How crowded is Yosemite in the summer?

Yosemite is very busy this summer! Any time spring through fall, one- to four-hour delays are possible at entrance stations. It's best to arrive by 8 am or in the afternoon to avoid delays. The following information applies May through September, and on weekends and holidays during spring and fall.



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June-August Because of seasonal road and trail closures that can last until May and June, Yosemite sees most of its visitors during the summer. During this time, you can expect crowded trails and campsites as well as road traffic and expensive hotel rates.

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Visit midweek, rather than on the weekend. Even beyond the standard weekend crowding, Saturdays and holiday weekends are “particularly busy,” according to Yosemite's website. In a reply to a Facebook comment from July 6, Yosemite wrote: “It is much quieter on weekdays — especially during the middle of the week.”

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For extra peace and quiet, visit in January, which is typically the park's least busy month. Just keep in mind that, while the Yosemite Valley and Wawona areas are accessible by car all year, some more remote and challenging roadways, like Tioga, close for the winter (usually starting in November).

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If you're looking for massive cascades that leave you speechless, Yosemite wins the prize. If you're not too fussed about height but you still want to enjoy the serenity of the water (with the added bonus of being able to see falls no matter what time you visit), go with Yellowstone.

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Although the park is open all year, nearly 75% of visitors come during the busiest six months (May through October).

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Invasive species have a negative impact on natural resources nationwide, including in Yosemite National Park. Non-native animal species, like the New Zealand mud snail, concern park scientists because this species can completely cover a river streambed, thereby altering the ecosystem.

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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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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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Yosemite National Park is famous for its spectacular glacially carved landscape. Although glaciers have come and gone many times in the past, there are still two active glaciers near Yosemite's highest peaks.

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The short answer is absolutely! Of all the places we have been in the world, there are few that rival the natural beauty of Yosemite. It is with good reason that the park is world famous.

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With so much to see and do in Yosemite, it can be difficult to know where to start, which is why planning an itinerary is essential. We recommend taking 3 days in this beautiful national park, though you can make it work if you have more or less time.

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Staying Inside of Yosemite National Park I recommend staying inside the park if you want to have more opportunities for sightseeing without the crowds. You'll find some incredibly scenic lodges and campgrounds here that will enhance your experience while you're here.

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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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