While hiking and driving are extremely limited in winter, snowshoeing provides the best way to experience Yosemite. When landscapes are covered with snow, the whole area is transformed into a cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trail.
You can explore the quiet trails of Yosemite, or take your chance finding the wild and the most remote places in the park—everything depends on your skills and fitness level.
Some of the best areas for beginners and families, without a doubt, are Mariposa, Merced, and Tuolumne groves, which provide excellent trails surrounded by the beautiful giant sequoias.
For experienced snowshoe hikers, there are longer routes with more dramatic elevation gains. For instance, you can hike to Dewey Point for majestic views of El Capitan and Yosemite Valley, or make a long trek to Taft Point and Sentinel Dome. Another popular winter experience to be mentioned is a full-moon snowshoe walk, guided by a park ranger. The walks are held a few days a month and start at Badger Pass.
Snowshoeing is free inside Yosemite, and snowshoes are available for rent at Badger Pass. Trails are generally available from mid-December through March.
Practical info
When is the best time to go snowshoeing in Yosemite?
Typically, from mid-December to March, Yosemite is open for snowshoeing. During winter, hiking and driving are restricted, but snowshoeing provides an alternative that gives you a chance to explore the park's transformed landscape. Cross-country skiing trail and snowshoeing are the best ways to experience Yosemite in winter. Show more
Where are the best areas for beginners and families to go snowshoeing in Yosemite?
The Mariposa, Merced, and Tuolumne groves are excellent areas for beginners and families to go snowshoeing. While enjoying scenic trails through Yosemite's quiet woods, you get to experience giant sequoias. You can choose to traverse remote parts of the park, or discover the most remarkable sites, depending on your fitness level and skills. Show more
What are some longer snowshoeing routes for experienced hikers in Yosemite?
Dewey Point or Taft Point offer longer snowshoe routes for hikers with experience. Dewey Point reveals a spectacular view of El Capitan and Yosemite Valley while Taft Point has breathtaking scenery. These trails have fairly dramatic elevation gain and are best for experienced snowshoe hikers. Show more
Can I rent snowshoes inside the Yosemite park?
On the slopes of Badger Pass within Yosemite, you can rent snowshoes. It is a free service that makes it easy for visitors to experience Yosemite without worrying about bringing their own gear or getting lost in unfamiliar terrain. Show more
Are there any guided snowshoeing tours available in Yosemite?
Visitors can join park rangers to take full-moon snowshoe walks at Badger Pass, which are offered just a few days each month. This activity is perfect for guests seeking a unique and guided snowshoeing experience surrounded by the park's peacefulness, beauty, and stillness. While snowshoeing is possible without a ranger, joining the tour adds value to the experience. Show more
