Weather & Forecast
Real-time conditions and trip-planning data for Yosemite National Park
Hourly Forecast
Hour-by-hour outlook for the next 48 hours
Extended Forecast
16-day outlook for Yosemite National Park
NWS Detailed Forecast
Official narrative forecast from the National Weather Service
Clear. Low around 60, with temperatures rising to around 62 overnight. Northeast wind 0 to 5 mph.
Sunny. High near 93, with temperatures falling to around 91 in the afternoon. South southwest wind 0 to 15 mph.
Mostly clear. Low around 59, with temperatures rising to around 61 overnight. Northeast wind 0 to 10 mph.
Sunny, with a high near 96. Southwest wind 0 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Clear, with a low around 61. West wind 0 to 10 mph.
Sunny, with a high near 98. South wind 0 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Clear, with a low around 62. North wind 5 to 10 mph.
Sunny, with a high near 102. North northwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Source: weather.gov
Sunrise & Sunset
Plan your hikes and photography around the light
This Week's Sun Times
What to Pack Right Now
Personalized recommendations based on the current forecast
Clothing
- Lightweight, light-colored moisture-wicking shirts
- Shorts and breathable hiking pants
- Multiple layers for big temperature swings
- Comfortable hiking socks (wool blend)
Sun Protection
- Sunscreen SPF 50+ (high-elevation sun is intense)
- Wide-brim hat for sun protection
- Polarized sunglasses
- UV-protective lip balm
- Cooling neck gaiter or bandana
Hydration & Nutrition
- Minimum 1 gallon (4L) water per person per day
- Electrolyte powder or tablets
- Insulated water bottle to keep water cool
- Trail snacks (salty + sweet for energy)
Footwear
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
- Sandals or water shoes for river and swimming-hole access
Safety & Gear
- Headlamp (for early starts or if hikes run long)
- Check the afternoon thunderstorm forecast before high-country hikes
- First aid kit with blister care
- Trail map or downloaded offline maps
- Bear canister (required for any overnight backcountry trip)
Seasonal Guide
What to expect each season at Yosemite National Park
Spring
Spring is a season of dramatic change in Yosemite. Waterfalls build toward their peak flow from snowmelt, typically cresting in late May or early June, while the Valley floor turns green even as the high country stays buried in snow. Weather swings widely — a sunny, mild morning can turn to rain or even late-season snow at higher elevations. Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road usually stay closed into May, sometimes later depending on that year's snowpack.
- Layers for big temperature swings
- Rain jacket
- Waterproof footwear for muddy trails
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
Summer
NowSummer is Yosemite's peak season — the park draws roughly three-quarters of its annual visitors between May and September, and Yosemite Valley's parking lots routinely fill by mid-morning on summer weekends and holidays. Days are warm to hot on the Valley floor (about 4,000 ft elevation), while the high country around Tuolumne Meadows (about 8,600 ft) stays noticeably cooler — a major draw once Tioga Road opens for the season. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the high country. By mid-to-late summer, waterfalls that roared in spring can slow to a trickle or dry up entirely, especially in low-snowpack years.
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+)
- Plenty of water
- Layers for high-country temperature swings
- Bear canister for any overnight backcountry trip
Fall
Fall brings some of Yosemite's best hiking weather along with thinning crowds after Labor Day. September can still feel like summer, but October brings crisp air, changing foliage among the black oaks and dogwoods, and clear skies. High-country access is on borrowed time — Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road typically close for the season once snow arrives, so a fall trip built around the high country carries real schedule risk. Some waterfalls may already be reduced to a trickle by early fall, especially after a dry winter.
- Layers (warm midday, cold mornings/evenings)
- Light jacket or fleece
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Sunscreen
Winter
Winter is Yosemite's quietest season, and Yosemite Valley takes on an entirely different character with snow dusting the granite walls and waterfalls sometimes rimmed in ice. Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road are closed for the season — typically from around November through late May, though the exact dates vary widely year to year depending on snowpack. Tire chains are often required for driving in the park during storms, and some Valley-floor trails can be icy.
