Yosemite in November: Weather, Things to Do, Pros & Cons

Are you thinking about visiting Yosemite in November? 

Yosemite National Park during the early winter is a magical time when the park’s upper elevations are blanketed in a layer of snow, and the valley is still warm enough to explore. 

November is also when the park is at its most photogenic, with the stark contrast of the late fall foliage and evergreens up against the grey granite and white snow.

If you are still on the fence about whether to visit, we are here to help. 

This ultimate guide will have everything you need to know. Here are the highlights:

• Pros & Cons of visiting Yosemite in November
• Weather in November
• Driving to Yosemite in November
• Hiking, Camping & Backpacking in November
• Things to do in November
• Guided Tours
• Where to Stay
• Practical Tips for visiting in November
• What to Wear and Pack

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Visiting Yosemite in November

Yosemite Valley sits at an elevation of about 4,000 feet, so it’s high enough to experience a light dusting of snow, even during the early to the middle portion of the month.

Depending on the weather each year, the park may even get an occasional snowstorm that blankets the area and can cause short-term road closures.

The upper elevations of the park are an entirely different story, as they can be covered with snow as early as October.

While Yosemite Valley remains accessible by car year-round, it’s recommended that you carry snow chains or drive an AWD fitted with snow chains while traveling through the area, as you may be required to drive on icy or snowy roads.

Once you consider the season’s possible effects on the park, November is a great time to visit as the crowds disappear for the season. 

Many of the trails and top attractions are in lower elevations near or on the valley floor, which remain open year-round.

Attractions in upper elevations, such as Tuolumne Meadows, are usually closed for the season. 

Getting Around Yosemite

Yosemite has a free shuttle service that can take you around most of the park’s points of interest, but most routes are serviced only during summer to late fall. 

But considering parking is so much easier during November compared to summertime, it would be more convenient to drive around in your warm car than wait for the bus in the cold.

Pros of Visiting Yosemite National Park in November

Fewer Crowds

Like most national parks in the country, Yosemite gets most of its visitors during the summer.

With an average visitation of more than 3.5 million people annually, Yosemite sees 70% of the crowd’s visit from May to October.

Yosemite in early November starts seeing far fewer visitors as summer vacations are over, and with it goes the large groups and tour buses.  

📍 Hot Tip: Did you know that you can visit Yosemite National Park for FREE on select days of the year? Visit on November 11th (Veteran’s Day), and your entrance fee will be waived!

Availability of accommodations

Anyone that has planned a trip to Yosemite knows the frustration of trying to find accommodations in or near the park during the busy season.

Over the years, Yosemite continued to receive more visitors, and the park’s accommodations started accepting reservations as early as one year to six months before the visit date.

The best part about visiting in November is that you can easily score a reservation at one of the valley’s hotels with fairly short notice. 

Cheaper accommodations

Simple economics would dictate that prices go up when supplies are low, and demand is high.

This is particularly true when booking accommodations inside Yosemite National Park.

If you want the perks of staying in the park’s immediate vicinity or in the park without paying top dollar, visiting during November is the way to go, as accommodations tend to be a lot cheaper.

You can see the beautiful Fall colors

The majority of the trees in the park are evergreen, but for those that do show excellent Fall foliage, Autumn seems to be in full blow around mid-October.

So, if you’re visiting Yosemite in early November, you’d likely still catch beautiful Fall colors as the park may still be transitioning from Fall to Winter.

Experience Yosemite blanketed in snow

If you want to see snow but don’t want to commit to having to wear snowshoes or bundle up in layers of warm clothing, visiting Yosemite in November is a great compromise.

Winter is starting in the park in November, so you might get lucky and catch an early snow shower that will blanket the granite peaks and dust the valley’s trees. 

The best part is that you will see Yosemite in a completely different way while the temperatures are still relatively mild.

A good time for hiking

When you imagine being in nature and hiking Yosemite’s beautiful trails, you probably do not visualize walking shoulder to shoulder with a tour bus of sweaty people on a hot day. 

You might experience this during the busy summer months, which is why it’s a great time to hike in November. 

This time of year is a whole different ball game. The hiking trails are mostly empty, the weather is pleasant, and the trails feel like you have them all to yourself.

