IPW 2024

YOSEMITE IN A DAY: FALL EDITION

Experience the magic of fall in Yosemite, where cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and vibrant bursts of color await. Witness the captivating displays of Dogwoods, Big Leaf Maples, and Black Oaks as they paint the landscape with red, orange, and gold hues. While fall colors typically grace the park throughout October, they can begin as early as September and extend into November.

The scenic drive from the South Entrance to Tunnel View takes approximately one hour, traveling safely at 35 mph. Remember to pull over at turnouts to allow other vehicles to pass and remain vigilant for wildlife crossing the roadway.

Begin your adventure at the Visitors Center in Oakhurst and follow our suggested route of stops. If your journey starts later in the day, consider reversing the order for a seamless exploration of Yosemite's fall wonders

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Reservation Requirements

In 2024, Yosemite National Park introduced a reservation system to enhance the visitor experience, specifically targeting vehicles driving into (or through) Yosemite during certain dates and times between April 13 and October 27, 2024. This system aims to improve visitor flow during peak periods, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable visit.

The park remains open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. On the dates noted below, reservations are necessary to enter the park during peak hours from 5 am to 4 pm.

From April 13 to June 30, peak hour reservations are required on Saturdays and Sundays, and the holidays on May 27 and June 19.

From July 1 to August 15, peak hour reservations are required daily.

From August 16 to October 27, peak hour reservations are required on Saturdays and Sundays, and the holidays on September 2 and October 14.

Resources are available to assist in securing reservations or exploring alternative access options.

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias is at the South Gate Entrance of Yosemite National Park

The Mariposa Grove has over 500 mature giant sequoia trees and a variety of trails, from easy to strenuous and accessible. Some of the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove are approximately 2,000 years old. This impressive natural wonder was pivotal to the creation of Yosemite National Park and has been revered by the First Native People, followed by adventurers such as Galen Clark, John Muir, and Teddy Roosevelt.

How to Access The Grove

Park at Welcome Plaza and take the free shuttle to the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area. Note: The shuttle bus from the Welcome Plaza parking to the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area is weather-dependent. An early fall snow can temporarily close the road access. Visitors can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or hike into the Grove via the two-mile Washburn Trail when the road is closed.

Prepare for your Adventure

Wear a hat and good hiking shoes, and carry plenty of water. Drinking fountains and water refilling stations are at the Welcome Plaza and the Arrival Area.

Recommended Hikes

• Big Trees Loop Trail: 0.3-mile - EASY (1-2 hours). You will see many Giant Sequoias, including the Fallen Monarch, and interpretive panels on the life and ecology of Giant Sequoias.
• Grizzly Giant Loop Trail:2-miles - MODERATE (2-3 hours) Discover many more Giant Sequoia trees, including the Bachelor and Three Graces, the Grizzly Giant, and the California Tunnel Tree.
• Mariposa Grove Trail: 7-miles - STRENUOUS (4-6 hours) Other notable trees included are the Faithful Couple and Clothespin Tree. You can also visit Wawona Point and the Mariposa Grove Cabin along this route.

Accessibility

For those with a handicap placard, you can access parking at the Arrival Area and near the Grizzly Giant Tree. Restrooms are also available in these parking areas.

The beauty of Mariposa Grove is only the beginning of your Yosemite explorations. Buckle up. The next stop is not far away!

Explore the rich history and activities at one of the park's historic hubs:

 

Discover the charm of the Wawona Hotel, a distinguished National Historic Landmark and one of California's original mountain resort hotels.

 

Immerse yourself in the past at the Yosemite History Center, home to a fascinating array of historic buildings. Delve into the past as you explore the exteriors of these buildings and engage with informative interpretive signage that tells the story of the park's heritage.

 

Enjoy a stroll along the Meadow Loop Trail, a dog-friendly trail spanning 3.5 miles of flat terrain.

 

Experience the natural beauty of Chilnualna Falls with a moderately easy hike to the first cascade (2-mile round trip). For a more challenging adventure, trek to the upper cascades (8 miles round trip, 2,300 ft elevation gain).

 

Tee off at Wawona Golf Course, offering traditional ball and disc golf options. Reservations are required.

 

Indulge in a delightful dining experience at Wawona Hotel, often accompanied by live musical performances by Tom Bopp, a talented musician and Yosemite historian. Please note: The Wawona, after Thanksgiving, reopens for the Christmas holidays and then closes again until early spring.