Yosemite New Year’s Eve Guide

It’s the time of year to say goodbye to the past and welcome new beginnings. What could be a more refreshing way to begin a fresh year than by immersing yourself in the great outdoors and embracing new ideas? Give the new year a vibrant start and join us for a New Year’s Eve celebration in Yosemite Mariposa County.

With its expansive landscapes, giant sequoias, and a wealth of affordable outdoor activities, you can plan an unforgettable New Year’s Eve holiday. Picture the Milky Way shimmering overhead in the crisp night sky, creating a breathtaking backdrop for welcoming the new year.

Why Yosemite Is a Great Place to Spend New Year’s Eve

Yosemite is a magical place to visit for New Year’s, offering peaceful winter scenery, crisp mountain air, and breathtaking natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy quiet moments among giant sequoias or snow-dusted vistas during the day, then celebrate the arrival of the new year at cozy lodges and family-friendly festivities throughout the region. It is the perfect balance of outdoor tranquility and sparkling holiday celebration.

Things to Do on New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Yosemite Mariposa County

If you’re looking for a more traditional New Year’s Eve celebration, you can ring in the new year at Yosemite Valley Lodge or Tenaya at Yosemite.

At Yosemite Valley Lodge you’ll find the Mountain Room filled with specials and live music in the heart of Yosemite Valley.

Tenaya at Yosemite offers a family-friendly New Year’s Eve event with DJ entertainment, appetizers, photo fun, and a champagne or mocktail toast at midnight. A quieter dinner option is also available for guests who prefer a more low-key celebration.

Or dress to impress and get ready to dance to live music at The Grove House or check out the party vibes at the Hideout Saloon in the town of Mariposa.

Enjoy Winter Activities!

Consider arriving a few days in advance to explore the park at your own pace, without feeling rushed. Winter activities can enhance your experience and create lasting memories. Some activities we recommend exploring include:

• Ice Skating: Enjoy ice skating in Curry Village, a fun option for those who prefer an afternoon of leisure.
• Snow Tubing: Head to Badger Pass for snow tubing, part of a list of activities available in the region.
• Skiing/Snowboarding: Whether you opt for downhill skiing or snowboarding at Badger Pass or cross-country skiing from the Badger Pass Nordic Center, Yosemite has plenty to offer.
• Snowshoeing: Experience solitude and breathtaking views by embarking on a snowshoeing adventure.

Begin the New Year with Gratitude and Awe

Take a walk or hike and put the world on pause. Lean into the quiet serenity during the wintertime. The crisp pine-scented air refreshes the senses and gives us the space to remember what is truly important. A camera or sketchbook can serve as a reminder to slow down and marvel at the natural world around us.

You don’t need us to tell you that Yosemite’s world-famous landscapes are legendary, but you can also find dreamy features outside the park on the National Forest lands and along the water’s edge of places like Lake McClure or Lake McSwain. These off the beaten path destinations are likely to be quieter and more open giving you plenty of space to move around with the freedom to explore.

For an insider’s perspective, photography classes and expert-guided photography experiences are available through The Ansel Adams Gallery. Or check out our winter photography tips.

Champagne Toast Under the Stars

Whether you opt for a moonlit hike or simply step out onto the back deck of your rental cabin, take a moment to welcome in the new year with a special get-together under the starry night sky. Celebrate with your loved ones, and share champagne, New Year’s resolutions, hugs, or even a midnight kiss when the clock strikes midnight. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to mark the occasion and reflect on the possibilities that lie ahead in the coming year.

Where to Stay in Yosemite During New Year’s Eve

Yosemite is wonderfully quiet in winter, making it an ideal destination for a tranquil New Year’s Eve getaway surrounded by snowy forests and starry skies. For those who want to combine nature with a bit of sparkle, lodging options that host special celebrations such as Yosemite Valley Lodge or Tenaya at Yosemite offer festive events just steps from your room.

Be sure to check for exceptional lodging deals at this time of year. From cozy bed-and-breakfasts to comfortable hotels and motels throughout Yosemite Mariposa County, you will find the perfect place to welcome the new year in serene surroundings with just the right touch of celebration.

Cabin Rentals for New Year’s Eve in Yosemite

When the sun sets, a private cabin rental could be the perfect place to relax and regroup. Put your feet up in front of the fireplace, and pour yourself a glass of wine. Most cabins have plenty of space for dining so that you can cook your own hearty meals, or pick up dinner to go at a local restaurant and enjoy it in private.

Here’s to a peaceful and prosperous New Year, everyone.

To explore lodging options, things to do and places to eat, visit Yosemite.com, the #1 trip planning site for vacations to Yosemite National Park and historic Mariposa County. To stay up to date, follow @YosemiteNation on social media and subscribe to our newsletter, “The Wanderer”. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for great videos on the people and places of Yosemite Mariposa County.