10 Amazing Things To Do In Yosemite In December (Winter)

Yosemite National Park is breathtaking in all seasons, including winter time in December.

While most visitors flock to Yosemite during the warmer months, December is a great time to experience a whole other scenery. The park transforms into a winter wonderland, with snow capped granite surrounding you and around the meadows.

The first time I experienced Yosemite was during the winter season, and the winter snowscape was so magical that I knew I would come back again.

If you’re on the fence about whether to visit Yosemite in December, here are our suggestions on 10 amazing things you can do for the winter season, along with some tips. I’ve also put together a winter itinerary to help you plan a fun day in Yosemite.

Does it snow in Yosemite in December

It’s common to see snow in Yosemite, even in the lower elevation areas like Yosemite Valley. Because of that, high elevation areas like Glacier Point Road and Tioga Road are usually closed to drivers from November onwards.

Sometimes there are heavy snow storms in Yosemite, like the one in early 2023 that resulted in a record amount of snow. Hence, I recommend checking the weather forecast if you are planning to visit Yosemite in December. If heavy snow storms are expected, Yosemite might even be closed.

As for the temperature, you can expect temperatures between 21-40 F (-6 to 4 C) in December. In addition, the average rain or snowfall in December will be around 5.6 inches (142 mm). Make sure you pack according to the season so that you can really enjoy Yosemite.

Driving to Yosemite in December

Since high elevation roads (above 6,000 ft) like Highway CA-120 and CA-41 are more prone to snow, it’s recommended to take Highway CA-140 instead.

This is considered the all-weather route because of the lower elevation and will perhaps be less likely to require snow chains in December.

Alternatively, you can also look for tours that take you into Yosemite Valley.

Do you need snow chains for Yosemite in December?

Although we won’t know if snow chains will be required for any particular day, just bring them along. It’s also a good idea to check weather forecasts the day before.

You can check the road conditions outside the park by calling 800-427-7623 or by visiting the CalTrans website. For anything inside the park, call 209-372-0200.

Another common question that gets asked a lot is – Can I use snow chains on a rental car when I visit Yosemite in winter?

That’s because most rental companies prohibit the use of snow chains as part of their terms of service. Understandably, renters may ruin the tire system if they don’t put the chains on properly, or are using incorrect sizes.

Similarly, some cars’ manuals (e.g. Subaru) might state that snow chains should not be used, sometimes due to the lack of clearance. In this case, you are also stuck wondering how to drive to Yosemite in December.

Our recommendation: Drive an AWD/4WD fitted with snow tires

This article uses affiliate links where I make a small commission if you make a purchase through my links, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

In this case, you should still prepare snow chains, cables, or “socks“, that are suitable for your car in case a snow storm arrives just as you’re leaving the park. It’s best not to get stranded, right?

If there’s snow on the road in December, there are different types of conditions: R-1, R-2, or R-3. Each of these have different requirements for vehicles to comply with.

• R-1: If you vehicle has at least 2 mud and snow tires (“M+S” rating) and you have snow chains in the car, you don’t need to use snow chains.  
• R-2: You need AWD/4WD with only mud and snow tires in addition to having snow chains in the car, though you still don’t need to use snow chains.
• R-3: You are required to put on snow chains regardless of vehicle type. In that case, perhaps you are better off changing your travel plans for peace of mind.

Another commonly overlooked thing is that your tires need to have at least 6/32 inch deep thread for proper traction. Finally, do check out other tips on car rental in California if you’re planning to rent a car.

Where to stay in Yosemite in December

It’s always a magical experience to be able to stay inside Yosemite Valley during the December winter.

One of the best places to stay is The Ahwahnee, a gorgeous historic hotel that’s iconic in Yosemite. Another hotel you can consider is Yosemite Valley Lodge, which is near the meadows and Yosemite Falls where you can enjoy a relaxing walk.

Alternatively, if you’re driving Highway CA-140 to get into Yosemite, you can consider staying around El Portal, Midpines or Mariposa. Staying outside the park has its own perks, which you can read more about in this article about choosing where to stay in Yosemite.

If you’re coming with a big group, there are several vacation rentals outside the park that are perfect for a cosy winter holiday in December. One of them is Zen Yosemite at Mariposa that features 3 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a large outdoor balcony with a jacuzzi. For a unique glamping experience (think airstreams), you can consider AutoCamp Yosemite at Midpines.

In fact there are so many unique cabins you can rent for the holidays in California, and Yosemite never fails to amaze.

1. Snowshoe and skiing on the Glacier Point Road Winter Trails

Did you know that although the road to Glacier Point will be closed in winter (potentially from December onwards), you can still snowshoe and ski to Glacier Point? Starting from Badger Pass Ski Area, the Glacier Point Road has several winter trails you can explore:

Glacier Point Road: Best trail for beginners as ski tracks are set by machine, staying at Glacier Point Ski Hut may be possible

Old Glacier Point Road: Uphill before descending into Bridalveil/Peregoy Meadow

Dewey Point via Meadows #18 or #14: Winds through hills to end at a viewpoint of Yosemite Valley – read our experience here

Ostrander Lake: Overnight stay at Ostrander Ski Hut possible with a wilderness permit

Ghost Forest Loop: Loops around Bridalveil Creek Campground and through Ghost Forest

2. Ice skating at Curry Village Ice Rink

The Curry Village Ice Rink is a lovely outdoor skating rink in Yosemite Valley that is not only family-friendly but also festive especially in December. Who needs to go to New York for ice skating now? You can also sit by the fire pit and admire the Half Dome scenery from the valley floor.

