Answer: The Pines Resort at Bass Lake is a popular lodging option south of Yosemite National Park, and it has both pros and cons depending on what you want to do during your visit.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite Valley in June can be busy, but using the Valley Shuttle system is generally convenient and avoids the stress of parking inside the Valley, especially on weekdays.

Answer: Your Yosemite itinerary is already well thought out, and you’re taking a smart approach by keeping some flexibility. Staying at The Ahwahnee is fantastic—it’s centrally located, historic, and gives you easy access to many Yosemite Valley highlights. Here’s some detailed feedback and suggestions for your days:

Answer: Your plan is ambitious but doable, especially if your focus is on highlights, pull-offs, and short hikes rather than long backcountry trails. Here’s a detailed suggestion to make the most of your 4-day trip while keeping it manageable for kids and adults alike.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite for the first time is exciting! With 3 days based in Oakhurst, you have a great base for exploring Yosemite Valley, Mariposa Grove, and even venturing up to Tuolumne Meadows if the roads are open. Here are detailed pointers for your questions.

Answer: When planning a visit to Yosemite National Park, making lodging reservations directly through the official concessionaire is highly recommended to ensure reliability, fair pricing, and peace of mind. Yosemite’s official lodgings are managed by Aramark, which operates the TravelYosemite.com website. Reservations can be made up to 366 days in advance, allowing visitors to secure popular accommodations well before the busy summer season.

Answer: Your week-long family trip covering Sequoia & Kings Canyon, Yosemite, and Lake Tahoe sounds absolutely fantastic! It’s great that you balanced hiking, sightseeing, and some downtime, which is especially important with teens who have different energy levels and interests.

Answer: Both Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks are fantastic for seeing giant sequoias, but there are some key differences that may help you decide whether adding Sequoia NP is worth the extra driving with young kids.

Answer: Great question! Yosemite National Park's shuttle system is designed to help visitors get around the valley, but like many popular destinations, there can be some congestion, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer. Here's what you need to know about Yosemite's shuttle system:

Answer: Visiting Yosemite with a private guide is a great way to make the most of your time, especially with teens who may enjoy a mix of sightseeing, short hikes, and interesting stories about the park. Late May is an excellent time—waterfalls are at their peak, the valley is fully accessible, and higher elevations begin opening up.

Answer: Visiting Tioga Pass from an Airbnb near Fish Camp while trying to maintain a sensible itinerary for Sequoia can be tricky, especially in early October when daylight hours are shorter and some roads may already be affected by seasonal closures. A round-trip from Fish Camp to Tioga Pass can indeed consume most of a day, so planning strategically is key.

Answer: Thank you for sharing your concerns — these are very valid, especially given the premium rate and the length of your stay. Yes, there are some red flags to be aware of for a stay at The Ahwahnee right now. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on recent reports and guest feedback, plus some options and suggestions.

Answer: In the event of a federal government shutdown, National Parks like Yosemite typically remain technically “open,” but services are drastically reduced or unavailable. This includes visitor centers, campgrounds, restrooms, and staffed entrance stations. Roads are usually not physically blocked, but some gates may be unmanned and parking areas could be limited or closed.

Answer: Staying in Groveland is a great choice for a Yosemite area visit, especially if you want to minimize long drives. Even if access to Yosemite Valley or some park areas is limited, there are plenty of alternatives nearby to enjoy the scenery and outdoor activities.

Answer: Losing a tripod in front of El Capitan can be stressful, especially during a government shutdown when the official Lost & Found office is closed. While the odds are slim, there are several steps and alternatives you can try to increase the chances of recovering your Sachtler Video 20 tripod.

Answer: For a visitor with limited mobility like yourself, Yosemite National Park has a range of accessibility options, but the choice between a walker with wheels and a wheelchair depends on the type of terrain and the activities you want to enjoy.

Answer: Your 3-night, 4-day Yosemite itinerary is well-structured and covers many of the park's highlights. Here’s a detailed review and some suggestions to optimize your trip:

Answer: The trail from Glacier Point to Half Dome in Yosemite National Park is a popular route, but it’s important to understand the distance, elevation, and difficulty before attempting it, especially for active seniors looking for a moderate hike without extreme elevation changes.

