Welcome! I'm a mom of four, navigating family life in beautiful Folsom, California, and sharing our favorite local spots, events, and family adventures to help other families discover the endless fun our community has to offer.
Winter Wonderland in Yosemite: A Family Adventure (with a Few Glitches!)
NOTE: Reservations are required to drive into Yosemite on weekends and the holiday in February 2025
A reservation is required to drive into Yosemite 24 hours per day for visitors arriving February 8–9, February 15–17, and February 22–23, 2025.
Call 209/372-0200 (then 1, 1) for road conditions and current tire chain requirements.
I am ready to spill the tea (or should I say hot cocoa?) on our recent family trip to Yosemite National Park – in winter!
Now, I know what you're thinking: Yosemite in winter? With four kids, ages 3 to 14? Are you crazy? Well, get ready, because let me tell you, it was an amazing experience, even with a few unexpected twists.
We partnered with Travel Yosemite for this trip, and they hooked us up with a fantastic stay at the Yosemite Valley Lodge. Now, let's be honest, these aren't your typical fancy hotel rooms. Think rustic charm with a dash of "leave-the-electronics-at-home" kind of vibe. Wi-Fi is limited, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise! Travel Yosemite stocked our room with puzzles, board games, Legos, and coloring books, which kept the kiddos entertained for hours. Bonus points for the cozy patios overlooking the snowy scenery – perfect for a morning cup of coffee (courtesy of the in-room coffee maker) and some family bonding time.
Speaking of coffee, let's talk about food! We fueled up for our adventures at the Base Camp Eatery, a cafeteria-style haven for hungry hikers (and our hungry family!). It's a great place to grab a quick bite before hitting the trails. And yes, for those caffeine cravings, there's a Starbucks in the Yosemite Valley Lodge – lifesaver for bleary-eyed parents like me! For a more "fancy" dinner, we treated ourselves to The Mountain Room. The kids devoured their mac and cheese (it's legendary!), while Robert and I enjoyed some delicious California-inspired dishes. If you're looking for a truly magical experience, The Ahwahnee Dining Room offers a stunning self-serve Breakfast buffet – reservations are a must for this one!
Visit www.recreation.gov to check for reservation requirements. Don’t forget to check if reservations are required before you go! With the park’s popularity, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead to ensure you can experience the beauty of Yosemite without any surprises.
The roads can get icy and snowy, so make sure you’re prepared with tire chains, especially when conditions require them. While the park is stunningly peaceful under a blanket of snow, safety is key—so always check road conditions before you go!
Even if the roads are clear in the park - the roads can be full of snow and ice on the way into Yosemite National Park.
Be sure to grab a paper map before you head out—cell service is limited in the park, and you don’t want to get lost in its stunning wilderness! Having a physical map on hand will help you navigate the scenic routes and make the most of your adventure.
Now, about those "glitches" I mentioned earlier. We had planned on ice skating and a day of sledding at Badger Pass Ski Area, but Mother Nature had other plans. The weather threw us some curveballs – a last-minute ice skating cancellation and a road closure due to fallen trees meant we had to adapt. But guess what? That's part of the adventure!
Here's the thing about Yosemite in winter: it's a completely different experience than spring or summer, but trust me, it's still worth the trip. The crowds are smaller, the snowy scenery is breathtaking, and the crisp mountain air is invigorating. Just be sure to check the weather conditions before you go – things can change quickly. Also, remember that cell service can be spotty, so grab a map and download it offline just in case.
Built in 1927, the Yosemite Valley Lodge was designed to offer families a comfortable and unforgettable place to stay while exploring Yosemite National Park. Its prime location, just steps from the breathtaking Yosemite Falls, makes it the perfect spot for families to experience the park’s natural beauty up close.
In recent years, there have been efforts to preserve the historic charm of Yosemite Valley Lodge while updating the amenities to better suit families. These enhancements ensure that families can enjoy the lodge’s timeless appeal, with the comfort and conveniences needed for a memorable and stress-free stay.