No bugs/mosquitoes

Bugs and mosquitoes love warmth and humidity.

These insects thrive most during the warmest times of the year and stay active even during the early fall months.

This can be extra problematic when you are trying to enjoy Mother Nature.

Visiting the park in November is ideal if you want to avoid getting harassed by insects or want to have as much of a bug-free park visit as possible.

Cons of Visiting Yosemite National Park in November

Unpredictable Weather

As the park is transitioning from one season to the next, the weather can be very unpredictable. 

One day you may be hiking the trails, and it’s sunny and warm, only to wake up the next day to a snowstorm.

Also, Yosemite in late November is usually cold enough that snow starts to accumulate, especially in upper elevations.

Hence, it’s best to prepare for a full-blown winter scenario.

Check for weather updates and advisories before your visit to make changes to your plans and preparations accordingly.

Make sure to read these practical tips you need to know when visiting in November.

Limited access to some parts of the park

Though most of the park’s top attractions remain open year-round, some services become unavailable after September, and road closures become more apparent by October.

Tioga Pass and Glacier Point close for the season around late September to October, so if you want to visit these areas, you will have to consider this.

Also, since Tioga Pass is closed, people driving from Southern California will have to take the longer route to the park.

📢Find out the exact location of Yosemite National Park here.

Tire chains are most likely required

It is highly recommended that you carry tire chains with you when visiting Yosemite outside of the summer months.

This is particularly true if you’re visiting during November, as there can be chain requirements on the roads if a storm hits the park. 

Depending on when you visit during the month, roads can range from completely clear to icy to snowy. This is why it’s so important to be prepared for all road conditions.

Read about driving in Yosemite in November in this section.

Waterfalls are pretty much dry

This National Park is home to some of the country’s most majestic falls, but during the Fall, the water flow slows to a trickle.

If you want a chance to see one of the falls flowing, you can check out the towering Yosemite Falls, which stands at 2,425 feet tall. 

If the water is still flowing, hike up to Upper Yosemite Falls, the middle cascades, and Lower Yosemite Falls for some stunning views.

Most waterfalls in Yosemite are at peak flow around May and are down to a modest trickle come November.

Some of the falls will be dry, while others will still have a steady but light flow.

Camping and Backpacking are limited

Yosemite is one of the top destinations in America for camping and backpacking adventures.

However, camping and backpacking during the winter months are limited due to unpredictable weather, with most areas being closed for the season.

Only a few campgrounds remain open year-round, and the snowpack severely limits backing trips on park trails.

It’s best to grab a hotel room to warm up in after a chilly day of exploring the National Park.

We’ll be covering this section in more detail below.

Yosemite Weather in November

• Yosemite Valley Floor at 4000 ft
  • Temperature: 56°F, 33°F
  • Rain/Snow: average of 5-6 days, 4.1 inches
• Tuolomne Meadows at 8600 ft
  • Temperature: 46°F, 21°F
  • Rain/Snow: average of 5-6 days, 3.1 inches

Yosemite National Park elevations range from as low as 2,000 feet to as high as 13,000 feet.

Hetchy Hetch is at 3,900 feet, the Valley Floor is at 4,000 feet, Mariposa Grove is at 5,600 feet, and Tuolumne Meadows is at 8,600 feet. 

With that wide variation comes a wide range of weather conditions.

This is especially true from November to March when the area receives an estimated 95% of the year’s precipitation. 

During November, the Yosemite Valley floor experiences an average of 5 days of rain or snow, estimated to be around 4.1 inches. 

Temperatures generally top out at a chilly 56°F and can get as low as 33°F at night.

At a much higher elevation, Tuolumne Meadows experiences an average of 5 days of rain or snow, estimated at 3.1 inches, with temperatures ranging from 46°F to 21°F.

Although the temperatures are on the cooler side, it is warm enough for hiking the trails on the valley floor, and most days are dry enough to spend the day outside without getting soaked.

Driving to Yosemite in November

Unlike the much busier seasons of the year, driving to Yosemite in November can be a breeze, as long as you bring snow chains or drive an all-wheel drive vehicle with snow tires.

There’s virtually no traffic going to the park, and the long waits at the entrance are non-existent.

However, before you start your trip, keep yourself updated regarding road conditions, as you may have to adjust your trip and itinerary in case of emergency closures. 

