The average high temperatures in Yosemite Valley are around 50°F (10°C); the average lows are around 30°F (-1°C).
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At even higher altitudes, winter is really cold, with night temperatures well below freezing, and the coldest records about -30 °C (-22 °F), while summer is mild during the day and cold at night, with possible slight frosts even in July and August.
Freezing temperatures usually show up from October to May at Yosemite Valley, including most winter nights. Typically six nights a year drop as low as 20 °F. But the cold is rarely severe, as only about once a decade is a temperature of 10 °F (-12 °C) or less recorded here.
Yosemite receives 95% of its precipitation between October and May (and over 75% between November and March). Most of Yosemite is blanketed in snow from about November through May. (Yosemite Valley can be rainy or snowy in any given winter storm.)
May through September is the most popular time in YosemiteThese months correspond with the best weather and are also when all the roads, trails, lodging, shuttles and attractions in the park are open. That includes its most famous drive, Tioga Rd, a 64-mile-long scenic byway that closes when the snow begins to fall.
At 4,000 feet in the Yosemite Valley, park temperatures can fluctuate 30 degrees in one day, going from 51 F during the night to 87 F during the day. Be sure to pack light layers for daytime and others that will keep you warm in the evenings, including a winter hat, when the sun sets and cooler air moves in.
Within Yosemite National Park, you may not sleep in your car or RV except in a campsite that you're registered to stay in (except at Camp 4, where sleeping in cars is not allowed because it's a walk-in campground). Sleeping in your car along the side of the road is not allowed.
Bonus Yosemite Valley Phenoms: Snow Cone and FirefallFrazil ice is often accompanied by another phenomenon called the snow cone which occurs when falling water from Yosemite Falls freezes before it hits the ground and piles into a large cone of ice. The mound of snow and ice can reach hundreds of feet tall.
Bridalveil Falls and Lower Yosemite Falls typically freeze in winter, creating gorgeous stalagmites even Queen Elsa would be proud of. Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America.
The winner: The opportunities for wilderness adventure in Yellowstone are many, but Yosemite has it all, from gentle trails along the floor of the valley to spine-tingling ascents of its rock faces. Plus, Yosemite remains open to many activities through the winter, while Yellowstone goes into bear-like hibernation.
The average trip duration for Yosemite touristsMost Yosemite visitors stay between three to four days. After all, there is so much to do and see! Even if you're coming to Yosemite for a specific purpose like a wedding, it's more than worth it to extend your trip.
You are required by federal regulations to store all your food properly throughout Yosemite National Park. You must have your food stored unless it's within arm's reach (so, don't go for a swim or take a nap while leaving food out).
No matter which season you are planning to visit Yosemite, layers will be important. During the spring, summer, or fall, we recommend wearing a base of shorts and a tank top or t-shirt then layering from there. Cargo pants that have removable sections are great.
The winner: The opportunities for wilderness adventure in Yellowstone are many, but Yosemite has it all, from gentle trails along the floor of the valley to spine-tingling ascents of its rock faces. Plus, Yosemite remains open to many activities through the winter, while Yellowstone goes into bear-like hibernation.
What is the off-season for Yosemite National Park? Early spring, fall and winter months feature less visitation than the summer, making them Yosemite's off-season, and a great time of year to visit.