Beginner’s Guide to Visiting Mariposa Grove in Winter (2026)

Imagine giant sequoia trees towering above you covered in a dusting of snow with the sun shining through their branches and squirrels running around trying to stock up on food for the winter. Sounds lovely, right?

Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoais is one of the most magical places to visit in Yosemite National Park in the winter months. ❄️😍

Located just inside Yosemite’s South Entrance along Highway 41, Mariposa Grove is the park’s largest sequoia grove with over 500 mature giant sequoias.

These giant sequoia trees thrive along the western slope of the Sierra Nevada at elevations of 5,000 to 7,000 feet.

Winter is my favorite time to visit Mariposa Grove! It transforms into a winter wonderland, just waiting to be (responsibly) explored. You can hike, snowshoe, or ski your way through the grove.

The ancient giants, the snow, the serenity. It’s so therapeutic. 🥹

If you’re dreaming of a fun and peaceful winter adventure in Yosemite, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about visiting Mariposa Grove in winter.

Affiliate Disclaimer: Some links on this page may be affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for supporting the blog! 🫶

Yosemite’s Mariposa Grove in Winter: Quick Overview

🎟️ Yosemite’s Entrance Fee and Reservations in Winter

Entrance to Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 3-day pass. However, if you have the America the Beautiful Annual Pass, your entry is free!

For those who love exploring national parks, investing in the Annual Pass is a smart choice. At just $80, for U.S. residents, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!

FEE UPDATES! Beginning January 1, 2026, non-U.S. residents (without an annual pass) will pay a $100 per person in addition to the standard entrance fee. The Annual Pass for non-US. residents will cost $250.

A reservation is not required to visit Yosemite in winter this year! In the past, reservations were required during the Firefall event which takes places in mid to late February. But this year, 2026, reservations are NOT required!

❄️ Winter Weather in Mariposa Grove

Winter in Yosemite typically runs December to March, but snow can arrive as early as October or November and linger into April and even May.

Yosemite Valley, which sits at around 4,000 feet in elevation, sees pretty mild winter temperatures with daytime highs in the upper 40s °F (~9 °C) and overnight lows in the upper 20s °F (~–2 °C).

Mariposa Grove, however, sits at a higher elevation which means cooler temperatures, more snowfall, and deeper snow the higher you go.

Mariposa Grove elevation breakdown ⬇️

• Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza: 5,100 feet
• Mariposa Grove Arrival Area: 5,600 feet
• Lower Grove (Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree): 5,900 feet
• Upper Grove (Faithful Couple and beyond): 6,000+ feet
• Wawona Point: 6,800 feet

Because the upper grove sits above 6,000 feet, expect deep snow and true winter conditions. It’s open all winter but make sure you’re prepared with the right gear!

🛣️ Mariposa Grove Road Seasonal Closure and Shuttle Bus

Mariposa Grove Road closes for the season from November through April (exact dates vary every year).

When the road is closed the shuttle bus does not run! Shuttle service opens no earlier than April 15 and closes on or before November 30, depending on conditions.

When the shuttle is closed, the only access to the grove is by hiking in. There are two options, both are 2 miles one-way with 500 feet of elevation gain ⬇️

• Washburn Trail (starts at the end of the parking lot)
• Mariposa Grove Road (simply follow the paved road to the grove)

Driving in Yosemite during winter can involve icy roads, slow travel, delays, or temporary closures, so always check road conditions.

⚠️ For current road conditions, call Yosemite’s road-conditions hotline: 209-372-0200 (press 1 then 1 again)

⛓️ Winter Driving in Yosemite (tire chains)

Tire chains are frequently required in winter. If chain control is in effect, you must carry them in your vehicle at all times and know how to use them!

Chain control levels ⬇️

• R1 – You’ll need to put chains on your car unless you’re in a car, pickup, or SUV under 6,000 pounds AND you have snow tires with at least 6/32 inches of tread or deeper.
• R2 – You’ll need to put chains on your car unless you’re in a car, pickup truck, or SUV under 6,500 pounds AND you have snow tires with at least 6/32 inches of tread or deeper AND your car has 4WD or AWD engaged.
• R3 – Chains are required on ALL vehicles, no exceptions.

⚠️ Bring or purchase tire chains from any local store and practice putting them on before your trip! And make sure they are the right size for your vehicle.

