Summertime at Bass Lake

If you keep up with our blog or read our previous articles, it may sound as if we discourage everyone to visit in the Summer.

Perfect weather and affordable rates in the fall are really appealing.

Snow covered mountain caps and less traffic make winter super attractive.

Then comes springtime with rushing waterfalls and lush meadows.

Summer equals traffic, higher prices, and crowds – that does not sound attractive, does it?

Well, what we are about to say, may come as a surprise, but if you fully want to experience Bass Lake and Yosemite, you must visit in the summer – at least once. The secret is (I guess once we say it, it will not be a secret anymore) to do it the right way. What does that mean? Continue reading.

There is something beyond special about spending summertime at Bass Lake. Those who were lucky to experience it know exactly what we are talking about. Shimmering emerald waters of Bass Lake, fragrant pine trees, laughter of those having fun at the lake, the sound of the boat engines and tropical music. All of that creates this special ambiance that you want to experience. Then, once you do – you want to come back over and over again.

Bass Lake can be equally fun as a hub to your Yosemite adventures, as well as a vacation destination.

Yosemite in Summer

Probably the biggest benefit of Yosemite in the summer is that it offers the most activities and almost all the business in the area are open. To be clear, Yosemite is great year-round. And, regardless of how many times you may visit, no two trips to Yosemite are alike.

Here are some of the best Kayaking down the Merced River is one of the best ways to enjoy Yosemite.

Each season brings their own wonders and experiences. For families, especially– timing is everything. With school out, planning a trip to Yosemite is most practical during the summer months. Summer comes with hot, sunny weather that is perfect for exploring. This is also the time when families get away for multi-day vacations.

What else to expect when visiting Yosemite in Summer read here.

What’s open in Summer 2022?

Mid-February 2022 National Park Services announced that, starting on May 20 through September 30, 2022 every visitor who is entering Yosemite National Park between 6am and 4pm will be required to have a reservation.

NPS believes that limiting the number of visitors in the Park will help manage congestions and provide the visitors with a better experience and access to all attractions and infrastructure   read more…

All major roads are open (those typically closed for winter like Tioga or Glacier Point Rd are scheduled to re-open in the end of May).

A reservation will be required to drive into Yosemite National Park from May 20 through September 30, 2022, for those driving into the park between 6 am and 4 pm. The temporary reservation system will help manage congestion and provide a quality visitor experience while numerous key visitor attractions are closed for critical infrastructure repairs. read more…

All major roads are open (except those typically closed for winter like Tioga or Glacier Point Rd).

OPEN:

• Yosemite Valley
• Most hiking trails
• Viewing areas
• Village Store
• Gift store outside the Yosemite Visitor Center
• Public restrooms
• Gas Station at El Portal and Crane Flat
• Yosemite Medical Clinic
• Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

CLOSED:

• Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias shuttle
• Bridalveil Fall Area (maintenance work)
• Lower Yosemite Fall boulders
• Some campgrounds
• At this time, shuttle service is not available. That includes shuttle to the Valley as well as Mariposa Grove.

Park Rangers and volunteers have set up outdoor kiosks to assist visitors.

Reminder: Face masks may be required on NPS-administered lands, in the buildings and facilities, where physical distancing cannot be maintained. Please check with NPS for the most up-to-date information.

Park access and opening status may change at any time, please visit the website before visiting.

Summer Weather

Due to our elevation and mountain setting, visitors often think, that it does not get hot at Bass Lake. While we agree that we are a nice escape from the heat in the Valley, it is not unusual to see upper 90s and even triple digits in the Summer, especially in July and early August. The great thing about our location and weather is that it changes with elevation. Your morning will usually start with temperatures in mid-60s and will continue climbing up throughout the day, just to drop back down in the late evening.

Let us not forget to mention the swing in temperatures between night and day. The difference can sometimes be even 40 degrees! It is perfect in a way, that it allows you to schedule your activities throughout the day. Remember to bring a long sleeve hoodie with you, as well as good sunscreen and you will be set.

Summer Activities

Bass Lake is one of a few warm water lakes in the area. In Summer water temperature reaches upper 70s, which makes it perfect for swimming and water sports.

