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Nature Turns on When Yosemite Empties in Autumn

Like in many national parks, autumn in Yosemite is a time to reset. Most visitors have returned to jobs and schools, cooler temperatures prevail and golden light baths the valley most evenings. Park rangers and lodging hosts aren’t the only ones who take an extra moment to appreciate this magnificent environment. Animals are often more visible when their habitat is quieter and fewer vehicles travel the roads. Simply put, Yosemite in autumn is awesome.

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“It's more relaxed, quieter, and more intimate. The stadium show is over, the masses have gone home, and it's just you and Yosemite hanging out and getting to know each other a little better.”

Yuli Gotsev

“When I finish a Sentinel Dome hike, I most likely am hungry, so a nice meal in Yosemite Valley is a good option, and The Ahwahnee would be my choice."

Yuli Gotsev

Come Experience Fall at Yosemite

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Mariposa County

“Visiting Yosemite in fall is like getting the backstage pass to a sold-out concert,” says Yuli Gotsev, long-tenured manager at The Redwoods In Yosemite. “It's more relaxed, quieter, and more intimate. The stadium show is over, the masses have gone home, and it's just you and Yosemite hanging out and getting to know each other a little better.” Of course, it's vitally important to respect wildlife's personal space when "hanging out" with them. The National Park Service states, "Respect animals at a distance: never feed or approach them. If you encounter wildlife, maintain a safe distance." It's also very important to drive the speed limit to protect wildlife. Gerry Fischer, co-founder of Yosemite Resorts, appreciates the expanded movement not just of animals but of people too. Lighter traffic invites visitors to set unique itineraries that capture individual interests, whether photographing nature or exploring meadows filled with asters and other fall blooms. “I get up and off to an early start for the Upper Yosemite Falls trail,” he says. “It's a bit steep at points but worth the effort as the views of the valley are stunning, with maple and dogwood leaves giving vibrant colors and allowing even an amateur photographer like me to bring home shots I can share and enjoy.” Gerry adds a hot tub visit to “take the edge off my hike” when he returns to his properties. He notes that guests keen on viewing fall wildlife can often see bears, deer, and other animals with surprisingly little effort. “Many of our guests will leave their drapes open to catch an early morning view of animals coming down to the Merced River to quench their thirst. My family and I have also found the Mirror Lake Trail and Mariposa Grove provide us with great opportunities to observe the wildlife of Yosemite.”

Photo by Charles Phillips

Like a visitor's checklist, everyone who works in Yosemite-Mariposa County has a favorite itinerary, depending on the season. Brooke Hardy, who represents Tenaya at Yosemite, prefers to begin her day early, the best time to see birds, bears, and deer, among other wildlife. “My perfect fall day starts with an early morning hike to catch the sunrise at Taft Point; then, I head to the Valley floor to scout for wildlife. In the afternoon, I’ll explore Tenaya at Yosemite, bike around, or relax at the Ascent Spa before grabbing dinner at Jackalopes Bar and Grill.” Brooke also recommends late afternoon jaunts when animals may be on the move and, especially, when the brilliant autumn sunlight illuminates the valley. “It’s the best time for photography and a more peaceful experience, in general,” she says. Yuli Gotsev also favors visits to Taft Point, though he prefers sunsets here and at Sentinel Dome. He’s quick to point out that the change of seasons in Yosemite requires additional preparedness from visitors. "I always carry a flashlight when catching the sunset somewhere, because the valley darkens quickly," he says. "And be prepared for the weather! It may be 70F during the day, but the temperature may fall to the mid-30s at night. Snow is also not out of the question, so always travel with chains.” Yuli’s ideal fall itinerary doesn’t end with sunset, however. "When I finish a Sentinel Dome hike, I most likely am hungry, so a nice meal in Yosemite Valley is a good option, and The Ahwahnee would be my choice. I’d take a dessert to go, some hot chocolate and head to El Cap meadow after that. Grab your binoculars and spot the climbers' flickering lights on El Cap, a great spot for stargazing too.” Speaking of binoculars, fall is a great time to observe dozens of bird species. Mountain chickadees, oak titmice, and other songbirds are often more visible when flitting among oak and maple branches after the leaves have dropped. Raptors, including sharp-shinned hawks and the rarer northern goshawk, are regular day migrants through the park.

Photo by Chris Migeon

Over 250 bird species have been documented in Yosemite. The best way to see the most birds is to visit multiple habitats in this extremely diverse environment, which changes altitude from 2,000 to 13,000 feet above sea level. Gerry Fischer shares he also appreciates the quiet of Yosemite in autumn, especially in the high country like Tuolumne Meadows and Tioga Pass, which closes to traffic in winter. He says bear viewing is a favorite pastime at lower elevations. “I would say my favorite animal is the black bear,” he says. “Watching them as they move through the woods is always fascinating. My mother, who managed Yosemite Cedar Lodge for many years, was very fond of bears, and I am sure that rubbed off on me as well. She collected hundreds of bear sculptures over the years, many of which are displayed in the lobby for everyone to enjoy.” Being “bear aware” (leaving plenty of space, making noise, not leaving out food, etc.) is always a good practice, but, like most Yosemite wildlife, black bears prefer to avoid humans. Visitors mostly see them scampering away into the forest or across the meadow. Every day of the year reveals something beautiful in Yosemite. The last sunray may “cast fire” upon a waterfall, a young buck may appear with fresh antlers, or an aspen grove may shimmer in gold. An autumn visit offers a kaleidoscope of nature to explore. Visit the Yosemite Mariposa County website to plan your adventure within this spectacular season.

Tenaya at Yosemite, The Redwoods and Yosemite Resorts are three of many lodging options to consider when customizing your Yosemite getaway. Visit the Yosemite Mariposa County website to plan your spring awakening.

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Tenaya at Yosemite is a full-service resort located just two miles from the south gate entrance to Yosemite National Park. In addition to hotel rooms and suites, guests can book Cottages and two-bedroom Explorer Cabins. Visitors will also enjoy the spa, multiple dining venues, and on-site programs, from e-bikes to horseback riding.

Tenaya at Yosemite