If you’re considering a September trip to Yosemite, you may have found one of the park’s most underrated times to visit.
September still offers many of the things travelers love about a summer Yosemite trip, including access to the high country, hiking, biking and long days for exploring. But as summer vacations wind down, visitation begins to decrease.
Here’s what to expect when visiting Yosemite in September.
Is September a Good Time to Visit Yosemite?
Yes. September can be an excellent time to visit Yosemite National Park, especially if your priorities are hiking, sightseeing and exploring more of the park.
September is still considered part of Yosemite’s summer season, and all areas of the park are usually accessible by car, weather and conditions permitting.
It also tends to be less busy than the peak of summer. According to National Park Service visitation averages, September receives fewer visitors than July and August.
That doesn’t mean Yosemite will be empty. Weekends and popular areas like Yosemite Valley can still be very busy, so arriving early remains a good idea.
What Is Yosemite Weather Like in September?
September typically brings warm days and cooler nights to Yosemite, although temperatures vary significantly by elevation.
Yosemite Valley sits at approximately 4,000 feet, while destinations like Tuolumne Meadows are above 8,000 feet. You could be comfortable in a T-shirt in the Valley during the day and need a jacket in the high country or after sunset.
Pack layers and check the weather forecast for the specific areas you plan to visit.
Are Yosemite’s Waterfalls Flowing in September?
This is the biggest tradeoff of a September visit.
If seeing Yosemite’s waterfalls at their peak is your top priority, plan a spring or early summer trip instead.
Most of Yosemite’s water comes from Sierra Nevada snowmelt. Waterfalls generally peak in May or June and decrease as summer progresses. By late summer and September, Yosemite Falls may have very little water or be completely dry.
The good news is that Yosemite’s granite cliffs, meadows, forests, giant sequoias and high country don’t disappear when the waterfall season ends. September simply offers a different Yosemite experience.
Is Yosemite Less Crowded in September?
Generally, yes, but don’t expect to have Yosemite Valley to yourself.
Historically, September receives fewer visitors than July and August. Weekdays later in the month may feel noticeably different from a busy summer weekend.
You should still plan ahead. Arriving early can help you avoid some of the heaviest traffic and make parking easier.
Once you find parking in Yosemite Valley, consider leaving your car parked and exploring by foot, bicycle or the free Yosemite Valley shuttle.
What Can You Do in Yosemite in September?
September is an excellent month for travelers who want to spend their days outside.
Depending on conditions, you can:
- Hike throughout Yosemite Valley and the high country
- Bike Yosemite Valley’s paved bike paths
- Visit Glacier Point
- Drive Tioga Road
- Explore Tuolumne Meadows
- Visit Mariposa Grove
- Picnic along the Merced River
- Watch sunset from one of Yosemite’s famous viewpoints
- Stargaze after dark
Because Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road are seasonal, always check current road conditions before your trip.
Can You Visit Tioga Road in September?
Typically, yes. Tioga Road usually remains open throughout September, giving visitors access to Yosemite’s spectacular high country.
This is one of the biggest reasons to consider a September trip. You can experience Yosemite Valley and then spend another day exploring places like Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows.
Seasonal road opening and closing dates vary every year based on weather, so check current conditions before traveling.
What Should You Pack for Yosemite in September?
September calls for layers.
Bring comfortable daytime clothing as well as warmer layers for mornings and evenings. If you’re visiting Yosemite’s higher elevations, be prepared for significantly cooler temperatures than you may experience in Yosemite Valley.
You’ll also want sun protection, plenty of water, comfortable walking shoes and a reusable water bottle.
And don’t forget to download maps and important trip information before entering the park. Cell service can be limited throughout Yosemite.
Where to Stay for a September Yosemite Trip
Staying near the park can make it much easier to get an early start.
Yosemite View Lodge is located along the Merced River in El Portal, just outside Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance. Its location makes it convenient to head into Yosemite Valley early and return to the lodge after a full day of exploring.
Yosemite Cedar Lodge and Indian Flat Campground are additional lodging options along the Highway 140 corridor near Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite in September FAQs
Is Yosemite crowded in September?
September is still a popular time to visit, particularly on weekends, but average visitation is lower than in July and August.
Are Yosemite waterfalls flowing in September?
Some waterfalls continue flowing, but water levels are generally low by September. Yosemite Falls may have little water or be completely dry.
Is Tioga Road open in September?
Tioga Road is typically open in September, weather permitting. Always check current road conditions before traveling.
Is Glacier Point open in September?
Glacier Point Road is normally open in September, weather and conditions permitting.
Is September good for hiking in Yosemite?
Yes. September can be an excellent month for hiking because trails throughout Yosemite Valley and the high country are generally accessible, conditions permitting.
Is August or September better for Yosemite?
Both months provide access to much of the park, but September generally receives fewer visitors. Travelers tied to summer vacation schedules may prefer August, while those with more flexibility may enjoy September’s somewhat quieter atmosphere.
Is Yosemite Worth Visiting in September?
Absolutely. Come to Yosemite in September for the hiking, granite cliffs, high country, scenic drives, biking and long days spent outside. Just don’t plan your trip around seeing Yosemite’s waterfalls at their peak.
For travelers who have some flexibility with their dates, September can offer a sweet spot between Yosemite’s busy summer season and the arrival of cooler fall weather.