Located at about 4000 feet Yosemite Valley has some other parts of the park at much higher elevations. During the summer the weather can be quite warm and dry, but nights may be cool. And in winter, it can be quite cold with frequent snowfalls that sometimes create hazardous driving conditions. From November through May Tioga Pass and the higher elevations of the park are normally closed due to heavy snow accumulation. You may enjoy the warmest weather in summer but it is also the busiest tourist season. There is heavy runoff of snow melt in spring, but this season offers the most spectacular waterfall show. A scenic time to visit is fall with its multicolored foliage and usually pleasant weather. Often in winter you may enjoy some beautiful snow covered landscapes. But any season you choose to visit Yosemite, it is wise to take a variety of clothing that can be layered to match changing weather conditions.

Admission fee to Yosemite Park cost $10 per person or $20 per vehicle for a 7-day permit. The gem of the park is Yosemite Valley and you should certainly visit this exquisitely beautiful natural attraction.

The granite walls of El Capitan rise near the entry to Yosemite Valley for about 3000 feet in sheer vertical splendor.

At the southern entry to Yosemite National Park Mariposa Grove near Wawona contains a magnificent stand of giant Sequoia trees. The 300 feet tall trees with trunks up to 30 feet in diameter are well worth visiting.
Tioga Pass Road leads to beautiful alpine meadows and panoramic vistas of the valley and the surrounding mountain peaks. There are two lodges and a number of High Sierra Camps in the park service along this road.