Yosemite is amazing to visit in winter, but with winter conditions come extra complications
. Winter conditions are common from November through March (but can can occur any time).
Is it hard to drive in Yosemite in winter?
Yosemite Valley roads normally remain open, making driving to Yosemite in winter
relatively easy to view Yosemite’s major icons, like Half Dome, El Capitan and Yosemite Falls
. However snow fun is close at hand. Enjoy world-class snowshoeing and cross country skiing at Badger Pass Ski Area.
What is Yosemite like in the winter?
However, you’ll need to
hike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski
; all trails in this area will be covered in snow all winter. The vast majority of winter visitors stay in the Valley, though it’s possible to access the Hetch Hetchy, Wawona, and Crane Flat areas of the park, too.
What do I need for Yosemite winter?
Weather in Yosemite in Winter
We recommend
waterproof outer layers such as a waterproof jacket and , as well as warm socks, a beanie, multiple layers, sturdy boots, and gloves
. You may also want to bring snowshoes, skis, or a snowboard, though gear rentals are also available.
Are there waterfalls in Yosemite in December?
During winter, you may or may not find snow on the floor of Yosemite Valley, but
some waterfalls are nearly always flowing at least a little
.
Is Yosemite Nice in December?
Visiting Yosemite in December to Ski
Many of the regions get plenty of snowfall and this makes Yosemite National Park a popular winter destination for skiers
. There are more than 2,500 miles of groomed ski trails for all skill levels, as well as other activities such as snow tubing and snowshoeing.
Is Yosemite worth it in January?
January is a great time to explore Yosemite without the crowds
. The beauty and majesty of snow in the Valley makes the park very photography-friendly. Make sure you catch sunrise or sunset from Tunnel View, just outside the Valley.
Can you hike Yosemite in January?
Yes; you can hike in Yosemite in January
.
Can you hike to Glacier Point in winter?
Specifically,
Glacier Point can be reached from May to October/November via Wawona Road (usually closed in the winter months) to the junction with Glacier Point Road (also closed in winter)
, which you’ll need to stay on for about 16 miles until you reach the parking lot.
Can you hike Yosemite in December?
The Yosemite Falls Trail is open all year long — including December 31
— which makes it an ideal trail to include on your route through the park. A moderate to difficult trail hike of just over seven miles provides you with great views of the Yosemite Valley, Half Dome and Upper Yosemite Fall.
Is it worth going to Yosemite in February?
The biggest benefit to visiting Yosemite in February is the
lack of crowds
. Summer is the busiest time of the year, and spring and fall are also bustling—although not nearly as busy as summer. Winter is a season of peace and quiet.
Do I need hiking shoes for Yosemite?
Waterproof hiking shoes and boots are necessary for hikes during spring and winter when trails are wet and snowy
. All Season Hiking Clothes: Dressing in layers is always suggested when planning an outing in Yosemite. Very few hikes begin and end in only shorts and T-shirts.
Is it snowing in Yosemite in December?
weather in december
Winter in Yosemite it typically cold and snowy, although sunny and warm days are not too uncommon. The average temperature in Yosemite Valley and Wawona in December is a high of 47, and a low of 28 degrees Fahrenheit (8/-2 degrees Celsius).
On average, it snows 7 days in December
.
Is Glacier Point open in December?
Glacier Point Road is accessible by car typically from late May through October or November, according to the Park Service.
Cross-country skiers can access the viewpoint mid-December through March
via a 10.5-mile trek.
Can you hike Half Dome in winter?
Ascending Half Dome in winter conditions requires mountaineering skills and equipment, plus emergency supplies
. It is not a trail run or a simple day hike.
