A Snow Storm of Activity in Yosemite

Finally!  Northern California is getting rain and much needed snow in the mountains.  The Weather Channel's radar map shows snow sitting over the Sierras, which means a much anticipated winter will reach Yosemite this weekend.

Crowds flock to the park during the summer and fall months, but some of the greatest adventures can be had surrounded by snow. So, grab your chains and a few adventurous friends and head to Yosemite to catch the first storm of the season!

Three Yosemite Winter Adventures any of your Friends will Like

Snowshoeing
Anyone with a pair of winter boots can hit the trails on snowshoes. If you don't have your own, you can rent snowshoes in the park at some lodges and at the Badger Pass Ski Area.  You can also visit your local REI or Any Mountain to rent snowshoes for a weekend.

Easy trek through the Tenaya Lodge trails

Adjacent to the Tenaya Lodge near the south entrance to Yosemite is a snowshoe trail appropriate for all levels. The mostly flat trail is shared with the lodge's sleigh rides and the first mile of the path is wide and open. Once you reach the stables, the trail veers to the left and narrows.  If you are here during, or directly after a snow storm, you will most likely be creating your own path along the latter part of the trail.  You can go out on your own along this trail or participate in one of the lodge's guided hikes.

Moderate hike through Mariposa Grove

The big trees in the Mariposa Grove are stunning in the snow.  The trails that wind around the grove are open during the winter months and you'll see many others playing among the trees in their snowshoes.  The trails have varying degrees of difficulty and often include some climbing. The road to Mariposa Grove closes to motor vehicles in the winter so add another 2 miles each way to your trek.

Difficult (but worth it!) trek to Dewey Point

One of the most spectacular and rewarding snowshoe hikes in the park is the 8-mile round trip trek to Dewey Point.  Leaving from the Badger Pass Ski Area, cross country skiers and snowshoers share the trail out to the viewpoint, which provides magnificent views of the entire Yosemite Valley.  Not for the faint of heart due to the length, but absolutely worth the hard work.

Badger Pass operates a bus shuttle up to the ski area and is a great option for anyone not wanting to drive themselves up to 7,500 feet.  The price is reasonable and leaves from multiple points in and outside of the park.

Ice Skating
On the valley floor, in the shadow of Half Dome sits the Curry Village Ice Rink.  The skating rink operates from November through early March. Families, couples and groups of friends converge on the rink throughout the day. Check the web site before planning your day to check the session times. There are skate rentals, fire pits, hot chocolate and s'mores kits.

Curry Village Ice Rink

Sleigh Rides
For a winter activity that is no-impact, check out the horse drawn sleigh rides at Tenaya Lodge. Straight out of a Budweiser commercial, the sleigh follows the snow shoe trail back to the stables. Riders take a break by a campfire before returning back to the lodge. The sleigh rides operate mid-December through March, weather and snow permitting. Wear you warm clothes and bring your own hot chocolate for the ride!

Sleigh Rides at Tenaya Lodge

As long as you're prepared with hats, gloves, long underwear and a thermos of your favorite hot beverage, you can find tremendous happiness in the winter activities in Yosemite.  Check out the weather report and start planning your trip to one of our state's best winter wonderlands!