Winter in Yosemite can be a chilly, peaceful escape from San Francisco. Sometimes the waterfalls and lakes freeze up, the trees glisten covered in fresh, white snow and a gorgeous, tundra-like wonderland is revealed. Without the rush of the Summer crowd, you’ll find yourself experiencing the beauty and solitude of a special side of the park not many get to see, therefore getting to take part in winter activities that many do not get to do!
One great thing about traveling with Incredible Adventures is that we’ll be continuing our tours to the park daily throughout the season. Our vehicles are small enough and our guides are trained to apply chains to our tires if road restrictions are enforced. Travelers can avoid the stress of driving in uncharted territories by hitching a ride in our small group biofueled mini-coaches!
Once you make it to The Valley, there’s still a lot to see and do. We have single day options, but our if you have the time, we’d recommend our Overnight Hotel Stay-and Play option to experience it all! Here are our favorite Winter activities to check out on our 1 and 2-day tours to the park:
Hike to Lower Yosemite Falls
An easy 30-minute loop trail. While the falls themselves may be dry until rain or snow return, there are still plenty of educational exhibits or places to stop in awe over the nature that surrounds you!
Hike around Mirror Lake
The trail around Mirror lake is open year round and provides a unique perspective to some of the park’s most photographed icons. This hour trail made the list of our favorite Winter Activities for its base views of Half Dome.
Yosemite Museum
Too cold outside? Venture into the museum formerly known as Ansel Adam’s Gallery, to learn about the cultural history of Yosemite’s native Miwok and Paiute people from 1850-present. Demonstrations of basket-weaving, beadwork, and traditional games are presented.
Yosemite Valley Visitor Center
Strike a pose with John Muir! View the exhibit hall where you can learn how Yosemite’s spectacular landscape was formed, how people have interacted with it through the centuries, how wildlife adapts and survives, and how your national park continues to evolve.
Pro Tip: There’s a free 23-minute film that will provide a stunning overview of Yosemite’s splendor
Ansel Adams Gallery
One of the first people to capture Yosemite’s essence was Ansel Adams. Check out his gallery of photos that inspired a nation to head West and recognize the park’s significance!
Majestic Yosemite Hotel
Formerly known as the famous Ahwahnee Hotel, here’s a chance to step back to an earlier era of history as you explore the National Historic Landmark erected in 1927. The hotel provides a cozy atmosphere in which to relax and enjoy a warm drink!
View Half Dome at Sunset
Towering more than 4,000ft above the Eastern end of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome is in a prime location for some pristine sunsets!
Fireside Storytelling campfire at the Majestic Yosemite Hotel
Totally family friendly
Starry Night Skies Over Yosemite
Discover the stories of the night sky. Advanced Registration required at any tour & activity desk once you’re in the park.
Ice Skating
Half Dome Village Ice Rink is open and weather permitting, it costs $9.75/adult, $9/child. Skate Rentals are an additional $4.
Rent Snow Shoes
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a pair at Half Dome Village!
Other Evening Presentations are weather permitting. Have a look at the Park’s website for the most up-to-date winter activities information: http://www.travelyosemite.com/things-to-do/evening-programs/