This can be a frequent occurrence this time of the year with avalanches, mudslides, and snowstorms.

Take note that Tioga Road is closed by September so if you’re coming from Southern California, plan on taking the longer route.

Hwy 140 remains open all year round, but some sections may be subject to snow chain restrictions, so make sure to be aware and prepare for a longer trip.

• Tire Chains

Tire chains are required by federal regulations and state law when traveling to and through Yosemite. 

Chains help your car have better traction to avoid slippage and accidents when driving on snowy and icy roads. 

When renting a car, be aware that most companies will not provide chains with the rental, so you will have to obtain it from third-party providers. 

If you don’t have any tire chains in your possession, you can easily buy from communities near the park. 

🚗 If you need to rent an all-wheel drive, you can find the best deals on car rentals at RentalCars.com

• Road Closures

Tioga road and Glacier Point road are typically closed due to snow which usually start around November and lasts til around May or June. 

However, road closures may be in effect earlier and last even later, depending on weather conditions. 

To get the most up-to-date information, check the National Park Service’s website before you plan to visit.

📍 Are you flying in to visit Yosemite? Read this helpful post on the nearest airports to Yosemite.

Hiking in Yosemite in November

Hiking in Yosemite in November can be very exhilarating and challenging at the same time.

The sun may be out during your entire visit, but when visiting the park in November, you must prepare for unpredictable weather, including rain and snow.

You might be enjoying a sunny yet cool day hike, only to find yourself wet and cold in the afternoon.

These conditions can be dangerous if you are not prepared.

Most of the trails on the Yosemite Valley floor and in the Hetch Hetchy Valley remain open and accessible in November.

The best part is you can find parking spaces near the trailheads.

To be prepared, have warm clothes, waterproof gear, trekking poles, traction devices for your shoes, a GPS, and a paper map to be on the safe side.

You can see our recommended packing list here.

Yosemite Valley Floor

The Yosemite Valley Floor, at 4,000 feet, remains very accessible to hike and explore in November compared to Tuolumne Meadows, which is at an elevation of 8,600 feet and is usually closed by November. 

Most of the Valley’s trails are snow-free during November except right after a snowstorm.

You may see some snow and small patches of ice on the trails and pathways.

The valley floor provides easy access to enough of Yosemite’s best attractions to keep you entertained during your trip.

If you’re not too keen on braving the more challenging hikes in the area, you can try several short and easy day hikes, such as the Lower Yosemite Falls trail, Cook’s Meadow, and Mirror Lake Loop.

• Lower Yosemite Falls – 1 mi loop, 50 ft elevation gain
• Vernal Falls Footbridge – 1.6 mi out & back, 400 ft elevation gain
• Mirror Lake – easy to moderate 2-mile hike to the lake and back, and 5 miles for the entire loop, 100 ft elevation to lake/200 ft elevation gain for the entire loop
• Cook’s Meadow – 1 mi flat loop
• Valley Loop Trail – an easy to moderate 10.5-mile hike for the half-loop and 21.1 miles round trip for the entire loop that is mostly flat.

Hetch Hetchy

Due to its relatively low elevation, Hetch Hetchy has one of the longest hiking seasons in the park.

Hiking the Hetch Hetchy Valley’s trails are usually fully accessible throughout November.

Located a little over an hour’s drive from Yosemite Valley’s Visitor Center, this dammed reservoir area is another excellent place to explore while you’re in the park. 

The entrance to Hetch Hetchy is only open from 8 AM to 5 PM, which is still plenty of time to explore its trails, though you might have to strategically plan your hikes depending on how much of the area you want to experience.

• Lookout Point – 2.7 mi out & back, 541 ft elevation gain
• Wapama Falls – 4.6 mi out & back, 954 ft elevation gain
• Rancheria Falls – 13.4 miles out & back, 2,618 ft elevation gain

Mariposa Grove

Another great attraction located just an hour’s drive from Yosemite Valley’s Visitor Center is Mariposa Grove.

Home to Yosemite’s giant redwood trees, the blanket of snow covering its grounds makes this place almost postcard-like.

The Mariposa Road doesn’t usually close until the end of November, and there is a free shuttle that runs from Yosemite to the grove.