While it is true, that most people come here for the Lake or Yosemite, there are hundreds of other activities that can be performed in the area. Some of the unique and fun summer activities include:

1. WATERSPORTS – three boat rentals located on the shores of Bass Lake (one on the north side and two on the south side) offer a variety of equipment that will help you enjoy the lake. From jet skis and pontoon boats to speed boats, kayaks and paddle boards.
2. ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES – Summer is perfect for hiking, especially in the high country. It also attracts a lot of climbing enthusiasts, off road (mountain) bikers and dirt bikers. Multiple hiking trails around the lake offer different difficulty level and would be perfect for an evening hike. If you prefer to enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of your car, consider taking the Sierra Vista Scenic Byway. If you are looking for more adventures,  you can also try White Water Rafting, Axe Throwing or a Guided Airplane Tour.
3. HISTORIC ACTIVITIES – Bass Lake attracts lots of outdoor fans, but visiting the area is also a great history lesson. Nearby towns are full of historic sites, buildings and activities (log train, history museum, gold panning).
4. NATURE ACTIVITIES –  you chose to escape to the great outdoors for a reason, so take advantage of it! When was the last time you took time to breath and enjoy the sunrise or sunset? Have you ever thought of trying nature photography? Teach your children how to recognize local trees, plants or animals. How about a trip around the lake and trying to spot a bald eagle? Perhaps you want to show them how to fish?
5. RELAXING ACTIVITIES – and there is always the relaxation. Grab a book and a cup of coffee and just enjoy the sounds of Bass Lake. Relax by the pool, play some tennis, go for a walk along the shore, meditate by the lake or visit some art galleries and just enjoy yourself. Simply unplug, let your hair down and let time slow down.

Possibilities are endless.

Summer Events

Summer at Bass Lake also means events! Check out The Pines Resort’s event calendar before you finalize your trip and see if your dates align with any of our special events. Those are perfect for the entire family to enjoy. From Craft Fair and Comedy Shows, through Sip & Paint workshops and Bass Lake Live – summer concert series, held on selected Thursdays in the Summer. Let’s not forget the biggest event of the year – Independence Day Celebration with festive boat parade, lakefront BBQ and spectacular fireworks show at dusk.

Prices and availability

Summertime, from Memorial Day to Labor Day is considered our peak season. With that, higher prices and limited availability are to be expected. It’s also a popular time for weddings, family reunions and international travelers. Some dates, especially weekends book well in advance. Sometimes even a year in advance.

There are several ways to assure best availability and pricing.

For one, make sure to sign up for our mailing list. Even though specials and promotions offered in the summer are rare and limited; twice a year we hold Friends & Family Sale offering up t0 20% off when booking directly on our website or over the phone.

If possible, staying during the week (Sunday through Thursday) will save you up to $60/night, compared to staying on a weekend (Friday, Saturday). Our prices also fluctuate, based on demand, so making advance reservations will let you get best rates and availability. Our cancellation is pretty flexible (7 days) so you can consider any commitment almost risk free.

Finally, are you travelling with a larger group of friends? Perhaps look into booking one of our larger rental cabins. Even though the per night cost is higher, it may be more affordable per person than booking multiple basic rooms or suites.

5 Tips for a perfect summer vacation at Bass Lake:

1. Join the mailing list for offers and promotions. This will allow you to get the best prices for your trip and you will know of any events that will be happening during your visit.
2. Plan in advance and make your reservations early. During peak season (summer) most activities and accommodations sell out. Avoid disappointment and plan ahead.
3. Monitor weather and adjust your itinerary accordingly. Consider your elevation, abilities and don’t forget to bring water with you! Hiking might be better early in the morning, than during the day, as it gets really hot.
4. If you are planning to explore Yosemite – make sure to get your tickets in advance and plan to do it early in the morning. That way you will avoid the wait at the gate and heavy traffic that starts around lunchtime.
5. Come prepared – this includes everything from obtaining proper permits (if you want to bring your boat or go fishing), packing a sweatshirt, flashlight, (10 Items to bring with you to Bass Lake) to having a general idea of what you want to do while in the area. While, it’s always good to be flexible, you also do not want to feel like you have missed out on something.

Summary

If you’ve ever stayed at Bass Lake, you probably know what the area has to offer. In addition to picturesque sights, a convenient location, and the relaxing ambiance, there is also an array of activities for everyone. From water sports, boating, fishing, and hiking available on-site, within a short drive, guests can also enjoy whitewater rafting, log train rides, wineries, zip lining, and more. Now, if only vacation could last forever …