Why Seasoned Yosemite Visitors Insist On Seeing The Park In Winter

If you've never seen Yosemite National Park in winter, you’re missing out on one of the most breathtaking guises the west-slope Sierras adopts all year. As the snowpack builds in the mountains and ice starts glazing at the river edges, the park eases into its quietest—and perhaps most intoxicating—season of all. Tremendous Scenery, Exhilarating Activities Ice-shaggy waterfalls, white-headed granite domes, the tracks of a river otter along the bank, huge cinnamon-colored trunks looming from flawless drifts, a puffed-up Steller jay on a snowy sugar-pine bough—such are only a few of Yosemite’s classic winter scenes. And there are so many ways to commune with this expansive Sierra Nevada countryside directly. Hike the trails of Yosemite and Hetch Hetchy valleys, commonly snow-free in winter; marvel at the emerging snow cone at the base of Yosemite Falls. Strap on some cross-country skis or snowshoes and perambulate among the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove or the stands around Crane Flat. Or wind your way to Badger Pass and ski, snowboard, or tube down the hissing slopes—and leave the long lift lines and pricey tickets outside the park behind. When you aren't crunching or cruising through silent forests, you've also got innumerable ways to kick back and relax. Winter Perks The snowy scenery is reason enough to visit Yosemite in winter, but there are other practical benefits. Our Scenic Wonders lodging rates are cheaper, for one thing—and the cabins are mighty cozy this time of year. You’re also dealing with basically nonexistent crowds out in the park. There’s no better time of year for finding moments of rich, deep solitude, and for having world-famous vistas all to yourself. Make a wintertime pilgrimage to Yosemite National Park: That special, calming atmosphere of the sleeping white wilderness will stay with you for good.

Make Your Yosemite Reservations Today

If you’re looking to explore Yosemite, start planning your trip with Yosemite’s Scenic Wonders. We offer Yosemite reservations within the gates of the park. With one of our cozy cabins, condominiums, or homes, your Yosemite accommodations will be just minutes from all the wonderful spots in Yosemite. Give us a call at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648) to learn about our rentals and to make your Yosemite reservations today.

Yosemite National Park Blog

Scenic Wonders’ Yosemite blog provides the latest news related to Yosemite National Park. By reading our blog, you’ll stay up to date on activities, accommodations, and more. Image: Averain