Changing leaves, smaller crowds, and the fresh hiking air–as close to perfect as it gets.
Don’t tell the other seasons, but fall in Yosemite National Park is our favorite. With autumn’s changing leaves, smaller crowds, and the fresh hiking air, Yosemite really comes alive. Read on for some of our favorite activities in and around Yosemite National Park in the fall.
Where to:
Take advantage of perfect hiking weather
Fall temperatures here are as close to perfect as it gets. September through November, you’ll find highs in the mid-60s to low 70s, with nighttime lows dropping into the 30s and 40s. Break out your favorite layers (we love a fleece), and get ready for the adventure.
Conditions allowing, Half Dome should stay open through mid-October– just remember permits are required whenever the cables are up. With those in hand, it’s your chance to conquer Yosemite’s most famous hike without the summer heat or crowds. If you want to keep it a little more low-key, consider the Yosemite Valley trails where you’ll find everything from easy strolls to moderate hikes.
Attract the best fish
We’re now firmly in trout season in the Merced River, running strong from September through December. Grab your rod and reel and head to the Hetch-Hetchy Reservoir or Tenaya Lake to see what bites. Heads up: A California fishing license is required for ages 16+.
Capture the changing leaves
There really is nothing like to fall colors coming alive in Yosemite National Park. Start high and early, then break out your camera and capture the beautiful views. The High Country of Mariposa will be the first area in the valley for leaves to change color, starting in late September–October. Tioga Road (Highway 120) and Glacier Point Road are some of our favorite drives to witness spectacular fall colors. If you prefer a hike, get into the backcountry from almost any trail from the park to witness changing leaves. Some favorite photo hot spots: Vernal Falls, Glacier Point, Tunnel View, and Sentinel Bridge.
Become a foliage expert
Aside from gorgeous pics, head home with a whole lot of knowledge to impress your friends. Aspen trees and shrubs pop early in the high country while maples, oaks, dogwoods, and cottonwoods reach their peak later, around mid-to-late October and into early November.
Easily access the park
Another perk of fall visits: As of September 1, no vehicle reservation is required to drive into or through Yosemite–earlier summer dates did require peak-hours reservations. You will still have to pay the $35/car entrance fee, though.
From here, you can experience thundering waterfalls, towering granite monoliths, pristine rivers, and more with a half-day Yosemite Valley Tour.
Eat and drink
Pound for pound, you’ll find the coolest and most delish spots in Mariposa, less than ten minutes from AutoCamp Yosemite.
The vibe at 1850 Restaurant & Brewery is relaxed with a vintage twist–think juicy burgers, steaks, and crispy fried chicken, and in-house brews, blackberry sangria, or craft beer flights to wash it all down. Insider tip: their dog-friendly patio keeps things cozy well into autumn.
The Alley is another local fave for wine and pizza with an artsy outdoor garden. Check their website to see when there’s live music or trivia going on–you’ll want to stick around.
Coffee lovers should hit up The Coffee Shop, Mariposa’s go-to for a caffeine fix. Family-owned and operated with delicious drinks to boot, it’s the perfect stop before an early hike or slow fall morning.
Stargaze
Yosemite’s dark skies make stargazing a real treat, just pack a blanket and settle in at Glacier Point or any wide, open turnout for the best views. This fall, look out for the Draconids on the evening of October 8 (a short but striking early-evening display), the Orionids before dawn on October 21 (known for fast, bright meteors), and the Leonids before dawn on November 17.
Taste local cider
It doesn’t get more autumnal than touring a working apple orchard and cider mill in the foothills of Central California. A day spent at Sierra Cider Farm & Cidery includes some very delicious tastings and a tour of the extensive orchard—bonus points if you pay attention to the brief history of American hard cider making.
Stay
Big hikes deserve big downtime. Back at AutoCamp Yosemite, sink into cabin comfort or Airstream coziness, toast a few marshmallows, and watch the stars twinkle overhead. Do you hear that? Fall memories are calling your name.