Yosemite in April - The Best Time to Visit the Valley
So Why Is April a great time to visit Yosemite?
Visiting Yosemite in April is a great idea for a bunch of reasons, but the lack of crowds is the biggest advantage. While there are still tourists, It is a world famous national park after all, it's practically a deserted compared to the peak summer months. In April driving around the Yosemite Valley loop takes only 20 minutes, compare that to the several hours it can take in July and August. I don’t know about you but I’m not a fan of sitting in traffic when visiting a national park. Not having to worry about traffic is a huge advantage, and it's easier to find peace and tranquility when exploring on foot. Additionally, camping is easier in April, but it's still recommended to make reservations in advance.
There are plenty of options for accomodations in Yosemite. You can stay at one of the historic lodges inside the park, get a hotel in or outside the park, or camp. The lodges and hotels, don’t usually book up save for holidays in the springtime but its still a good idea to book it early just to be safe.
If you're planning to camp in Yosemite in April, it's still important to plan ahead to guarantee a campsite, but there are often more open spots during the week. And just as a tip in general, Yosemite is best experienced during the week, if at all possible avoid the weekends! You may be able to book a campsite upon arrival. However, it's still recommended to make reservations far in advance, as weekends can be tough. Reservations open up 5 months ahead on the 15th of the month at 7am PST.
Weather in Yosemite in April
April is a beautiful time to visit Yosemite National Park, with spring in full swing and the park coming back to life after winter. However, the weather can be unpredictable, with some days being sunny and warm, while others may be cool and rainy.
The average temperature in Yosemite in April is around 60°F during the day and 35°F at night. It's important to bring warm clothing and layers, as well as rain gear, just in case.
Peak Yosemite Waterfall Season
One of the most magical experiences of visiting Yosemite in April is witnessing the awe-inspiring waterfalls in full flow. If you are lucky enough to visit after a wet winter, the waterfalls will be gushing with full force. The grandeur of Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Falls will be an unforgettable sight, leaving you in awe of the power of nature. The sheer magnitude and beauty of these falls is a testament to the natural wonder of Yosemite National Park.
Even if you've visited Yosemite before, seeing the waterfalls in April can feel like a completely new experience. It's incredible how much of a difference a few months can make. In the late summer and fall, the waterfalls can be a mere trickle, and sometimes they dry up altogether. But in April, the sound of the water crashing and cascading can be heard from anywhere in the valley, beckoning visitors to come closer and marvel at the wonder of nature.
Here are some of the best waterfalls to visit in Yosemite National Park:
Yosemite Falls: Yosemite Falls is the most iconic and popular waterfalls in Yosemite National Park. It is the tallest waterfall in North America and one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, with a height of 2,425 feet. The roar this waterfall makes when at peak flow can be heard throughout the valley.
Bridalveil Fall: Bridalveil Fall is another popular waterfall in Yosemite National Park. It is known for its delicate and wispy appearance, which creates a stunning contrast against the rugged granite cliffs.
Vernal Fall: Vernal Fall is a powerful and impressive waterfall that is located in the heart of Yosemite Valley. The waterfall drops 317 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley.
Nevada Fall: Nevada Fall is another powerful and impressive waterfall that is located near Vernal Fall. It is less crowded than Vernal Fall, as it is further up the trail but it offers equally stunning views of the surrounding valley.
Horsetail Fall: Horsetail Fall is a unique and stunning waterfall that is located on the eastern side of El Capitan. It is best known as the firefall for its fiery appearance during sunset once a year when the alignment is just right, which creates a stunning and unforgettable sight.
What are the Downsides to visiting in April?
Although the road to Glacier and Taft Point is typically closed for most of April, there are still plenty of awe-inspiring viewpoints to explore throughout Yosemite. One of the most famous and accessible viewpoints, Tunnel View, offers an incredible panorama of the valley. With El Capitan towering on one side, Bridalveil Falls cascading hundreds of feet on the right, and Half Dome looming in the distance, it's no wonder this vista is considered one of the most iconic in all of Yosemite. We made a point to catch multiple sunrises and sunsets at Tunnel View, and each time we were struck by the breathtaking beauty of the scene.
While the road to Glacier Point may be closed, there are still plenty of other options for capturing stunning views. For those who are up for a hike, the Four Mile Trail leads up to Glacier Point, covering a distance of 4.7 miles. Although it's a bit of a trek, it's well worth the effort for the spectacular views you'll encounter along the way. The best part? You'll likely have the view to yourself or just a few others, a rare occurrence during peak season. It's worth noting that Glacier Point road usually opens by late April, but this can vary depending on snowfall from the preceding winter. Be sure to check current road conditions and opening/closing dates before planning your visit.
Spring Weddings in Yosemite
In addition to being an incredible destination for your next vacation, Yosemite National Park is also a world class outdoor wedding venue. The park is a stunning destination for elopements, intimate micro weddings and even grand traditional weddings. offering breathtaking natural scenery and unforgettable experiences for couples who love the outdoors. If you're planning to elope, check out my wedding and elopement guide for Yosemite National Park!