Weather & Climate Guide

Yosemite National ParkWeather & Climate Guide

Yosemite National Park in California receives an average of 30.9 inches of precipitation annually across 67 rainy days. The area also enjoys approximately 245 sunny days per year. The park is open Year-round (Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road close in winter), with the best conditions typically found in May and June and July and August and September.

30.9"
Total Precipitation
67
Rainy Days/Year
245
Sunny Days/Year
5.5"
Wettest Month (January)

Monthly Weather Charts

Monthly Precipitation (inches)

Temperature Range (°F)

Monthly Breakdown

MonthHigh (°F)Low (°F)Precipitation (in)Rainy DaysSunny Days
January48°28°5.5"1013
February52°29°5.2"1012
March55°31°4.8"1013
April62°35°2.5"717
May71°42°1.2"423
June81°49°0.5"128
July90°55°0.3"130
August89°54°0.2"130
September83°48°0.6"227
October70°39°1.5"423
November55°31°3.6"716
December47°27°5"1013

Best Time to Visit Yosemite National Park

Based on weather data, the best months to visit Yosemite National Park are May and June and July and August and September. During this period, you can expect comfortable temperatures and favorable trail conditions for exploring the park.

January is typically the wettest month, with an average of 5.5 inches of precipitation and 10 rainy days. Temperatures during the best visiting months range from highs in the 71s to 90s °F.

For the best combination of pleasant weather and manageable crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder months at the edges of peak season. Weekdays generally offer a more peaceful experience on popular trails and at key viewpoints.

Packing Tips by Season

Spring (Mar-May)

  • Layered clothing for variable temps
  • Waterproof rain jacket
  • Muddy trail boots with good traction
  • Quick-dry hiking pants
  • Light fleece or insulating midlayer
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Waterproof day pack

Summer (Jun-Aug)

  • Sun protection (hat, sunscreen SPF 50+)
  • Plenty of water (hydration pack)
  • Light layers for altitude changes
  • Breathable moisture-wicking shirts
  • Lightweight hiking shoes
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunglasses with UV protection

Fall (Sep-Nov)

  • Layering system (base, mid, shell)
  • Warm jacket for cool mornings
  • Long pants for brush and cooler temps
  • Sturdy hiking boots
  • Warm hat and gloves for early starts
  • Headlamp (shorter daylight hours)
  • Rain shell for unexpected showers

Winter (Dec-Feb)

  • Heavy insulation (down or synthetic)
  • Traction devices (microspikes/crampons)
  • Cold weather gear (thermal layers)
  • Insulated waterproof boots
  • Warm hat, gloves, and neck gaiter
  • Hand and toe warmers
  • Gaiters for snow-covered trails