Answer: Visiting Yosemite Valley in early March is a wonderful idea — the waterfalls are flowing, crowds are still low compared to summer, and the scenery is stunning with a mix of winter and early-spring conditions. With kids ages 7 and 10, you’ll have several great, family-friendly trails that are almost always accessible that time of year.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite during a government shutdown can be unpredictable, as operations and services may change quickly. While the National Park Service strives to keep critical areas accessible, many amenities and staff-supported services could be limited or closed.

Answer: Yosemite National Park has recently announced additional trail closures and intermittent access delays for some of its most popular trails. Visitors should carefully review the official NPS information and maps before planning hikes.

Answer: Great question. Yes — there has been *quite a bit* of snow this season in Yosemite’s higher elevations, and snow conditions are very much still a factor at the end of March. Based on recent NPS reports, here’s what to expect, plus advice on your gear (chains, microspikes, snow shoes):

Answer: When planning a visit to Yosemite National Park, making lodging reservations directly through the official concessionaire is highly recommended to ensure reliability, fair pricing, and peace of mind. Yosemite’s official lodgings are managed by Aramark, which operates the TravelYosemite.com website. Reservations can be made up to 366 days in advance, allowing visitors to secure popular accommodations well before the busy summer season.

Answer: For a two-night stay in Yosemite with minimal hiking and a focus on sightseeing, you’ll want to stay somewhere central to the Valley floor, as this allows easy access to the main viewpoints and short walks to iconic sites. Since you’re flying into San Francisco and planning a loop through Napa and South Lake Tahoe, your timing in Yosemite will likely be mid-October, which is ideal for fewer crowds and pleasant fall colors.

Answer: In the event of a federal government shutdown, National Parks like Yosemite typically remain technically “open,” but services are drastically reduced or unavailable. This includes visitor centers, campgrounds, restrooms, and staffed entrance stations. Roads are usually not physically blocked, but some gates may be unmanned and parking areas could be limited or closed.

Answer: Driving from Death Valley to Lee Vining along US-395 and connecting roads like CA-190 and CA-136 offers some unique scenic and quirky stops, especially if you enjoy natural beauty and small-town attractions. Since you’re traveling with family, I’ve highlighted stops that are interesting without being overly time-consuming.

Answer: Visiting Mono Lake can definitely be a highlight of a trip to the Yosemite area, especially if you enjoy unique natural landscapes and photography. Since Mono Lake is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset, staying nearby for at least one night is ideal if you want to fully experience it. Otherwise, you would need an early morning drive from Yosemite or Mammoth to catch the light at its best.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite National Park during Memorial Day Weekend and beyond can be an unforgettable experience, but it’s important to be prepared for crowds, especially given the increased interest in national parks in recent years. Here's an overview of what you might encounter, along with some tips from recent visitors:

Answer: G’day Pete — great plan! Visiting Yosemite in mid-March can be magical: lots of snow around, quieter trails, and a very different vibe than in summer. But there are a few important things to know and plan for. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Answer: Yosemite National Park is an incredible destination, but for someone with a fear of heights, careful planning is important. The park is famous for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and high viewpoints, so not all activities may be comfortable or enjoyable for someone with acrophobia.

Answer: Since Yosemite’s free shuttle system stops running after the end of September, private transportation is the main option for getting from Yosemite Valley to trailheads such as Cathedral Lakes in early October. Many backpackers and hikers use local shuttle services or private drivers for this purpose, especially for multi-day treks.

Answer: Hi! With your limited time in Yosemite and staying in Oakhurst, you can still enjoy a relaxed and scenic experience focusing on easy walks, valley views, and perhaps a bike ride. Your plan to do the Valley Floor Tour on the afternoon of June 4 is excellent, as it will give you a good overview of Yosemite Valley’s highlights without exhausting your first day.

