Yosemite in the summer is a sight to behold. The skies are clear, the weather is warm, and flowers are in bloom. It’s a prime time for outdoor activities and family trips, especially as all attractions and services are open. This also means people are flocking to Yosemite to experience its beauty!
The team at Incredible Adventures run Yosemite National Park Tours throughout the year, so we know what it’s like to visit in any season. While Yosemite is gorgeous in the summer, there are also plenty of excellent reasons why you should visit Yosemite in the off-season.
In this blog, we explain what you can expect in Yosemite outside of the summer months, from weather to activities. If you have any questions about our Yosemite tours, feel free to get in touch with our team.
When is the Off-Season in Yosemite?
Summer is certainly the peak season in Yosemite. Falling between the months of June and September, summer sees the highest number of visitors, while the shoulder months of May and October also see increased numbers. According to the National Park Service, 75% of visitors travel to Yosemite between May and October, with numbers ranging from 300,000 to 600,000 people! This means the off-season in Yosemite falls between the months of November and April, spanning fall, winter, and spring.
Benefits of Visiting Yosemite in the Off-Season
The number one benefit of visiting Yosemite in the off-season is fewer crowds. Since attractions like the Tioga Road are closed in winter, you’ll experience far fewer visitors as well as less traffic. Thanks to the reduced number of visitors, you’ll also benefit from lower prices on transport and accommodation outside of the park.
Other major perks of visiting Yosemite out of the peak season are milder temperatures, beautiful photographic opportunities, and thrilling seasonal activities. Read below for our breakdown on what you can expect in each season outside of summer, or have a look at our Yosemite Summer Guided Overnight Lodging Tour if you want to see the park at its peak.
Chase Waterfalls in Yosemite in Spring
Spring in Yosemite falls between April and May, and may as well be known as waterfall season! As temperatures rise the snow begins to melt, resulting in gushing rivers and waterfalls. You’ll start to experience sunnier days, but the occasional storm may still occur. Lower elevations in Yosemite may begin to flower at this time, while the higher reaches are still covered in snow.
During these months, Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and Mariposa Grove Road are open to vehicles, allowing you to experience famous sites like Tunnel View, El Capitan Meadow, and Valley View. Biking and fishing are also possible again after winter, while day hikes may be limited to lower elevations.
This is an excellent time to go chasing waterfalls, such as the spectacular Yosemite Falls and Sentinel Falls. Most waterfalls experience peak flow in May, when the crowds begin to arrive. But in April you can miss the buzz and still see the waterfalls cascading down! Read our blog on the Top 10 Waterfalls in Yosemite National Park to find out what you can see.
If you want to see Yosemite but are short on time, our year-round Yosemite Day Tour from San Francisco is an excellent option. You’ll get to visit Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Falls and other major sights in just one day!
Capture the Beauty of Yosemite in the Fall
In the fall, between October and November, Yosemite becomes a breathtaking mosaic of colors. This is an excellent time for photography, especially as the crowds wane. Yosemite Valley remains accessible, while Tioga Road is typically still open in October, allowing access to Tuolumne Meadows.
The temperatures drop, with highs of 54°F and lows of 35°F and the possibility of rain and snow. With the variable weather, fall is an excellent time for hiking and backpacking as you can evade the heat of summer and largely avoid any major snowfall.
Experience a Winter Wonderland in Yosemite
Yosemite in winter is like stepping into a wonderland. Between the months of December and March, the park is blanketed in crisp white snow, creating an almost otherworldly and tranquil landscape. This period sees the lowest number of visitors to Yosemite, creating a peaceful atmosphere that allows you to reconnect with nature. Although, we understand that you may want to curl up beside a fire and admire the views from your window!
Yosemite Valley and Wawona are still accessible by car, and there are a number of exciting winter activities you can enjoy. From ice skating in Curry Village to skiing on the slopes, winter still offers plenty of opportunities to be outside. One of our favorite activities during this time is snowshoeing, which allows you to explore more of the park in winter. You can find out more about Snowshoeing Yosemite and Giant Sequoias with our blog, or get even more inspiration for activities with our guide: What Is There to Do in Yosemite in the Winter?
If you want to experience Yosemite in the winter, we have the tour for you. Join us for a partially guided excursion to the park, where you’ll get to immerse yourself in the magic of winter. Our Yosemite Winter Semi-guided Overnight Lodging Tour gives you the choice to stay in a hotel or tented cabin, depending on how close you want to be to nature.
Discover Yosemite with Incredible Adventures
With the possibility of experiencing Yosemite year-round, we don’t blame you if you’re eager to start exploring! If you want to fully immerse yourself in the park over a longer period of time, we can recommend our Yosemite Escape Lodging Tour, where you’ll spend three days hiking, visiting lakes, and taking photos. Should you want a more rustic experience, we offer the Yosemite Escape Camping Tour where you’ll stay in tents instead. However you want to discover Yosemite, we’re here to guide you on your journey. Contact us if you have any questions!