If the road closes earlier due to snow, you can hike the 2-miles to the grove, which entails a 500 ft elevation gain.

This trek makes for a fun snowshoeing experience for those who want to brave the snow.  

• Grizzly Giant Loop Trail – 2 mi loop, 383 ft elevation gain

Backpacking in Yosemite in November

If you’ve been to the park during other seasons, you will find that its landscape changes dramatically after the first snowfall.

Backpacking in Yosemite in November provides a great new way to experience the park, but with this comes more dangerous conditions and a need for more experience and preparation.

Unless you are experienced at snow camping and using skis or snowshoes, your options can be limited to just the trails in Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and Hetch Hetchy. 

The National Park Service has included some guidelines on their website that you can read here.

Things to do in Yosemite in November

Even though the upper elevations of the park are closed for the season, there are still plenty of activities in Yosemite in November.

Plus, the majority of the crowds are gone for the season, so you won’t have to wade through a sea of tourists to get to the attractions.

Go for a hike

You will have to do additional research, and you might even have to pack some extra gear.

However, hiking in Yosemite in November is limited only by the snow and your willingness to plan ahead and explore.

Trailheads in lower elevations, such as those in the Valley Floor and Hetch Hetchy, are open and easily accessible. 

In comparison, some trailheads in higher elevations will require you to have expertise with snowshoes and experience in winter alpine conditions. 

Explore the Valley Floor on a bike

Due to its relatively low elevation, much of the Valley Floor is open and accessible for bike riding, especially during early November.

You will have to bring your own bike as the two locations where you can rent a bike in the park close for the season on October 30th each year.

Keep your speeds low and ride extra carefully, as there can be patches of black ice and snow.

Take in the Tunnel View without the crowds

Tunnel View is one of the most popular stops in the entire park, with a unique perspective of the length of Yosemite Valley.

This lookout point allows visitors to have uninterrupted views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Falls and is a popular spot for amateur and professional photographers.

When visiting Yosemite in November, don’t forget to drop by and enjoy this spot, with a chance that you might have it all to yourself.

See the Giant Sequoias in Mariposa Grove

Depending on the weather and what dates in November you plan to visit, you can still visit the majestic Giant Sequoias in Mariposa Grove. 

How you get there may vary from an easy ride in a shuttle to a snowshoeing adventure. 

The only way you can drive and park near the grove is if you have a disability placard or license plate. 

For all others, you can ride the free shuttle from Yosemite Valley until the end of November if road conditions are good. 

If the road closes early, you might have to snowshoe your way up the two-mile trek.

Take advantage of this opportunity to see the giant sequoias surrounded by a blanket of snow that contrasts the tree’s large reddish-brown trunks. 

Visit Hetch Hetchy

With the longest hiking season in the area, you are sure to find a few amazing trails to hike in Hetch Hetchy Valley.

The reservoir and its surrounding landscape are strikingly beautiful, with trails that take you to great viewpoints overlooking the park.

Just remember, Hetch Hetchy Road is narrow, windy, and only open from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Have a picnic at the Swinging Bridge picnic area

The Swinging Bridge Picnic Area is another popular spot in the park that you’ll most likely be able to enjoy just as much during a November visit.

During the summer, it’s usually packed with people spreading out for a picnic on the sandy beach of the Merced River while taking a dip in its cool waters. 

However, if you’re visiting during November, you’re sure to have plenty of room to spread out and take in the stunning views of Yosemite Falls without all the crowds.

The water will be too chilly to swim, but a picnic will be a nice and tranquil way to enjoy a little time in nature.

Stop by the Yosemite Museum & Ansel Adams Gallery

If there’s one attraction in the park that’s sure to be open all year round, it would be the Yosemite Museum and Ansel Adams Gallery.

Learn more about the area’s history, and take in the Indian Cultural Exhibit at the museum.

This is a great way to get back indoors for a bit while still appreciating the beauty and history of Yosemite National Park.

Take a soak in a hot tub

Nothing caps off a cold day of exploring Yosemite like a good soak in a hot tub.

After a day of trekking in the snow or doing some snowshoeing, warm your bones in the hot tub at one of the area’s lodges or hotels. 

These are a few of the best options for where to stay near Yosemite that offer a hot tub for their guests.

