3 Ways to Enjoy Yosemite in Winter
Half Dome sporting a snowy cap, ice-skating at Curry Village—these are just some of the pleasures of a winter visit to Yosemite National Park. One more: relative solitude. The park gets only one-fifth as many visitors in January as in July.
Yosemite National Park gets only one-fifth as many visitors in January as in July, and its snowy glories are ready to be enjoyed in relative solitude. Dan Koeppel shares the best ways to experience the park in all its winter glory.
1. Badger Pass ski area
This venerable resort offers snowshoeing (half-day rental $21) and cross-country and downhill skiing. Lift ticket $49.
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2. Curry Village Ice Rink
Not the biggest ice rink in the world, but with its views of Half Dome, possibly the most beautiful. Open daily in winter. $10, skate rental $4.
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3. Snowshoe walks
Offered by the national park and Badger Pass Nordic Center, guided trips range from easy ambles to more ambitious treks to Dewey Point for views of Yosemite Valley. From $19.
The Ahwahnee in winter (Michael Marfell / Getty Images)
Plus: Where to stay
The Ahwahnee. Grande dame of park hotels. From $349.
Yosemite Lodge at the Falls. Motel-like but comfortable. From $129.
For more activity and lodging info, visit yosemitepark.com.