The Best Winter Adventures in Yosemite National Park

Explore one of the most popular national parks in its quietest time of year.

By: The Outbound Collective + Save to a List

Most folks with plans to visit Yosemite include it on their summer road trip itinerary, but you wouldn’t believe how quiet and calm the Valley is during the winter months. Not only are the crowds thinner, but the scenery is somehow even more beautiful with a fresh layer of snow.   

Spend the day hanging around the Valley, taking photos and relaxing or if you’re interested in being more active, the options are endless! You can go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and tubing or even hit up Yosemite’s very own ski resort. If you don’t have your own gear, no worries. They’ve got rentals and guides available for any adventure you might want.

Powdery trails, pristine views, and crisp air...it doesn’t get much better than that. It’s time for you to experience Yosemite National Park during some its most quiet and exquisite days. Check out some of our favorite winter adventures in Yosemite and plan your trip today.

Adventure by Kyle Frost

Looking for an extended adventure? Traveling to Ostrander Ski Hut consists of great elevation gain and many miles of work, but it’s all worth it once you get to enjoy the beautiful scenery surrounding the hut.

Adventure by Pat PT

Talk about picture perfect. This only happens for a certain time of year so be sure to time your trip to see it!

Adventure by Breanne McNitt

Two in one! Get the opportunity to hike some switchbacks and snowshoe through the powder with classic Half Dome Views and the Valley below.

Adventure by Tiffany Nguyen

If you’re looking for something relaxed, check out the hike to Lower Falls where you’ll catch great views of a couple waterfalls.

Adventure by Julie and Brian

Strap on your snowshoes and adventure to more snowy views of the gorgeous valley below. This is also one of our favorite backpacking trips in the summertime: Backpack to Dewey Point

Adventure by Kyle Frost

Looking for a wintery challenge in the Yosemite backcountry? This is the one for you. Once you get a few miles in, the crowds really thin out and it’ll feel like you have the whole place to yourself.

 

Discover more things to do on your Yosemite Winter Experience.

 

Cover photo: Pat PT

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Do you love the outdoors?

Yep, us too. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox.

Related

10 Ways to make camping in Yosemite National Park even better

Meghan White

A Beginner's Guide to Photographing Yosemite National Park

Kyle Reader

How to Spend Your First Weekend in Yosemite National Park

Kyle Reader

5 Spots for Epic Stargazing in Yosemite National Park

The Outbound Collective

5 Beginner Backpacking Trips in Yosemite National Park

The Outbound Collective