For more recommendations on where to stay, you can read this section.

You should book your stay at one of these locations:

• Yosemite View Lodge
• Rush Creek Lodge (free s’mores, anyone?)
• Evergreen Lodge at Yosemite

Guided Tours in Yosemite in November

Yosemite Full-Day Tour from San Francisco (Small Group)

• Trip Duration: Full Day (14-15 hours)
• Pick-up Locations: Hilton Union Square Hotel and Dublin BART station

Are you visiting Yosemite from San Francisco? This small group full-day tour is perfect for you, especially if you are not a fan of large group tours. 

With no more than 13 people per group, you’ll be able to explore the park with an English-speaking tour guide.

Depending on the weather and accessibility, you’ll go on a 1.5-hour hike to see the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. 

You will also enjoy the views of El Capitan and Half Dome from Tunnel View and take amazing photos without the struggle that comes with big groups.

You can see more tours from San Francisco here.

📍 READ MORE: We have put together a comprehensive post on the best ways to get to Yosemite from San Francisco without a car. If you’re going on a road trip to Yosemite from SF, read this. If you’re coming from Sacramento, read this post.

Yosemite Guided Bus Tours

• Tour Duration: 2 hours

This 2-hour tour of the Yosemite Valley Floor is led by highly knowledgeable tour drivers that is offered all year round. 

In the colder months, you’ll be able to see the highlights of the valley floor in a comfortable heated motor coach with large windows. Click here for more information.

Self-Guided Audio Tour

For those who would rather explore Yosemite on their own but would still love to learn about fun facts and local tips about the park, then this self-guided audio tour is a great option. 

For under $10, you can listen to this entertaining audio guide while driving around the park or hiking at your own pace.

How many days do you need in Yosemite?

To say that Yosemite is huge is an understatement. 

With numerous trails, large granite monoliths, beautiful falls, and just so much nature to offer its visitors, it’s best to spend at least two full days exploring the park.

If you have more time to spare or want to explore more of the park, plan to spend at least 3 to 4 days here.

Where to Stay in Yosemite in November

You won’t have to book six months in advance when looking for where to stay in Yosemite in November like you would during the summer months. 

You can usually book a room at one of the park’s most iconic hotels on short notice in November, and you can enjoy views of the valley right from your hotel balcony.

Stay Inside the Park

Curry Village 

With a combination of simple rustic rooms to canvas tent cabins, the Curry Village is the most reasonably priced option in the park. 

The rooms and tents are on the park’s eastern end and have convenient access to concessions and the ice skating rink that opens around mid-November.

Yosemite Valley Lodge 

Yosemite Valley Lodge is in the ideal location right in the middle of the valley, where you can enjoy views of the granite peaks from your hotel balcony. 

The surrounding facilities offer everything from casual to upscale dining, and there is even a cocktail lounge with pub bites.

The Ahwahnee

This iconic Yosemite hotel offers views of some of the park’s most majestic attractions, including Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. 

They offer the best accommodations and the nicest restaurant in the park that come along with the highest price for a room in the valley.

Where to Stay near Yosemite

Some of the best options for accommodations are outside of the park, where there are more services like restaurants and opportunities for shopping for supplies. 

These hotels will require a daily drive into the park but are often more convenient and a cheaper option.

Rush Creek Lodge (free s’mores all day!)

Located just outside of the Big Oak Flat park entrance is this highly-rated hotel that offers everything from multiple dining options to a game room for the kids. 

This hotel’s convenient location and high-end amenities will make your nights as fun as your days in the park. 

Relax in one of their two hot tubs and enjoy a glass of wine by the outdoor fireplace,

⭐ Rush Creek Lodge Reviews 9.0/10 Stars

The resort is a really nice getaway from the rest of the world tucked away in the trees. The staff were very friendly and helpful upon arrival and throughout our stay.

– Josephine (Booking Review)

Yosemite Bug Mountain Resort 

This rustic cabin resort is located 15 minutes from the amenities in Mariposa and 30 minutes from the western entrance to the park at Arch Rock. 

The rooms are affordable but basic, but the property is charming and super laid back, which is perfect after a long day of exploring the valley.

⭐ Yosemite Bug Mountain Resort Reviews (8.0/10 Stars)

Great atmosphere and nice setting in the woods. The spa was great. The cafe was great as well.