Answer: For a 5-day fall trip from South Tahoe through Yosemite to Las Vegas, you can enjoy a mix of high alpine scenery, iconic valley views, and desert landscapes. Traveling Tioga Pass in the fall can be spectacular with fall colors, but keep in mind that Tioga Pass sometimes closes due to early snow, so always check road conditions before departure.

Answer: Staying outside Yosemite in June is a very common choice for families seeking more budget-friendly options, and Mariposa is a popular base. While you’ll have to start your days earlier and plan for driving, many visitors find the trade-off worthwhile. The scenery along Highway 140 from Mariposa to Yosemite Valley is beautiful, so your drives can be part of the experience.

Answer: Yosemite National Park in mid-June is extremely popular, especially on weekends. Entering via Highway 41 from the south (Wawona/Mariposa area) can be subject to congestion, particularly on Saturdays. Since you have a camping reservation, you are allowed entry even during the reservation-only window, but timing can still impact how smooth your arrival is.

Answer: Your draft itinerary for Yosemite in August 2026 is well thought out, particularly for stargazing during the Perseids Meteor Shower. The dates coincide nicely with the peak of the shower, and your choice of locations balances accessibility, scenery, and night-sky visibility. Here’s a detailed assessment and suggestions:

Answer: Driving from San Francisco to Yosemite in mid-December can be a beautiful experience, but it requires preparation for winter conditions. The route depends on which entrance you take, with Big Oak Flat and Arch Rock being common options. Expect the drive to take roughly 4–5 hours under normal conditions, but winter weather can add time.

Answer: Driving from Death Valley to Lee Vining along US-395 and connecting roads like CA-190 and CA-136 offers some unique scenic and quirky stops, especially if you enjoy natural beauty and small-town attractions. Since you’re traveling with family, I’ve highlighted stops that are interesting without being overly time-consuming.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in late September is definitely still feasible. The weather is usually mild, with daytime highs in the 70s°F (around 20–25°C) and cooler nights, and the summer crowds have generally thinned out, making it a pleasant time to explore. Some facilities and services may have reduced hours as the park transitions to its fall season, but most major attractions—including Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Mariposa Grove—are still accessible.

Answer: The Panorama Trail is a spectacular hike from Glacier Point down to Yosemite Valley, but logistics for getting to the trailhead via the Glacier Point shuttle bus can be challenging during peak season.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite National Park during Memorial Day Weekend and beyond can be an unforgettable experience, but it’s important to be prepared for crowds, especially given the increased interest in national parks in recent years. Here's an overview of what you might encounter, along with some tips from recent visitors:

Answer: For Yosemite National Park in 2025, the reservation system has been updated, but it follows a similar pattern to previous years. Reservations are required for certain areas and activities, especially for peak summer months, and will go on sale starting May 6. This includes both vehicle entry reservations for the park and accommodations inside Yosemite.

Answer: Staying in either Mariposa or Oakhurst can be a good option if you are looking to save money, though there are some trade-offs compared to lodging inside the park or in El Portal. Both towns are about an hour to an hour and a half from Yosemite Valley, depending on traffic, which is reasonable for a day trip but does mean an early start and a potentially longer evening drive back.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in March can be a beautiful experience, but it does come with some winter travel considerations. Tire chain requirements in Yosemite are seasonal and weather-dependent rather than year-round. Generally, chain requirements are enforced from November through May, but they are only mandatory when road conditions, such as snow or ice, make them necessary.

Answer: While the Ahwahnee Hotel has a beautiful setting and historic charm, the dinner options are indeed limited, primarily offering a buffet or prix-fixe menu that some visitors find underwhelming. If you prioritize good food over location, there are several alternatives within Yosemite Valley that you can consider.

