Best time of the year?

[tmokbel1965]

Hey guys, what is the best time of the year to visit Yosemite? Would prefer the least foot traffic and somewhat warmer weather. :p Any suggestions?

[dan]

June for waterfalls.

May has less crowds, but sometimes the falls are low if the spring melt hasn't started.

Fall is uncrowded and peaceful. Falls are low or dry though.

Wimter is different if you ski.

Avoid July and August.

[AlmostThere]

Summer is peak season for visiting - it will be the most crowded. Winter will be least crowded, and roads will be closed - Tioga Pass and its scenery will be unavailable to you. Spring will be mosquito season, with waterfalls peaking but stream crossings at their most dangerous.

You really have to be clear on what you want to do in Yosemite - if you want to spend time in the valley itself, go backpacking, visit Tuolumne Meadows, see waterfalls -- it's not all going to be possible at the same time without the crowds. There are seasons for all those things. If "somewhat warmer weather" means nights above freezing and days in the 80F range, summer is it. Higher elevations you will find night temps ranging from 30-50F depending, but days will be cooler than they will be in Yosemite Valley, where it can easily be 90-100F in July and August.

[bisonmusic]

I would recommend May-June and September for nice weather and smaller crowds. In spring, you will be lucky to see either frazil ice phenomenon (April) or waterfalls at their best (June). In September avoid the Labor Day Weekend, but this month is perfect for hiking and lots of other activities (check over here). Summer months are good in terms of accessibility of places as most of the road are open, but all the hotels are booked and popular locations are too crowded.