An Ice Rink Ticket (good for 2 hours) costs $16 (adults) or $15 (children). You can also purchase a season pass for $150 (adults) or $100 (children). Depending on the weather conditions, the Curry Village Ice Rink is open from mid-November to mid-March.

3. Winter wonderland photography

December is a great time to visit Yosemite for epic photography opportunities. You can enjoy the views of meadows and granite cliffs covered in snow. over. It makes for a totally unique picture that most visitors in summer do not get to experience.

Winter in Yosemite also brings with it clouds and the potential for epic sunrise and sunset colors in the sky. Here are some suggestions for the best places and viewpoints for photography in Yosemite this December:

• Valley View
• El Capitan Bridge
• El capitan Meadow
• Tunnel View
• Cooks Meadow
• Yosemite Chapel
• Bridalveil Fall

4. Yosemite camping in December

Although it can be quite cold in December, it’s a fun time to try winter camping. So, which campgrounds are open in December? The only campgrounds that will be open at this time are Upper Pines, Camp 4, Wawona, and Hodgdon Meadow. Start your own campfire, make s’mores and play games into the night.

You can camp in a tent if you have warm enough sleeping gear which includes a sleeping pad and sleeping bag. You’ll need to prepare cold-weather camping gear with the appropriate temperature and insulation ratings. If this is your first time camping, check out this article on what to pack for a camping trip.

If you’re afraid of the cold but still want the camping experience, consider camping in a campervan or RV which you can rent from sites like Outdoorsy.com.

Read more: 5 Best Places In Northern California For Stunning Winter Camping

5. Yosemite Valley hiking in December

It’s still possible to go hiking in December. If your hike has a higher elevation gain, it would be better to prepare winter hiking gear like crampons/micro spikes in case there’s snow or ice along the way. Some of the popular hikes in winter are:

Upper Falls trail to Columbia Rock: Enjoy the view of Yosemite Valley and the surrounding snow-dusted peaks. You can also hike to the top of Yosemite Upper Falls if there’s not too much snow.

Lower Yosemite Falls: A relaxing stroll to the base of Yosemite Falls, where you may see snow gathering at the bottom.

Mist Trail to Vernal Fall Footbridge: Also called nature’s “giant staircase”, this trail leads you to a beautiful view of Vernal Falls. If you want to go further towards Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls, check out the winter route.

Yosemite Valley Loop: Mostly flat trail that takes you to view various scenic parts of the valley.

Bridalveil Falls: Feel the mist of this waterfall that is flowing all year round (closed in 2023).

6. Attend ranger-led snow walks

If you’re new to snowshoeing, you can also look forward to free ranger-led snow walks in the Badger Pass Ski Area.

In 2021, this event was held every Saturday from mid December to end January. Snowshoes were provided, so it’s great for beginners. You just need to make reservations by 2pm the day before by calling 209-379-1899. Look out for their announcements this year!

7. Bracebridge Dinner at The Ahwahnee

Another festive tradition that’s happening in Yosemite in December is the annual Bracebridge Dinner at The Ahwahnee. This Christmas experience has been around since 1927 in the Yosemite Valley, where you step into the atmosphere of 18th century England.

It is a 4-hour occasion where people dress to the nines, enjoy music and dance, and savor the 7 courses through the night. If you’re hoping to also stay at The Ahwahnee for this event, you’ll be happy to know that bundled packages are often available.

Although there was a brief hiatus due to the pandemic, the Bracebridge Dinner is scheduled to be back in 2024.

8. Enjoy a relaxing cabin stay with a cozy fireplace

For something cosy and memorable, book a stay at a cabin with a fireplace.

It’s the best feeling to warm up after a cold day out hiking, and curl up with a book as night falls. You can also drink some hot cocoa and hang out with loved ones at the fireplace.

One of the best ways to search for charming cabins near Yosemite is on vrbo. You can filter by the amenities available, like a balcony, hot tub, fire place, etc.

Here are some really beautiful ones I found with a fireplace, click on the images for the listings and browse till you find the perfect one!

Alternatively, some hotels also have communal fireplaces, like Rush Creek Lodge that provides you with s’mores to enjoy every night.

9. Explore the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Although the Mariposa Grove Road closes to auto vehicles from November, you can still go cross-country skiing, showshoeing, or hiking here. In order to see these beautiful giant trees, you will need to park your car and hike two-miles on the Washburn Trail or Mariposa Grove Road.

You can consider going on one of these trails, and refer to the winter trails to see which ski trails are easier.

Big Trees Loop Trail (0.3 mile / 0.5 km loop): Easy – see the Fallen Monarch and learn about the giant sequoias.

Grizzly Giant Loop Trail (2 miles / 3.2 km loop): Moderate – see the Bachelor and Three Graces, the Grizzly Giant, and the California Tunnel Tree.

Guardians Loop Trail (6.5 miles / 10.5 km round trip): Strenuous – includes the Wawona Tunnel Tree, Telescope Tree, and Mariposa Grove Cabin

Mariposa Grove Trail (7 miles / 11.3 km round trip): Strenuous – the historic trail that has been used to access the grove in the past, and leads to Wawona Point, a viewpoint with panoramic views.

Besides this, you can also check out the Tuolumne Grove of Sequoias at the Crane Flat Area. It is another popular spot for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and you can refer to the winter trail here.

10. Visit the Yosemite Chapel

The Yosemite Chapel is located in the valley, and is especially magical to see it covered in snow during winter. It offers a different experience in Yosemite as you take a break from the big hikes to have a moment of peace and reflection here. It is also a great spot for photography, so don’t forget your camera!

Read more:

• The Perfect 7-Day Grand Circle Road Trip (USA)
• Best Lake Tahoe Places You Need To Stay In For An Amazing Winter (North vs South)