Answer: Arriving at Yosemite around 1 pm in July via the Big Oak Flat entrance gives you plenty of afternoon light to enjoy some iconic scenery while making your way to the Ahwahnee. Since your hotel is located in Yosemite Valley, you’ll be descending into the heart of the park, so it’s a great chance to stop at a few short viewpoints and take a manageable hike.

Answer: Your plan to visit Yosemite, Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Joshua Tree over Labor Day weekend is ambitious, but focusing on short hikes and highlights makes it manageable. Here's a detailed approach for Yosemite, given your late August/early September schedule.

Answer: Great question. Yes — there has been *quite a bit* of snow this season in Yosemite’s higher elevations, and snow conditions are very much still a factor at the end of March. Based on recent NPS reports, here’s what to expect, plus advice on your gear (chains, microspikes, snow shoes):

Answer: Since Yosemite’s free shuttle system stops running after the end of September, private transportation is the main option for getting from Yosemite Valley to trailheads such as Cathedral Lakes in early October. Many backpackers and hikers use local shuttle services or private drivers for this purpose, especially for multi-day treks.

Answer: Your plan for a one-week loop from Las Vegas → Yosemite → Pomona → back to Vegas is absolutely doable, and late July/early August is a great time to cross Tioga Pass. Tioga Road (Highway 120 through the park) is almost always fully open by then, giving you a beautiful high-country drive right into Yosemite.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite National Park in early November with an RV can be a wonderful experience, but it requires careful planning as some areas and roads start to close for the winter season. Yosemite Valley is the heart of the park and offers the best access to hiking trails, iconic viewpoints, and the park's shuttle system. Since driving and parking an RV around the valley can be challenging, staying at campgrounds with easy shuttle access is highly recommended.

Answer: Thank you for sharing your detailed trip report from Yosemite! It sounds like you had an incredible experience, even with the limitations of a guided tour and your preference not to hike extensively.

Answer: Driving into Yosemite from Livermore, both Big Oak Flat and Arch Rock entrances are viable options, and the choice largely depends on your preferred scenery and traffic considerations. Big Oak Flat is the more northerly entrance, and the drive from Livermore typically brings you through Groveland, offering a scenic approach with some historical charm. Arch Rock, on the other hand, is slightly more direct from the Bay Area via Highway 120 and leads you into Wawona before connecting to Yosemite Valley, providing a slightly different forested scenery.

Answer: If you are planning a stay within Yosemite National Park, it is crucial to be aware of potential issues with third-party reservation websites. There have been multiple reports of travelers attempting to use unofficial sites that claim to reserve rooms in Yosemite, only to find upon arrival that no reservation exists. This can cause significant disruption to your plans, especially during peak travel times such as long weekends.

Answer: Your proposed itinerary for Yosemite in early June is very full and covers many of the park's highlights. Since you’re staying in Curry Village, it’s practical and convenient, but there are a few adjustments and tips to consider to make your trip more enjoyable and less rushed.

Answer: Glacier Point Road in Yosemite National Park is a spectacular destination, offering breathtaking views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. As of May 10, 2025, the road will officially open to vehicle traffic at 8 am, but currently it is accessible for cyclists, providing a unique opportunity to enjoy the scenic climb without the usual crowds of cars and buses.

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.

Answer: Your proposed plan for using a Mono Meadow wilderness permit in mid-July is generally feasible, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind regarding distances, elevation, and wilderness regulations.

Answer: Adding Yosemite to your mid-May trip from Phoenix, combined with the Grand Canyon and Sedona, is ambitious but not impossible. However, it will significantly increase your driving time and reduce the time you can spend truly enjoying each location. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.

Answer: Given your situation, there are a few factors to weigh for your arrival day on July 7th. Since you’re picking up a rental car at the airport and then driving to Yosemite via Mariposa, timing and traffic can significantly impact how much you can comfortably see in the park on that day.

Answer: I'm very sorry to hear that your High Sierra Camp reservation at Sunrise was canceled. That is indeed the case: all the High Sierra Camps in Yosemite are closed for the 2025 season.

