Autumn in Yosemite

The Yosemite National Park temporary Peak Hours Reservations system ended last month.

This means that travellers can now enter the park without making an advance reservation between the hours of 6am and 4pm.

Autumn is a perfect time to visit as vehicle traffic lightens and animal traffic ramps up.

Hiking trails are far less travelled too.

Autumn is known by Yosemite insiders as prime time to be outside, and in this cooler, peaceful season Yosemite Mariposa County trails hold best-of-year appeal.

Check out the best way to experience autumn in Yosemite Mariposa County:

Day 1: Take in Yosemite Valley

Those visiting Mariposa County must make at least one full day visit to Yosemite Valley. Here travellers will find some of the best hikes including in the Valley Loop Trail perfect for those wanting to capture Big Leaf maples providing a bright yellow canopy. Many of the most famous trails start in Yosemite Valley and rise steeply up out of the valley from the renowned Mist Trail to the Upper Yosemite Falls Trail. Due to cooler temperatures Yosemite Valley fills with rock climbers during the autumn months. Whilst in the Valley it is worth taking time to stop beneath El Capitan and try to spot the climbers. Cap off the day at Glacier Point via Glacier Point Road for the famous sunset view.

Day 2: Wawona, The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Head south on day two towards Wawona and the nearby Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Here visitors will stand in the shadows of some of the biggest trees in the world. The Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree, being two of the most famous, are located just a mile from the shuttle stop in the Lower Grove. Then step back in time with a horse ride. Yosemite Trails is a locally owned and operated stable just outside the park close to Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite.

For those in search of a quintessentially Western experience in the Golden State, go for a ride on the Yosemite Sugar Pine Mountain Railroad in Wawona. Visitors can take a 1-hour tour, called “The Logger”. The 4-mile route offers a journey into the past as the conductor regales guests with stories of the railroad line, the trees and wildlife seen along the way.

Day 3: Historic Mountain Town Culture

On day three switch outdoor adventuring for a bit of historic mountain town culture. Take a tour of history through the award-winning Mariposa Museum and History Center. Explore a variety of exhibits ranging from a collection of beautiful Miwok basketry to an example of what a one-room miner’s cabin would look like. Visitors can also see a working stamp mill and the 70+-year-old press and print shop of the Mariposa Gazette.

Day 4: Choose Your Own Adventure

Finally, take a day to have an adventure from fishing to rock climbing to mountain biking and more, there is something for everyone. While most trails inside Yosemite are closed to mountain biking, there are many amazing trails in the surrounding region worth a ride. Exchequer Mountain Bike Park offers an extensive bike-only trail system created specifically for mountain bikers offering fantastic views of Lake McClure and trails for all skill levels. Stockton Creek Preserve in the town of Mariposa is another convenient and fun ride that can be combined with a meal in one of the amazing local restaurants,

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