Yosemite National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. The park is known for its stunning nature, including giant sequoias, waterfalls, and rock formations, but also for the huge crowds in summer. Are you traveling just outside the season like I did in September or October? Then definitely read on how to make your day trip to Yosemite in September or October a success.
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September and October: the Perfect Months to Visit Yosemite
If you want to visit Yosemite, it’s a good idea to consider going in September or October. In these months, the temperatures are pleasant and there are fewer tourists. I was there myself in September. And the horror images you see back on Instagram about gigantic full shuttle buses and hour-long queues we did not experience. The chance of forest fires is also lower, only we unfortunately saw the consequences of the recent forest fires.
The average daytime temperature is around 20 degrees Celsius. In the evening it can cool down to 10 degrees Celsius. We were there in mid-September in Yosemite and went from long pants with a vest in the morning to shorts with a t-shirt in the afternoon. In other words: you can dress perfectly for it. In these months there is also less chance of rain. The average precipitation in September and October is about 10 millimeters. Do you see the advantages already?
The Highlights of Yosemite
There are already numerous blogs written about Yosemite and the highlights. But which ones should you visit in September or October?
Fun to Do, Also in September & October
- El Capitan: One of the largest rock formations in the world and easily visible from the road.
- Half Dome: Another iconic rock formation that can also be climbed and visited! You can see Half Dome from many angles. Unfortunately, we couldn’t do this hike at the time because it was closed. Nowadays this hike is possible again.
- Glacier Point: A viewpoint with a breathtaking view over the park. Glacier Point has been open again since May 2023 after a 2-year closure due to a forest fire.
- Tioga Pass Road: A beautiful area of Yosemite if you are on a through trip. You read all about it in this blog. It may be that this road is already closed in October if snow falls in the area.
- Hiking to Vernal Fall & Nevada Fall. This was my favorite hike in Yosemite. And the waterfall is still strong enough in this period and therefore worth it. In summer the water is often so strong that you get completely wet. Not anymore in September and October. Another advantage! An impression of the hike you see below.
- Mariposa Grove: A sequoia forest with some of the largest sequoias in the world. You can take a beautiful walk here along the world-famous sequoia trees. We visited this the afternoon before our day trip to Yosemite, because this park is just outside the core of Yosemite.
Where Might You Be Disappointed?
Unfortunately, there are also hikes or highlights that you may have already seen on social media that are a disappointment in September and October.
- Yosemite Falls: The highest waterfall in North America. Only there is a good chance that it is dry at the end of summer. The meltwater is then gone. This is normally easy to reach, but now not worth it. The associated hike can be nice, but you have to do it without the waterfall.
Mirror Lake: Mirror Lake is a small lake in Yosemite National Park. The lake is at the foot of Mount Watkins and is surrounded by pine trees. The lake is especially known for its clear water, which often reflects the surrounding mountains. Only it is probably empty in September and October. We found it empty.
Advantages of Off-Season
There are a number of advantages to visiting Yosemite National Park in September or October.
- Fewer tourists: In these months there are fewer tourists in the park, so you can enjoy the nature more.
- Lower prices: The prices for accommodation and activities are lower in these months. Still, I advise you to book in time!
- Better weather: The temperatures are pleasant and there is less chance of rain.
Disadvantage of Off-Season: Less Water for the Waterfalls
A disadvantage of visiting Yosemite National Park in September or October is that there is less water for the waterfalls. The waterfalls are at their most beautiful in spring, when a lot of snow melts.
Tips for a Day Trip to Yosemite National Park
Here are some tips for a day trip to Yosemite National Park:
- Start early: The best time to visit Yosemite is early in the morning, before it gets too crowded.
- Wear good shoes: You will walk a lot, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Preferably with ankle support.
- Delve into the shuttles: Free shuttle buses run through Yosemite National Park. Delve into the route so you can plan your day efficiently. If you don’t have a plan, the park can feel quite large.
- Be prepared for unexpected weather: The weather in Yosemite can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain or even snow in the fall.
Yosemite National Park is a beautiful place to visit, regardless of the time of year. We were there in mid-September and super enthusiastic! In these months the temperatures are pleasant, there are fewer tourists, and the prices are lower. Have fun traveling already!
