The Sierra Nevada
Your Guide to YosemiteNational Parkand Beyond
Discover the best dining, lodging, experiences, hiking trails, and transportation in and around Yosemite National Park.
Explore Yosemite
Everything you need for your perfect Yosemite trip, all in one place.
Featured Listings
Handpicked favorites from around the Yosemite area.
Current Weather
Real-time conditions at Yosemite National Park
Plan Your Visit
Tips and insights for making the most of your time in Yosemite.
Weather & Seasons
Yosemite is spectacular year-round, and every season looks different. Summer (July-August) is peak season with warm valley days, ideal for waterfalls-and-granite sightseeing but the busiest and hottest window. Spring (April-early June) brings the biggest waterfalls from snowmelt, alongside a busy shoulder season. Fall (September-October) offers a great crowd-to-weather balance. Winter (November-April) is the quietest time, though snow closes Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road for the season.
View forecast →Getting There
Yosemite National Park sits in the central Sierra Nevada of California, with four main entrances: the South Entrance via CA-41 (through Fish Camp and Oakhurst), the Arch Rock/West Entrance via CA-140 (through El Portal and Mariposa), the Big Oak Flat Entrance via CA-120 West (through Groveland), and the seasonal Tioga Pass Entrance via CA-120 East (through Lee Vining), which typically closes for snow from around November through late May. Yosemite Valley itself is the hub most visitors head for first.
Best Time to Visit
April through early May and September through October offer the best balance of mild weather and manageable crowds. Late May and early June are prime for waterfall viewing at peak snowmelt, though that window is also a busy shoulder season. July and August are the most crowded months — Yosemite Valley parking lots often fill by mid-morning on weekends. Winter (November-April) is the quietest season, but high-country roads like Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road are closed for snow.