Answer: Hello,

Answer: Given your situation, there are a few factors to weigh for your arrival day on July 7th. Since you’re picking up a rental car at the airport and then driving to Yosemite via Mariposa, timing and traffic can significantly impact how much you can comfortably see in the park on that day.

Answer: Fish Camp is a small community located just outside the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park. Staying there in June can be very convenient, particularly if you want easy access to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, as well as other southern and central parts of the park.

Answer: If you are visiting Yosemite National Park for a day trip in late April, you will need to pay the standard park entrance fee. Yosemite does not require a special permit for general daytime access, except in specific cases such as wilderness overnight trips or entering certain high-demand areas.

Answer: For healthy travelers in their 60s visiting Yosemite in mid-June 2026, there are excellent glamping and hotel options that offer stunning views, as well as itineraries that range from 3 to 5 days depending on how much time you want to spend in the park and surrounding areas.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in mid-April is a beautiful choice, with waterfalls running strong and fewer crowds than summer, but you do need to consider snow at higher elevations and some road closures. Given your plan to leave Las Vegas early on Monday, driving all the way to the Yosemite Valley via the west side is indeed a long day (roughly 7-8 hours), so the east side approach is more practical.

Answer: Adding Yosemite to your mid-May trip is technically possible, but it will make your itinerary very tight and involve significant driving. Yosemite is roughly 1,200 miles from Phoenix, which translates to about 20–22 hours of driving round trip. To fit it in before your planned Grand Canyon and Sedona stops, you would need to add at least two extra travel days just for the drive, plus two full days to explore Yosemite.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in the 2nd week of April is early spring, and campground availability depends heavily on elevation and snow conditions. Many of the higher-elevation campgrounds are still closed due to snow, but a few lower-elevation sites may be open for RVs and tents.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in June is a wonderful time to experience the park, but Tioga Road (Highway 120 through the high country) can be unpredictable depending on snowpack and melt. Historically, Tioga Road opens sometime between late May and mid-June, but the exact date changes year to year.

Answer: Hi! It sounds like you’re in for a beautiful drive through Yosemite and the surrounding areas. Both the 120 and 140 routes offer scenic experiences, but each provides a slightly different vibe. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which option is best for your trip:

Answer: Yosemite National Park in mid-June is extremely popular, especially on weekends. Entering via Highway 41 from the south (Wawona/Mariposa area) can be subject to congestion, particularly on Saturdays. Since you have a camping reservation, you are allowed entry even during the reservation-only window, but timing can still impact how smooth your arrival is.

Answer: Staying in Groveland is a great choice for a Yosemite area visit, especially if you want to minimize long drives. Even if access to Yosemite Valley or some park areas is limited, there are plenty of alternatives nearby to enjoy the scenery and outdoor activities.

Answer: This update is great news for anyone planning to travel through the Eastern Sierra or enter Yosemite via Tioga Pass. The reopening of Highway 395 through Lee Vining and the confirmed opening time for Tioga Pass means access to the park’s high country and east-side routes will soon return to normal.

Answer: Thank you for sharing your concerns — these are very valid, especially given the premium rate and the length of your stay. Yes, there are some red flags to be aware of for a stay at The Ahwahnee right now. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on recent reports and guest feedback, plus some options and suggestions.

Answer: As of April 25, 2024, Yosemite National Park has provided updates on the status of Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road. Progress is being made on clearing snow, but official opening dates for either road have not yet been announced.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite National Park in an RV requires understanding the current reservation and entry system, which has changed in recent years. Here’s a detailed explanation to help you plan your trip.

Answer: Your planned itinerary is very thorough and ambitious, and with two fit visitors, it is doable—but here are some considerations to maximize enjoyment and reduce stress with parking and crowds.

Answer: Yosemite Valley Lodge is one of the most popular lodgings inside Yosemite National Park because of its convenient location near Yosemite Falls, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want easy access to major viewpoints and trails.