Winter Wonderland for All Abilities:
Worried about the kiddos keeping up? Don't sweat it! Yosemite has plenty of easy hiking trails perfect for little legs. Lower Yosemite Fall Trail is a great option, offering stunning views without a steep climb. And remember, dress in layers! Winter in Yosemite can be chilly, but a good base layer and some warm clothes will keep everyone comfortable.
Accessibility for Everyone:
One of the things that impressed us most was Yosemite's incredible accessibility. My husband, Robert, recently had knee surgery (trampoline injury in the back yard - yes there is a blog post all about this), but navigating the park was a breeze. There's ample handicapped parking, and many areas are wheelchair accessible. The park also offers special access permits for vehicles with a disability placard. If you have specific accessibility needs, don't hesitate to ask the visitor center staff for a special access pass for your car.
Firefall: A Winter Spectacle
To witness the mesmerizing Firefall in Yosemite, you'll need to plan your visit for late February. This natural phenomenon occurs when the setting sun illuminates Horsetail Fall, creating a fiery orange cascade that looks like molten lava flowing down the cliff.
To catch this spectacular sight, park at the Yosemite Falls parking lot and embark on a 1.5-mile hike to the viewing area near El Capitan Picnic Area. If you are staying at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, you can walk straight from your room! Remember, this is a popular event, so arrive early to secure a good spot. You will not get lost as you just follow the sea of people all headed in the same direction on foot.
As the sun dips below the horizon, prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking beauty of the Firefall. Bundle up because it is COLD.
Don't forget to bring a wagon to transport your gear and snacks.
Winter Woes and Wonderful Surprises:
Look, winter travel throws curveballs sometimes. We actually didn't need our chains in our Ford Expedition Max during our visit, but it's always a good idea to be prepared and carry them just in case. Also, keep in mind that some entrances to the park close in winter – check the National Park Service website for current information. You can see the current webcams HERE.
The Ahwahnee dining room.
Eggs Benedict w/ Hollandaise Sauce
My son, Jordan at the breakfast buffet at The Ahwahnee.
Hot chocolate is NOT on the menu - but, they do have it if you ask.
Stoneman Wagyu Burger • 8oz Wagyu beef, Monterey jack cheese, bacon-poblano jam, lettuce, heirloom tomato, caramelized onion, gherkin, brioche bun, fries
Eggnog Crème Brûlée - warm spices, bourbon, sherry
Filet Mignon 6 oz. Featuring hand-cut local Brandt California beef. All steaks are served with roasted garlic Yukon gold mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and demi-glace
Rainbow Trout • Dried California peach-ginger mint chutney, Aztec rice blend, seasonal vegetables
PB&J Served With Kettle Chips
Shirley Temple's for the kids!
The Ahwahnee Bar. My son, Alex and myself.
Our Dining Experiences in Detail:
The Mountain Room at the Yosemite Valley Lodge was a delightful surprise. While most dining options in Yosemite are cafeteria-style and can be quite noisy, especially with kids, the Mountain Room offers a more refined and peaceful dining experience.
The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating, making us feel welcome from the moment we walked in. The atmosphere is elegant and cozy, perfect for a family dinner after a long day of exploring.
While we did have our kids with us, the restaurant's ambiance allowed us to enjoy a relatively quiet and relaxing meal. The attentive service and delicious food made it a memorable dining experience. We did what any mom of four would do: we let the kids play games on our phones and shared an iPad for the little ones to keep them entertained.
If you're looking for a more upscale dining option in Yosemite, I highly recommend making a reservation at the Mountain Room. You will need to check their menu for current pricing.
The Ahwahnee Bar is a charming spot for a casual lunch. Located within the historic Ahwahnee Hotel, the bar offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
We had a short wait for a table, but the friendly staff made it worthwhile. The service was efficient and our waiter was attentive, even with a full house.
The food was surprisingly affordable for a park restaurant. We particularly enjoyed the giant pretzel, which was the perfect snack to share with the family. The beer cheese dip was the perfect complement to the soft, warm pretzel.
If you're looking for a more relaxed dining experience than a full-service restaurant or the cafeteria-style Base Camp Eatery, the Ahwahnee Bar is a great option.
