Yosemite Valley Current Conditions & Perfect 1-Day Winter Itinerary
Hi friends, I just spent several days in Yosemite Valley and I’m excited to share a real-time look at the current conditions heading into this last week of November. This is such a unique time to visit Yosemite National Park...the waterfalls are flowing wonderfully, the crowds have disappeared, the last of the Fall colors are clinging on, and the granite peaks are dusted with fresh snow from recent storms. If you’re planning a trip in the coming weeks, continue reading below for a family-friendly 1-day winter itinerary that hits several iconic views in the valley without feeling rushed, including epic scenes of Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls.
Note: All photos in today’s post were captured between November 17-20, 2025.
Tunnel View before sunrise in Yosemite National Park
Sunrise at Tunnel View in Yosemite
One-Day Winter Itinerary
1. Tunnel View (Sunrise)
It’s the classic postcard view with El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome stacked in one frame. In winter, low fog often drifts through the pines and fresh snow rims the peaks. On my visit, the first light cascading down El Capitan was beautiful. Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes before sunrise and park right at the overlook. If it’s foggy, give it some time...the valley clouds move across the valley like waves, revealing the skyline and its iconic landmarks as the rising sun warms up the valley.
Photo tip: Start wide for the full amphitheater, then zoom for fog layers. If you get pastel clouds, stay a few minutes into post-sunrise.
Morning fog below Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite National Park
Bridalveil Fall viewing platform in Yosemite Valley
2. Bridalveil Fall
This short, easy trail is perfect for families and gives you a close-up look at one of Yosemite’s signature waterfalls. In early winter, the falls can shift between misty flow and icy sparkle, which makes the whole area feel enchanted. The walk is quick, mostly paved, and super kid-friendly. Even little ones will feel like they’re on a magical adventure as they get close enough to hear the roaring water. And with recent weather, the fall has an unusually strong flow for this time of year.
Upper Yosemite Falls seen from Sentinel Meadow
3. Swinging Bridge & Sentinel Meadow
Swinging Bridge is the ideal spot to slow down and enjoy a peaceful stretch of the valley. The views of Upper Yosemite Fall across Sentinel Meadow are especially beautiful in winter, framed by golden grasses and crisp mountain air. Take your time wandering the boardwalks and soaking in the quiet of the meadow.
Lunch: Warm up and recharge at Yosemite Valley Lodge, where casual, easy dining sits just steps from Yosemite Falls, our next stop! It’s a cozy, convenient mid-day break with hot soups, hearty sandwiches, and an unbeatable location.
Lower Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park
4. Lower Yosemite Falls
The Lower Yosemite Fall Trail delivers one of the valley’s most iconic sights with minimal effort. In early winter, the falls can create a dramatic mix of water, mist, and ice that feels powerful from every angle...and with the recent storms, the falls are roaring right now. The pathway is smooth and accessible, making it an easy, high-reward stop for any itinerary. Standing at the base and watching the winter light move across the granite never gets old.
Rainbow at the base of Upper Yosemite Falls seen from Cook’s Meadow
5. Cook’s Meadow Loop
Cook’s Meadow is where Yosemite Valley really shows off. Early winter brings muted meadow tones, peaceful boardwalks, and sweeping views of both Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. It’s one of those places where you can pause, breathe, and let the landscape do all the talking. The wide-open space and beautiful lighting make it a fantastic photography stop...and with the increased flow, don’t be surprised to catch a rainbow at the base of Upper Yosemite Falls!
El Capitan seen from Valley View in Yosemite National Park
Sunset colors on El Capitan seen from Valley View
6. Valley View (Sunset)
End the day at Valley View, a serene pullout right along the Merced River. Sunsets here are pure Yosemite magic with El Capitan lighting up in aspenglow reflecting in the mirrored waters of the Merced. In winter, the colors feel extra soft and painterly. It’s a peaceful, memorable way to close out your one-day adventure in the valley.
Tip: Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset to find a spot on the riverbank. Stay through blue hour to witness the full transition from golds to pinks to blues.
Dinner: If you’re staying in the valley, head back to the Yosemite Valley Lodge to enjoy a warm and delicious meal at The Mountain Room.
Sunset scene at Valley View in Yosemite National Park
Jeep Compass in the Yosemite Valley
Current Valley Conditions
Nov 17–20, 2025
Many of the waterfalls found in the valley are unusually heavy for this time of year, showing off their strength following the recent storms. Although much of the foliage has fallen by now, there are still Fall colors holding on in many parts of the Yosemite Valley, especially on the willows lining the Merced River. Below I’ve included some additional stops I scouted beyond the one-day itinerary I shared above, in case you have more time or want alternates.
