Yosemite National Park in March
Good time to visit
March sits in an awkward transition period where winter won't quite let go. You'll catch glimpses of spring's promise, but weather remains unpredictable and many areas stay off-limits.
Weather
Winter starts loosening its hold but snow lingers at elevation. Valley temperatures reach a more comfortable 17°C while nights stay chilly around 3°C. March brings a mix of rain and snow with unpredictable conditions.
17°C high3°C low10 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$195/day average
March Tips
- •Waterfalls start picking up flow as snowmelt begins
- •Trail conditions vary wildly - check with rangers before hiking
- •Spring break crowds start appearing toward month's end
All Months
May hits the sweet spot. Waterfalls rage at full power from snowmelt, wildflowers carpet the valley floor, and Tioga Pass usually opens for high country access. You'll deal with crowds, but the payoff is worth it. September and October offer the best weather with warm days, cool nights, and smaller crowds. The waterfalls slow to a trickle, but the light is golden and parking becomes manageable. April can be magical if you luck into good weather — fewer people and decent water flow. But Glacier Road and Tioga Pass stay closed until late spring. Winter transforms the park into a snow-covered wonderland. Yosemite Falls freezes into an ice cone, and you might have Half Dome views to yourself. Just bring chains and expect road closures. Summer means traffic jams, full campgrounds, and 90-degree valley heat. But it's also when everything is accessible and families can explore freely.
Yosemite National Park Scores
Solo
9/10
Couples
8/10
Families
8/10
Adventure
10/10
Budget
7/10
Luxury
3/10
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