While many trails are still covered in snow in April,
trails in lower elevations may be accessible
. Mirror Lake Trail and Cook’s Meadow Loop in the Valley, Lookout Point in Hetch Hetchy, and Wawona Meadow Loop in Wawona may be options for hiking trails.
How should I dress for Yosemite in April?
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.
Is Yosemite crowded in April?
Yosemite in April: The Good
But the biggest and most noticeable advantage to exploring Yosemite in April was the
lack of crowds
. Don’t get us wrong, there are definitely still a lot of tourists that come to Yosemite during the spring time, but it’s practically a ghost town compared to peak summer months.
Are there bears in Yosemite in April?
4. Re: Early April Hikes and Bears! These are Black Bears even if they are brown in color. They are all over the Park but
it is unlikely you will see one
.
Is it cold in Yosemite in April?
The biggest drawback to visiting Yosemite in April, is that Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road are still closed; they don’t typically open until late May or June. Also, the weather is sometimes unpredictable.
For the most part, the weather is warmer, but it will occasionally snow
.
Is Half Dome open in April?
Best Time to Visit:
You can’t climb Half Dome unless the cables are up, which is generally from late May or early June through Columbus Day weekend in October
.
How early can you get into Yosemite?
Yosemite National Park is open
24 hours per day, 365 days per year
. However, the Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station is open only during daylight hours (approximately) and some roads are closed due to snow from around November through May or June. (Check road conditions and Hetch Hetchy hours.)
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.
Can you bring food into Yosemite?
“Food” includes all food and drinks, regardless of packaging, along with trash, toiletries, and other scented items. These items must be stored in either an allowed bear-resistant food container or food locker.
Hanging food is illegal throughout Yosemite
.
What do I need for hiking in Yosemite?
- Map & compass.
- Trash bag.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Food and water.
- Storm gear.
- Headlamp/flashlight (with extra batteries)
- First-aid kit.
- Fire starter.
Are there grizzlies in Yosemite?
Brown bears, including grizzlies, can be found in North America, but
not in Yosemite National Park
.
Are there cougars in Yosemite?
Mountain lions—also called cougars, pumas or panthers—roam Yosemite’s mountains and valleys
. These important predators, native to the Americas, are a natural part of the Yosemite landscape.
Do I need bear spray in Yosemite?
According to Yosemite’s official website: “the possession, use, or discharge of pepper spray (including bear spray), pellet guns, and BB guns in Yosemite National Park is prohibited.” Rangers from Yosemite say
there just isn’t a need for the spray
.
Can you hike Yosemite in March?
Can I Hike in Yosemite in March?
Yes; you can hike in Yosemite in March
. During the winter season, some of Yosemite’s higher elevation trails are closed. The following hiking trails are typically open in March: Lower Yosemite Falls, Mirror Lake, Bridalveil Fall, and the Vernal Falls footbridge on Mist Trail.
Can you camp in Yosemite in April?
Camping is still possible despite Yosemite National Park weather in April
. In fact, many of the campsites and RV parks fill up quickly. If you turn up on the day spaces are usually limited or nonexistent.
How far can you hike Half Dome without a permit?
You are allowed to hike all the way to the Sub Dome,
about 0.5 mile before the summit
, without a permit. Generally the ranger will be sitting there, checking people’s permits.
Can you get into Yosemite right now?
Alert, Severity, closure,
Yosemite is open with some services limited due to COVID-19
Some services and facilities are limited, including shuttle service. Masks are required for everyone in shuttle buses and other enclosed buses. Reservations are not required to enter Yosemite (until May 20).
Is Yosemite hiking open?
Yosemite is
open with some services limited due to COVID-19
.
How long is the hike up Half Dome?
The
14- to 16-mile
round-trip hike to Half Dome is not for you if you’re out of shape or unprepared. You will be gaining elevation (for a total of 4,800 feet) most of your way to the top of Half Dome.
Do you need trekking poles in Yosemite?
It is generally not necessary
. It helps if you are going downhill when your legs are tired. Gives you some extra support (one extra leg or even two). Handy if the trail is steep.
Should I take binoculars to Yosemite?
If nature watching is part of your plan in Yosemite bring some binoculars with you so you can get a closer look
. As the river and the waterfalls will be at their best, many visitors hike to see them. Getting up close means getting wet. Carrying a light weight towel is great so you can dry off easily.
Are there easy trails in Yosemite?
Lower Yosemite Falls Hike
The most scenic easy hike in the Yosemite Valley starts with a spectacular view of it and ends at the base of the lower section of the falls. The two paved paths both lead to the viewing bridge, creating a loop trail.
