Yosemite Valley and Wawona remain accessible by car all year, however tire chains may be required, depending on conditions.
People Also Ask
October in Yosemite is one of the best times of year to be in the park. The number of visitors has severely decreased, making crowds much more manageable. The roads will be clear of traffic and the parking lots more accessible.
If you are into light activity and sightseeing, a medium-weight jacket over layers will suffice. Just in case, bring a hat and gloves to ward off the night chill. Day hikers or treaded walking shoes are necessary whether you are walking a valley trail on a ranger-led hike or heading up steeper trails.
Yosemite enthusiasts usually visit the Park during off season months. Fall which starts towards the end of September is one of the best months for hiking and a great time to visit when summer crowds decline dramatically after the Labor Day holiday when children start heading back to school.
There are so many incredible hiking trails along Tioga Road that offer spectacular views. Hiking in Yosemite's “high country” is perfect for the day-hiker who wants to escape the crowds of the Yosemite Valley and enjoy the serene beauty of the Yosemite Wilderness and breathe in the fresh alpine air.
Yosemite is home to countless waterfalls. The best time to see waterfalls is during spring, when most of the snowmelt occurs. Peak runoff typically occurs in May or June, with some waterfalls (including Yosemite Falls) often only a trickle or completely dry by August.
However, the vast majority of visitors show up during the 5-month period from May to October, which means that from November to April, the park is largely crowd-free and wonderfully quiet. If you visit Yosemite National Park during March and April or October and November, you'll avoid the crowds.
Highway 140This historic Yosemite route follows the old railway tracks. It provides the lowest altitude approach, which means it's often the best year-round highway to travel on. This is a very scenic route to Yosemite and probably gives you the most impressive way to enter the park.
Fall ColorDaytime temperatures are mild and perfect for hiking. Less visitors in the park compared to the summer months provide a feeling of solitude. Fall color typically starts late September into early October in Yosemite Valley.
American black bears found in Yosemite National Park have long been of intense interest to park visitors and managers. Seeing one of the approximately 300 to 500 black bears in Yosemite can evoke excitement, awe, and fear. If visitors spot a bear while in the park, it is a black bear-not a brown or grizzly bear.