Things to Do in Mariposa Grove in Winter

🥾 Hiking in Mariposa Grove in Winter

Mariposa Grove has 4 main hiking trails and all are accessible in the winter. In the lower grove, you may be able to get away with just hiking in boots, but as you venture higher towards the upper grove, you may encounter deeper snow requiring either snowshoes or skis.

But early in the season or later when the snow is melting, hiking through the grove in the snow is such an incredible experience!

Let’s dive deeper into the lower grove versus the upper grove so you know what to expect.

⚠️ Remember!! In the winter, the shuttle bus is not running so you must add an extra 4 miles when hiking from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza to the grove and back to your car!

Mariposa Grove – Lower Grove 👇

• Snow levels are often lower here, so regular hiking boots may be enough. But if more than 6 inches of snow is present then snowshoes may be the better choice.
• Trails in the lower grove include Big Trees Loop (0.3 miles) and Grizzly Giant Loop (2.1 miles).
• You’ll pass iconic sequoias such as:
  • Fallen Monarch
  • Bachelor and Three Graces
  • California Tunnel Tree
  • Grizzly Giant
• These trails are great for beginner-friendly winter hikes in Mariposa Grove.

Mariposa Grove – Upper Grove 👇

• Higher elevation means more snow and colder conditions.
• You may need snowshoes or skis depending on snow depth and trail conditions.
• If a path is packed down from hikers, boots may work.
• Be respectful of ski tracks and avoid walking over them.
• Trails in the upper grove include Guardians Loop (6.5 miles) and Mariposa Grove Trail (7 miles).
  • These trails will be much more challenging than the trails in the lower grove!
• Iconic trees in this area:
  • Faithful Couple
  • Clothespin Tree
  • Mariposa Tree
  • Telescope Tree
  • Fallen Wawona Tunnel Tree
  • Columbia Tree
  • Galen Clark Tree
• Don’t miss the historic Mariposa Grove Cabin (built 1930; restored 1983) and Wawona Point sitting at 6,800 feet with incredible views.

More things to know before you lace up your hiking boots (or snowshoes) ⬇️

• Pets are not allowed anywhere in the grove or parking lots.
• In winter, water is available only at the Welcome Plaza.
• In winter, vault toilets are located at the Mariposa Grove Arrival Area, near the Grizzly Giant, and near the Mariposa Grove Cabin.

✨ Planning a winter trip to Yosemite? Follow this 3-day Yosemite winter itinerary for must-see views, top-rated hikes, and can’t-miss experiences.

☃️ Snowshoeing in Mariposa Grove

Snowshoeing is one of the best ways to explore Mariposa Grove in winter, especially when the upper grove is covered in snow.

If the lower grove doesn’t have enough snow, you’ll likely find perfect snowshoeing conditions in the upper areas.

A few tips for snowshoeing in Mariposa Grove:

• Start early if you plan to hike to Wawona Point or the upper grove! The snow slows you down, and winter daylight is short.
• Respect ski tracks! Never walk over them, and stay on designated paths to keep trails enjoyable for everyone.

⛷️ Cross Country Skiing in Mariposa Grove

Cross country skiing is another fun way to experience Mariposa Grove in winter, provided there’s enough snow.

Stick to established trails and always be mindful of hikers or snowshoers sharing the path.

🏕️ Camping in Mariposa Grove in Winter

Overnight winter camping is allowed in Mariposa Grove from December 1 through April 15, but only if the Mariposa Grove Road is closed to cars and there’s enough snow for skiing or snowshoeing.

➡️ A wilderness permit is required, and camping is only permitted above the Clothespin Tree.

Places to Stay Near Mariposa Grove in Winter

If your main goal in visiting Yosemite National Park is to see the giant sequoias in Mariposa Grove covered in snow, the closest towns to stay are Wawona, Fish Camp, or Oakhurst.

That said, most visitors spend the bulk of their time in Yosemite Valley and plan a quick day trip to Mariposa Grove.

No matter what your other plans are, you are here, reading this blog post, because you want to visit Mariposa Grove in winter!

So let’s help you pick the ideal place to stay so you can enjoy the snowy sequoias and all the winter magic of Yosemite.

✨ Planning a trip to Yosemite this season? Before you book anything, read through my ultimate guide to the best lodges, hotels, and cozy cabins in Yosemite in winter. It’ll save you time and help you find the perfect snowy getaway!

