Spring is perfect time to visit the Park. Yosemite receives the vast majority of its visitors during the summer months. Warm, dry weather and most kids getting out of school make it the best time to travel for most families. Summers often bring long lines and crowded trails to many of Yosemite’s popular attractions. Spring is a perfect time to skip the crowds and experience the Park as a “local”. Spring visits can also bring opportunities for several unique experiences.

Lush meadows teeming with blooming wildflowers, and breathtaking waterfall’s crashing to the valley floor are just a couple of encounters that highlight the allure of a spring visit. You may even get the chance to witness a rare natural phenomena seen only in the spring and early summer months (Yosemite Moonbow). Here are just a few reasons why spring just may be the best time to visit this iconic National Park.

What’s open in Spring 2022?

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 are required on NPS-administered lands, in the buildings and facilities, where physical distancing cannot be maintained.

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

5 REASONS TO VISIT YOSEMITE AREA IN SPRING

Reason 1: Comfortable Weather

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Spring weather can be variable but is usually comfortable. March is sometimes a little chilly and wet, but further in the season, in April and in May – there are a lot of warm, sunny days where the temperatures are more mild, often staying between 60 and 70 degrees.

As always, in the mountains, unexpected weather can happen, so come prepared. Late season snowstorms may result in some road closures and make snow chains mandatory. It is rare, but depending on the elevation, snow may linger into early May.

The warming weather along with plenty of spring showers, start the yearly snowmelt that brings an increased flow to the breathtaking waterfalls that are the main draw of Yosemite in springtime. The mild temperatures also make springtime a great time to hit the trails without breaking too much of a sweat.

Reason 2: The crowds haven’t arrived yet

Visiting in the spring, and especially midweek in the spring, means avoiding many of the crowds. Bring your camera to capture the park’s iconic landmarks without throngs of families and tourists blocking the natural views.

Less crowds also often means lower occupancy and more affordable rates. Not only will you get a more intimate experience on the hiking trails but taking a trip in the “off-season” can be much more gentle on your wallet. This year, the first day of National Parks Week, falls on April 17 and Yosemite National Park, like all National Parks, will be celebrating it by waiving their entry fees.

Reason 3: The trees and flowers are in bloom

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If you think visiting Yosemite in the spring means missing out on the beautiful green landscape, think again. The evergreen trees that cover much of the landscape never lose their color and during the springtime they are joined by flowering dogwoods and other blooming trees.

Spring is also a great time to take in the many wildflowers that carpet the lush meadows throughout the park. There are more than 1,400 different species, that have been found within Yosemite’s boundaries so far. In March and April you’ll enjoy species blooming at lower elevations, such as California poppies. By early May, redbuds, dogwoods, and many of the others will begin to bloom as well.

Reason 4: The waterfalls are at full blast

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While the weather is wonderful, the trees and flowers are blooming, and the crowds are thin, there is an even better reason to visit Yosemite in the spring. Melting snow and spring showers mean that Yosemite’s famous waterfalls are at full flow! Choose one of the many hiking trails that get you up close and personal with the falls, including Vernal Falls Trail or Yosemite Falls Trail. Don’t forget to pack your camera for those uninterrupted snapshots. With the beauty also comes the increased danger of slick rocks and rushing water so stick to the established trails and don’t hop any guardrails trying to get that perfect selfie.

Reason 5: Bass Lake

A visit to Yosemite in the spring wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Bass Lake. Located just 17 miles from the southern entrance to the Park is the unique village of Bass Lake.

Why should you visit Bass Lake? Bass Lake is known for its convenient, yet secluded and relaxing location. The entire village sits on the shores of the Lake and is surrounded by towering pine, oak and cedar trees. It is a popular vacation destination, as well as fantastic and highly awarded wedding location.

The Pines Resort, with its restaurants bar and market, is the hub of the community. Springtime is a perfect time to visit if you want to experience the area as a “local”. The weather warms up quickly after the winter months, reaching the mid to upper-70s by April. The hotel, restaurants, market, boat rental and most gift stores on the north shore are open year round. Even though weekends are a popular time to visit, you will still be able to avoid crowds this time of year.

Bass Lake water level fluctuates throughout the year, so do not be surprised if you find the lake level just a little low. It will start filling back up around April. Regardless, the lake will still have plenty of water and is open for activities year round!

Whether you are looking for a relaxing place to nurture your mental health, an awesome location to go fishing, a place to grab lunch or dinner, or to just pick up groceries and other trip essentials – add Bass Lake to your itinerary. Spring kicks off many favorite annual events, like:

Fishing Derby (May)
Craft Fair (April, May, June, September, October, November)
Easter and Mother’s Day Brunches
Easter Egg Hunt
Lakeside Concerts (kick off on Thursday, before Memorial Day)
Bass Lake Yosemite Triathlon

Bass Lake is a fun place for everyone!

Know Before You Go

If you’re planning to enjoy all that Yosemite has to offer in the spring months, there are a few things that you should know while planning your trip. Certain roads and trails may be closed if there is still some lingering snow, particularly in the earlier months of the season, so be sure to check for closures and for annual opening dates on the National Park Service’s website before you leave home.

Be aware that the weather may not be as predictable during these months, and may fluctuate from very warm during the day to chilly in the evening or overnight hours. Wear layers and pack your rain gear, that way you’ll always be prepared for whatever comes your way. Also, it’s important to note that some lodging within the park may be closed during the spring. But don’t worry, The Pines Resort stays open year round, offering a great base for your Yosemite adventure throughout the year!