Yosemite National Park Winter Hiking

In a previous post here, I went over a lot of the benefits of visiting Yosemite National Park in the winter, however I would be lying if I didn’t tell you that there are also some drawbacks. Some of those drawbacks being that some trails are closed, some roads are not accessible, and the quickly changing weather can make for dangerous conditions all around you! We ran into some of these drawbacks when hiking on our most recent visit. But there still is a lot to explore even if the weather isn’t perfect. Also, winter hiking is beautiful and a lot less crowded.

Vernal Falls | Yosemite National Park Winter Hiking

The hike to the top of Vernal Falls is known to be a strenuous one. The elevation gain is 1,000 ft. You can access the falls by route of the Mist Trail. It’s 3 miles round trip, with outstanding views… and if you decide to also see Nevada Falls it’ll be 7 miles round trip. The trail is nicely paved to Vernal Falls, but it is very steep. It is a steady climb over 1.5 miles with no switchbacks.

I would love to show you some personal pics of the fall but the last .3 miles to the falls were closed because of melting falling ice chunks. We stood at the “Trail Closed” sign for a good 5 minutes resting and reminding ourselves that we could come back and visit another time.

Mirror Lake | Yosemite National Park Winter Hiking

Mirror Lake is a much much much easier hike than the falls. It’s like a walk in the park. The length of this hike will depend on where you actually start it. But it’s flat basically the entire way so it’s more like a stroll than a hike. The elevation gain is only 100 ft. Easy Peasy Mate! I highly recommend this hike for newbies. Most of it is paved, it has great scenery to take in, and the trail is well marked.

I must note this “lake” aka pool of water is seasonal, so depending on when you visit your view may change. I’ve visited the park in the Spring when there is much more water present.

As one of the easiest year-round hikes being offered in Yosemite this is something everyone can go ahead and take on.

Inside Tip: Since there is a paved route, dogs are allowed. 

Additional Resouces

• A lot can be closed in the winter. Check out the park website to know before you go.
• Traveling with a pet? Visit another California National Park with Fido!
• Four pet friendly hikes in Yosemite

Till next time Yosemite…thanks for letting us know we’re welcome back anytime! Adventure Awaits!