Best time to visit Yosemite

[mitraveler]

So what's the best time to visit Yosemite? I bet it's not the same answer that I just read for Disney. Isn't it cold there in the wintertime? Is that the part of California that gets a crazy amount of snow? I don't mind some snow, but I don't want a ton. How about it in the fall? Do the redwoods change colors in the fall? I've never thought about that before.

[kolaterpo]

oh yeah, it snows a hell of a lot in Yosemite between December and February. I'd suggest staying out of the back-country as it rains and snow a lot. If you do, do carry your chains!

Winter in Yosemite is great for snow activities like downhill skiing, snowboarding, etc...but for me, Yosemite is best in March, just after the snow is starting to melt and the crowds of people are very low. Trust me, it's very busy in Yosemite during the July 4th, Memorial Weekend, and Labor Day weekend.

[adbdb]

Yosemite is beautiful in autumn and great place for lea-peeping and take in the beautiful fall colors and smells. Also, you won't find hordes of kids in the fall since they'll be back to school, and the weather is just great for easy walks, hiking and rock-climbing.

If you do visit this fall, be sure you book Yosemite tours such as open-air tram tours and moonlight tours on full-moon nights..well worth the money!

Originally Posted by mitraveler

So what's the best time to visit Yosemite? I bet it's not the same answer that I just read for Disney. Isn't it cold there in the wintertime? Is that the part of California that gets a crazy amount of snow? I don't mind some snow, but I don't want a ton. How about it in the fall? Do the redwoods change colors in the fall? I've never thought about that before.

[rgbartist]

We came into Lake Tahoe in June and there was snow, in the 30's at night so we chose not to camp at Yosemite. We will be back there sometime.

[wanderer]

When do the leaves start to turn? I guess I'm asking if you've seen any fall color yet!

[melindamessenger]

hey wanderer, anytime between mid-october and mid-november is good to see the fall foliage, though don't expect it to be anything like New England! Yosemite isn't the most colorful place in fall because most of the trees are evergreen. If you're looking for really spectacular foliage in and around Yosemite, you'll be better off to head east of the Sierras around June Lake an Mammoth instead.

Originally Posted by wanderer

When do the leaves start to turn? I guess I'm asking if you've seen any fall color yet!