What is the weather usually like in Yosemite National Park?

Daytime temperatures in Yosemite Valley sometimes reach 100°F during summer, while nights are cool. Temperatures in Tuolumne Meadows (8,600 feet) in mid-summer are usually in the 70s in the daytime and in the 30s at night. Though skies are usually clear, thunderstorms can be a daily occurrence in summer afternoons.



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May through September is the most popular time in Yosemite These 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.

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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 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.

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Bonus Yosemite Valley Phenoms: Snow Cone and Firefall Frazil 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.

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The cool season lasts for 3.1 months, from November 21 to February 25, with an average daily high temperature below 61°F. The coldest month of the year in Yosemite Lakes is December, with an average low of 38°F and high of 54°F.

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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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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.

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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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Global climate change is impacting Yosemite. Worldwide emissions of greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, leading to rapid warming observed across the western US. Scientists project that average temperatures in the park may rise by 6.7–10.3°F between 2000 and 2100.

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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.

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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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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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BASE jumping is prohibited. Hang gliding is allowed with a permit. Launching, landing, or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Yosemite National Park is prohibited.

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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).

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Plan trips during the mid-week - Yosemite Valley is most popular on weekends and holidays, which can mean significant traffic congestion, especially on Saturdays. To avoid crowds, consider planning a trip to Yosemite Monday through Thursday.

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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.

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When planning your trip to Yosemite, include time for alternative activities during severe weather. Alternative activities include scenic driving, taking a bus tour, or spending time indoors at visitor centers and museums.

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