1. Yosemite Valley Lodge

• Yosemite Valley Lodge is a traditional 3-star hotel.
• Location: Yosemite Valley about 1 mile (walking) from the visitor center
• Top Amenities: Several restaurants on-site, popular trails within walking distance, and some rooms have views of Yosemite Falls
• Price: Midrange ($$)
• Drive Time to Mariposa Grove: 1 hour (32 miles)
• Why Stay Here: Central location, easy access to Yosemite Valley’s best trails, including Lower Yosemite Fall, Cook’s Meadow Loop, and Valley Loop Trail. Close to food options like The Mountain Room, Base Camp Eatery, and Starbucks.

Yosemite Valley Lodge is a favorite for its central location, affordable rates, and easy access to some of the park’s most iconic sights and trails.

The lodge’s glass-and-wood architecture and large windows give it a cozy, rustic feel. There are 245 rooms, including family, bunk, and ADA-accessible options, with a few offering direct views of Yosemite Falls.

It’s just a 5-minute walk to the Lower Yosemite Fall Trailhead, with easy access to the Merced River, Half Dome viewpoints, and trails like Cook’s Meadow Loop, Upper Yosemite Fall Trail, and Valley Loop Trail.

Another big perk is the on-site dining options! Enjoy The Mountain Room Restaurant, Base Camp Eatery, or grab coffee at Starbucks before hitting the trails or after a long day of exploring.

🤩 Book your stay at Yosemite Valley Lodge

2. The Ahwahnee

• The Ahwahnee is a historic, luxury 4-star hotel.
• Location: East side of Yosemite Valley about 1 mile (walking) from the visitor center
• Top Amenities: Dining room and bar, shuttle access, seasonal Bracebridge Dinner, and heated outdoor pool
• Price: Expensive ($$$-$$$$)
• Drive Time to Mariposa Grove: 1 hour and 5 minutes (34 miles)
• Why Stay Here: Iconic architecture, stunning views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls, fireplaces, and cozy historic charm. Offers suites, standard rooms, and cottages.

The Ahwahnee is Yosemite’s most iconic lodge, combining historic luxury with incredible views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, Glacier Point, and the Royal Arches.

Lodging options include standard rooms, premium suites with fireplaces or balconies, and cozy cottages.

As a National Historic Landmark, it blends grand 1920s architecture with warm wood-and-stone charm. The lodge has hosted presidents, royalty, and luxury travelers for decades, and its timeless elegance still shines today.

Inside, you’ll find massive stone fireplaces, soaring ceilings, and historic artwork. In winter, the dining room transforms into Bracebridge Hall, a festive event with food, music, and entertainment inspired by Washington Irving.

🤩 Book your stay at The Ahwahnee

3. Curry Village

• Curry Village offers a glamping experience with heated and unheated canvas-sided tent cabins along with traditional cabins, standard hotel rooms, and ADA-accessible rooms.
• Location: East side of Yosemite Valley about 1.7 miles (walking) from the visitor center
• Top Amenities: Several dining options on-site, several popular hiking trails within walking distance, and an outdoor ice skating rink (open in winter months)
• Price: Budget to midrange ($-$$)
• Drive Time to Mariposa Grove: 1 hour and 5 minutes (34 miles)
• Why Stay Here: Historic property, multiple accommodation types, fun winter activities like ice skating, and plenty of on-site dining options.

Curry Village has been welcoming guests since 1899 and remains a historic and popular spot in Yosemite. Winter stays often sell out, especially during the holidays and Firefall, so book early!

Accommodations include heated and unheated canvas tent cabins, wood cabins, and standard hotel rooms. Heated tents are cozy in winter and unheated tents require extra blankets and sleeping bags.

Bear-proof food lockers are provided at every tent cabin and must be used for all scented items, such as food, drinks, toiletries, and trash!

There is even plenty of on-site dining, including Pizza Deck to Seven Tents Pavilion, Bar 1899, Coffee Corner, and Taqueria @ The Meadow Grill.

🤩 Book your stay at Curry Village

4. Tenaya Lodge

• Tenaya Lodge, also called Tenaya at Yosemite, is a luxury 4-star resort.
• Location: Fish Camp, 5 minutes from Yosemite’s South Entrance
• Top Amenities: Ascent Spa, indoor pool, hot tubs, s’mores station, on-site dining, and complimentary winter activities (ice skating, snowshoeing, sledding, and guided hikes)
• Price: Midrange to expensive ($$-$$$)
• Drive Time to Mariposa Grove: 8 minutes (3 miles)
• Why Stay Here: They have cozy cabins, cottages, and main lodge rooms along with lots of free winter activities and on-site dining for the winter retreat.

