Ultimate Guide to Visiting Yosemite in May [2025]

Yosemite in May: Overview

Yosemite Entrance Fee

Entrance to Yosemite National Park costs $35 per vehicle for a 7-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, it grants you access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country!

Reservations

A reservation is required to enter Yosemite National Park from 5 AM to 4 PM on some dates from April 13 through October 27, 2025.

• April 13 to June 30: weekends and holidays only
• July 1–August 16: daily
• August 17– October 27: weekends and holidays only

Why Visit Yosemite in May?

1. Perfect Weather for Outdoor Adventures

May to early June marks the late spring season in Yosemite, bringing warmer weather that’s ideal for outdoor adventures.

In Yosemite Valley, the average highs reach the 70s°F (22°C), with lows dipping into the 40s°F (7°C).

However, as you venture into higher elevations, temperatures drop significantly, with places like Tuolumne Meadows averaging highs of 55°F (13°C) and lows of 26°F (-3°C).

Be prepared for occasional rainy days, unexpected cold fronts, and even snowfall in higher regions, as these are still possible in May.

Always check the weather forecast and pack accordingly for a variety of conditions.

Many of the trails in Yosemite Valley, Hetch Hetchy, Mariposa Grove, and Wawona are usually snow-free and accessible by May.

Higher elevations, such as Glacier Point and Tioga Road, may become accessible by late-May but might require winter gear due to colder temperatures and remaining snow.

Tire chains are rarely needed in May, but it’s still possible for a late-season snowstorm to occur, which could lead to chain requirements.

⚠️ Check the current conditions and weather forecast before visiting.

2. Stunning Waterfalls

As the warmer weather of May melts the snowpack in Yosemite’s higher elevations, the park’s waterfalls come alive!

Even the smallest creeks transform into rushing streams, while larger rivers and well-known waterfalls reach their peak flow, creating some of the most spectacular sights of the year.

The month of May (and even early June) is truly the best time to experience Yosemite’s waterfalls at their most powerful.

Whether you prefer hiking or exploring by car, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Yosemite’s iconic waterfalls.

For hikers, the park offers a variety of trails – ranging from easy strolls to strenuous treks – that lead to some of the most breathtaking falls in the country.

If hiking isn’t an option, don’t worry!

Many of Yosemite’s waterfalls can be admired from easily accessible viewpoints.

Later in this guide, you’ll find a comprehensive list of the best Yosemite waterfall hikes.

3. Spring Scenery (wildflowers and wildlife)

May is a magical time when Yosemite truly comes to life!

By mid to late May, Yosemite’s lower elevations burst into a stunning display of wildflowers, painting the landscape with vibrant colors and natural beauty.

Wildlife is also more active this time of year, energized by the warmer weather and the abundance of food now emerging from beneath the melting snow.

Keep an eye out for birds, deer, and even bears as you explore the park’s trails and scenic spots.

Black bears (the only kind of bears in Yosemite) usually come out of hibernation and become active by late March and April.

Don’t worry, black bears are (usually) calm, beautiful creatures and amazing to watch in their natural habitat.

Just follow these rules to keep you and the bears safe:

1. Drive the speed limit posted within the park.
2. Maintain a distance of 100 yards if possible.
3. Store food properly (keep scented items/food in a container/cooler in a locked car during daytime hours and in food lockers at nighttime for those staying in the campgrounds).
4. Hike in pairs or groups.
5. If you see a bear while hiking slowly back away (don’t run!), make some noise, and make yourself look big.

⚠️ Bear spray is ILLEGAL in Yosemite National Park!

May offers a perfect blend of blooming beauty and bustling wildlife, making it an enchanting time to visit Yosemite.

4. Avoid Summer Crowds

Early to mid-May offers one of the best opportunities to experience Yosemite with pleasant weather and relatively smaller crowds.

While visitor numbers are higher than in winter or early spring, they remain far below the summer surge, allowing for more peaceful adventures.

By mid to late May, some trails and roads start to reopen, offering the exciting opportunity to be among the first to explore those areas before the summer crowds roll in.

A Few Drawbacks

While May is a fantastic time to visit Yosemite, it does come with a few drawbacks to keep in mind.

As the warmer weather arrives and schools let out for summer break, the park begins to draw larger crowds – typically in mid to late May.

Though it’s not as busy as the peak summer season, the increase is noticeable, especially if you arrive at the entrance gates after mid-morning.

Accommodations can also be challenging to secure in May and campgrounds quickly fill up.

Most lodging options within Yosemite require reservations made at least six months in advance.

Although the weather warms up during the day, early mornings and nights can still be chilly.

Also, road and trail opening dates depend heavily on the winter snowpack.

Higher elevations, like Glacier Point and Tioga Road, may remain inaccessible until late May or even June.

Additionally, Memorial Day weekend brings summer-level crowds, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this holiday if possible.

For tips on managing crowded places, check out my guide, 15 Ways to Avoid Crowds in the Great Outdoors, to help make your Yosemite trip more enjoyable and stress-free.