– Mark (Read more reviews)

Mountaintop Retreat with Hot tub 

Some of the best options near the park are vacation rentals where you can escape the crowds and make yourself at home. 

This beautiful property offers sweeping views and a hot tub where you can soak your tired legs after hiking or climbing in the park.

As an added bonus, this cabin rental near Yosemite is dog-friendly.

⭐ Mountaintop Retreat with Hot Tub Reviews (4.5/5 Stars)

Beautiful Mountain View’s whilst sitting in Hot tub! It was all wonderful, that’s all I got to say about that!

-John (Read more reviews)

Camping in Yosemite in November

Most of the valley’s camping options close for the winter, but four campgrounds stay open year-round for those hardcore outdoor enthusiasts. 

If you don’t mind the cold and you have the proper gear, feel free to enjoy the campgrounds without the crowds.

Camping inside Yosemite Park

• Upper Pines – Located on the valley floor near Curry Village, this large campground is perfect if you want access to a hot meal or other park amenities.

• Camp 4 – This is the iconic camping area popular with climbers staying in the park all year.

• Wawona – This campground is located very close to the Wawona Hotel, which might be where people quickly move to if a storm rolls into the valley.

• Hodgdon Meadow – This campground sits at a lower elevation than the valley, which means it stays a little warmer yet is still close enough to Yosemite’s attractions. 

Tips for Visiting Yosemite National Park in November

1. Check the weather ahead of time

The weather in Yosemite is unpredictable, especially in November, with cold winds out of the upper elevations and sudden snow and rainstorms. 

Check the weather before and during your trip to the park, and carry snow chains in your car.

2. Dress for the occasion 

Remember, you are going somewhere that can get very cold and wet, so it is important that you layer up and bring a waterproof jacket. 

Wear thermal base layers, and don’t forget to bring some gloves and a beanie to keep your extremities nice and warm. 

3. Pack the proper gear

Whether you are just planning to go on a day hike or backpacking, make sure to pack more than what you think you need, especially during the colder winter months. 

Have a checklist of all the necessary gear, and make sure to pack survival items like a bivy sack in case you get hurt or lost and have to stay out overnight. 

It’s better to be over-prepared than find yourself in a dangerous situation.

4. Download the NPS app

The NPS app can be your guide to your Yosemite adventure. 

It’s equipped with all the necessary information that you will need to help make your trip as seamless and hassle-free as possible. Download it and make sure to check it often.

5. Be smart and know when to call it quits.

Spending time outdoors during the winter in Yosemite can be dangerous if you don’t know when to call it a day or turn around on the trail. 

Always air on the side of safety and throw in the towel, especially when it starts to get dark or if a sudden rainstorm leaves you soaking wet. 

6. Be mindful of the elevation.

Yosemite National Park’s elevation can go as low as around 2,000 feet to as high as 13,000 feet. 

Though you probably won’t be able to go anywhere near the park’s higher elevations in November, you should still be mindful of the change, especially when hiking. 

Stay hydrated and listen to what your body is telling you.

7. Start your activities early in the day

During the winter months, days are a lot shorter, and the nights get really cold. 

Start your adventures early to ensure that you have enough time to explore and that you are safely back at your accommodation before it’s dark. 

8. Consider renting an AWD vehicle (all-wheel drive)

Why go through the hassle of installing chains when you can rent an all-wheel drive vehicle with all-terrain tires? 

You can comfortably and safely get to destinations in the park without having to freeze your hands installing and removing chains. 

Not only is it easier, but an all-wheel drive vehicle is much safer in snowy and icy conditions. 

What to wear and pack for Yosemite in November

The weather in November in Yosemite can be very unpredictable, with cold winds blowing down from the upper elevations and the occasional snowstorm. 

It’s important to come prepared, so you don’t get stuck in your room or freeze out on the trail. 

Make sure to pack plenty of warm clothes that layer well so you can adjust to the changing temperatures, and bring a waterproof jacket as rain is often in the forecast.

• National Park Pass – If you plan on visiting at least 2-3 National Parks in a year, then it’s worth it to get this $80 America the Beautiful Pass. You’ll get access to over 2000 federal recreation sites, including all national parks for an entire year. Get it from REI.

