Teacher Resources: Visiting the Park

When planning your field trip, keep in mind the changing seasons, for timing of your visit will affect many aspects of your plans: weight of clothing, camping possibilities, the need for tire chains, and what you can see and do. Wear layered clothing: a jacket, sweater, long sleeved shirt and long pants. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and rain gear.

Visiting the Park
Not Visiting the Park

Before You Arrive | When You Arrive | Helpful Resources | Maps | Teaching Recommendations

Before You Arrive: Weather

Weather in the Sierra Nevada can change rapidly in any season. Elevation plays a major role in temperature and precipitation variability. The higher you go, the colder and more changeable the weather. Tire chains must be carried October through June and may be required at any time during these months. November and June are both transitional months when warm sunny days can suddenly become stormy. Although summers in the Sierra are known for their sunny days, it is not unusual for clouds to suddenly build up, creating a downpour that can last a few hours or possibly several days.

The Tioga Road (Highway 120 East) and the Glacier Point Road are closed by snow each winter. These two roads generally close for the season with the first major snowstorm after November 1 and reopen by Memonal Day weekend (conditions permitting). The Glacier Point Road is plowed to the Badger Pass Ski Area during the winter. The Mariposa Grove Road is also subject to closure due to snow.

Average Precipitation and Temperatures in Yosemite Valley (4,000 Ft)

Note: temperatures drop an average of 3.5 degrees for each 1,000 foot gain in elevation.

Call the Yosemite road & weather 24-hour updated tape before you travel:
(209) 372-0200.

Useful links to help plan your visit:

Resource Education Fee Waivers | Permit Application | Educational Visits