The breakfast buffet at The Ahwahnee is a must-try. With a wide variety of options, there's something to satisfy every palate. From classic breakfast favorites like eggs Benedict and bacon to healthier choices like vegan sweet potato scramble and fresh fruit, the buffet offers a delicious and satisfying start to your day.
We particularly enjoyed the oatmeal bar, where we could customize our bowls with nuts, seeds, and dried berries. The yogurt bar was also a hit, with a variety of fresh fruits and granola. And let's not forget the bagel bar, with its assortment of spreads and fresh-squeezed juice.
If you're planning to dine at The Ahwahnee, be sure to make a reservation well in advance, especially for breakfast. Adults $32.00 Children $14.50 (price as of 2024)
For a more affordable dining option, Base Camp Eatery is a good choice. This cafeteria-style eatery offers a variety of food, from classic American fare like burgers and hot dogs to more international dishes like chicken teriyaki and gyros.
While the food is decent, the atmosphere can be a bit chaotic, especially during peak hours. The crowds of hikers can make it difficult to navigate, especially with a large family.
If you're looking for a quick and easy meal, Base Camp Eatery is a convenient option. It was just a short walk from our rooms at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, making it a convenient option for breakfast with our family.
Who would have thought you'd find a Starbucks inside Yosemite National Park? While it might seem out of place, it's a convenient option for caffeine lovers.
Be prepared for higher prices than your local Starbucks, but the convenience of having a familiar coffee shop in such a stunning location is hard to beat.
While the coffee was good, the customer service was a bit disappointing. The unprofessional manner and a few other things I will not mention here - made this the worse customer service in Yosemite.
Despite the service, the Starbucks inside Yosemite is a popular spot, especially in the mornings. If you're a coffee enthusiast and don't mind the higher prices, it's a great place to grab a cup of coffee.
Winter Pricing and Lodging:
One of the perks of visiting Yosemite in winter? Lower prices! Many of the hotels inside the park, like the Yosemite Valley Lodge, offer winter discounts. Just remember that some hotels and facilities close during the winter months, so be sure to check availability before you book.
Here's a rough estimate of winter lodging prices inside Yosemite:
- Yosemite Valley Lodge: This is where we stayed. It's a great option for families, with connecting rooms available. Expect to pay around $200-$300 per night.
- The Ahwahnee: This historic hotel is a luxurious option, but it's also the most expensive. Prices can range from $400 to over $1,000 per night.
- Curry Village: This is a more budget-friendly option, with cabins and tent cabins available. Prices typically start around $100 per night.
The stone entrance to the Ahwahnee Hotel is a distinctive and historic feature that plays a key role in the hotel's overall architectural design and its connection to Yosemite National Park.The Ahwahnee Hotel, which opened in 1927, was designed by Gilbert Stanley Underwood, a renowned architect who was also responsible for designing other prominent buildings in national parks, such as the Zion Lodge in Utah and Grand Canyon Lodge in Arizona. The stone entrance, like the rest of the hotel, was carefully maintained over the years.
The Ahwahnee Hotel opened just before Prohibition (1920-1933), when alcohol was banned in the U.S. Despite this, the hotel continued to operate, and the Ahwahnee Bar cleverly skirted the rules by serving non-alcoholic drinks that mimicked cocktails or offering alcohol in disguised forms. The bar became a popular gathering spot for guests seeking a private, exclusive place to enjoy a drink in Yosemite’s stunning surroundings.
How to get to Yosemite National Park
Big Oak Flat Entrance: This is the most popular entrance, located on Highway 120. It provides access to Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, and the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias.
Arch Rock Entrance: Also on Highway 120, this entrance leads directly to Yosemite Valley.
South Entrance: Located on Highway 41, this entrance provides access to Mariposa Grove, home to giant sequoia trees.
Tioga Pass Entrance: This entrance is on Highway 120 and is typically closed during the winter months due to snow. It provides access to Tuolumne Meadows and other high-elevation areas.
The fireplaces at the Ahwahnee Hotel are among the most striking and unique features of this historic landmark. These massive fireplaces, particularly in the hotel's Great Lounge and Dining Room, are not just functional; they are architectural marvels designed to complement the grandeur and scale of the building.
The large rocks around Mirror Lake are one of the most iconic and beautiful features of this scenic area. Also great to climb on!
