Yosemite National Park in July is a popular destination for tourists due to the warm, sunny weather and the confluence of vacation schedules. The park offers a variety of activities and sights to see, making it an ideal location for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Weather in Yosemite National Park in July
July is typically warm to hot in Yosemite National Park, with occasional rain showers, especially in the afternoons at higher elevations. The average temperature in Yosemite Valley is 87°F (31°C) during the day and 51°F (10°C) at night. In Tuolumne Meadows, located at a higher elevation, the average temperature is 68°F (20°C) during the day and 35°F (2°C) at night.
Fire and Smoke in Yosemite National Park in July
Hazy or smoky conditions are common in Yosemite National Park during July due to fires in the park or elsewhere in California. Lightning-caused fires occur naturally in the Sierra Nevada, and smoky conditions are a natural part of the summer and fall seasons. The park may also have prescribed fires to promote forest health and reduce the risk of larger fires. Visitors should be prepared for smoky conditions, especially in August and September.
Rivers and Waterfalls in Yosemite National Park in July
Most of the water flowing in Yosemite comes from snowmelt in the high country, so runoff decreases during the dry summer. Peak runoff typically occurs in May or June, with some waterfalls, including Yosemite Falls, often having only a trickle or being completely dry by August. Other waterfalls, including Vernal, Nevada, and Bridalveil, flow all year; however, flows can be very low by late summer.
Wildflowers in Yosemite National Park in July
July is an excellent time to see wildflowers in Yosemite National Park. The park is home to over 1,500 species of flowering plants, and many of them bloom in the summer months. Visitors can enjoy fields of wildflowers in meadows and along trails throughout the park.
Hiking in Yosemite National Park in July
Hiking is a popular activity in Yosemite National Park in July. Many of the park’s higher-elevation trails can remain snowy into June or July, but hikes from Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and Hetch Hetchy are usually snow-free by June. Some hikes are short and flat and accessible to even the youngest and oldest walkers, while others are fitness tests and not to be taken lightly. Visitors should choose hikes based on their desires and physical abilities.
Things to Do in Yosemite National Park in July
There are many things to do in Yosemite National Park in July, including hiking, camping, fishing, rock climbing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also attend ranger-led programs, take photography classes, and enjoy the park’s many scenic overlooks and waterfalls.
Crowds in Yosemite National Park in July
July is one of the busiest months of the year in Yosemite National Park, with about 2 million visitors coming in that month alone. Visitors should be prepared for crowds and plan accordingly. It is best to book accommodation as quickly as possible, as many of the places to stay in Yosemite book up quickly. Visitors should also set off early to avoid running late for any tours and expect there to be traffic. The park provides public transport, which may be a better option than driving during peak hours.
Reservations in Yosemite National Park in July
Yosemite National Park will require reservations to enter the park between May 20 and September 30, 2024, including July. Fortunately, guests staying at The Redwoods In Yosemite Vacation Home Rentals, are not subject to the reservation system because all cabins are in Wawona, inside the park. If you have a valid Redwoods In Yosemite cabin reservation, simply show a copy of your booking confirmation and a photo ID matching the reservation. You’ll be able to pay the entrance fee at the gate with a credit or debit card.
References:
– Scenic Wonders – 3 Things to Do in Yosemite in July
– Redwoods In Yosemite – Visiting Yosemite in July: A Comprehensive Guide to Help You Plan
– National Park Service – Summer in Yosemite
– Travel Mad Mum – Yosemite in July
– Wildland Trekking – Visiting Yosemite in July