Answer: Yosemite in June is beautiful, with waterfalls usually at peak flow and wildflowers blooming. Since you’re staying at Tenaya Lodge and then Curry Village, you can balance hikes, scenic drives, and relaxation.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in the second week of November is possible, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The weather in Yosemite during November tends to be cool and can be unpredictable. Daytime temperatures in the valley are usually in the 40s–50s °F (5–15 °C), while nighttime temperatures can drop near or below freezing. Snow is possible, especially at higher elevations, though the valley floor may remain snow-free early in November.

Answer: It sounds like you’re planning an exciting trip to Yosemite with your young child! Since you’ll be entering the park through Tioga Pass and looking for easy-to-do activities without too much hiking, I’ll provide a few recommendations that should be family-friendly and comfortable for your 2-year-old. Additionally, I'll suggest lodging options for a more affordable stay nearby.

Answer: If you are planning to visit the Pizza Deck and bar at Curry Village in Yosemite Valley, the shuttle system makes it quite convenient, especially during busy summer months when parking can be limited.

Answer: Your planned itinerary for Yosemite in September looks well-structured, and it should allow you to see the main highlights without feeling overly rushed. Since September is shoulder season, the crowds are smaller than in summer, but parking can still be a challenge, so planning is important.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in mid-April can be wonderful, but keep in mind that some areas—especially higher elevations and Mariposa Grove—may still have snow or wet trails. Here’s a suggested way to sequence your activities to maximize your time and minimize backtracking, factoring in Curry Village as your base.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in mid-October can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to plan carefully since the conditions vary significantly from summer. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect:

Answer: When planning a Yosemite trip, the timing of your visit can significantly affect both the natural beauty you experience and the crowd levels. May and September each have distinct advantages and drawbacks.

Answer: Hi! It sounds like you’re in for a beautiful drive through Yosemite and the surrounding areas. Both the 120 and 140 routes offer scenic experiences, but each provides a slightly different vibe. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which option is best for your trip:

Answer: Hello,

Answer: Your itinerary looks well thought out, balancing iconic Yosemite highlights with a mix of activity levels. Here’s some detailed feedback and suggestions to make the most of your 3 1/2 days while accommodating varying energy levels and interests.

Answer: It's great that you have an extra day to explore! Monterey is a beautiful area with plenty of scenic drives and easy walks that don’t require hiking gear. Here are a few recommendations for a relaxing, scenic day trip before you head to Sacramento:

Answer: Planning a 7-day trip to Yosemite, Sequoia, and Kings Canyon with teens can be both exciting and logistically manageable if you plan the route and lodging carefully. Flying into Fresno and renting an SUV is a great choice, as it gives you flexibility to explore both the Sierra Nevada parks and surrounding areas.

Answer: As of April 25, 2024, Yosemite National Park has provided updates on the status of Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road. Progress is being made on clearing snow, but official opening dates for either road have not yet been announced.

Answer: The Tuolumne Meadows Grill (sometimes called “Tuolumne Grill”) is currently closed for the season.

Answer: Choosing between flying into San Francisco (SFO) or Fresno (FAT) for a Yosemite trip depends on your priorities for driving, scenery, and timing.

Answer: Fish Camp is a small community located just outside the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park. Staying there in June can be very convenient, particularly if you want easy access to the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, as well as other southern and central parts of the park.

Answer: If your main goal is to see Sequoia trees and you have a limited 3-day window in late June, there are a few considerations to maximize your experience, especially given the peak season and sold-out tickets for Yosemite.

Answer: Driving from Las Vegas to Yosemite is a long trip—roughly 7-8 hours without stops—so breaking it up with an overnight stay is a smart idea, especially in October when the Tioga Pass might be closed due to early snow. If Tioga Pass is closed, the most common route would be via US-395 along the eastern Sierra Nevada, which offers scenic drives and several towns suitable for a comfortable overnight stop.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in August means you’ll be there during peak summer season, so traffic and crowds can be heavy, especially in Yosemite Valley. Planning your drive times carefully can make a significant difference in your experience.

