Any list of national parks to visit in northern California would be incomplete without Yosemite National Park. It’s one of the most visited national parks in the country. It’s no secret that this place holds some of the most mind-blowing, awe-inspiring beauty in America, maybe even thew hole world. It’s about as far from a hidden gem as you can get. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t some little-known secrets about this popular park. One of them is this: Yosemite is even more spectacular in the winter. Peak season for visiting this park typically lies between Memorial Day and Labor Day. But come winter, this beautiful destination transforms into something truly extraordinary that you won’t want to miss.

Make no mistake about it, there's not really a bad time to visit the natural wonder that is Yosemite National Park. However, winter in Yosemite is definitely underrated. Check out how spectacular it appears blanketed in frost and snow.
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Winter is the season of snow and solitude in Yosemite, and yes, it's as dreamy as it sounds. Winter is a great time to visit this beautiful national park, as the tranquil beauty of Yosemite's landscape makes for a truly unforgettable experience. You'll feel like you stepped into a Christmas card.
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While some areas of the park, like Tioga Road and Glacier Point close down during winter, much of the park remains accessible year-round.
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Destinations that are regularly open to visitors and vehicles during winter include Yosemite Valley and Wawona. They are as stunning as ever during this time of year.

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Seeing Yosemite Valley all covered in pristine white snow is a real treat.
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Of course, water levels are typically low during winter, but there are still some waterfalls that are nearly always flowing, such as Bridalveil Fall and Yosemite Falls.
And there's still plenty to do during the winter season! Many trails in Yosemite Valley remain open and accessible to visitors. These are some of the best hiking trails in northern California, and hiking them when they're covered in snow is a novel experience.
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Trails to destinations like Lower Yosemite Falls, Mirror Lake, Columbia Rock, and the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias showcase the very best of the park's winter beauty.
The crowds at Yosemite are smaller during winter but you'll still experience some traffic in the park, especially close to the holidays. Still, the quiet beauty of Yosemite after a fresh snow is worth braving the minimal crowds and the frosty roads.
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Yosemite National Park knows how to make an impression no matter what time of year it is, but you simply haven't lived until you've seen it in winter. Make this winter season the year you finally experience it! Learn more about winter in Yosemite here.
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Have you visited Yosemite in the wintertime? Tell us about your favorite season for visiting this popular national park below! There’s truly no wrong answer. This place is one of the best national parks to visit in northern California, no matter what season it is.

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