On October 1, 1890, the U.S. Congress created Yosemite National Park, making it the 3rd National Park in the U.S. As we celebrate the birthday of one of the country’s most popular and recognizable national parks, it’s worth remembering that the park created in 1890 was substantially different than the park we think of today. The National Park Builds on the Yosemite Grant of 1864 By 1890 the iconic Yosemite...
True to the phrase “Half the Park is After Dark”, Yosemite is a delightful place for stargazing. Between the high elevation and minimal light pollution, thousands of twinkling lights are on display every clear night, and the Milky Way earns its name with its dense collection of stars that flow together across the sky. Keep reading to discover the best stargazing spots in Yosemite, when to go, what to bring,...
Visiting Yosemite in October is like getting the backstage pass to a sold-out concert where you can hang out with the band after the big show. It’s more relaxed, quieter, and more intimate. The stadium show is over, the masses have gone home and it’s just you and Yosemite, hanging out and getting to know each other a little better. Let us give you the backstage tour to set you...
Psst! Are you looking for a quiet, back-to-nature visit to Yosemite National Park during an ideal time to visit the park, but without many people? Lean in – we’re about to share a surprising secret. Visit in the second half of August. Yes, you read that right. Here’s why. Traditionally, Labor Day marks the end of peak summer visitation as kids return to school. However, schools are starting earlier than...
Are you thinking about visiting Yosemite National Park in September? You’re in luck! September is an ideal time to explore the park. In September, Yosemite combines the vast array of activities available during the summer months with comfortable cooler temperatures – perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities. Important Note for 2024: Yosemite National Park will require reservations to enter the park between on select dates, including Saturdays, Sundays, and...
When you visit Yosemite in August, you find the park at its peak season. Everything is open so you’ll find the biggest selection for shopping, dining, and activities. Families are enjoying the last bit of summer travel time before school starts again with plenty of hiking options as well as refreshing trips to local swimming holes. Important Note for 2024: Yosemite National Park will require reservations to enter the park...
For generations, people have come to Yosemite National Park to recharge their mental and spiritual batteries. Now you can recharge your EV battery too! There are electric vehicle charging stations at The Redwoods in Yosemite, in Yosemite Valley, and in all of the gateway communities on your way to the park. You might have to worry about running out of energy hiking up Chilnualna Falls Trail, but you will be...
July in Yosemite is when everything is on the table, including a wide variety of family-friendly fun. By July, all the high-country roads are open, the snow is off all but the highest trails, summer ranger programs are in full swing and everything is up and running. July is also when Yosemite’s summer temperatures reach their highest, so you’ll want to plan your days to keep cool, and the strategy...
There’s an incredible adventure waiting for you in Yosemite during the month of June. With a fantastic Mediterranean climate, you can expect brilliant sun-filled days surrounded by sparkling waterfalls, gleaming white granite cliffs, and jaw-dropping scenery to delight the whole family. Is June a good time to visit Yosemite? As the weather warms, the park slowly unfurls like a flower in the spring, presenting more places to go and things...
There are many good reasons that so many people look forward to visiting Yosemite in May. As the days grow longer and warmer, the Yosemite area comes to life. The waterfalls are at their most impressive, fueled by melting snow in the high country, and singing their songs as they cascade over Yosemite’s granite cliffs. At lower elevations, like Yosemite Valley and Wawona, the flowers are blooming. The often-photographed dogwood...
