Centuries ago, in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, giant monoliths were carved from receding glaciers towards the end of the Ice Age. The uplift, subsequent erosion and glacial retreat formed the magnificent natural wonder that is California’s Yosemite National Park.
Yosemite is one of my favorite places to visit and winter is my best time to visit this much beloved national park. There is a beauty and serenity that one experiences during this time. There are less crowds and therefore more spaces to explore in peace.
Driving along the Merced River, with its shimmering water flowing around snow encased rocks and bordered on either side by a wintry backdrop, it is difficult to keep your eyes on the road, but we do have to be careful.
Sometimes, we can spot the occasional skunk or deer on the side of the road or trying to cross it. If you are lucky, you could also see a bear, fox, or coyote ambling by. We have been fortunate enough to have spotted these during past trips to Yosemite.
As we drove to the park, an overcast sky greeted us. But thankfully, that did not last long. When the sun broke through, the full wonder of this stunning natural treasure unfolded, its waterfalls and majestic granite rocks seeming to look down at the awe-struck sightseers.
The thunderous roar of the gushing waterfalls, cascading over the edge, is deafening and gets the adrenaline going.
At times the mist covers the beautiful landmarks, but patience will allow you to see the famed sceneries as the mists lift. We were grateful that the winter storms that hit the region every year took a break for a few days when we visited.
THINGS TO DO:
– Winter in Yosemite is also a photographer’s dream. Epic views greet you at every angle.
Every famed landmark in the park is transformed and you enter a winter wonderland, viewing the granite cliffs, the frozen lakes, the semi-frozen waterfalls, the snow-covered meadows in a new light.
- Yosemite is also a great place to gaze at the night sky and, on clear moonless nights, to photograph the Milky Way.
– Though the park is less crowded, there are free shuttles for those who don’t fancy driving within the park.
– There are also fun activities for different levels and varying tastes: A) Those who love to ski can head over to the famed Badger Pass Ski Area or the Curry Village Ice Skating Rink (depending on weather conditions). B) Hikers can still find some open trails. C) Those who want to just relax in the warmth of a well heated room, have a drink or a meal, you can head over to Curry Village, The Ahwahnee or the Yosemite Valley Lodge – to name a few.
PLAN YOUR TRIP:
Book your accommodations and activities very early on in the year.
Before you start on your journey to Yosemite, in winter:
– Check the weather
– Check the road conditions: Keep tire chains and spare tires at the ready in case you need it. When you do need it, please turn onto the nearest turnout (and not on any side of the road) to put those on your car. Ice removal tools for the car and a shovel will also be handy for a just-in-case scenario.
– Do remember that Tioga Pass and Glacier Point Road are often closed in winter.
Pack the right stuff:
– Warm and waterproof clothing. It’s better to dress in layers as temperatures can vary in different areas within the park.
– Wear the right footwear. I can’t tell you the number of times I have seen visitors slip on the frozen ice and yours truly has also taken a tumble…or two. How embarrassing! You can also get some traction aids (which I did after I made a spectacle of myself…did I mention the embarrassment…oh gawd!!!) for the shoes.
– Proper equipment for the activities you plan to do in Yosemite.
– Emergency equipments like a First Aid Kit, flashlights, maps, chargers for your phone, water and emergency food.
Now to relax and enjoy this gem without the heat or the crowds of summer.
As night falls on a calm day, a quiet elegance settles down over the park. Those staying inside the park, surrounded by snow blanketed scenes, savor the silence of daytime tourists long gone.
The High Sierras offer spell binding views. No matter how many videos and pictures one might look at, nothing can replace the experience of being right here among this jaw-dropping natural wonder.
Thank you to the staff, volunteers who keep this precious land running smoothly and the guests who respect and love this wilderness enough to leave it as untouched as possible.
That was a really enjoyable read, felt like I was there
Thanks, Subala. Nice to read your positive input.