Answer: Driving from Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park and staying in Oakhurst gives you some flexibility in choosing your route, but including Death Valley National Park as a detour will add a significant amount of time and mileage. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide.

Answer: With four solid days and your interests in hiking, photography, camping, and night skies, you can see some of the best spots in Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite in mid-April. Since you are coming from Joshua Tree and Death Valley, and considering some road closures, planning carefully is key.

Answer: Hi! Your plan to combine Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Yosemite, San Francisco, and Los Angeles in about 10 days is ambitious but possible if you prioritize and plan efficiently. Here’s a detailed overview for your Las Vegas → Yosemite portion and some guidance on the whole trip.

Answer: Driving Tioga Road from Lee Vining into Yosemite on July 5th is a spectacular route, offering high-elevation scenery and access to some of the park’s most iconic spots. Since you’re concerned about mosquitoes, it’s best to focus on areas that are less wet and avoid low-lying meadows or near stagnant water, where mosquitoes tend to congregate, especially in summer.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in August means you’ll be there during peak summer season, so traffic and crowds can be heavy, especially in Yosemite Valley. Planning your drive times carefully can make a significant difference in your experience.

Answer: For a first-time visit to Yosemite with two full days and intermediate hiking ability, guided hikes are a great way to explore the park safely and efficiently while learning about its geology, wildlife, and history. Several companies and the park’s own programs offer guided hikes ranging from a few hours to full-day adventures.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in late June can be challenging due to the park’s high visitor demand and reservation system for peak times. Since tickets for Yosemite are sold out, you do have a few alternatives to still enjoy Sequoia trees and the surrounding Sierra Nevada area without the stress of last-minute planning.

Answer: It’s great that you already have a reservation at Upper Pines, one of Yosemite’s popular campgrounds. Even if your daughter and her family cannot join you, there are still options to keep and use the reservation.

Answer: Glacier Point is one of the most iconic viewpoints in Yosemite National Park, and it does have a seasonal snack stand, but availability depends on the time of year. During the summer months, including July, there is typically a small food stand near the Glacier Point parking area. It usually offers basic snacks, drinks, and light meals, which are convenient if you don’t want to carry your own food.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite for the first time is exciting! With 3 days based in Oakhurst, you have a great base for exploring Yosemite Valley, Mariposa Grove, and even venturing up to Tuolumne Meadows if the roads are open. Here are detailed pointers for your questions.

Answer: Deciding whether to stay inside or outside Yosemite National Park in May depends on your priorities, budget, and desired convenience. Both options have advantages and drawbacks.

Answer: Your draft itinerary for 3 nights and 4 days in Yosemite is well structured and allows you to see a lot of the park's highlights. Here are some detailed suggestions and considerations to help you optimize your trip and make the most of your time.

Answer: Hello Lucy,

Answer: Your planned itinerary for Yosemite in September looks well-structured, and it should allow you to see the main highlights without feeling overly rushed. Since September is shoulder season, the crowds are smaller than in summer, but parking can still be a challenge, so planning is important.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in the second week of November is possible, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The weather in Yosemite during November tends to be cool and can be unpredictable. Daytime temperatures in the valley are usually in the 40s–50s °F (5–15 °C), while nighttime temperatures can drop near or below freezing. Snow is possible, especially at higher elevations, though the valley floor may remain snow-free early in November.

Answer: Thank you for sharing your detailed trip report from Yosemite! It sounds like you had an incredible experience, even with the limitations of a guided tour and your preference not to hike extensively.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite National Park without driving on steep, curvy roads is possible, but options are somewhat limited. Since you’re seniors and prefer to avoid challenging driving, the focus should be on accessible transportation options and comfortable routes.

Answer: Rafting on the Merced River in Yosemite Valley is a classic summer activity, and mid-June can be a great time to go, but conditions depend on the spring snowmelt and recent weather.