3. Visit Hetch Hetchy

✨ Gaylor Lakes is another incredible hike, but it’s often overlooked. Read my complete Gaylor Lakes hiking guide to learn more about this underrated spot in Yosemite.

9. Rock Climb

Planning Your Trip

Where to Stay

Yosemite National Park and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of lodging and campground options.

However, availability becomes extremely limited by late spring and throughout the summer.

Accommodations within the park are especially in high demand, often booking up within seconds of becoming available.

To secure your stay, it’s crucial to plan well in advance!

Lodging Options

Prepare to budget carefully, as lodging inside Yosemite during late spring can be pricey!

While traditional tent camping isn’t for everyone, Yosemite offers a variety of upscale accommodations to suit those seeking extra comfort.

Options range from charming canvas-sided tent cabins to luxurious hotels.

🎟️ If you have lodging or campground reservations inside the park, you don’t need to pay the entrance fee!

Fancy Tents and Cabins:

• Curry Village
• Housekeeping Camp

Luxury Hotels:

• Yosemite Valley Lodge
• The Ahwahnee
• Wawona Hotel (currently closed due to roof replacement project)

⚠️ Reservations for lodging in Yosemite are available 366 days in advance. It’s highly recommended to plan as far in advance as possible!

There are also private lodging options in neighboring communities if you can’t a place to stay inside the park.

Here is a short list of places to stay outside of the park – it’s not an exhaustive list!

Near South Entrance:

• Tenaya at Yosemite
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oakhurst
• Best Western Plus Yosemite Gateway Inn

Near Arch Rock Entrance:

• Red Bud Lodge
• Yosemite View Lodge
• Yosemite Cedar Lodge

Near Big Oak Flat and Hetch Hetchy Entrances:

• The Evergreen Lodge (Groveland)
• Rush Creek Lodge
• Groveland Hotel

Near Tioga Pass Entrance: (make sure Tioga Road isn’t closed during your visit)

• El Mono Motel
• Gull Lake Lodge
• Lake View Lodge

Campgrounds

Reservations are required for all campgrounds inside Yosemite from approximately April through October.

Some campgrounds are open year-round while others are seasonal.

🏕️ Visit Recreation.gov to make reservations.

Year-round campgrounds inside Yosemite:

• Upper Pines and Camp 4 in Yosemite Valley
• Wawona Campground (south of Yosemite Valley)
• Hodgdon Meadow Campground (north of Yosemite Valley)

Seasonal campgrounds inside Yosemite (open in May):

• Lower Pines and North Pines in Yosemite Valley

Reservations for these campgrounds listed are made 5 months in advance of your trip dates.

You can reserve a spot at the North Pine Campground either by their lottery system or reserving 5 months in advance if there’s any remaining availability.

⚠️ Find more information about Yosemite’s campgrounds, reservation process, and fees HERE.

Check out the following resources for more camping options: Bureau of Land Management, Forest Service, and Campendium.

Most of the campgrounds listed above are seasonal and open by April or May.

Some are first come, first serve and others require a reservation.

⚠️ Do your research and have a backup plan in case a campground is full.

RV Campgrounds

There are a few campgrounds inside Yosemite that can accommodate RVs, 5th-wheels, and travel trailers.

The maximum RV length is 40 feet and maximum trailer length is 35 feet.

Check the maximum length allowed for each campsite.

Visit Recreation.gov to make reservations.

Campgrounds in Yosemite that allow RVs (open in May):

• Upper Pines, Lower Pines, North Pines (Yosemite Valley)
• Wawona Campground (near South Entrance)
• Hodgdon Meadow Campground (near Big Oak Flat Entrance)

⚠️ Electrical, water, and sewer hookups are not available in Yosemite.

Dump stations (with fresh water) are available at Upper Pines Campground (all year) and near Wawona Campground (summer only).

Generator use is allowed between 7 to 9 AM, 12 to 2 PM, and 5 to 7 PM.

RV sites inside Yosemite will sell out just as quickly as tent sites.

If you didn’t get a spot inside the park, there are plenty of options outside Yosemite.

Near South Entrance:

• High Sierra RV and Mobile Park
• Granite Mountain Resort
• Yosemite RV Resort

Near Arch Rock Entrance:

• Indian Flat Campground

Near Big Oak Flat and Hetch Hetchy Entrances:

• Yosemite Ridge Resort
• Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes
• Yosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging

Near Tioga Pass Entrance: (make sure Tioga Road isn’t closed during your visit)

• Mono Vista RV Park

I only listed a few examples of RV parks outside Yosemite just to give you an idea of what’s out there.

I recommend doing a lot of research on all the RV parks in the area and plan in advance!

Transportation

Getting to Yosemite

Most people drive their own vehicle or rent one to reach Yosemite. It’s the most convenient option.

However, beware of potential traffic jams and congested areas when you enter the park.

This usually won’t happen until late May (especially around Memorial Day weekend).

