Community Forums

Ding-a-ling · 06-06-2009, 08:09 AM

We are thinking of visiting Yosemite in mid-October. I know some of you folks live out in that area, or may have visited there in the Fall. Is the weather generally fair then? I know a snow squall is possible almost any time in the mountains; are we liable to encounter that white stuff in mid-October?

Thanks, FJF

Tom and Patty · 06-08-2009, 08:22 AM

FJF,

One of the best times to visit Yosemite is in October. No crowds. The trees in the valley will be turning and the weather at the valley floor is usually very pleasant. Tioga Pass at 9943 feet could be closed by snow, but it usually closes near the end of October. If you have time don't miss this Yosemite high country.

This was taken the second weekend in October near Tioga Pass.

Ronnie Bledsoe 2006 Dutchstar 43' · 06-08-2009, 09:33 AM

The weather should be no problem as our rainy season is usually later. The falls could be dry or just a trickle. We took a day trip to the valley last Thursday...beautiful, falls are full, lots of standing water in the meadows, and very green. We saw a very large bear in a high country meadow. You will enjoy as Yosemite is always enchanting!

bruceh · 06-08-2009, 10:29 AM

October is wonderful in Yosemite. Actually anytime is good but I am put off by the summer crowds.

If you come in via Tioga pass, the weather can vary hugely. The high country camground and store will be closed. We have made it across in mid November and been blocked by snow in October, do check first.

If you come in from the west, be aware of the length limitation on CA-140. It was 28 feet and they raised it after upgrading a temporary bridge ove the Merced river. It is currently 45 feet and the consensus was that this included the toad.

http://www.dot.ca.gov/cgi-bin/roads.cgi

CA-41 (where I live) is pretty twisty and quite hilly. Once you are in the park, it is another hour to the valley. You can camp at Wawona but everyone will end up in the valley at smoe point. This is the road with the famouse 'tunnel view'.

Ding-a-ling · 06-10-2009, 04:18 PM

Thank you all for your information!

We've been there before, in the summer. I plan to enter on CA 120 and leave on CA 41 as we did last time.

We'll not be staying long, as we have relatives to visit in Walnut Creek, SLO, Ramona and San Diego.