Do you need Microspikes in Yosemite?

Yosemite Valley: The Valley doesn't usually have sufficient snow for skiing or snowshoeing, but sometimes conditions will require microspikes or snowshoes in the higher elevations of hikes that start out in the Valley, you can always check with a ranger beforehand to find out the current conditions.



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Especially around the waterfalls, Yosemite trails will have standing water and slippery areas. To be prepared for all occasions, it's best to invest in a reliable pair of waterproof hiking shoes. If you plan on hiking during the winter, you will want to invest in a pair of winter hiking boots.

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It's a big undertaking and requires a permit, but hiking to the top of Half Dome is one of the bucket list challenges in Yosemite. This hike is not for the faint hearted and we don't recommend anyone taking this on without some training.

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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. Opt for sports fabric over cotton. Jeans or denim of any sort are not recommended.

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They are all well trodden trails, fine with regular running shoes. Your road running shoes should be fine. It will put more wear and tear on the shoe but you aren't planning to go far so no big deal.

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For the best “bang for your buck,” do exercises that use your large muscle groups, perform four to six exercises in a row, and alternate between a lower body, upper body push, upper body pull, and core exercise. Repeat three to five times with no rest between exercises, rest one to two minutes between sets.

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While this national park tends to be one of the hardest to visit due to its high demand, it includes scenic beginner hiking trails for budding explorers. Don't feel pressure to become a pro at all things outdoors before planning your trip to Yosemite National Park.

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While true altitude sickness is normally only the concern of mountaineers heading for high summits, you can experience mild symptoms from the elevation in Yosemite—headaches, shortness-of-breath, and the like—as low as 5,000 feet. Staying a step ahead of altitude sickness means taking things slow.

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Make sure you know before you go. In national parks where grizzlies live, such as Glacier or Grand Teton, rangers encourage you to carry bear spray. In others, such as Yosemite, where only black bears live, bear spray is not even permitted.

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Always keep your food within arm's reach and don't turn your back to your food; never leave food unattended. Bears may investigate picnic areas or backpacks for food even in your presence, so be alert.

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