- Insulated jacket
- Microspikes or traction devices
- Tire chains (check requirements before driving)
- Gloves and warm hat
Historical Monthly Averages
Typical conditions by month at Yosemite National Park
🌡️ Average Temperature (°F)
🌧️ Average Precipitation (inches)
Best Time to Visit
Month-by-month ratings for planning your trip
| Month | Weather | Crowds | Activities | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Feb | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Mar | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Apr | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| May | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Jun | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| JulNow | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Aug | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Sep | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Oct | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Nov | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Dec | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Trail Weather Considerations
Essential safety information for Yosemite National Park trails
Valley Floor vs. High Country Temperature
Temperatures can differ 20–30°F between Yosemite Valley (about 4,000 ft) and the high country around Tuolumne Meadows (about 8,600 ft). Plan your layers accordingly, especially on a day that combines both, or on any hike gaining significant elevation like Half Dome or Clouds Rest.
Afternoon Thunderstorms in the High Country
Summer afternoons often bring sudden thunderstorms to the high country — Tuolumne Meadows, Clouds Rest, and the granite domes are especially exposed. Storms can build quickly from a clear morning sky. Avoid exposed summits and ridgelines in the afternoon, and plan to be off high points before storms typically develop.
Cold Water & Fast Currents Near Waterfalls
During peak snowmelt (typically May–June), rivers and streams run high, fast, and dangerously cold. Swimming or wading above waterfalls — including at the top of Vernal Fall, Nevada Fall, or Yosemite Falls — has led to fatalities. Stay behind railings and obey posted warning signs near any moving water.
Half Dome Cables in Wet or Stormy Conditions
The Half Dome cables become extremely dangerous when wet, icy, or during a thunderstorm — fatalities have occurred in these conditions. Do not attempt the cables in rain or with storms in the forecast, and check current conditions and the forecast before you commit to the climb.
Winter Road Closures
Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road close for the winter, typically from around November through late May depending on snowpack — exact dates vary by several weeks year to year. Tire chains are often required elsewhere in the park during storms. Check current road status at nps.gov/yose before planning a winter or shoulder-season trip around the high country.
High-Elevation Sun & Altitude
The high country around Tuolumne Meadows and Tioga Pass sits above 8,000 ft, where UV exposure is stronger and some visitors notice altitude effects like headache or fatigue. Acclimatize gradually if you're coming from sea level, stay hydrated, and use extra sun protection at elevation.
Yosemite National Park Weather FAQ
Common questions about Yosemite National Park weather, seasons, and forecast
What is the weather like in Yosemite National Park?
Yosemite's climate varies enormously by elevation. Yosemite Valley (about 4,000 ft) has hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters with occasional snow, while the high country around Tuolumne Meadows (about 8,600 ft) is much cooler and buried in snow for much of the year. Always check conditions for the specific elevation you're visiting.
What is the best time to visit Yosemite National Park for good weather?
April through early May and September through October offer the best balance of mild weather and manageable crowds. Late May and early June bring the biggest waterfalls from peak snowmelt, though that's also a busy shoulder season. Summer (July–August) is hot in the Valley and the most crowded time of year.
How hot does Yosemite Valley get in the summer?
Yosemite Valley regularly sees highs in the 80s and 90s°F (roughly 27–33°C) in July and August. The high country stays noticeably cooler, which is part of why Tuolumne Meadows is such a popular summer escape once Tioga Road opens for the season.
Does it snow in Yosemite National Park?
Yes. Yosemite Valley gets occasional snow in winter, while the high country receives significant snowfall that closes Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road for the season — typically from around November through late May, though the exact dates vary widely year to year depending on that year's snowpack.
When do Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road open and close?
Both roads close for winter once snow arrives, typically around November, and reopen once snow removal is complete, typically by late May — though exact dates shift by several weeks depending on the year's snowpack. Check nps.gov/yose for current road status before planning a trip built around the high country.
What is the current weather forecast for Yosemite National Park?
This page shows a live 16-day forecast, an hourly outlook, and the official National Weather Service narrative for Yosemite Valley, updated continuously. Conditions can differ sharply between the Valley floor and the high country, so check both before heading out.