When travelers ask, “Is Yosemite worth visiting in the fall?”, the answer is a resounding yes. Yosemite National Park in autumn is one of California’s most underrated experiences. While spring is known for thundering waterfalls and summer for long days of hiking, fall offers something truly special: vibrant foliage, crisp mountain air, and fewer crowds. If you’ve been to Yosemite before, visiting in autumn gives you a completely new perspective.
Why Visit Yosemite in the Fall?
1. Stunning Fall Foliage
Yosemite’s granite cliffs may get all the attention, but the park’s autumn colors steal the show in September, October, and early November. Dogwoods turn fiery red, black oaks glow golden, and big leaf maples light up the valley in shades of orange and yellow. Popular spots to soak in Yosemite fall foliage include Yosemite Valley, Cook’s Meadow, and the Wild and Scenic Merced River.
Yosemite Sunrise Ashley B
2. Comfortable Weather for Hiking
Fall temperatures are mild, perfect for full days on the trail without the intense summer heat. Average highs hover in the 60s and 70s, with crisp mornings and evenings that make a cozy campfire even more appealing. Popular fall hikes include the Mist Trail, Four Mile Trail, and Mirror Lake. With fewer people on the paths, you’ll find more solitude to enjoy Yosemite’s beauty.
3. Fewer Crowds and Easier Access
Summer crowds thin out dramatically once September arrives, making fall one of the best times to visit Yosemite if you want a more relaxed pace. Parking is easier, popular viewpoints like Tunnel View and Glacier Point are less congested, and lodging is often more available. For those looking to experience Yosemite without peak-season stress, autumn is ideal.
4. Wildlife at Its Best
Fall is a dynamic season for Yosemite’s wildlife. Black bears forage to prepare for winter, mule deer roam the meadows, and birdwatchers will notice seasonal migrations. With fewer visitors, your chances of spotting wildlife increase, especially at dawn and dusk.
5. Unique Photography Opportunities
Photographers love Yosemite in the fall. The golden light of autumn sunrises and sunsets adds warmth to Yosemite’s iconic landscapes. Reflections of red and yellow leaves in the Merced River make for breathtaking shots, while misty mornings add drama to granite cliffs and meadows. Use this sunrise and sunset calculator for photographers to ensure the best shot!
Things to Do in Yosemite in Fall
- Scenic Drives: Tioga Road (open until snow closes it, usually October) and Glacier Point Road offer sweeping autumn vistas.
- Picnicking by the Merced River: Pack a fall picnic and enjoy views framed by colorful trees inside the park or back at your hotel.
- Stargazing: With crisp, clear skies, fall nights are perfect for stargazing in Yosemite Valley or Glacier Point.
Stay Overnight: Whether you prefer a cozy lodge, rustic cabin, or a glamping tent just outside the park, autumn nights are magical.
FAQs About Yosemite in the Fall
Is Yosemite worth visiting in the fall?
Yes. Yosemite in the fall offers fewer crowds, brilliant foliage, comfortable hiking weather, and peaceful scenery that feels worlds away from the busy summer season.
When is the best time to see fall colors in Yosemite?
Mid-September through late October is usually peak season for Yosemite’s fall foliage. Dogwoods, oaks, and maples add stunning shades of red, orange, and gold throughout Yosemite Valley and along the Merced River.
What is the weather like in Yosemite in October?
October brings mild daytime temperatures in the 60s and 70s, while mornings and evenings are crisp and cool. It’s excellent for hiking, but layers are essential for chilly nights.
Are Yosemite’s roads and trails open in the fall?
Yes, most of Yosemite Valley’s trails and roads remain open in the fall. Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road usually close once snow arrives, which is typically by late October or November.
What wildlife can I see in Yosemite during fall?
Fall is a great season for wildlife viewing. Bears are busy preparing for winter, deer are active in the meadows, and birdwatchers can catch glimpses of migrating species.
Where should I stay when visiting Yosemite in the fall?
Lodging near the park’s entrance makes exploring simple. Yosemite View Lodge, Yosemite Cedar Lodge, and Indian Flat Campground all provide convenient, comfortable stays with easy access to the park.
Image by Elliot McGucken @elliotmcgucken
Final Thoughts
If you’ve only seen Yosemite in spring or summer, you’re missing one of its best seasons. Yosemite in the fall offers brilliant colors, crisp weather, and a calmer, more intimate experience of the park. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer escape, autumn in Yosemite is absolutely worth the trip.