Answer: Given your plan to spend 2 days in Yosemite and 2 days in Sequoia, it’s worth considering how to best allocate your time to enjoy both parks without feeling rushed. Mariposa Grove is Yosemite’s main giant sequoia area, but since you’ll be visiting Sequoia National Park—which is famous for its massive, iconic trees—you may not need to dedicate a half-day to Mariposa Grove unless seeing the Yosemite sequoias is a priority for you.

Answer: Here’s a suggested Yosemite itinerary tailored to your plan: a mix of moderate hiking, scenic drives, and relaxing downtime, with your stays at Tenaya Lodge and Curry Village. I’ve assumed your interest in seeing classic Yosemite scenery without overdoing driving.

Answer: Arriving at Yosemite around 1 pm in July via the Big Oak Flat entrance gives you plenty of afternoon light to enjoy some iconic scenery while making your way to the Ahwahnee. Since your hotel is located in Yosemite Valley, you’ll be descending into the heart of the park, so it’s a great chance to stop at a few short viewpoints and take a manageable hike.

Answer: I'm very sorry to hear that your High Sierra Camp reservation at Sunrise was canceled. That is indeed the case: all the High Sierra Camps in Yosemite are closed for the 2025 season.

Answer: Your itinerary is well-structured and covers many highlights of Yosemite, especially for a first-time visit in May. Here’s a detailed review and some suggestions to optimize your trip:

Answer: Your Yosemite itinerary is well thought out and ambitious, but with kids aged 7 and 10, it’s important to balance sightseeing with realistic energy levels. Overall, your plan covers most iconic sites and allows for a mix of hiking, scenic drives, and valley exploration. Here’s a detailed review with suggestions:

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.

Answer: Your planned route from LAX to Rush Creek Lodge is generally sensible, but there are a few points worth considering to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Answer: After a 5-day backpacking trip in Yosemite, taking an extra 4 days to visit Mammoth Lakes and Lake Tahoe can be a refreshing way to unwind, but it’s important to consider your energy levels and the type of experiences you want. Both destinations offer scenic beauty and recreational activities, but the pace and style of visit will differ from the strenuous backpacking in Yosemite.

Answer: Hello,

Answer: Your itinerary is ambitious but feasible if you are in good health and can handle moderate driving and hiking. Here’s a day-by-day analysis with suggestions and recommendations.

Answer: For a first-time visitor spending three days in Yosemite in mid-September, the choice of entrance and nearby accommodation can make a big difference in convenience and enjoyment.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite for 4 days in the second week of April is not too many days, especially if you enjoy scenic drives, sequoia groves, and beginner-to-mid level hikes. Yosemite is a large park with a lot of variety, and 4 days allows you to explore at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.

Answer: Hi! Your itinerary looks ambitious and exciting, hitting some of the most iconic parks in the West. Here’s some feedback and suggestions to help maximize your experience while keeping hiking manageable and enjoyable.

Answer: The Tuolumne Meadows Grill (sometimes called “Tuolumne Grill”) is currently closed for the season.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in early June is a popular time, so it can get busy, especially on weekends and around the main attractions like Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Tunnel View. However, having a handicapped access pass will give you some advantages when it comes to parking and access.

Answer: Yosemite offers a variety of challenging hikes that are ideal for intermediate to advanced hikers, yet still doable for active kids around 11–13. Booking a guided hike can enhance the experience by providing safety, local knowledge, and insight into the park’s natural and geological history.

Answer: Your plan for a one-week loop from Las Vegas → Yosemite → Pomona → back to Vegas is absolutely doable, and late July/early August is a great time to cross Tioga Pass. Tioga Road (Highway 120 through the park) is almost always fully open by then, giving you a beautiful high-country drive right into Yosemite.

Answer: Hiring a private guide for Yosemite is an excellent way to see the park efficiently and get in-depth knowledge about its geology, wildlife, and history. For a family of four visiting at the end of May, a private guide can also help tailor hikes and activities to your teens’ energy levels and interests.

