Yosemite Winter
Winter is one of the most active times of the year in Yosemite. Not o nly is winter far less crowded than other times of the year- it can also be more fun! There is an array of winter activities for the entire family-
Downhill Snow Skiing- Yosemite is the home of the oldest ski resort in California - Badger Pass Ski Resort. Click on "Badger Pass Ski Resort" for a page full of information about this family friendly ski area.
Cross Country Snow Skiing- There are over 350 miles of trails and roads inside the Park that can be accessed by cross-country skiers. In addition to the 25 miles of groomed trails starting at Badger Pass, you will find cross-country skiing available within miles of The Redwoods. One popular trail option is the 8 mile round trip Mariposa Grove Loop Road trail. You can park at the South Entrance parking lot and ski into the Grove. The distance to the Grove is two miles. Once you enter the grove, follow the unplowed road and you will gaze at several giant sequoias, including the Fallen Monarch and the California Tunnel Tree. Stop by our office for a trail map and also information on other trails that take off from the Loop Road trail.
Snowshoeing- Rent your snowshoes at various locations inside the Park (Badger Pass, Crane Flat Gas Station, Curry Village) or in Wawona right inside The Redwoods’ office. We have a limited supply of good quality snowshoes for the entire family. It’s easy to learn to snowshoe and it’s a great way to experience the beauty of snow covered trees. Our guest service staff can tell you about some easy trails right outside your cabin door.
Ice-Skating- The Ice Rink at Curry Village has been rated as one of the top-10 ice skating rinks in the country. It’s become a tradition for Yosemite visitors to ice skate at Curry Village while they gaze at Half Dome and Glacier Point. There is a store close-by where you can purchase hot drinks if you would like to take a break during your 2 ½ hour session. Nearby Tenaya Lodge also offers an open-air skating rink that measures 80 feet by 40 feet. Ice skating rentals are available at both rinks.
Winter Roads and Trails- Whether by car or by foot, don’t miss the winter beauty of Yosemite National Park. Photo opportunities abound. Re-introduce yourself to the famous sightseeing points in Yosemite Valley. You will see Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, El Capitan, Tunnel View, and more in a new light. Snow-capped mountain peaks are awe-inspiring. Bring your camera along and enter our photo contest to win a free two night stay for your next visit (link to photo contest).
Relax by the glow and warmth of your cabin fireplace- And then, at the end of your active winter day, enjoy the warmth of your very own cabin inside Yosemite National Park. Relax in front of your very own wood-burning fireplace, and look out your wide picture windows that bring nature to your doorstep. Most likely you will find deer walking through the forest. And you will remember why that special cabin at The Redwoods In Yosemite is your “home away from home”.
Winter Driving Tips: You may very likely encounter snow on the roads inside Yosemite National Park. Tire chains are often required on park roads. Regardless of your vehicle (even if it is 4-wheel drive), you are required to carry tire chains and know how to use them.
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