Mirror Lake: Low clouds hid Half Dome during my visit, but reflections were still beautiful. Expect a tranquil forest walk even without the dome view.
Wildcat Falls & The Cascades: Flowing well after recent weather, these are quick roadside stops on your way in/out of the park via the Arch Rock Entrance.
Valley Loop Trail: Lovely late-fall walking with forest and river scenes starting at the Pohono Bridge. It’s a great “choose your distance” hike along the Merced with epic views of El Capitan.
Half Dome hidden in clouds from Mirror Lake
El Capitan and Merced River along Valley Loop Trail
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need chains right now?
Yes. You are required by federal law to carry tire chains in Yosemite National Park during the winter months. Although the Yosemite Valley was R0 during my trip, other sections of the park were R1 and R2. Always visit the official NPS website and call (209) 372-0200 (press 1, then 1) for the most up-to-date road conditions and chain requirements in Yosemite National Park.
Are Tioga Road or Glacier Point Road open?
This post focuses on the Valley (open year-round). High-elevation roads have seasonal closures, so check their status prior to visiting. During my visit, both Tioga and Glacier Point Roads were closed due to snowy conditions.
Do I need reservations to enter the park?
Currently, no advanced reservations are required to enter Yosemite National Park, although there is an entrance fee of $35 per vehicle. Typically, reservations are required to enter the park during peak hours in the Summer months and during Firefall in February.
Will I still see Fall colors in late November?
During my trip last week, there were still Fall colors lingering in several parts of the Yosemite Valley, though the foliage is fading fast.
What are the best places to eat in the Yosemite Valley?
Coffee: Starbucks (Yosemite Valley Lodge) Midday: Degnan’s Kitchen (Yosemite Village) or Base Camp Eatery (Yosemite Valley Lodge). Dinner: Mountain Room at the Lodge (Yosemite Valley Lodge) or the Ahwahnee Dining Room.
Lower Yosemite Falls Trail in the rain
Winter Packing List
• Layers: warm base, insulating mid-layer, waterproof jacket
• Accessories: flashlight/headlamp, knit hat, gloves, neck gaiter, hand warmers, clear umbrella
• Footwear: waterproof shoes/boots with tread, ice cleats
• Driving: tire chains + thin work gloves
• Camera Extras: microfiber cloth, small towel, batteries
• Extras: water, snacks, thermos, offline maps (service is spotty)
Fresh snow on Half Dome and Clouds Rest seen from Tunnel View
Know Before You Go
• Be prepared for sudden and sometimes hazardous changes in weather and trail conditions, especially during the Winter season. Roads, trails, and parking lots are often icy and slippery.
• If you’re planning an upcoming trip to Yosemite, it’s incredibly important to visit the official Yosemite NPS website prior to your trip for the most up-to-date park information, as conditions and closures may be changing daily due to weather.
• Cell service is unreliable in most parts of Yosemite, particularly along Tioga Road, so bring a reliable GPS device with pre-downloaded maps. I love using Gaia GPS for iPhone and Android devices.
• Wildlife is abundant in Yosemite. Never leave food unattended, especially in your vehicle, as this is black bear territory.
• Please remember to take only pictures and leave only footprints. Pack out everything you pack in and stay on the designated paths. If you’re not familiar with the Leave No Trace Principles consider familiarizing yourself with them before your trip.
Lower Yosemite Falls
Downloadable Itineraries & Travel Guides
Planning a trip to California and the west coast? I’ve got in-depth travel guides and itineraries for several national parks and beautiful destinations. Check out a few of them below, or click here to see them all!
Great Blue Heron fishing in Tenaya Creek along Mirror Lake Trail
In Summary
Thanks so much for joining me this week inside Yosemite National Park. For a virtual visit of this 1-day itinerary, make sure to watch my Behind the Blog video located at the top of this post, or watch it on YouTube here. Until next week, I hope you find adventure and encouragement wherever you go.
Half Dome and Clouds Rest in Yosemite National Park
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About Me
I’m Dawn Marie, a travel and lifestyle blogger based out of Southern California. With in-depth articles, travel guides, and reviews on hotels & products, I seek to share my journeys to help you plan for your own. My adventures take me all over California, the western United States, and around the globe...and every Monday I post new content here, including a comprehensive blog post and YouTube video.
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