Answer: In Yosemite, wasp activity is highly seasonal. Wasps are cold-blooded, so their activity is closely tied to temperature. In August, the weather is warm, and wasps are at their peak, which explains the problem you experienced on the Curry Village pizza deck.

Answer: For a scenic day drive from the Monterey area without proper hiking clothes, you have several options that focus on beautiful drives, easy walks, and iconic viewpoints. Since your flight is out of Sacramento the next day, you’ll want to plan something that’s feasible in a single day while allowing for a relaxing pace.

Answer: Yosemite Valley’s shuttle system is designed to provide convenient access to popular trailheads, viewpoints, and facilities without needing a personal vehicle. Here’s how it works in terms of traffic:

Answer: Your proposed itinerary for Yosemite in early June is very full and covers many of the park's highlights. Since you’re staying in Curry Village, it’s practical and convenient, but there are a few adjustments and tips to consider to make your trip more enjoyable and less rushed.

Answer: Memorial Day weekend is one of the busiest times of year in Yosemite, so arriving on the Monday of the holiday weekend does mean you will likely encounter heavier traffic than normal. The bulk of traffic usually heads into the park on Friday and Saturday, but Monday is still part of the holiday weekend and can be busy, especially in the morning.

Answer: The Panorama Trail is a spectacular hike from Glacier Point down to Yosemite Valley, but logistics for getting to the trailhead via the Glacier Point shuttle bus can be challenging during peak season.

Answer: The National Park Reservations site is primarily designed to give an overview of available accommodations within or near national parks, including Yosemite. It does list vacation homes, cabins, and lodges, but it often provides only limited information such as a small thumbnail image and a brief description. This can make it challenging to fully evaluate properties before booking.

Answer: Hi! Visiting Yosemite in early April is a wonderful experience, though it’s important to note that weather can still be chilly and some higher elevation roads and trails may be snow-covered or icy. Staying at the Ahwahnee gives you a fantastic central location inside the park.

Answer: Great plan — late June is a classic time to visit Yosemite: waterfalls are still impressive from spring melt, trails and Glacier Point Road are usually open, and the valley is lively. Below I’ll cover where to stay (outside the park), parking/transport options, Glacier Point access, recommended hikes and a 3-day sample itinerary, plus practical tips for early starters like you and your mum.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite at the end of October into early November offers a quieter experience compared to the summer, but there are some seasonal considerations to keep in mind.

Answer: For a first-time visit to Yosemite National Park with three full days, it’s smart to prioritize by location and avoid cramming too much into one day. Your plan to enter through the south entrance from Oakhurst makes sense, and you can structure your days to balance hiking, scenic drives, and iconic viewpoints.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in mid-October can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to plan carefully since the conditions vary significantly from summer. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect:

Answer: Visiting Yosemite National Park in early November with an RV can be a wonderful experience, but it requires careful planning as some areas and roads start to close for the winter season. Yosemite Valley is the heart of the park and offers the best access to hiking trails, iconic viewpoints, and the park's shuttle system. Since driving and parking an RV around the valley can be challenging, staying at campgrounds with easy shuttle access is highly recommended.

Answer: Yes, it is perfectly fine to drive into Yosemite via one route and leave through another. In fact, many visitors do exactly this to experience different scenic approaches and perspectives of the park. Both Hwy. 140 through Mariposa and Hwy. 41 through Fish Camp have their own unique advantages.

Answer: If your priority is having a private bath and comfort while staying within Curry Village, here’s a breakdown of the two options:

Answer: Arriving in Yosemite West around 5:00 p.m. gives you a nice window for a sunset hike or viewpoint, but your options will be limited by daylight and distance. Sunset in mid-June in Yosemite is typically around 8:20–8:30 p.m., so you have a few hours to enjoy a scenic spot without rushing.

