Is it Worth Visiting Yosemite National Park in Winter?
Short answer: Absolutely — Yosemite National Park in winter is peaceful, photogenic, and magical. With snow-dusted cliffs, quiet trails, and cozy fireside moments, you’ll experience a side of the park few travelers see.
While snow may limit access to higher elevations (and sometimes require tire chains), winter is one of the best times to explore Yosemite Valley without the crowds. While winter weather can restrict your access to some higher elevation parts of the park, and snow chains for your car may be required, we think it's still a magical time of year to explore.
Quick Facts
Winter Season Dates: December to March
Average Daily Temps: 30°F to 50°F (in Yosemite Valley)
Crowd Level: Low
Good For: Photography, peaceful hiking, snow play, cozy cabins
Best Base Town: Mariposa, CA (via Highway 140, which is typically open year round)
Here are four good reasons to visit Yosemite in winter:
1.Hike to Frozen Waterfalls
Yosemite’s waterfalls slow in winter, but that makes them even more enchanting — ice cones often form at their bases, creating surreal, sparkling landscapes. Here are our top winter waterfall hike recommendations:
Lower Yosemite Fall: Easy; 1-mile loop, open year-round.
Upper Yosemite Fall: Strenuous; bring spikes or snowshoes.
Bridalveil Fall: Easy; short, paved path with icy mist in cold temps.
Vernal Fall (Mist Trail): Moderate; lower section accessible in winter.
Nevada Fall (via John Muir Trail): Moderate to strenuous; check current conditions on the park website.
Local Tip: Morning hikes offer the best light for photographing frozen mist and rainbows.
2. Snowshoe Through Yosemite’s Winter Meadows
Snowshoeing is a spectacular way to get some moderate exercise while enjoying Yosemite’s winter scenery. Snowshoes are available for rent at Badger Pass Ski Resort, are light, and fit over most hiking boots. Park rangers lead free guided snowshoe walks almost every morning during winter, weather permitting. If you have your own snowshoes, and want to go it alone, we recommend the following places:
Sentinel and Cooks Meadow Loop (Easy)
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias (Moderate)
Mirror Lake, from Shuttle stop 17 (Moderate)
3. Ice Skating under Half Dome
Ice skating at the outdoor Curry Village Ice Skating Rink is one of the most stunning places in the US since it offers spectacular views of Half Dome. There is a fire pit to warm up after taking some laps around the rink, or bring marshmallows for roasting. Skate rentals are available.
4. Skiing and Snowboarding at Badger Pass
This ski and snowboard resort may be small, (it has only 10 runs, mostly intermediate, a snowboard terrain park, and five chairlifts), but it is very affordable compared to other ski resorts in California. Badger Pass offers classic cross-country skiing, skate skiing, and telemark through its Nordic Center, plus snow tubing. For those looking to work up a sweat there is a 21-mile round trip groomed cross country skiing track to scenic Glacier Point. Equipment rentals are available.
Why Winter in Yosemite Is Worth It
You’ll experience a tranquility that’s rare in peak season.
Local lodging is typically more affordable.
Photography opportunities are unmatched with the clear air, snow contrast, and golden light.
You’ll likely see wildlife (like coyotes and deer) more frequently in open meadows.
FAQs
Is Yosemite open in winter?
Yes! Yosemite Valley, Badger Pass ski resort, and the Wawona area remain open year-round. Some higher elevation roads (like Tioga and Glacier Point Roads) close due to snow.
Do I need snow chains?
Chains may be required, especially on Highway 41 and 120. Highway 140 (through the town of Mariposa) stays open most reliably in winter.
Where should I stay?
Base yourself in Mariposa, CA. It’s the most accessible gateway in winter, with cozy rentals, restaurants, and art galleries.
Can I visit Yosemite without skiing?
Absolutely. Many visitors come simply to hike, photograph, visit the historical landmark buildings, like the Awhanee hotel, and enjoy the peaceful winter landscape.
About the Authors
We’re Mariposa-based vacation rental hosts who’ve been helping travelers experience Yosemite and the Sierra Foothills for almost 10 years. All the recommendations in this blog post are drawn from our firsthand local experience and the latest park updates.
