Yosemite - late April

[David_Cavan]

<p>For some reason I can't figure out (especially since we lived in northern California for several years) we've never been to Yosemite. I've managed to clear 3 or 4 days at the end of April, but I'm wondering what it will be like at that time. I've always assumed Yosemite, like most mountain areas, would be better in the autumn, but thought I'd check with some knowledgeable people here. What will the roads and trails be like - is there still usually a lot of snow then, and will that limit how much we can get around? If this is "iffy" at all I think I'll put it off until this fall, and think of a better use for the airline points.</p>

<p>We're looking for day-hiking, and obviously want to get to the usual panoramas and photo-spots. The fact that I'm not having any problem finding lodging tells me this isn't the busiest time of year, so maybe that's a clue right there.</p>

[brandon_wright2]

<p>I've been searching this topic as well, but for mid-June. Others can correct me if I'm wrong but the higher roads are still closed at this point due to snow/ice. You may also need to have chains to even get into the park. At the same time I'm thinking the falls would be gushing at this point!</p>

[Hector Javkin]

<p>Conditions vary year to year. Brandon is right that the roads at higher elevations are generally closed until rather late. The best thing to do is to check for current condition by phone <a href="http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/conditions.htm"><strong>or here</strong></a>. Carrying chains is mandatory, in case you might need them.</p>

[David_Cavan]

<p>Thanks Hector. I see here <a href="http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/spring.htm">http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/spring.htm</a> and here <a href="http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/tiogaopen.htm">http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/tiogaopen.htm</a> that as Brandon says, the falls would be great in May, but roads still could be iffy. That's good to know - at least I'll make an informed decision.</p>

[craig_gillette]

<p>We were there late April several years ago during my daughters' "Spring Break." Since Easter comes late in April this year as well, you may want to firm up your lodging as soon as you can. We had several days with some rain, just missed snow in the valley (we stayed in Mariposa and the night it snowed in the valley my family wasn't interested in getting up early to rush on in). There was still snow in the trees and along the road from El Portal into the valley but the road was clear. </p>

<p>We did need chains for a short time on the Wawona Road and they were required at other times when we weren't traveling up that way as well. You could drive into the Mariposa Grove but there was still snow on the ground but not full coverage. I seem to recall you could drive to Badger Pass but the Glacier Point Road was closed there. The various Badger Pass winter ski/snowshoe activities were still on IIRC.</p>

<p>Because of the rain/snow, the falls were not at there May peak flow but the flow was healthy in most of them and a number of the more seasonal falls were flowing. The temperatures were cool but not winter cold and it was comfortable to be out and about for the most part. It did freeze at night so there were slick icy spots on some of the roads and in the valley at times, especially along the southern side.</p>

<p>However, lower elevations, like the Sierra foothills and the Merced River drive up 140 was well into spring flower season so the redbud was in bloom and we ran into some amazing wildflower displays in the Tejon Pass area near Los Angeles. There wasn't too much spring flower bloom in the park though.</p>

[avery1]

Tioga pass will be closed. Here's the opening dates in past years: http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/tiogaopen.htm

...and we've had a lot of snow this winter. You'll have no trouble keeping busy though and the ease of getting around will totally

depend on your elevation. You shouldn't have any trouble in the valley with snow and the waterfalls should be impressive.

[Mattman944]

Late April early May are excellent times to visit the valley. Not too crowded. Cool but pleasant temps during the day. Yes,

there is small risk of snowfall requiring chains.

[David_Cavan]

<p>Thanks everyone. I think I'll go ahead with this idea, and consider myself forewarned about the possibilities of some snow. We're talking mountains, right? They should come with some snow!</p>

[User_2000406]

<p>Good choice. Hiking on the valley floor will be pleasant (weather cooperating) but on top of the rim it will still be snowy. You might also consider visiting Hetch Hetchy.</p>

[lindsay_thompson]

<p>We are coming from New Zealand and will be hopefully visiting the park at the end of April as well. Thank you all for the information contained in the above missives. Probably going to stay at the HI youth hostel just outside the main area . Will that area be covered in snow , I wonder?<br>

Lindsay Thompson</p>

[craig_gillette]

<p>If the hostel is at Midpines, near Mariposa (assuming my quick search turned up the place you are thinking of), then it's unlikely you'd have snow on the ground there, that time of year. It seems to be about 2800-3000 feet or so in elevation on or near the 140. However, unlikely doesn't mean impossible for a storm to come through the area and deliver some snow even if it only lasts for a short time. I wouldn't expect to find lots of snow on the ground until up to the higher elevations, say 6,000 feet or higher, like the higher portions of the Wawona Road or out towards Glacier Point/Badger Pass.</p>