Tenaya Lodge is perfect for romantic mountain vibes or a cozy winter getaway just outside Yosemite. Sitting at 5,288 feet in Fish Camp, this award-winning resort blends luxury with a warm, woodsy Sierra feel.

✨ Is staying at Tenaya Lodge worth it? Read my honest, in-depth Tenaya Lodge review!

Lodging options include ⬇️

• Explorer Cabins – Two-bedroom cabins with living room, gas fireplace, wet bar, and mini fridge. Perfect for couples, families, or friends, plus communal firepits for s’mores under the stars.
• Cottages – Duplex or triplex-style rooms with gas fireplaces, patios or balconies, and forest views.
• Main Lodge – Spacious rooms near the spa, restaurants, and indoor pool, ideal for a full resort experience.

Winter activities are included with your stay such as ice skating, snowshoeing, sledding, and guided hikes. Year-round activities, depending on the weather, includes archery, bocce, climbing, gold panning, pickleball, and yoga.

With so much to do on-site, Tenaya Lodge offers a full winter adventure without leaving the resort, though Yosemite’s giant sequoias are just minutes away!

🤩 Book your stay at Tenaya Lodge

5. Cozy Cabins in Wawona

Wawona is a small, historic town inside Yosemite National Park just 10 minutes from Mariposa Grove and 1 hour from Yosemite Valley.

Originally called Pallachun by the Southern Miwuk, meaning “a good place to stay,” Wawona still lives up to its name with cozy lodging, essentials like groceries and gas, and easy access to nearby trails like Wawona Meadow Loop, Swinging Bridge, Alder Creek, and Chilnualna Falls.

Here are some top-rated cabins and vacation rentals in Wawona ⬇️

• River View A-Frame Cabin in Yosemite National Park
• Cabin Inside Yosemite National Park near Wawona Village – Sleeps 6
• The Legacy at The Redwoods In Yosemite
• Beetlebark Bungalow
• 84 Hastings Hideaway
• 57 The Williams Cabin

6. Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn

• Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn is a 3-star resort-style hotel.
• Location: Oakhurst, 25 minutes from Yosemite’s South Entrance
• Top Amenities: Free breakfast, indoor pool, on-site dining, fitness center, and a garden
• Price: Budget to midrange ($-$$)
• Drive Time to Mariposa Grove: 25 minutes (15 miles)
• Why Stay Here: Clean rooms, resort-style layout, great for families or budget-conscious travelers.

Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn is a convenient, affordable option near Yosemite’s South Entrance. Guests love its clean rooms, free breakfast, friendly staff, and amenities like an indoor pool, fitness center, laundry, playground, and walking paths through the garden.

Spread across multiple buildings, the hotel offers a resort-style feel, and some rooms come with private balconies. On-site dining includes Oakhurst Grill & Whiskey 41 Lounge for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

A great mix of comfort, convenience, and value, perfect for families, couples, or budget-conscious travelers.

🤩 Book your stay at Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn

7. Sierra Sky Ranch

• Sierra Sky Ranch is a historic ranch-style boutique hotel.
• Location: Oakhurst, 20 minutes from Yosemite’s South Entrance
• Top Amenities: Most rooms open onto a spacious wraparound veranda and complimentary breakfast
• Price: Budget to midrange ($-$$)
• Drive Time to Mariposa Grove: 20 minutes (12 miles)
• Why Stay Here: Warm, intimate stay in a converted 150-year-old ranch house. Perfect for couples or families wanting character-filled lodging.

Sierra Sky Ranch offers a warm, intimate stay full of character. Housed in a 150-year-old converted ranch, this boutique hotel blends vintage charm with modern comfort.

Many rooms open onto a spacious veranda where you can breathe in the pine-scented air and enjoy forest views.

Inside, the main ranch features The Great Room with a grand piano, stone fireplace, and beamed ceilings, plus a quiet library for relaxing.

Perfect for those who love historic charm and cozy porches during a Yosemite winter getaway!

🤩 Book your stay at Sierra Sky Ranch

8. The Pines Resort

• The Pines Resort is a lakefront resort with cozy cabins, chalets, suites, and vacation homes.
• Location: Bass Lake (near Oakhurst), 30 minutes from Yosemite’s South Entrance
• Top Amenities: Private beach, outdoor hot tub, on-site dining, and a fitness center
• Price: Midrange ($$)
• Drive Time to Mariposa Grove: 30 minutes (19 miles)
• Why Stay Here: Cozy cabins, lakeside suites, vacation homes, outdoor activities, ice skating nearby, plus on-site dining with panoramic lake views.

