Yosemite California

Yosemite is located in the Sierra Nevada, on the eastern side of California. It is about 225 miles from the Pacific Ocean and about 30 miles from Nevada. It is actually closer to Oregon than Mexico!

Every season in Yosemite has special offerings. The spring sees fewer visitors since the area is coming out of winter. Some trails, especially those in the high country are not yet open. Yet, for that same reason, the ice melting makes the waterfalls thunderous at this time of year. The weather also offers great hiking opportunities.

The summer is super busy in the park! Everyone is on vacation and everything in the park is open. There are lots of activities such as fishing, lake activities, hiking and generally more services available in the summer. The waterfalls are still beautiful, just less powerful in the summer months.

The fall offers great autumn colors, shorter, cooler days and less people. It is a calm time in the park, great for quiet getaways. Of course the winter in Yosemite is something to be awed by. It is covered in gentle snows, offering a wonderful ski season. Popular winter destinations are Upper Pines, Sunnyside, Hodgdon Meadow and Wawona.

Yosemite is open 24/7/365, weather permitting. You can look at the Resources page to find Current Park and Road conditions. The hub of Yosemite National Park lies within Yosemite Valley. Most of the services and facilities for the park are in the Valley. The northern part of the park is mostly wilderness.

The fees for entering the park vary. You can get a general park pass that is good for 7 days. There are education fee waivers and different passes for handicap access. You can get these passes at one of the four entrance gates. They accept cash, checks, and travelers checks; no credit cards. For more info, call 209-375-9527.