Author: Zarth (---.peoplesoft.com)
Date: 10-07-03 12:08
Hi all,
I'm planning a winter backpacking trip to Yosemite. We want to experience a snow covered Yosmite. What is the snow coverage like in early Dec?
Seth
Re: Backpacking Yosemite in Dec
Author: Zarth (---.peoplesoft.com)
Date: 10-07-03 13:34
Also, what are good routes for a 2 day trip. We are thinking we will either Telemark ski or snowshoe. What is the best method of transportation.
Thanks
Re: Backpacking Yosemite in Dec
Author: Dan Anderson (---.drydog.com)
Date: 10-07-03 14:52
There's little more than a dusting of snow in early December. Badger Pass usually doesn't open until late December or later, depending on snow levels. There's snow on the ground, but not enough to ski or snowshow on--just enough so you can't drive on the Glacier Point Road or Tioga Road.
Your best bet is the Tuolumne Meadows area, which you can access from the east side (via Highway 120 via Lee Vining). You probably have to walk up 120, as it is closed. More than a 2 day trip.
You can drive to Yosemite or take a bus. Local busses leave from the train and bus stations in the Valley.
Re: Backpacking Yosemite in Dec
Author: BB (---.client.attbi.com)
Date: 11-03-03 20:36
Does anyone have updated info on the snow condition up at (and past) Badger Pass?
With the recent precipitation (and early snows) I was wondering if there is a need for snowshoes up past Badger for a hiking trip (or the opportunity to x-country skis in the backcountry).
Thanks for the info,
B
Re: Backpacking Yosemite in Dec
Author: Beth Lorenz (---.client.insightBB.com)
Date: 12-01-05 04:03
You sounded like you know Yosemite trails well. Do they have any organized backpacking during Feb. My husband and I have never done Winter backpacking, but want to give it a try. Do you have any suggestions for beginners?
Re: Backpacking Yosemite in Dec
Author: Dan Anderson (---.west.biz.rr.com)
Date: 12-01-05 09:52
Beth,
If you haven't snow camped before, it's best to go along with someone who has done this before or take a class. You can "just do it", but you'll learn some lessons on staying warm and comfortable the hard way.
The local Sierra Club chapters have winter backpacking classes or winter mountaineering classes of various levels.
The Yosemite Association has winter backpacking classes.
http://www.yosemite.org/seminars/
The National Park Service does NOT offer any such class.
The Mountaineering school might have a winter backpacking class, but I'm not sure.
http://www.yosemitepark.com/activitylis ... PageID=237
http://www.yosemitepark.com
Most people start out from the parking lot at the Badger Pass Ski Area and head out on the Glacier Point Road (which is closed in Winter) and camp along the way. You need a wilderness permit (available from the A-frame ranger hut there)