See The Best Yosemite Fall Colors: Hiking and Viewpoints Guide

Where can you see fall colors in Yosemite National Park? We visited Yosemite in the first week of November and stumbled upon one of the best hiking trails for the best view, along with various spots that are amazing for seeing fall foliage.

Although most trees in California are evergreens, there are plenty of opportunities to see fall foliage in the mountains. It can be tricky to figure out the best time to visit, as each location has a different peak period. Hence, I hope to give you all the information you need to optimize your visit to Yosemite in fall.

There’s no better way to embrace the cooler seasons than to see the fall colors in Yosemite National Park. Here’s what you need to know in terms of the best months to visit, the weather to prepare for, and the amazing spots to enjoy Yosemite’s fall colors.

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About Yosemite in the fall

Fall colors are created when daylight hours reduce and temperatures fall, while the weather remains sunny and dry. Most of the fall color you’ll see in Yosemite is yellow because of the type of trees here, but colors throughout the park range from yellow to red or purple.

Here’s a quick summary of best spots for fall colors and where to stay.

Best month for fall colors in Yosemite

The timing of fall colors in Yosemite depends on the elevation, and the peak period varies with the weather in each year. Here’s a quick breakdown of the various locations and peak color timings.

• Yosemite Valley (4,000 ft): Late October to early November
• Glacier Point (7,000 ft): Early to mid October
• Tioga Pass (6,000 to 9,900 ft): Early October

In 2024, the best week to visit Yosemite Valley for peak colors in the fall was the first 2 weeks of November. This was rather late though, and usually the peak colors happen in the 2 weeks between October and November.

You can also check local foliage reports and various Yosemite webcams (if applicable) to time your trip perfectly.

How does Yosemite look in November?

When we visited in the first week of November, we were greeted by the vibrant foliage on our traffic-free drive into Yosemite Valley. Hiking up to higher elevation was a great idea as we could see patches of bright yellow dotting the valley. We also saw many photographers taking fall foliage pictures at various bridges over the Merced River.

However, due to an early snowstorm we couldn’t drive to Tioga Pass or Glacier Point Road. I guess that’s the potential trade-off for visiting Yosemite during fall.

What weather to expect in fall

Whenever we visit Yosemite in fall, we bring lots of layers because it gets cold really quickly as the sun sets. The weather varies significantly through the day, where temperatures can be at 30-40 F in the mornings and evenings, while having daytime highs of 60 F.

If you’re going camping, check out my guide on cold weather gear. For hikes, you can also take inspiration from my winter hiking gear guide.

It’s also common to have snow at higher elevation from November onwards, and early snowstorms are common. Hence, sometimes Tioga Pass and Glacier Point Road are closed temporarily when a storm passes through, so always check weather forecasts and road closures.

Do remember to carry chains for your tires – though you most likely won’t need to use it if you drive via the lower elevation Highway 140.

What to bring to Yosemite in fall

Clothing

• Wool base layers
• Mid layer
• Insulating outer layer
• Wool socks
• Rain jacket
• Beanie
• Gloves
• Neck warmer

Miscellaneous

• Portable phone charger
• Offline maps for hiking
• Snow chains (we use AutoSock)
• Hiking day pack
• Headlamp

For more tips and ideas of things to bring, check out my detailed Yosemite packing list so you don’t forget anything.

Where to stay near Yosemite in November

The most convenient place to stay when visiting Yosemite for fall colors is inside the park itself – in Yosemite Valley. However, if availability runs out you can also stay in nearby towns. Here are the best lodging options near Yosemite for a fall visit.

Best spots for fall colors in Yosemite

There are a wide variety of trees in Yosemite, which is what creates the splashes of red, orange, and yellow that we love to see in fall foliage. You’ll find the best fall colors in Yosemite where there are many of these types of trees:

• Quaking aspen (yellow)
• Dogwood (red)
• Maple (yellow, red)
• Black oak (orange, brown, yellow)
• Deer brush (yellow)
• White alder (yellow)
• Cottonwood (yellow)
• Poison oak (red, purple)

You can also refer to my custom Google map to help you see where everything is.

1. Southside Drive in Yosemite Valley

Southside Drive is the first introduction to Yosemite’s fall colors as you drive into the valley. You’re treated to splashes of yellow, red, and orange, all set against the backdrop of granite giants like El Capitan and Half Dome. If you’re not in a rush, you can stop at one of the turnouts to capture the scenery.

If you’re a photography enthusiast, stop at iconic spots like the Swinging Bridge area where the calm Merced River reflects the fall foliage. Another popular stop is Sentinel Bridge, where you can capture Half Dome behind some golden yellow trees. Yosemite Chapel also has some red maple leaves that are always a favorite.

2. Four Mile Trail to Glacier Point

Besides looking at Yosemite’s fall colors from the valley, why not hike up for a panoramic view? The Four Mile Trail is moderately challenging as it takes you from the valley floor to Glacier Point. It’s also one of the best hikes in fall because you’re surrounded by yellow leaves as you gain elevation.

While high elevation roads sometimes close due to early snow, this trail allows you to reach Glacier Point easily when winter is not yet in full swing. The reward at the top is a panoramic view of Yosemite Valley from Glacier Point, including landmarks like Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan.

Be sure to bring plenty of water, layers to take on and off easily, and microspikes in case part of the trail gets icy. For easy navigation, download the offline trail map before starting your hike.

3. El Capitan Meadow

El Capitan Meadow is a serene spot with warm hues during the fall season. We went there for sunrise once and watched the sun ray as it slowly hit the dawn wall of El Capitan. The cottonwoods and willows in the meadow turn a bright yellow color, in contrast to the surrounding smooth grey granite walls. You might also see some wildlife here when you visit on a quiet fall morning.

4. Valley View

Valley View is one of Yosemite’s most iconic spots, as it looks out to Bridalveil Fall across the Merced River. It’s a great spot for sunrise and during golden hour, and is another favorite among photographers. In fall, the river almost looks like a mirror as it reflects El Capitan with an array of fall colors in the distance.

5. Tioga Pass

Tioga Pass is the highest road in Yosemite with sections of it at around 9,500 feet elevation. It’s a stunning spot for fall foliage especially on the east side, and is a great chance to see the high country before the road closes for winter. In mid October, the aspen groves along Tioga Road showcase vibrant shades of yellow.

You could also still go hiking and see some stunning mountain lakes here, including Tenaya Lake. One of the hikes on my bucket list is Cathedral Lakes – which I’m sure will be beautiful in fall.

Conclusion

Just when I thought Yosemite couldn’t get any better, visiting in fall gave me a brand new appreciation of the diversity in the park. I encourage you to spend at least one full day here so that you can witness golden hour which really brings out the golden hues in the leaves.

You might even get a discount on your accommodation during this off-season, so it’s really a no-brainer to plan a trip in late October or early November. Perhaps instead of Halloween this year, why not spend the weekend in Yosemite to see the gorgeous fall colors?

If you can’t get enough of Yosemite after your fall trip, consider going back again in winter for another change in scenery.