Yosemite National Park during fall: Best things to do and where to stay

Photo courtesy of Dana Rebmann

Fall is a fabulous time of year in Yosemite National Park. The air is crisp and clean. Kids are back in school and the crowds have lessened, making for stunning, but quiet days of exploring. Day-use reservations are no longer required, so you can wander without having to plan far in advance. Snow can close some spots in Yosemite – typically in late fall – but don’t worry, there’s always plenty to see.

Photo courtesy of Dana Rebmann

Popular Yosemite Valley

Every year, more than four million visitors flock to Yosemite National Park. The vast majority head to Yosemite Valley and it’s easy to understand why – Yosemite Valley is easily accessible and home to some of the park’s more famous hikes and waterfalls. But be sure to save time for other areas of the park.

Photo courtesy of Dana Rebmann

Don't miss Hetch Hetchy Valley

Located in the northwest corner of Yosemite National Park, Hetch Hetchy Valley gets left off too many park must-do lists. Thanks to its relatively low elevation, it boasts a long hiking season. Fishing is allowed, but swimming and boating are prohibited.

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Marvel at massive O'Shaughnessy Dam

The eight-mile-long Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is held behind the O’Shaughnessy Dam. Completed in 1938, the dam is 430 feet tall, and itt supplies drinking water to 2.7 million people in Northern California on a daily basis. The Hetch Hetchy Regional Water System also generates hydroelectric power.

Photo courtesy of Dana Rebmann

Chasing waterfalls

A 1.4-mile moderate hike along the south fork of the Tuolumne River leads to lovely Carlon Falls. The falls tend to run here even after other better-known waterfalls in Yosemite Valley have slowed to a trickle or gone dry. Pack a picnic to enjoy with the view.

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Stretch your legs in the shade

Although Carlon Falls is the major draw, don’t underestimate the tree-lined hike that leads the way. About three miles round-trip, it offers inspiring stretches of shade on warm days. If you’re not paying attention, you can easily drive by the trailhead located on Evergreen Road, not far off of Highway 120.

Photo courtesy of Dana Rebmann

Rainbow Pool swimming hole

Technically in Stanislaus National Forest, Rainbow Pool served as a stagecoach stop and later a resort, before the swimming hole was turned into a day-use area. Pack a picnic and a towel. While some visitors just dip their toes, on warm days, plenty opt to take the plunge.  

Photo courtesy of Dana Rebmann

Experience The Ahwahnee

A National Historic Landmark, The Ahwahnee hotel is worth a stop even if you’re not spending the night. Opened in 1927, the property features towering ceilings, massive stone fireplaces and expansive windows that bring the outside in. The Ahwahnee features a pool, gift shop, bar, and restaurant.

Breakfast, brunch and lunch in The Ahwahnee Dining Room are casual, but at dinner, men are asked to wear long pants and a collared shirt. Women will need a dress, skirt or long pants with a blouse.

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Modern Yosemite lodge experience

If you’re hoping for more of a resort experience, Rush Creek Lodge makes for a fun home away from home. Along with 143 rooms, suites and villas, the property features multiple eateries, a pool, spa, and fitness center with Peloton spin bikes.

Traveling families will feel especially comfortable here. Along with a massive playground complete with a pair of ziplines and massive slide, there’s an indoor game area with foosball, bumper pool and custom treehouse play structure that wraps around the room.

Photo courtesy of Dana Rebmann

A century of Evergreen Lodge

First opened in 1921, the 100-year-old property offers 88 cozy cabins spread throughout 20 wooded acres. Steeped with colorful history, it’s rumored moonshine was made in the basement during Prohibition.

Evergreen Lodge is loaded with amenities including a restaurant, general store, pool, playground, nature trail, horseshoes, nine-hole disc golf course and a game room with options including foosball, shuffleboard and a pool table.

Photo courtesy of Dana Rebmann

Custom camping at Evergreen Lodge

In addition to cabins, Evergreen Lodge also offers custom campsites. Guests arrive to already-pitched tents that can accommodate two to four people. Along with foam mattresses, sleeping bags, pillows and towels, camping chairs and a lantern are included.

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Glamping at AutoCamp Yosemite

Camping has never been so cool or effortless. AutoCamp Yosemite offers more than 100 custom Airstreams (complete with bathroom and kitchenette), cabins and luxury platform tents. The property is 10 minutes from the town of Mariposa and about 45 minutes from Yosemite National Park.