Answer: Short version: Rush Creek is the more convenient, upscale choice if your priority is quick access to the Big Oak Flat / Tioga Road corridor and hotel-style amenities (spa, full restaurant, pool, newer rooms). Evergreen is the more classic, rustic-cabin experience and generally cheaper — fine if you value cabins, community activities, and don’t mind a longer drive into the park. If your main goal is an easy, short drive to Tioga Road for a day trip in September, Rush Creek is the better pick.

Answer: Yosemite National Park has issued updated closure information for two major roads due to seasonal and weather-related conditions. These closures are important for planning travel within the park, especially for visitors wanting to access higher elevation areas or Glacier Point.

Answer: Driving from Las Vegas to Yosemite is a long trip—roughly 7-8 hours without stops—so breaking it up with an overnight stay is a smart idea, especially in October when the Tioga Pass might be closed due to early snow. If Tioga Pass is closed, the most common route would be via US-395 along the eastern Sierra Nevada, which offers scenic drives and several towns suitable for a comfortable overnight stop.

Answer: Choosing between flying into San Francisco (SFO) or Fresno (FAT) for a Yosemite trip depends on your priorities for driving, scenery, and timing.

Answer: For an October trip to Yosemite with 4 adults, especially if you want to stay near a lake and relax for a couple of days, there are several options both inside and just outside the park. October is a quieter time, but some accommodations inside the park may already be booked or closing for the season, so early planning is important.

Answer: When deciding between taking Highway 41 or the combination of 132/120 from Merced into Yosemite National Park, both routes have their pros and considerations. Since the weather is good, snow or road closures are not a factor, so your choice can be based on scenery, traffic, and the areas you want to pass through.

Answer: Driving from Yosemite National Park to North Lake Tahoe in winter requires careful planning due to potential snow, icy conditions, and chain requirements. While your AWD and snow chains provide flexibility, choosing a lower-elevation, well-maintained route will reduce the chances of encountering chain controls or road closures.

Answer: Good question. Yes, trying to book YARTS tickets ahead of time is smart — and sometimes tricky. Here’s a breakdown of what might be going on, why you might be seeing “no tickets available,” and some advice.

Answer: Hi! Great news for cyclists: Glacier Point Road in Yosemite National Park will officially open to vehicle traffic on May 10, 2025. Before that date, the road is open exclusively to bicycles and pedestrians, making it an excellent opportunity to enjoy a quiet, scenic ride without the usual car traffic.

Answer: Choosing between The Redwoods in Wawona and Yosemite Valley Lodge (YVL) largely depends on your priorities: comfort while sleeping versus convenience for sightseeing. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide.

Answer: Driving from Merced into Yosemite National Park, you have a couple of main route options: Highway 140 (Mariposa Gateway), Highway 41 (Wawona), and Highway 120 (Big Oak Flat). Since Highway 140 isn’t available, your choice is essentially between 41 via Wawona or 120 via Big Oak Flat. Both routes are viable and have similar distance and driving times under normal conditions, but there are some differences that may influence your choice.

Answer: GPS estimates for travel time and distance can be helpful, but in Yosemite National Park, they should be treated as approximate rather than precise. There are several factors that can affect accuracy:

Answer: Great question. Short answer: yes — fires are affecting Yosemite currently, and you should be prepared for potential smoke, reduced visibility, and some travel impacts. But with the right planning, it’s still possible to enjoy many parts of the park.

Answer: Planning a trip to Yosemite in mid-June and early July is exciting, but it can be challenging due to high demand, especially for camping and lodging. Summer is peak season, and Yosemite is extremely popular during this time, so availability is limited and reservations often open many months in advance.

Answer: It sounds like you’re planning an exciting trip to Yosemite with your young child! Since you’ll be entering the park through Tioga Pass and looking for easy-to-do activities without too much hiking, I’ll provide a few recommendations that should be family-friendly and comfortable for your 2-year-old. Additionally, I'll suggest lodging options for a more affordable stay nearby.