Michael Hernandez
Winter Sports
Cross-Country Skiing and SnowshoeingSeveral marked winter trails are available, generally from mid-December through March. Yosemite Valley usually doesn't have sufficient snow for skiing or snowshoeing. Brochures (including maps) for each of the areas with winter trails are available as PDF files (200-500 kb in size).
In addition, the National Park Service offers ranger-led snowshoe walks from mid-December through March (conditions permitting). See Yosemite Guide for a schedule of current programs. Downhill Skiing and SnowboardingYosemite Ski & Snowboard Area (formerly Badger Pass) is home to the oldest downhill skiing area in California and offers downhill skiing and snowboarding from mid-December through March. Lessons, Equipment Rentals, and Lift TicketsYosemite Hospitality rents downhill and cross-country skis, snowboards, and snowshoes at the Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area. They also offers skiing and snowboarding lessons at the ski area. Snowshoes (but not skis) are also available for rent at the Crane Flat store. Snow Tubing and SleddingYosemite Hospitality offers snow tubing at the Yosemite Ski & Snowboard Area. While sledding is not allowed at the ski area, a snow play area at Crane Flat Campground is open in winter when enough snow is present. Ice SkatingAn outdoor ice skating rink in Yosemite Valley (at Half Dome Village, formerly Curry Village) is open from mid-November to mid-March. |