The Pines Resort is a popular lakefront stay at Bass Lake, perfectly blending cozy cabin vibes with resort convenience.

The signature chalets are two-story duplex cabins tucked among the trees, ideal for couples or small families, with full kitchens, comfy living areas, and semi-private decks.

Lakeside suites offer private balconies and spacious lounges for a more romantic getaway. Large cabins and private vacation homes are perfect for bigger groups, many with lake access and high-end amenities.

Enjoy ice skating at the nearby Bass Lake Rink and eating at one of the on-site dining restaurants including Ducey’s on the Lake and The Pines Bar.

A versatile base near Yosemite for families, couples, or solo winter escapes, with plenty of comfort and activities.

🤩 Book your stay at The Pines Resort

9. Yosemite View Lodge

• Yosemite View Lodge is a comfortable riverside hotel that offers unbeatable proximity to the park.
• Location: El Portal, 5 minutes from Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance
• Top Amenities: Kitchenettes, indoor heated pool, multiple hot tubs, pet-friendly rooms, outdoor fire pits, and a convenience store
• Price: Midrange ($$)
• Drive Time to Mariposa Grove: 1 hour and 5 minutes (35 miles)
• Why Stay Here: Riverside property, spacious rooms with kitchenettes, close to Yosemite Valley.

Yosemite View Lodge is the closest hotel to Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance, making it a convenient base for winter trips and easy access to Yosemite Valley.

The lodge sits along the Merced River, offering peaceful river views. Read my complete Yosemite View Lodge guide and review before you book!

Rooms are spacious with kitchenettes, and some include fireplaces or spa tubs, with river or mountain views. Suites with one or two bedrooms and full kitchens are perfect for larger groups.

On-site dining options include The River Restaurant & Lounge and Parkside Pizza for quick meals. For a simple, convenient stay near the park, Yosemite View Lodge is a solid pick.

🤩 Book your stay at Yosemite View Lodge

10. Rush Creek Lodge

• Rush Creek Lodge is a 4-star modern mountain resort.
• Location: Groveland, 5 minutes from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat Entrance
• Top Amenities: Spa, heated outdoor pool, hot tubs, on-site restaurant, general store, and fun activities
• Price: Midrange to expensive ($$-$$$)
• Drive Time to Mariposa Grove: 1 hour and 25 minutes (47 miles)
• Why Stay Here: Rustic-modern rooms and villas, tons of on-site activities (snowshoe trips and guided hikes), eco-friendly initiatives, and a festive winter atmosphere.

Rush Creek Lodge blends rustic charm with modern comforts, offering spacious rooms, suites, and villas. The lodge features a heated outdoor pool, two hot tubs, a spa, playground, fire pits, and plenty of on-site activities like bike rentals, giant checkers, shuffleboard, and ping pong.

Guests can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant, grab snacks from the general store, or unwind with a drink at the lounge. Groveland is just down the road for additional dining or shopping options.

Rush Creek Lodge is also a certified B Corp, supporting sustainability with water reuse, recycling, and youth employment programs.

During the holidays, the lodge is extra magical, with guided Yosemite outings, snowshoe trips, sightseeing tours, stocking decorating, gingerbread house building, and even beer tasting. There’s something fun for everyone! 🎄

🤩 Book your stay at Rush Creek Lodge

Tips for Visiting Mariposa Grove in Winter

1. Always Carry Tire Chains: Winter roads in Yosemite can be icy or snowy, so tire chains may be required. Make sure the tire chains fit your vehicle, and practice putting them on before your trip.

Chain control is typically in effect from November through March but sometimes starts as early as September or stretches into May. Don’t have chains? Many nearby towns have rentals!

2. Download Offline Maps: Snow can cover trails in Mariposa Grove, especially in the upper grove. Download offline maps on your phone and bring a physical map and compass for backup.

3. Check the Weather Forecast: Winter weather can be unpredictable. Always check the weather forecast for inclement weather. Check out Yosemite’s webcams for a real-time look at the conditions.

4. Start Your Winter Hike Early: Hiking in snow takes longer than on dry trails, and winter daylight hours are limited. Start early to maximize your time and bring a headlamp just in case your hike runs later than expected.

5. Bring Layers: Proper layering is key. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer, and finish with a waterproof/windproof outer shell. Don’t forget a beanie and gloves! Temperatures drop fast at higher elevations.

6. Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within Yosemite. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

🐻 Note: bear spray is prohibited in Yosemite!

7. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles – plan ahead, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, be considerate of others, and respect the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park.

Mariposa Grove in Winter Packing List

Winter hiking in the lower grove is usually easy enough without special gear, but the upper grove typically requires snowshoes or skis. It depends on trail conditions!

⚠️ Always check current trail conditions before heading out and pack your winter gear accordingly. Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so it’s always safer to be over-prepared than caught off guard!

Here’s a list of winter hiking essentials that you’ll need when exploring Mariposa Grove in winter:

🎒 Backpack – A pack around 22–30 liter works well to carry layers, snacks, water, and gear. I’ve been using the Cotopaxi Luzon Del Dia 24L Pack and my husband uses the REI Co-op Trail 25L Pack.

🥾 Winter Boots – Waterproof, insulated boots are a must!

🧊 Microspikes – Bring a pair of microspikes if you’re visiting in the winter and you’re planning to hike along icy trails. They will give you good traction to avoid slipping! I use Black Diamond Access Spike Traction Device.

❄️ Snowshoes – Best used when hiking on deep, soft, or loose snow, usually anything over six inches, to prevent sinking, also known as postholing. Don’t own any? You can rent them at the Badger Pass Ski Area!

☃️ Gaiters – Keep snow out of your boots when snowshoeing or hiking in deep snow.

🥢 Trekking Poles – Essential for stability on snow and slippery trails. I use REI Co-op Trailmade Trekking Poles and love them!

🧥 Warm Layers (top) – Pack a moisture-wicking base layer, a fleece mid-layer, an insulated jacket, and an outer shell to protect you from the elements, such as rain, snow, and wind. Check out my favorite tops 👇

• Base layer: REI Co-op Midweight Long-Sleeve Base Layer
• Fleece mid layer: Cotopaxi Teca Fleece Full-Zip Jacket
• Down mid layer: Cotopaxi Fuego Hooded Down Jacket
• Outer shell: Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Jacket

👖 Warm Layers (bottom) – Pack a breathable base layer, fleece-lined mid-layer, and soft-shell pants. A pair of hard-shell pants might be overkill but depends on the conditions and the winter adventure you plan to go on. My favorite fleece bottoms are the Baleaf Fleece Jogger Pants and the Baleaf Fleece Leggings.

🤠 Warm Hat/Beanie – Keeps your head and ears warm on cold winter hikes. My favorite beanie is the Cotopaxi Tozo Beanie!

🧦 Socks – Moisture-wicking, quick-drying socks are the way to go. My favorite pair of hiking socks are Darn Tough Hiker Micro Crew Cushion Socks. I’m obsessed with them!

🥶 Emergency Shelter – Pack an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.

🗺️ Navigation – Carry a physical topographic map, compass, a satellite messenger (or personal locator beacon), and download offline maps to help you stay on course, find your way in unfamiliar terrain, and call for help if needed.

🔦 Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.

🩹 First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.

💧 Water – Water bottles to carry sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.

🍕 Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.

😎 Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays, even when it’s cloudy. Also, polarized sunglasses are important when it’s bright outside and the ground is covered in snow/ice.

🔥 Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency. Along with matches, I also carry a multi-tool carabiner that has a fire starter, utility blade, screwdriver, and bottle opener.

🗡️ Multi-Tool and Repair Kit – A versatile tool/knife and repair kit to handle any task, from preparing food to making repairs.

🚙 Winter Car Kit – Pack a basic winter car kit, including blankets or sleeping bags, extra warm layers, ice scraper, small shovel, extra water, snacks, flashlights, portable power bank with chargers, and signaling devices. Just in case you get stranded or caught in an unexpected winter storm!

✨ Need help figuring out exactly what to pack for Yosemite this winter? Read my complete Yosemite winter packing list and download the PDF checklist to make packing quick and easy!

Conclusion

Everyone needs to visit Mariposa Grove in winter at least once in their life! It’s truly an incredible sight to see a giant sequoia grove covered in snow. ❄️🌲

Bring a pair of snowshoes or skis and go on a once-in-a-lifetime wintery adventure! It’s so much more peaceful in the winter months versus any other season. It’s a chance to connect with nature in its quietest season.

Remember to plan ahead, dress in layers, check trail conditions, and bring the right winter gear! Safety first so you can fully enjoy this winter wonderland.

Have you visited Mariposa Grove in winter? Share your adventure in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your snowy experience!

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