It’s easy to fall in love with Yosemite in Autumn. Cooler temperatures and fewer people make exploring easier and more comfortable. There’s nothing better than the fall season for hiking and other outdoor activities. The black oaks, big leaf maples, dogwoods and other deciduous trees put on their fall colors starting in the high country with quaking aspens and working downhill, and lodging prices fall with the temperatures meaning that this is a great season to look for deals on cabins, hotels and more.
Plan Your Trip
Things To Do
There’s an abundance of things to do in Yosemite and something for every type of visitor.
When it’s time to take a break from the trail, restaurants throughout Yosemite National Park and Mariposa County have great food, and one of them will have exactly what you’re craving.
Mountaintop vistas that seem to stretch on forever. Hiking, swimming, history, museums. Oh, and we haven’t even mentioned the legendary landmarks such as Half Dome or the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.
Warm Days.
Cool Nights.
In the fall, Yosemite’s daytime experience can almost feel like an endless summer. Temperatures in Yosemite Valley and at lower elevations remain warm through the day, but as the sun falls in the western sky so do the temperatures, so pack a sweater – you’ll need it to enjoy those night skies full of bright Yosemite stars.
Looking for changing leaves and beautiful fall foliage? Start in the higher elevation regions of Tuolumne Meadows where the temperatures get near freezing before Yosemite Valley’s do. The aspens along Tioga Pass road begin to change as early as September, but if you’re hoping to see the Valley’s maples and oaks change colors, that comes around late October or November, proving the old adage that fall in the mountains marches downhill.
Looking for activities and suggestions to help plan your visit to Yosemite? Take a look at the links below to start planning an unforgettable Yosemite Mariposa County Fall vacation.
Autumn Articles
Featured Story
Go Higher This Fall in Yosemite
Fall is one of the best times for hiking in Yosemite Mariposa County. Read our blog to find the best Yosemite hikes for fall.
From luxury stays like The Ahwahnee and convenient Yosemite hotels like Yosemite Valley Lodge to affordable Yosemite motels that bask in the majesty of Yosemite’s natural wonders, find Yosemite lodging that suits your travel needs inside and outside of the park in greater Mariposa County.
If you’re looking for a bed and breakfast near Yosemite, check out a variety of options in Mariposa County and the surrounding area near Yosemite National Park.
Annual events, seasonal festivals, west coast-centric happenings and exciting special occasions all mingle on Yosemite Mariposa County’s vibrant events calendar. With ideal year-round weather and diverse cultural offerings, there’s always something happening in Yosemite National Park and Mariposa County.
We can`t wait for Glacier Point Road to reopen for summer! Who doesn`t want to soak in views like this one from @elliotmcgucken? There has been no announcement from the park yet on potential opening dates - let`s hope it`s soon!
Please note: 2024 Temporary Vehicle Reservations will be required to enter Yosemite this year on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays until June 30th, then 7 days per week from July 1 to Aug. 16, and finally weekends and Monday holidays until Oct. 27th. Half-day reservations are also available this year and are easier to obtain.
A raging Upper Yosemite Fall reflected in a serene section of the Merced River. Beautiful shot by @andosfauxtos
Please note: 2024 Temporary Vehicle Reservations will be required to enter Yosemite this year on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays until June 30th, then 7 days per week from July 1 to Aug. 16, and finally weekends and Monday holidays until Oct. 27th. Half-day reservations are also available this year and are easier to obtain.
The magic is strong on bright spring mornings in Yosemite Valley. The sound of waterfalls drifts through the valley.
Gorgeous video by @wildernessbadass
Please note: 2024 Temporary Vehicle Reservations will be required to enter Yosemite this year on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays until June 30th, then 7 days per week from July 1 to Aug. 16, and finally weekends and Monday holidays until Oct. 27th. Half-day reservations are also available this year and are easier to obtain.
Did you know: the Merced River is the only river that flows through Yosemite Valley. From canoeing to swimming to sitting on its beautiful banks and enjoying views like this, it`s an iconic part of the Yosemite experience. And it`s hard to miss!
Reel by: @citizenoftheskyy
Please note: 2024 Temporary Vehicle Reservations will be required to enter Yosemite this year on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays until June 30th, then 7 days per week from July 1 to Aug. 16, and finally weekends and monday holidays until Oct. 27th. Half-day reservations are also available this year and are easier to obtain.
Wildlife, waterfalls, and rainbows all over! Spring in Yosemite is exciting, to say the least.
Photos and videos by: @_mikeywright_
Please note: 2024 Temporary Vehicle Reservations will be required to enter Yosemite this year on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays until June 30th, then 7 days per week from July 1 to Aug. 16, and finally weekends and monday holidays until Oct. 27th. Half-day reservations are also available this year and are easier to obtain.