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Visitation

Visitor Impacts

Visitation is the highest in June, July and August; lowest in December, January and February.

To prevent congestion and overcrowding, automobile access may be temporarily restricted in Yosemite on spring weekends and busy holiday weekends such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. If restrictions are necessary, they are expected to be in effect from mid-morning to early evening, depending on available day-use parking space and traffic congestion.

Visitor Center

There are four visitor centers in Yosemite National Park. The Valley Visitor Center, located in Yosemite Valley is the largest and most comprehensive in terms of displays, books, postcards and maps. The Big Oak Flat Information Station, Wawona Information Station and Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center are open on a more limited basis.

Basic Visits

Stay for a minimum of four hours to tour Yosemite Valley; will require at least two days for visit to all sites and areas in the park.

Climate

Weather can change rapidly during all seasons of the year. Elevation plays a major role in temperature and precipitation. Most of the moisture comes in the months of January, February and March, and the winter climate is relatively mild. Sierra summers are typically warm and dry. April and November are transitional months, when warm, sunny days can suddenly become stormy. Clouds can build up during the summer to produce spectacular thunderstorm activity.

It is wise to pack for any season with clothing that can be "layered", ready to peel off or add on as the thermometer dictates. Always include some kind of rain gear.