Late May Visit

Question

I'm thinking of visiting in late May, prior to Memorial Day. Hoping to avoids the summer crowds. I'm 75 and not hiking any longer. Can you drive through the park and experience the scenery and specifically the waterfalls? Thanks!

Answer

Hello,

Visiting Yosemite National Park in late May is a wonderful choice, especially if you want to avoid the peak summer crowds. The waterfalls are typically at or near their peak flow due to snowmelt from the high country, so you will get spectacular views even without hiking.

Driving through the park:

You can absolutely experience Yosemite’s iconic scenery by car. Yosemite Valley has a network of roads that provide access to many famous viewpoints and waterfalls without strenuous hiking. You can plan a leisurely drive and stop at overlooks to take in the views.

Recommended viewpoints and stops for seeing waterfalls from your car or with minimal walking:

Yosemite Valley View (Tunnel View): Classic view of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. Very easy access; you can park right at the viewpoint.
Bridalveil Fall: A short, mostly flat walk from the parking lot leads to the base of the waterfall. The walk is gentle and suitable for older visitors.
Lower Yosemite Fall: A very short, paved loop near Yosemite Lodge provides close views of the waterfall. It’s wheelchair and senior-friendly.
Sentinel Bridge: Offers an iconic reflection view of Half Dome with the Merced River in the foreground. No strenuous walking needed.
Valley Loop Drive: A scenic drive around the valley floor with multiple pullouts to admire waterfalls, meadows, and granite cliffs.

Tips for your visit:

Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds, even in late May. Parking can fill quickly at popular viewpoints.
Bring binoculars for distant waterfall views if you prefer to remain in your car or at a viewpoint.
Consider the free Yosemite Valley shuttle if you want to minimize walking — it stops at major viewpoints and is senior-friendly.
Check current road conditions on the park’s website before your visit, as some high-country roads may still have seasonal closures, though most valley roads are open by late May.

In summary, you can absolutely enjoy the beauty of Yosemite, including its famous waterfalls, from your car and easy-access viewpoints. Late May is an ideal time for a scenic visit with minimal hiking, allowing you to experience the park’s majesty comfortably.

Late May Visit

More Yosemite National Park Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions