Yosemite, Sequoia & Kings Canyon
Granite walls, giant waterfalls and the largest trees on Earth along the Sierra Nevada.
Best time to visit · California
Best Time to Visit Yosemite National Park
Granite walls, giant waterfalls and the valley that inspired the national park idea.
The best time to visit Yosemite National Park is May–June and September–October. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for September and October. It's busiest in May through August.
Month by month
Jan FairFeb GoodMar FairApr GoodMay PrimeJun PrimeJul GoodAug GoodSep PrimeOct PrimeNov FairDec Fair
Best monthsMay–Jun, Sep–Oct
Best valueSep and Oct
BusiestMay–Aug
Established1890
Yosemite by season
Winter Fair
Snow-dusted granite and few crowds. In mid-to-late February, Horsetail Fall can glow orange at sunset, a phenomenon known as 'firefall.'
Spring Good
Waterfalls peak in May and June as snow melts. April and May are the best value months.
Summer Good
The valley is crowded and the falls thin out, but Tioga Road and the high country around Tuolumne Meadows are at their best.
Fall Good
September and October bring warm days, fewer people and golden oaks. Tioga Road usually closes in November.
What to do
- Hike the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall
- Take in Tunnel View
- Drive Tioga Road to Tuolumne Meadows
- Look out from Glacier Point
- See the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias
Local tip
Arrive before 8 a.m. or after 4 p.m. to beat valley traffic, and stay inside the park so you don't spend hours driving in.
Good to know
Yosemite Falls is among the tallest waterfalls in North America at 2,425 feet.
Before you go: Yosemite has used peak-season vehicle reservations in recent years, and Half Dome cables require a lottery permit. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Getting there
Closest major airport: Fresno (FAT), about 1.5–2 hours.
Nearby national parks
Approximate driving distance. Check a map for exact routes.
Where to stay
Yosemite month-by-month ratings
| Month | Rating | Crowds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Fair | Moderate | |
| February | Good | Busy | |
| March | Fair | Moderate | |
| April | Good | Busy | |
| May | Prime | Peak crowds | Prime season starts |
| June | Prime | Peak crowds | Last prime month |
| July | Good | Peak crowds | |
| August | Good | Peak crowds | |
| September | Prime | Busy | Prime season starts · Best value |
| October | Prime | Busy | Last prime month · Best value |
| November | Fair | Moderate | |
| December | Fair | Moderate |
Road trips with Yosemite
Questions about visiting Yosemite
When is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park?
The best time to visit Yosemite National Park is May–June and September–October. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for September and October. It's busiest in May through August.
What is the worst time to visit Yosemite National Park?
March and November through January are the weakest time, when snow closes roads, trails or services.
When is Yosemite National Park most crowded?
Crowds peak in May through August. September and October offer the best balance of good conditions and fewer people.
Is Yosemite National Park worth visiting in winter?
Snow-dusted granite and few crowds. In mid-to-late February, Horsetail Fall can glow orange at sunset, a phenomenon known as 'firefall.'
Do you need a reservation for Yosemite National Park?
Yosemite has used peak-season vehicle reservations in recent years, and Half Dome cables require a lottery permit. Always check the official NPS page for the current year's rules.
What is the closest airport to Yosemite National Park?
The most convenient airport is Fresno (FAT), about 1.5–2 hours.
How many days do you need at Yosemite National Park?
Most road trips spend 3 to 4 days here.
More in California · National parks in California · Season calendar
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.