Answer: Choosing between Wawona cabins and Curry Village depends on your priorities for convenience, comfort, and logistics while entering Yosemite from the eastern side. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on your itinerary and preferences:

Answer: For a drive-through visit to Yosemite National Park with limited time, efficiency is key. Your goal is to maximize the highlights without spending extra hours navigating back and forth.

Answer: Driving from Santa Barbara to Yosemite National Park offers several scenic options, depending on whether you prioritize speed, scenery, or points of interest along the way. In May, most of Yosemite’s main roads are open, but some higher elevation routes may still have snow, so it’s good to check road conditions before you leave.

Answer: For healthy travelers in their 60s visiting Yosemite in mid-June 2026, there are excellent glamping and hotel options that offer stunning views, as well as itineraries that range from 3 to 5 days depending on how much time you want to spend in the park and surrounding areas.

Answer: Hi! Your plan to combine Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Yosemite, San Francisco, and Los Angeles in about 10 days is ambitious but possible if you prioritize and plan efficiently. Here’s a detailed overview for your Las Vegas → Yosemite portion and some guidance on the whole trip.

Answer: Yosemite’s waterfalls are highly dependent on winter snowpack and spring runoff. In years with a very wet winter and ample snow, waterfalls like Yosemite, Bridalveil, and Vernal Falls can remain strong into July. However, in drier years or when snow melts early, many of the falls diminish significantly by late July and early August.

Answer: With two full days in Yosemite National Park and staying in Mariposa, you can plan a mix of scenic drives and short, easy hikes to see the park’s most iconic spots without overexertion in the heat. Here’s a suggested itinerary that balances driving, viewpoints, and short walks suitable for teens.

Answer: Great question. Yes — there *are* real concerns currently about Yosemite’s in-park lodging, largely tied to staffing and maintenance under the Aramark-run Yosemite Hospitality (YH) concession. These issues don’t necessarily mean you should avoid staying in the park, but they’re worth being aware of. Here’s a detailed rundown of recent developments, what has been impacted, and how that might affect your lodging decision:

Answer: For a first-time visitor to Yosemite with only two full days and intermediate hiking experience, guided hikes can be an excellent way to maximize your time, learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife, and ensure a safe experience.

Answer: Hello Lucy,

Answer: With 10–12 hours to spend in Yosemite, especially entering from the east side (Lee Vining/Tioga Pass) and exiting on the west side, you can experience many of the park’s highlights without doing strenuous hikes. Here’s a suggested approach for a family-friendly day that maximizes scenic spots and short walks.

Answer: Your overall plan for mid-June is very solid, especially for first-time visitors who are active and want to see Yosemite’s highlights. June 17–20 is usually an excellent time: waterfalls are still strong, Tioga Road is typically open by then (though always check conditions), and Glacier Point Road is fully accessible.

Answer: Yosemite Valley Lodge is one of the most popular lodgings inside Yosemite National Park because of its convenient location near Yosemite Falls, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want easy access to major viewpoints and trails.

Answer: Driving from Las Vegas to Yosemite via the Eastern Sierra is a scenic and rewarding route, though it requires planning, especially regarding timing, road conditions, and accommodations. This route primarily follows US-95 north from Las Vegas into Nevada, then crosses into California near the Mono Lake area, and continues west on US-395 along the Eastern Sierra, before entering Yosemite through Tioga Pass (Highway 120 East).

Answer: If your priority is having a private bath and comfort while staying within Curry Village, here’s a breakdown of the two options:

Answer: Deciding whether to stay inside or outside Yosemite National Park in May depends on your priorities, budget, and desired convenience. Both options have advantages and drawbacks.

Answer: Glacier Point is one of the most iconic viewpoints in Yosemite National Park, and it does have a seasonal snack stand, but availability depends on the time of year. During the summer months, including July, there is typically a small food stand near the Glacier Point parking area. It usually offers basic snacks, drinks, and light meals, which are convenient if you don’t want to carry your own food.

Answer: Driving from San Francisco to Midpines is roughly a 3.5 to 4-hour journey, so leaving early in the morning is a great idea to maximize your first day in the Yosemite area. Midpines is a small community located just outside the southern entrance to Yosemite, making it a convenient base for exploring the park.

