When to Visit?
- In Yosemite Valley, waterfalls and dogwood trees are usually at their peak in May and early June.
- The Highway 120 route into Yosemite Valley is open year round.
- Mid Summer is July and August and temperatures in Yosemite Valley can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
- During the Summer months, especially on weekends, the parking lots in Yosemite Valley will usually fill by two o'clock and the Valley is completely saturated with people and cars.
- If you must go on the weekend, go early. But, if you really want fewer people, visit during the week.
- Wildflowers in Yosemite Valley are usually at their best in June and early July.
- Wildflowers in the high country usually peak in July and early August. (above 7000 feet) Trails off the Glacier Point road in July are usually great for flowers.
- Highway 120 to Tioga Pass is usually open mid June to mid November.
- If you're visiting the park during the Winter (November to May) carry chains and know how to use them.
- Fall colors usually occur in October and November.
- Many of Yosemite's waterfalls are dry by mid July or August.
- The Glacier Point Road is kept partially open during the Winter months to allow access to the Badger Pass Ski resort. The entire road, all the way to Glacier Point, usually opens in May and closes in November.
- Check the National Park Service web site for current road status before visiting. www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/conditions.htm
Dogwood — Kris Corey
Planning Your Adventure
- Make hotel and campground reservations in advance. Don't count on seeing a lot of vacancy signs during the Summer months. (June, July & August)
- Food can be an issue in the park. There are many good places to eat in Yosemite Valley but lines can be long and time consuming. Food sources are limited outside the Valley. Bringing food and drinks with you gives you more time to enjoy the park.
- If you're driving along a road in the park and you come upon an area where there are lots of cars stopped and people walking around, chances are, there's probably a bear nearby. Find a safe place to park first and then go see it. Remember to stay at least 50 yards away.
- Dogs cannot be on hiking trails and cannot be left unattended. Dog sitting services are available in Yosemite Valley near the Stables.
- If you're interested in taking a tram tour while visiting Yosemite make reservations in advance by calling (209) 372-1240.
- If you're into hiking and want fewer people on the trails then get an early start. If you get on a trail by eight o'clock in the morning you'll encounter very few people and increase your chances of seeing wildlife.
- There is no gasoline in Yosemite Valley or Glacier Point. Gas is available at Crane Flat, Tuolumne Meadows and outside the Park.
Little leopard lily — Kris Corey
What to Bring
- Wear good, comfortable shoes or boots if you plan on hiking.
- Walking sticks can be nice and will help with steep grades and water crossings.
- Most restrooms in the park are pit toilets and do not have running water.
- Bring a day pack to carry your stuff and don't forget the hat and sunscreen. Sunglasses are particularly nice in the high tundra regions where vegetation is limited and wind may be plentiful.
- Weather in Yosemite can change suddenly, thunderstorms are common during the Summer. Carry a light jacket &/or raincoat.
- Water in creeks and rivers may not be safe to drink. Filter your water or buy your beverages. Glass containers are not recommended for trails. Bring a trash bag in your day pack and 'Leave No Trace'.
Black bear tracks — Kris Corey
Obey the Posted Speed Limits, animals roam free here, roads in the park are narrow and winding, SLOW DOWN and USE CAUTION