Snowshoeing Options - Week of Feb 22-17 (next week)

Question

Wife and I will be in Yosemite next week and were hoping to get in some snowshoeing while there. We are worried that, with the decision to not open the badge pass ski area this year, that we will not be able to access many of the trailheads (ie Dewey Point). I know the park is getting a good snow dump this weekend and looks like it would be perfect for snowshoeing. Does anyone have any updates on snow trail access/availability and/or snowshoeing options for next week? We are staying at the Ahwahnee.

Thanks

Answer

Great plan — yes, there are good snowshoeing options in Yosemite for the week of Feb 22–27, even though some things are more limited this winter. Here’s an updated look at what’s available, what to watch out for, and some suggested routes.

Current Access & Conditions

The Glacier Point / Badger Pass Road is *closed to vehicles* beyond Badger Pass, but that’s exactly where many snowshoe routes start.
The Badger Pass Ski Area is still a winter hub for snowshoeing — NPS identifies several marked winter snowshoe and ski trails in this area.
However, note: NPS says the *Glacier Point Road is typically closed in winter* beyond certain points, so you’ll want to stick to designated winter routes.

Snowshoe Options for Your Trip

Dewey Point via Glacier Point Road: - A classic winter snowshoe route. Starting from the Badger Pass area, you can follow the trail along the old Glacier Point Road. - Round-trip is around 7 miles, with ~600 ft elevation gain. - This trail is marked by *yellow triangle signs* on trees to help with navigation, especially after fresh snow. - Good option for a full morning or early afternoon snowshoe.
Guided Snowshoe Hikes from Badger Pass: - Yosemite Mountaineering School / Guide Service leads guided hikes (e.g., a 3- to 4-hour route to Dewey Point). - NPS or park rangers sometimes run free ranger-led snowshoe walks (weather permitting).
Crane Flat Winter Trails: - Trails in the Crane Flat area are ideal for snowshoeing — ranging from beginner to more challenging. - These trails tend to be less crowded and give a more “forest & meadow” feel.

Recommendations & Gear Advice

Your microspikes or crampons are probably not enough for deeper snow or travel off compacted tracks — snowshoes will be very useful, especially for Dewey Point or glacier-road routes.
Renting snowshoes: Badger Pass Nordic Center offers snowshoe rentals (~$26.50/day).
Bring warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and navigation tools (map, compass, possibly GPS). Winter routes may not follow summer trails, and snow can obscure trail signs.
Be aware: some wilderness routes (overnight or more remote) require a wilderness permit.

Considerations / Warnings

The Badger Pass Ski Area is “often open” to snowshoe traffic, but road and snow conditions vary — check the latest conditions before heading up.
Winter trail markers: Many trails are marked with tree-mounted markers, but snow can hide or obscure them, so plan for route-finding challenges.
The Four Mile Trail (to Glacier Point) is *typically closed in winter due to hazard*. According to trail info, it’s especially dangerous when icy.

Bottom Line

Yes, you should be able to do some excellent snowshoeing next week via the Badger Pass area and Glacier Point Road. Dewey Point is a top pick if you’re comfortable with a moderately long trek. Rent snowshoes from the Nordic Center, bring your traction gear, and be ready for route-finding in winter conditions. Check trail and road conditions at the park before heading out, and consider a guided hike if you'd rather go with someone who knows the terrain. Have a beautiful trip — Yosemite under fresh snow is magical.

Snowshoeing Options - Week of Feb 22-17 (next week)

More Yosemite National Park Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions