4 Reasons to Visit Bass Lake in the Fall

Autumn in the Sierra National Forest is often overlooked as a time to visit the region. After all, the weather isn’t as warm, and the kids have gone back to school. But, there are a few things that make visiting Bass Lake during Autumn a beautiful time to visit.

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Perfect Weather

There is no better word to describe the weather in the fall season at Bass Lake, than simply “perfect”. The weather is cooler than in the summer but still warm enough (especially in September and early October) to explore the area and enjoy watersports.

September and October are also when a lot of guests at The Pines Resort take advantage of local hikes, tour Bass Lake on their bicycles, go fishing, and relax on their patios with a glass of wine or cup of coffee. It’s these cool autumn evenings that make the beautiful sunsets over Bass Lake that much more enjoyable.

Most of the local businesses are still open during this time as well, so it’s definitely a great time to try zip-lining, horseback riding, steam train rides, off-road trips, etc. Although, please keep in mind that most of the activities are weather permitting, so call ahead and plan accordingly.
Open Trails and Fewer Crowds

While autumn weekends continue to draw crowds, the number of visitors to Yosemite National Park decreases significantly once summer ends. Again, reaffirming the notion that the fall season is a great time to visit the Yosemite-Bass Lake area.

The water levels in Yosemite’s waterfalls will be low, but, weather permitting, most trails and areas within the park remain open through October and into November. Because there are fewer crowds, the empty and near-empty trails are ideal for hiking. Furthermore, the clear trails are also great for catching photos of the park’s most iconic landmarks without worrying about other visitors getting in your shot.

Many of the region’s trees also begin to change, making for some great views. Just be sure to check for trail closings before you head into the park.
More affordable and more availability

Beginning after Labor Day Weekend, our rates at The Pines Resort are reverting to off-peak season rates. This means you can enjoy a two-story cabin with a king size bed or 2 queen beds for only $149 – $209 or relax in the lakeside suite for $209 – $259. Effective November 1^st, the rates will drop another $20-$40.

As always, we encourage early booking, especially if you are planning a weekend visit, or want a specific room type. However, we should have plenty of availability this fall to accommodate you and your companion.

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Autumn Events & Holidays

We can’t share the beauty of the fall season at Bass Lake without mentioning our wonderful events and holiday celebrations.

All the events hosted at The Pines Resort are open to the public and appeal to families, couples, kids, and groups of friends. While we are still working on our event calendar for this upcoming quarter, here are the events we were offering this Fall:
- Wine & Beer Tasting events– these events are being held at Ducey’s on the Lake and offer food pairings with a new wine or beer release. We’re also partnering with local breweries and wineries to offer the best experience to our guests.
- Halloween Festival– a free, family-friendly, and not-scary fall festival celebration where we allow the little ones to dress up in their costumes, play in bounce houses, enjoy seasonal crafts, pick pumpkins (fee), etc. And the Grownups can explore our beer garden.
- Thanksgiving Dinner– Ducey’s on the Lake will be hosting our traditional Thanksgiving Buffet. This traditional buffet has become quite popular over the past two years and tends to sell out 2-3 weeks in advance.
- Christmas Tree Lighting & Parade of Lights– this is a personal (and guest) favorite! Join us as we officially transition into the holiday season at Bass Lake. The event will be hosted for the 26th year the Saturday following Thanksgiving.
Visitors, guests, and locals enjoy a parade of lights in the village, followed by the raffle, arrival of Santa Claus and pictures!
- Pictures and Pancakes with Santa– This takes place in early December, and is offered as an opportunity for kids and their families to meet the white-bearded man from the South Pole.