Tioga Road Open in June?

Question

We will be staying in Mammoth Lakes the week of June 9-13. On our last day, we plan to go to Yosemite and then drive to San Jose. Being a Floridian, I didn't even consider the possibility of snow/ice in June and that Tioga Road may be closed. Can anyone give me a sense of what the weather will be like the second week of June (based on this season's snowfall) and the possibility of Tioga Road being open?

Answer

Visiting Yosemite in June is a wonderful time to experience the park, but Tioga Road (Highway 120 through the high country) can be unpredictable depending on snowpack and melt. Historically, Tioga Road opens sometime between late May and mid-June, but the exact date changes year to year.

Weather considerations for the second week of June:

Lower elevations of Yosemite Valley are generally warm and pleasant, with daytime highs often in the 70s–80s°F (20–30°C) and cool nights.
Higher elevations along Tioga Road, including Tuolumne Meadows, can still have patches of snow and temperatures in the 40s–60s°F (5–20°C). Rain or late snowstorms are possible, though rare.
Tioga Road may still be closed in early June if the winter snowpack was heavy, as park crews need time to clear snow and ensure the road is safe for vehicles.

Current-year factors affecting Tioga Road opening:

Snowpack in the Sierra Nevada: A heavier-than-average winter can delay the opening, sometimes into mid-June.
Road maintenance: Even if snow melts early, crews need to remove debris, repair guardrails, and ensure plowing is complete.
Weather delays: Rain, storms, or lingering snow can postpone the opening at short notice.

Recommendations for your plan:

Check the official Yosemite National Park road conditions website a few days before your visit; they post real-time updates on Tioga Road status.
Have a backup plan in case Tioga Road is closed. From Mammoth Lakes, you can enter Yosemite via the Big Oak Flat entrance (Highway 120 west) or via Highway 395 to Tioga Pass if it opens.
Start your Yosemite day early to maximize sightseeing opportunities and allow flexibility if Tioga Road is partially closed.
Bring layers and be prepared for cooler temperatures at higher elevations, even in June.

Overall, while many years see Tioga Road open by early June, it is not guaranteed. Keep an eye on the park’s official updates and plan your San Jose drive accordingly. If Tioga Road remains closed, the alternative route through Big Oak Flat and Mariposa Grove will still allow for a beautiful Yosemite visit.

Tioga Road Open in June?

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