outside the park, the town of Mariposa has some charming, authentic eateries that are a far cry from chain restaurants. Look for places that highlight seasonal, local ingredients.
I'm visiting in the fall. Will the waterfalls still be impressive, or should I focus on other aspects of Yosemite?
Fall in Yosemite is truly magical, but the waterfalls will be significantly diminished or even dry by then, especially by October. However, the autumn colors are spectacular, particularly in Yosemite Valley and along the Merced River, and the crowds are much thinner. It's the perfect time for hiking and photography without the summer heat and masses.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Explore accommodation options on Booking.com or find amazing tours and activities with GetYourGuide.
Tip: Booking through these links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you, helping support this site's free content!