• Trail shoes with good grip (Her, Him) – The conditions on the trails can vary from loose gravel to ice patches. It’s critically important to ensure you have a proper pair of trail shoes with amazing grip.

• Merino Wool Sweater (Her, Him) – This base layer is perfect for not only keeping you warm but it is also great at fending off odors. This is a must for cold-weather layering.

• Merino Wool Socks (Her, Him) – These iconic socks are warm, breathable, and come with an industry-leading warranty. They protect your feet with soft cushioning and Merino wool’s legendary odor resistance.

• Trekking Pants (Her, Him) – These pants started as climbing pants and quickly became beloved as the perfect hiking pants for their four-way stretch and durable but lightweight construction.

• Fleece-lined Leggings  – These comfortable and warm leggings can be worn on their own or as a base layer for those extra cold days.

• Rain Jacket (Her, Him) – When there is a chance that you will be in inclement conditions on the trail, it’s important that you have a rain jacket you can trust to keep you dry. 

• Gloves, beanies, scarves/buffs – These are the essentials for keeping your extremities nice and warm when the temperatures drop out on the trail or while you are in camp.

• Headlamp – When you are camping or out on the trails, you need to keep your hands free and have your path lit to keep you safe.

• Daypack – Having a proper backpack will help you carry all the essentials without feeling the weight on your shoulders. These hiking backpacks for women are a good list to start.

• Winter Traction devices for shoes – When the trails get slick with snow and ice, it doesn’t mean that you can’t hike. These traction devices will keep you upright and safe in most icy or snowy conditions.

• Trekking poles – For long hikes where you need to conserve energy and some extra stability, these trekking poles will help get you there in one piece.

• Roadside Emergency kit – You always want to be prepared, especially when driving in unpredictable weather conditions, so make sure to take this with you.

• Powerbank – When you need to keep your devices charged on the trail, you will need this palm-sized lightweight power bank, so you don’t have to miss a single picture or turn from your GPS.

• Trail Snacks – These are one of the best-tasting protein-rich snack bars on the market, and they are lightweight and pack plenty of energy without too much sugar. 

Yosemite Valley Quick Facts

• Fees: $35 per car, valid for 7 days

• Reservations: Currently not required

• Where to Stay: Yosemite View Lodge in El Portal or Yosemite Bug in Midpines for better availability.

• Getting there: The closest airport to Yosemite is Fresno Yosemite International which is 35 miles away. For the best flight deals, use Skyscanner to browse various airlines and prices.

• How to Get Around: Having your car is the easiest way to get around, especially if you’re visiting other nearby sights. Check RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars.

• Best Self-Guided Tour: This audio tour from GyPSy Guide provides engaging commentary to make your trip more fun and interesting at such an incredible price!

• Insider Tip: Make sure to get the America the Beautiful National Park Pass for only $80, which allows entry to over 400+ national park sites and is valid for an entire year. Get it from REI.

FAQs

Do you need a reservation for Yosemite in November?

No, you don’t need a reservation to visit Yosemite in November. The reservation system was implemented in the summers of 2020-2022 to reduce congestion, and a new plan is being developed to manage the increasing tourist numbers.

Is it too cold to visit Yosemite in November?

Yosemite in November comes with high temperatures averaging 56 degrees during the day and lows of 33 degrees Fahrenheit in the valley floor. The weather during November can be unpredictable, so it’s still good to be well prepared with extra warm and waterproof clothes.

Does it snow in Yosemite in November?

It is common for Yosemite to get some snow during November, especially in upper elevations.

The park’s valley floor sits at around 4000 feet of elevation, which gets much less snow in November.

Is Yosemite Falls dry in November?

The waterfalls in the park are at their lowest during the fall season, and Yosemite Falls often dries up entirely by November.

If it is flowing, it will be a much slower flow than during the late spring or early summer.

Wrap-Up: Yosemite in November

If there’s anything you should take out from reading this guide, it would be that a trip to Yosemite in November is the best time to visit.

Yes, there may be some limitations and restrictions, but you get to experience the park without all of the crowds and hot weather.

So, what are you waiting for? Start your planning and book your trip to Yosemite today!

Related:

• Lake Tahoe to Yosemite Road Trip
• Yosemite in March