Winter in Yosemite

Yosemite is one of those national parks on countless bucket lists, and for good reason — it is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and some of the most iconic natural landmarks in the country. With almost 800,000 acres of wilderness, the park has an endless supply of things to do and see. But travelers often overlook this incredible California park as a wintertime destination.

While there is no guarantee of snow at Yosemite, it does see its fair share and you can be sure temperatures will drop during the winter months. When it does snow, however, the stunning landscapes are transformed and the outdoor adventures make it well worth the trip. Visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing to Glacier Point to experience unparalleled views of some of the park’s most noteworthy attractions, like Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. A can’t-miss activity for anyone looking for a little nostalgia is ice-skating at Curry Village, located just below Half Dome and Glacier Point. This outdoor rink lets you enjoy the crisp air while you take in incredible views of the landmarks looming above.

A great place to stay in the park during wintertime is the Ahwahnee, a picturesque lodge that plays to its natural surroundings. The lodge, listed as a National Historic Landmark, offers plenty of ways to entertain guests in addition to the incredible outdoor activities of the park. In January, for example, the lodge will host the Chef’s Holidays Winter Culinary Festival. This event gives guests an opportunity to watch renowned chefs in action with live cooking demonstrations and a five-course food-and-wine pairing meal — not to mention a mixer where you can meet and greet the chefs.