Ways to Get into Yosemite:
Driving: The most common way to enter Yosemite is by car. However, please note that during peak seasons, especially in the summer, it's advisable to have a reservation to enter the park. Tire chains are often required on park roads. in the winter. When they are, you must carry and know how to use them, regardless of the type of vehicle you are driving.
YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System): This bus service provides transportation to Yosemite Valley from various locations, including Merced, Fresno, and Mammoth Lakes.
Tour Bus: Many tour companies offer bus tours to Yosemite, providing transportation and guided tours.
Winter road closures in Yosemite
Tioga Road (CA 120 inside the park) is closed during the winter, specifically from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass. You cannot drive a vehicle on this road once it closes for winter.
Glacier Point Road is mostly closed in the winter. It does open in mid-December for vehicles to drive to Badger Pass Ski Area, which is the starting point for snowshoeing or nordic skiing adventures along Glacier Point Road, or downhill skiing at Badger Pass.
Mariposa Grove Road also closes in the winter. There is a large parking lot where you can park your car and hike or snowshoe the Washburn Trail 2 miles (one way) to reach the entrance of Mariposa Grove.
Important Note: Always check the latest information on park closures, road conditions, and reservation requirements before your visit, as these can change frequently. You can find the most up-to-date information on the National Park Service website or by contacting the park directly. Call 209/372-0200 (then 1, 1) for road conditions and tire chain requirements.
Did you know? The dam was removed in 1930 by the National Park Service as part of efforts to restore the lake's natural state. While the dam no longer exists, its legacy remains a part of Mirror Lake's history, reflecting the balance between development and conservation in Yosemite.
Mirror Lake remains one of the most visited and photographed locations in Yosemite National Park. It is a popular stop for visitors who want to capture the beauty of Yosemite’s landscape, especially the reflections of Half Dome and the surrounding granite cliffs. It is easy to experience Mirror Lake. The Mirror Lake Trail, a relatively easy, family-friendly 2-mile round-trip hike that takes you from the Yosemite Valley floor to the lake.
The Base Camp Building was right across the parking lot from our rooms at the Yosemite Valley Lodge.
Weather:
Winter in Yosemite is snowy and cold, though sunny and chilly days are not uncommon.
Yosemite Valley & Wawona (4,000 ft / 1,200 m): 53°F (12°C) / 28°F (-2°C)
In its early history, Mirror Lake was originally called “Mirror Pond” in some maps and early writings, but it was later officially designated as Mirror Lake. Mirror Lake is a glacially-formed lake
Restrooms are conveniently located in popular areas such as Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, Tuolumne Meadows, and along major trailheads. You will find flush toilets and vault toilets. plan ahead and familiarize yourself with restroom locations, particularly if you're venturing on longer hikes or into more secluded areas.
Yosemite Valley typically receives about 30 to 60 inches (76 to 152 cm) of snow annually. The snowiest months are usually December through March, with the heaviest snowfall often occurring in January and February.
Ready for your Yosemite Winter Adventure?
This trip was a true family adventure, filled with laughter, exploration, and a few unexpected twists. We learned to embrace the unexpected and appreciate the beauty of Yosemite in a whole new way. Have questions about our trip? Shoot me an email at family@raising4harrisons.com! We also have a blog post on visiting Yosemite in the summer you can check out.
My Amazon Store with things we use on our travels HERE
Disclaimer:
This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products that I personally believe in and think will add value to my readers. Thank you for supporting this blog!
Credit for the info (that I honestly did not know) for this blog:
National Park Service. Yosemite National Park: History and Culture. National Park Service, www.nps.gov/yose/learn/historyculture/index.htm. Accessed 10 Dec. 2024.
Yosemite Conservancy. Yosemite: The Park and Its Resources. Yosemite Conservancy, 2021.
Fodor’s Travel Guides. Fodor’s In Focus Yosemite & Sequoia National Parks. Fodor’s Travel, 2019.
History of the Ahwahnee Hotel. Yosemite News. 18 Nov. 2015, www.yosemitenews.com/ahwahnee-history. Accessed 10 Dec. 2024.
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