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Yosemite

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Comfortable weather and generally accessible trails make May and September the best time to visit Yosemite. Springtime (April–May) will show you the incredible beauty of moonbows, frazil ice phenomenon, and roaring waterfalls. The period from mid-June through August sees the largest influx of tourists, thence skyrocketing hotel rates. If you opt for visiting Yosemite in summer, take a scenic road trip or cycle to more remote areas, as it's the only time when most of the roads and trails are accessible. Early autumn is perfect for hiking, but you might want to avoid crowded Labour Day Weekend. From October on, the temps start dropping, and some facilities and roads close down for the low season. If you are looking for a bargain, choose winter. During this time you can enjoy skiing, witness Firefall, and observe bighorn sheep of Sierra Nevada.

26 things to do in Yosemite

Scenic Road Trips

all year round Activity

Driving along a large number of picturesque roads with stops near the highlights and most unique spots can be a perfect vacation plan

Mist Trail

late May–mid-October Nature

One of the most spectacular, adventurous, and popular hiking trails in Yosemite draws crowds of visitors every day during the high season

Snow Plant

April–July Nature

Is this a flower, a mushroom, or maybe a guest from another planet?

Glacier Point Overlook

late May–October Nature

Check out the grandest view in all the West

Rafting Along the Merced River

late May–July Activity

The stunning landscape of Yosemite makes the perfect setting for the joys of river rafting

Snowshoeing

mid-December–March Activity

In winter, Yosemite is a wonderland. One of the easiest ways to explore its wilderness is to step into a pair of snowshoes

Glaciers

all year round Nature

Yosemite Glaciers, symbols of the changing world, may disappear completely within just a few decades

Birdwatching

March–October Nature

Let nature refresh your soul with the delighful birdsongs of Yosemite

Dogwoods in Bloom

April–June Nature

When in blossom, Yosemite's Mountain Dogwood trees seem to be covered with large snow flakes, adding an amazing bright splash of white to the forests

Stargazing

June–August Nature

Experience the magnificence of the night sky over Yosemite

Horsetail Fall or Firefall

mid-to-late February Nature

For just a few days each year, this waterfall is illuminated by the sun and becomes one of Yosemite’s most amazing spectacles

Giant Sequoias of Yosemite National Park

May–October Nature

Feel the scale of the largest living trees on the planet

Moonbows

April–June Nature

Waterfall droplets and the full moon create gorgeous lunar rainbow displays

Rock Climbing

April–October Activity

The unique granite rock formations of Yosemite are wonderland for adventurous souls to climb

Cycling in Yosemite Valley

March–November Activity

The absolutely best way to get around Yosemite Valley is by bike

Fishing

late April–mid-November Activity

Yosemite offers some of the most scenic fishing in the world

Kayaking and Canoeing the Merced River

May–September Activity

Paddling in Yosemite can be easily characterized with just one word—spectacular!

Wildflowers of Yosemite

March–August Nature

Yosemite is a paradise for wildflower enthusiasts

Yosemite Falls

November–July (peak flow in April–June) Nature

Visit one of the world's tallest waterfalls during the spring runoff and you'll be carried away by this tremendous sight

Clouds Rest

June–October Activity

Marvel low-lying clouds and panoramic views

El Capitan Trail

May–October Activity

One of most famous trails of Yosemite Park

Tioga Road

late May–October Activity

The highest highway pass in California and Sierra Nevada Mountains

Tuolumne Meadows

June–October Activity

One of the biggest high-elevation meadows in the Sierra Nevada Mountains

Cleo's Bath

May–mid-July Nature

An excellent summer swimming hole for hot days

Pear Lake Trail

May–October Activity

A popular hiking destination in Sequoia National Park

Yosemite Fall Colors

October–early November Nature

Autumn is the most colorful time of the year in Yosemite

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