Cheapest and Most Expensive Times To Visit Yosemite National Park
Searching for the cheapest and most expensive times to visit Yosemite National Park? This guide has you covered and will help you plan when to visit based on your travel budget.
Most Expensive Time to Visit Yosemite National Park
The most expensive time to visit Yosemite National Park is during the summer months and holiday weekends, when visitor demand is at its highest.
Summer (June to August)
Warm weather, open trails, and school vacations make summer the park’s busiest and priciest season.
- Lodges in Yosemite Valley, campgrounds, and nearby hotels are booked months in advance.
- Major sites like Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point, and Half Dome are extremely crowded.
Spring (Late April to May)
Melting snow creates powerful waterfalls, attracting thousands of visitors.
- Hotels and cabins inside and near the park charge premium rates.
- Trails and viewpoints are packed, especially on weekends.
Holiday Weekends (Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day)
These weekends see a sharp spike in visitation.
- Hotels and campsites are fully booked well in advance.
- Traffic congestion inside the park is at its peak.
Cheapest Time to Visit Yosemite National Park
The cheapest time to visit Yosemite National Park is during the colder months and transitional seasons, when fewer tourists visit and prices drop.
Winter (November to March, excluding holidays)
Snow and road closures reduce access to certain areas, keeping visitor numbers low.
- Hotels in and around the park are at their cheapest.
- Popular spots like Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Tunnel View remain open and less crowded.
Late Fall (October to Early November)
After the summer rush, prices fall and trails are quieter.
- Lodging and campsites become more affordable.
- A great time for hiking and photography without peak crowds.
Early Spring (March to Early April, before peak waterfall season)
This shoulder season offers a balance of affordability and beauty.
- Hotels and campgrounds are more budget-friendly.
- Fewer tourists make popular attractions easier to access.
Price Summary Table for Yosemite National Park Travel
| Time Period | Price Level | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| June – August | 💲💲💲 Highest | Summer peak, school holidays, crowded trails |
| Late April – May | 💲💲💲 Very High | Waterfall season, heavy tourism |
| Holiday Weekends (May–Sept) | 💲💲💲 High | National holidays, extreme demand |
| Nov – March (excl. holidays) | 💲 Lowest | Winter lull, cheapest lodging & flights |
| October – Early Nov | 💲 Low | Post-summer lull, affordable accommodations |
| March – Early April | 💲 Low–Mid | Shoulder season, moderate costs |
How To Save Money When Visiting Yosemite National Park?
When you go will most certainly make the difference in costs like flights, hotels, attractions, and food. Aligning your travel dates with Yosemite’s off-peak seasons can significantly cut expenses. Consider what experiences you hope to have and plan accordingly to make the most of lower prices and thinner crowds.
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