If you’re going with friends or family, carpool if possible!

Another great option is the utilize a public transportation system known as Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System, or YARTS for short.

Visit their website to learn more about the routes, schedules, and ticket fares.

Once Inside Yosemite

There are several transportation methods for exploring Yosemite National Park, particularly Yosemite Valley.

In early May, parking is generally easier to find.

However, as mid to late May ushers in the start of the peak season, navigating Yosemite (especially Yosemite Valley) requires strategic planning.

Parking spots can fill up quickly, so it’s important to plan ahead!

Here’s a closer look at the four primary ways to get around Yosemite Valley.

Utilize Shuttle System

The Yosemite Valley Shuttle System is a convenient and free way to explore the Valley.

As peak season rolls around (mid to late May), expect longer lines and wait times.

In addition to the Valley Shuttle, Yosemite offers several seasonal shuttles, including the Mariposa Grove Shuttle and Glacier Point Tour (these options may or may not be open during your visit in May).

Biking in the Valley

Biking in Yosemite Valley is a great option!

I wish we could have tried it during our trips, but we don’t own bikes right now.

Don’t have your own bike either? No worries!

Bikes can be rented in Yosemite Valley at Curry Village, Yosemite Village, or Yosemite Valley Lodge.

Bike rentals go quickly during peak season, so if you can bring your own bike.

Yosemite Valley features 12 miles of scenic, paved bike paths to explore.

E-bikes and electric scooters are also allowed but be sure to follow the park’s rules.

Also, there’s a convenient Bike Share Program worth checking out!

Walking

Walking is the easiest and less stressful way to get around Yosemite because you don’t have to worry about finding parking, catching the shuttle bus on time, or finding a spot to safely put your bike.

Yosemite National Park is huge so walking around the entire park is not realistic, especially if you want to get from Yosemite Valley to another section of the park.

That’s a lot of miles!

Thankfully, you can combine all the transportation options.

For example, park your car at any of the public parking lots in Yosemite Valley, walk (or bike) to nearby trailheads, then take the shuttle bus to spots further away and back to your car.

Essential Tips for Visiting in May

• Check the current conditions (road closure status and trail conditions).
• Pack extra layers as the weather in May can be unpredictable (warm days, chilly evenings).
• Book accommodations as far in advance as possible!
• Arrive early to beat the crowds (try to be at the park’s entrance by 8 AM).
• Be prepared to pay an entrance fee (unless you have the America the Beautiful Pass).
• You may need a reservation (depending on what day you visit).
• Don’t miss out on seeing Yosemite’s waterfalls during this month.
• Trails may be muddy due to snow melt, so make sure to wear waterproof hiking shoes or boots with good traction.
• Utilize the free Yosemite Valley Shuttle System to avoid parking hassles.
• Bears are active in May – store food/scented items properly and follow bear safety guidelines (bear spray in Yosemite is illegal).
• Explore the lesser-visited areas, such as Hetch Hetchy and Wawona.
• If you plan on hiking at higher elevations, bring winter gear in case of snowy conditions.
• Follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve Yosemite’s natural beauty.

What to Bring

Must-haves for Yosemite

• Entrance Pass or America the Beautiful Pass
• Reservation (depending on time/day)
• A plan/itinerary with a backup plan in case things don’t go as planned
• Knowledge of the Leave No Trace principles
• Patience and kindness

Clothing and Gear

• Layers of clothing:
  • Poncho or raincoat (waterproof, top layer)
  • Warm fleece or down jacket
  • Lightweight jacket or long-sleeve shirt (lightweight, quick drying, mid layer)
  • Long-sleeve or short-sleeve shirt/tank top (moisture wicking material, base layer)
    • A long-sleeve sun shirt helps reduce sun exposure and keeps bugs away!
• Waterproof hiking shoes or boots
• Moisture-wicking socks
• Warm hat and gloves
• Hiking backpack
• Trekking poles

Pack the 10 Essentials

1. Navigation – A map, compass, or GPS device to help you stay on course and find your way in unfamiliar terrain.
2. Water – Sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.
3. Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
4. First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
5. Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
6. Insulation – Extra layers of clothing (such as a jacket or fleece) to stay warm in changing weather conditions.
7. Rain Gear and Emergency Shelter – A rain jacket or poncho and an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.
8. Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency.
9. Multi-tool or Knife – A versatile tool or knife to handle any tasks, from preparing food to making repairs.
10. Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.

Conclusion

Visiting Yosemite in May is an experience like no other!

The park comes alive with the sights and sounds of spring: waterfalls cascading at their peak, wildflowers blooming in vibrant colors, and wildlife emerging as the snow melts away.

The quieter trails and cooler temperatures make this an ideal time to explore everything Yosemite has to offer, from serene valley walks to breathtaking vistas at higher elevations.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning explorer, visiting Yosemite in May offers something special.

It’s a time to embrace the beauty of spring, reconnect with nature, and create unforgettable memories.

If this guide inspires you to visit Yosemite in May, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!