If you’re ready for a fall travel experience that’s just a road trip away, Yosemite National Park should be at the top of your list. You will enjoy fewer crowds, mild temperatures perfect for hiking, fall color and affordable lodging options.
Learn more about what to see and do in the park this autumn.
Things to Do|Fall Color|Where to Eat|Where to Stay
Things to Do
Bicycling– Biking in Yosemite Valley is easy and efficient. The valley floor is flat and paved trails are abundant and are a great way to enjoy the fall foliage.Bike rentalsare available at Yosemite Valley Lodge and Curry Village. Choices include tag-along bikes and bikes with trailers for the little ones. ADA options are also available.
Hiking– Yosemite National Park is famous for its hiking trails. From easy to challenging, there’s a perfect hike for just about anyone in Yosemite. Easy choices includeCook’s Meadow Loopor theMirror LakeLoop.Vernal Fall and Nevada Falltrails, aka Mist Trail, are iconic and are more strenuous. For those looking for awesome valley views from the valley floor to Glacier Point,Four Mile Trailis a strenuous, but rewarding climb.
Photography– The awe-inspiring vistas of Yosemite National Park will make you feel likeAnsel Adams，即使你只是在使用你的智能手机。值得注意的照片点包括隧道视图，冰川点，半圆顶，哨兵桥和山谷视图。Be sure to share your masterpieces on social media using the hashtag #TravelYosemite and you might be selected to have your photo featured on the @TravelYosemiteInstagramor @YosemiteParkFacebookaccounts!
Wildlife Viewing– Yosemite is well known for itswildlifeviewing opportunities. There are about 300-500 black bears inside Yosemite, so be sure to always follow park regulations and never store food in your car. Mule deer are commonly seen grazing in Yosemite Valley.
Geology– Yosemite is a glaciated landscape, and the scenery that resulted from the interaction of the glaciers and the underlying rocks was the basis for its preservation as a national park. Iconic landmarks such as Yosemite Valley, Hetch Hetchy, Yosemite Falls, Vernal and Nevada Falls, Bridalveil Fall, Half Dome, the Clark Range, and the Cathedral Range are known throughout the world by the photographs of countless photographers, both amateur and professional.Drive to Glacier Point to enjoy a bird’s eye view of the valley at 7,214 feet, which is 3,200 feet above Curry Village.
Shopping– If you are interested in purchasing some unique Native and handcrafted items, be sure to check out The Ahwahnee Gift Shop. For snacks, picnic supplies, groceries and souvenirs, the Village Store and the Yosemite Valley Lodge Gift Shop are also available.
Stargazing– Yosemite is miles from city lights and the dark night skies make it a great place to see the stars and spot the planets. Bring a star chart, binoculars and warm clothing for the best viewing experience.
Fall Color
Photographers, hikers, artists and anyone with a passion for the outdoors will delight in Yosemite’s fall colors as the maple, dogwood, aspen and oak trees adorn themselves with leaves yielding seasonal hues. Daytime temperatures are mild and perfect for hiking. Less visitors in the park compared to the summer months provide a feeling of solitude. Fall color typically starts late September into early October in Yosemite Valley.
Where to Eat
Breakfast, lunch and dinner options are available throughout Yosemite National Park. For updated hours pleaseclick here.
Restaurant |
Location | Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner |
| Degnan's Kitchen | Yosemite Village | X | X | X |
| Village Grill | Yosemite Village | X | X | |
| Base Camp Eatery | Yosemite Valley Lodge | X | X | X |
| Mountain Room Lounge | Yosemite Valley Lodge | X | ||
| Meadow Grill | Curry Village | X | ||
| The Ahwahnee Dining Room | The Ahwahnee | X | X | |
| The Ahwahnee Bar | The Ahwahnee | X | ||
| Wawona Dining Room | Wawona Hotel | X | X | X |
| The Deck | Curry Village | X | X | |
| Coffee Corner | Curry Village | X |
Where to Stay
In-park lodging choices include theAhwahnee,known for its elegance and interior design, or consider the family-friendlyYosemite Valley Lodge.For the budget-traveler and the outdoorsy crew, considerCurry Village. The historic and charmingWawona Hotelnear the south entrance of the park is a true gem as well. You really can't go wrong with waking up in Yosemite this fall!
