Yosemite is definitely a rock star among the USA National Parks. Having visited it multiple times already, I came up with a list of things you NEED to know before visiting!
1. You need a permit!
Before heading out on any hiking or overnight adventures in Yosemite, it’s important to obtain the necessary permits. For wilderness hikes and overnight stays, you will need a wilderness permit, which can be obtained through a reservation or a lottery system. Some popular hikes like Half Dome require a separate permit, and these permits are in high demand, so it’s essential to plan well in advance. Camping in Yosemite also requires a permit, and campsites can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Make sure to check the park’s website for permit availability and reservation procedures. By obtaining the appropriate permits, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience while exploring the incredible wilderness of Yosemite National Park.
2. Waterfalls are only flowing in the spring and summer
If you’re aiming to visit Yosemite with the intention of witnessing all its waterfalls, it’s best to plan your trip for May through July!
3. Most of the viewpoints and hikes are closed late fall to early spring
In case you weren’t aware, Yosemite experiences harsh cold during the winter months. Continuous snowfall throughout winter renders the roads highly treacherous. As soon as the snow starts accumulating on the ground, they promptly shut down all the winding roads leading to the prime viewpoints.
If you have your heart set on visiting iconic spots like Taft Point, Glacier Point, or embarking on a hike to Yosemite Falls, bear in mind that these attractions will be off-limits from late fall to early spring (approximately from the end of October to April). The opening and closing dates of Tioga and Glacier Point Roads fluctuate annually.
One advantage of visiting Yosemite during the winter is the park’s serene emptiness! You’ll have the opportunity to relish those invigorating, tranquil vistas all to yourself!
4. Book accommodations inside park way way IN ADVANCE!
Accommodation within the park, including campgrounds and lodges, fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Make reservations well in advance to secure your preferred lodging option. There are only 2 hotels inside the park, and a few campgrounds, and they usually sell out a year in advance.
5. Wake up EARLY for most crowded hikes!
Yosemite ranks among the top National Parks globally, which means you can anticipate large crowds. During the peak season (late spring/early summer), brace yourself for competition over viewpoints and parking spaces among hundreds of tourists.
Despite the inevitable crowds, I firmly believe that experiencing Yosemite during its peak season is a must-do! Just be prepared to rise early to outmaneuver the crowds, and you’ll still have a fantastic time! 🙂
6. Learn Bear Safety Protocols
There is a big chance you will encounter a BEAR during you visit. So when you do, make sure you know how behave around them.
Yosemite National Park is home to a thriving population of black bears, and it’s important to understand and follow the park’s bear safety protocols. Bears are attracted to human food and can become habituated to it, which can lead to dangerous encounters. Here are some key tips for bear safety in Yosemite:
- Store all food, trash, and scented items in bear-proof containers or lockers provided in campsites and lodging areas.
- Never leave food unattended or in your tent. Bears have an incredible sense of smell and can easily locate and access your food.
- Dispose of trash properly in designated bear-proof containers.
- When hiking, make noise to alert bears of your presence and carry bear spray as a precautionary measure.
- If you encounter a bear, do not run. Back away slowly and give the bear space to leave. Do not approach or feed the bear.
- Report any bear sightings or encounters to park rangers immediately.
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