Can you drive through Yosemite in summer?

All areas of the park are usually accessible by car by late May or early June, although services along the Tioga Road often open a bit later in June. Arrive at Yosemite before mid-morning, especially on weekends, to avoid delays at entrance stations and popular areas like Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point.



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One of the most popular routes is Tioga Pass, a 54-mile drive that connects two entrances on opposite sides of the park. If you drive straight through, Tioga Pass takes about an hour and a half, but we highly recommend taking your time and making some stops.

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The average temperature in Yosemite in summer is 89°F (32°C) during the day but can quickly drop. Be sure that you have breathable layers, including a waterproof lightweight jacket, a mid-layer long sleeve shirt for both sun coverage and warmth, and a baselayer such as a tank or t-shirt for when it gets hot.

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How Many Days Should You Spend in Yosemite? For the best experience, plan on spending three days in Yosemite, especially if you like hiking. Three days gives you enough time to hike a few trails, explore Yosemite Valley, drive Tioga Road to Olmsted Point, and visit Glacier Point and Taft Point.

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16 Big mistakes to avoid in Yosemite National Park
  • 1 - Arriving without a plan! ...
  • 2 - Giving yourself just a day. ...
  • 3 - Thinking the waterfalls are flowing all year round. ...
  • 4 - Heading to Glacier Point for Sunset. ...
  • 5 - Visiting Tunnel View in the middle of the day. ...
  • 6 - Avoiding the epic hikes. ...
  • 7 - Arriving at midday.


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During the peak of summer, days at lower elevations can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit before dipping down into the 50s or even 40s at night. Nights in Yosemite National Park are cherished for their clear skies and incomparable stargazing.

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Besides the outdoor pools available to the public during summer at Curry Village and Yosemite Valley Lodge, swimming is generally permitted in all bodies of water in the park.

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Be careful of sharp underwater objects or slippery rocks (aqua shoes are helpful), and of course, never swim above or directly below waterfalls. Mountain water is often very cold, so avoid prolonged exposure causing hypothermia and always use extreme caution when swimming in Yosemite with children.

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Yosemite is particularly famous for its numerous waterfalls, many of which present impressive scenery with their splashing water, surrounding trees, and stunning rocks. While many of these waterfalls can be easily seen from a distance, a little hike is usually required to get the best views of the natural attraction.

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