Yosemite next year's trip

Question

Planning a trip to Yosemite next year. I'm thinking neither May or September. I'm assuming May the waterfalls are better? What about the crowds in May or September. I try to do trips when

It's less crowded

Answer

Yosemite is a stunning destination year-round, but the experience can vary greatly depending on the month you visit. If your goal is to see waterfalls at their peak, May is usually ideal. Snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada feeds the park’s waterfalls, so Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls, and Vernal Fall are often at their fullest in late spring. However, this comes with larger crowds, as May is the beginning of the busy season for tourists.

By September, the waterfalls are typically much reduced, and some smaller falls may even be dry. On the plus side, September tends to have fewer crowds compared to May, and the weather is usually warm and dry, making it pleasant for hiking and exploring the valley. Early September can still be fairly busy due to the tail end of summer vacation, but by mid to late September, visitor numbers drop noticeably.

Other considerations:

Accommodation: May fills up quickly, so lodging inside or near the park can be hard to book unless you reserve months in advance. September is slightly easier, but some hotels and campgrounds may begin seasonal closures.
Weather: May can still have chilly mornings and some residual snow at higher elevations, while September offers generally stable and mild weather.
Activities: Both months allow full access to popular hikes and scenic drives, but road closures in May are rare compared to early spring (April). In September, higher elevation trails remain accessible, and the fall colors may start appearing late in the month.

Alternative options to reduce crowds while still enjoying decent waterfalls include:

Late May: After Memorial Day weekend, crowds start to thin slightly while waterfalls remain strong.
Early June: Waterfalls are still flowing well, and crowds are gradually increasing but not at peak summer levels.
Mid-September: Crowds are much lighter, though waterfalls may be minimal; this can be ideal for hiking and photography without the crowds.

Ultimately, if seeing waterfalls at their fullest is your top priority, plan for May, accepting the larger crowds. If your priority is a less crowded experience with easier logistics and mild weather, September is preferable, keeping in mind that the waterfalls will be weaker.

Yosemite next year's trip

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