Answer: Driving from Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park and staying in Oakhurst gives you some flexibility in choosing your route, but including Death Valley National Park as a detour will add a significant amount of time and mileage. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you decide.

Answer: GPS estimates for travel time and distance can be helpful, but in Yosemite National Park, they should be treated as approximate rather than precise. There are several factors that can affect accuracy:

Answer: The “Firefall” phenomenon at Horsetail Fall in Yosemite is a rare and visually stunning event that usually occurs in mid- to late February when the setting sun hits the waterfall at the right angle, creating the illusion of flowing lava or fire. Unfortunately, there is no chance of a true Firefall in October. The conditions for the Firefall—adequate water flow in Horsetail Fall and the correct solar angle—only align in February.

Answer: Visiting Yosemite in late May is an excellent choice for waterfalls, as snowmelt will be at its peak, making Yosemite Falls, Vernal, and Nevada Falls particularly spectacular. Since you only have two days and are considering some strenuous hikes, it’s important to prioritize for maximum scenery while managing fatigue.

Answer: G’day Pete — great plan! Visiting Yosemite in mid-March can be magical: lots of snow around, quieter trails, and a very different vibe than in summer. But there are a few important things to know and plan for. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Answer: For a first-time visitor with 3 days in Yosemite National Park in mid-September, planning your entrance and lodging carefully will maximize your experience. Mid-September is a great time because the summer crowds start to diminish, the weather is generally pleasant, and most facilities are still open.

Answer: Arriving at Yosemite West around 5:00 p.m. on June 16 gives you a great opportunity to catch the sunset without feeling rushed. Since sunset in mid-June is around 8:15–8:30 p.m., you have a few hours to get to a viewpoint and enjoy the scenery. The choice depends on how much driving versus hiking you want to do.

Answer: Yosemite National Park has issued updated closure information for two major roads due to seasonal and weather-related conditions. These closures are important for planning travel within the park, especially for visitors wanting to access higher elevation areas or Glacier Point.

Answer: If you’re visiting Yosemite in early October and accommodations inside the park are fully booked, staying in nearby towns and gateway communities is the best alternative. These towns are within driving distance of the park entrances and provide a range of lodging options from motels to vacation rentals.

Answer: The tent cabins at Curry Village in Yosemite National Park are a unique option, providing a canvas-sided cabin with a sturdy frame, a bed with linens, and a small deck area. They offer a more comfortable camping experience without being fully enclosed like a standard hotel room.

Answer: If you’re planning to arrive around 9 AM at Curry Village on June 9, you’ll be in a great spot for breakfast. Parking can fill early, but by getting there around 9 AM, you usually still have a reasonable chance, especially on a Monday. Once you’re parked, you have a couple of convenient breakfast options very close by—though Yosemite’s dining has changed over the years, so it’s useful to know exactly what is currently offered.

Answer: Arrived at Yosemite National Park on June 16th around 5:00 PM via the South Entrance from Fresno. There was no wait at the entrance, which made for a smooth arrival. Stayed at an Airbnb in Yosemite West, which was highly recommended and offered a comfortable base for exploring the park. That evening, drove into the valley and visited Tunnel View, Bridalveil Falls, El Capitan, and returned to Tunnel View. The sunset was beautiful, and the area was not overly crowded at that time.

Answer: Yosemite Village is one of the most popular areas in Yosemite Valley, and parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons, weekends, and holidays. To ensure you can find a spot at the Yosemite Village parking lot, planning your arrival time is key.

Answer: Yosemite offers a wide range of hikes suitable for experienced hikers who want a challenge, while still being doable for active children around 11–13. Booking a guided hike is an excellent way to tackle more technical trails safely and gain deeper insights into the park’s geology, ecology, and history.

Answer: Planning a trip to Yosemite in mid-June and early July is exciting, but it can be challenging due to high demand, especially for camping and lodging. Summer is peak season, and Yosemite is extremely popular during this time, so availability is limited and reservations often open many months in advance.