Great Debates: Why Visit Yosemite in May?

There have been some great debates throughout history: the Lincoln/Douglass debates, which launched the presidential career of “Honest Abe”; the debate over what qualifies as a planet (we feel you, Pluto); and, of course, whether a hot dog is, in fact, a sandwich. Here in the Sierra, we have a perennial debate of our own: when is the best time to visit Yosemite Mariposa County?

While October dazzles with its multi-colored leafy stage and January whispers with its serene blanket of snow, the month of May boasts its own medley of bona fides. Everything from waterfalls gushing at peak volume to ditch-the-jacket Sierra sunshine, and from local festivals to lush trails fresh from their winter nap. No matter how you slice it, May in Yosemite is guaranteed to be a powerhouse entry on any travel calendar.

10 Things To Do In Yosemite In May

This list could stretch longer than the view from Glacier Point, but here are ten prime entries to get the ball rolling…

1. Royal Gush: Yosemite Waterfall Viewing
   As the snowmelt descends from the surrounding Sierra high country, Yosemite Valley comes alive in May. Peak flows translate to top viewing at the base of iconic waterfalls such as Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls and Vernal/Nevada Falls. For May brilliance off the beaten path,  Wapama Fall at Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is no slouch. Pro Tip:  Wear a waterproof shell and let the rainbow mist swirl!

2. Walking Tall: Yosemite Hiking
   Without a doubt hiking is the backbone of any Yosemite getaway, and in May the trails are fresh following their winter respite.  From gentle footpaths such as the Mirror Lake Trail and Tenaya Loop Trail, to strenuous climbs such as the Four Mile Trail or the Mist Trail, there is a distance and difficulty for everyone. Pro Tip: Be sure to check out hikes outside the Park such as the Merced River Trail and Hite Cove Trail along Highway 140 on your way to the Arch Rock Entrance.

3. Huzzah: Post-Hike Celebration
   There’s no better way to toast your day’s s triumph than beer and bites on an outdoor patio. Whether sampling the many options in Mariposa, enjoying the fire pits at Jackalopes Bar and Grill or chatting with like-minded travelers at the June Bug Cafe, our Eat & Drink page will help you find the right spot to clink glasses. If you want to take the celebration to the next level then consider a massage or spa treatment to prepare you for another day on the trail!

4. Guiding Light: Yosemite Tours
   From horseback riding and vintage train rides through the Sierra National Forest to fly fishing and open-air trams weaving through the wonders of Yosemite Valley, the Golden Age of Yosemite tours is upon us. Dozens of tour companies and guide services offer comfortable, informative and adventurous options, while perennial faves such as the Yosemite Valley Floor Tour and the Glacier Point Tour are sure to impress. Pro Tip: Some companies offer hotel pick-up, meals and take care of park entry fees.  Be sure to ask what perks are available for your tour.

5. Elite Branch: Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
   At approximately 3,000 years old, these massive trees have been around since the first Olympics games in ancient Greece. Walk beneath the stately boughs of such specimens as Grizzly Giant, Fallen Monarch and the Faithful Couple, and celebrate the unique beauty of Mariposa Grove knowing that Sequoiadendron giganteum are native to a small number of groves on the western slope of the Sierra Nevada. The free shuttle from the Mariposa Grove Welcome Center typically operates from mid-April (be sure to check status before embarking) and wait times will be shorter compared to summer months. Pro Tip: Check out Yosemite’s other two stands of Giant Sequoia — Merced Grove and Tuolumne Grove.

6. Wings of Gold: Mariposa Butterfly Festival
   The Gold Rush town of Mariposa is not only the gateway to Yosemite National Park, but a cheerful stage for Sierra foothill culture.  Every May local spirit takes wing during the Mariposa Butterfly Festival, a two-day event of delicious food, local art and live music where visitors and locals come together and celebrate their namesake. For a complete listing of what’s going on in Yosemite Mariposa County check out our Events page.

7. Tioga Two Step: Visit the High Sierra
   As you climb Tioga Road towards 9,945 ft Tioga Pass, the uncommon beauty of the High Sierra reveals itself around every turn and from every vista. And with such Northern Yosemite gems as Tenaya Lake and Tuolumne Meadows along the way, you can’t help but feel closer to the clouds. Tioga Road/Highway 120 closes for winter and typically reopens late May through June, though in big snow years it can be delayed until July. Be sure to check the current road status and bring sufficient fuel and supplies.  Pro Tip:  Consider laying out a Yosemite picnic!

8. Churning Point: Yosemite Whitewater Rafting
   Ever wonder what happens to all those waterfalls after they plummet into Yosemite Valley?  They team up in the Merced River then rumble down the western slope of the Sierra where whitewater rafting turns May into a thrilling joy ride. Leave the details to the pros and book a local rafting guide who can navigate with confidence the Class II-IV rapids such as Nightmare Island and Split Rock, and can shuttle you from your upriver launch to your downriver pull-out.

9. Culture Club: Museum Hopping
   When enjoying the wide-open spaces of Yosemite, sometimes a little indoor time is the perfect reset. Fortunately, there is no shortage of museums in Yosemite Mariposa County. Featuring everything from Miwuk to Gold Rush and Yosemite rock climbing histories, there are exhibits for every age and interest. Pro Tip: Before or after your museum hop, be sure to grab a bite in town and enjoy some local shopping.

10. Gold Standard: Explore Yosemite’s Gateway Towns
    The gateway towns on Yosemite’s doorstep are key players in California’s Gold Rush, farming and ranching histories, not to mention a spirited expression of today’s life in the Sierra. Mariposa, with its historic Courthouse and Old Stone Jail, offers the widest selection of lodging and dining options in the region, while Fish Camp has the full-service Tenaya at Yosemite resort situated on the flank of the Sierra National Forest and just 2 miles from Yosemite’s South Entrance. With dozens of historic buildings, a Chinese immigrant history during the Gold Rush and the Northern Mariposa County Museum, the town of Coulterville feels like the set of your favorite western. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite at the delicious Coulter Cafe and walk around for the afternoon. Pro Tip: For an aerial view of Yosemite Mariposa County be sure to explore its Regions.

Be May Savvy in Yosemite

• In Yosemite Valley (4,000 ft elevation) high temperatures are typically in the 70’s with lows in the 40’s during May, while in Tuolumne Meadows (8,600 ft elevation) highs are around 50 degrees and lows below freezing. Translation? Bring warm layers but be prepared for some glorious weather!
• Check out our What To Pack article to help you keep that luggage/duffel/backpack light, tight & tidy.
• For max inspiration (and preparation) be sure to check out our Yosemite Vacation Planner.
• Visiting in May definitely provides more room to roam than the upcoming summer vacation months, but book your Yosemite Mariposa County lodging early for the best selection!