Winter in Yosemite: A 3-Day Itinerary from Jackass Hostel

Jackass Hostel is a rustic, fun spot nestled just outside Yosemite, about 27 miles from the park’s southern entrance.

Its lower elevation, so snow is less common around the hostel itself, even in winter — but you’re still close enough for serious Yosemite winter adventure.

Day 1: Arrival & Bass Lake Sunset

Morning / Midday
Arrive at Jackass Hostel, get settled in, and enjoy the communal vibe. Depending on when you arrive, take a short drive to Bass Lake. We recommend heading to the south shore, around Millers Landing or Forks Resort, where you can pull off to explore the shoreline.

Afternoon
Do a gentle hike to soak in some quiet nature: Try the Way of the Mono Trail, a short (~0.6 mile) loop that provides lovely views over the lake and is especially magical as the sun begins to soften

Evening
For dinner, head to Ducey’s on the Lake, right by Bass Lake, a cozy spot to enjoy a lakeside meal as the sun sets. Make sure to check sunset times. Then return to the hostel for a relaxing night: maybe stargaze from the front patio.

Day 2: Southern Yosemite – Giant Sequoias & Wawona

Early Morning

Start your day early and head toward the Mariposa Grove Welcome Plaza, about 30 miles from Jackass Hostel. In winter the Mariposa Grove Road typically closes, so you’ll begin your hike from the Welcome Plaza.

Mariposa Grove Hike – 4 Miles Round Trip
From the Welcome Plaza, hike the 4-mile round-trip route along Washburn Trail to reach the grove. Once inside the giant sequoia forest, take your time wandering among these ancient giants, like the Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree are iconic highlights, and the snowy backdrop (if there is snow) makes everything feel even more magical.

Wawona Area Exploration
After finishing your time in the grove, continue a short drive to Wawona, a historic and quiet corner of Yosemite.

Recommended stops:

• Chilnualna Falls Trailhead
  You don’t need to do the full strenuous hike—walk a short distance along the lower part of the trail to enjoy the peaceful forest and cascading water. Even a short walk here feels immersive.

• Wawona Meadow Loop (optional easy walk)
  A gentle, scenic loop through open meadow and pine forest. Great if you want something relaxing after the sequoias.

• Wagon & Pioneer Yosemite History Center
  Explore the historic covered bridge, 19th-century wagons, old buildings, and interpretive signs. It’s a fun way to step back into Yosemite’s early history and great opportunity for photos and a leisurely stroll.

Lunch Tip – Pack Ahead
Before heading into the park, or on your way through, swing by the Deli at Tenaya at Yosemite to grab a packed lunch. It’s perfect to bring along because services are limited once you’re deep into Wawona or the Grove area.

Evening Dinner
On your way back toward the hostel, treat yourself to dinner at Jackalope’s Bar & Grill (located inside Tenaya at Yosemite). Cozy mountain ambiance, hearty meals, and a perfect place to warm up after a full winter’s day outside.

Return to Jackass Hostel for a relaxed evening, hot tea and warm common spaces.

Day 3: Yosemite Valley Exploration – Classic Views & Winter Walks

Morning – Leave Early

For your Yosemite Valley day, depart the hostel early to maximize light and avoid traffic. Winter in the valley is quiet, peaceful, and absolutely stunning.

Stop 1: Tunnel View
Your first major stop is the iconic Tunnel View overlook. This panoramic scene includes El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome all framed in one breathtaking view. In winter, with mist or snow, it’s unforgettable.

Stop 2: Bridalveil Fall
Next, stop at the Bridalveil Fall area for a short walk to the viewing point. Even in winter, the walk is generally accessible, and the fall often creates icy mist and delicate frosty patterns on nearby rocks and branches.

Stop 3: Yosemite Village Exploration
Park in or near Yosemite Village and spend time exploring:

• Ansel Adams Gallery: Photography lovers will enjoy browsing prints, books, and rotating exhibits.

• Yosemite Museum & Visitor Center: Good for cultural and natural history context.

• Open meadows and wildlife viewing. Winter is a great time for spotting deer and coyotes.

Optional Walks: If weather and conditions permit, choose one or both.

• Mirror Lake Trail
  A relatively easy walk that leads to a seasonal lake famous for its reflections of Half Dome. In winter, low water levels often create a peaceful, mirror-like scene.

• Lower Yosemite Fall Trail
  Start from Yosemite Village. The Lower Yosemite Falls trail is an easy loop bringing you right to the base of Lower Yosemite Fall. In winter, expect mist that can freeze along the railing and nearby rocks, beautiful but slippery, so tread carefully.

Lunch Options
Bring snacks or a packed meal (Yosemite Village has limited winter services), or enjoy food from the options in the village if open that day. Base Camp eatery at Yosemite Valley Lodge is an option.

Afternoon & Return
As the afternoon light softens in the valley, make your way back to Jackass Hostel for your final night or begin your journey home if this is your departure day.

Tips & Considerations for a Winter Stay

Road Conditions & Safety
Always check Yosemite’s road conditions before you travel. Tire chains may be required, even if your vehicle has 4-wheel drive.

Use the NPS Current Conditions page to stay up to date.

Call the 24-hour road status line: 209-372-0200 and press “1, 1” for updates.

Winter Access Notes
Some roads close in winter: Tioga Road (Highway 120 east) closes seasonally, usually by November. NPS Glacier Point Road also closes beyond Badger Pass, though parts may be plowed for winter recreation.

Mariposa Grove Road is typically not plowed in winter; hiking in to the grove is accessed via the Washburn Trail or along the road.

Gear
Consider traction devices (microspikes, snowshoes) for your hikes if there’s snow or ice.

Carry chains in your car if snow is expected; even well-paved roads can require them in Yosemite winter.

Dress in layers, winter mornings in Yosemite can be cold.

Snow Play & Winter Activities

Even if major roads are closed, winter brings great opportunities: snowshoeing, cross-country skiing (especially near Badger Pass), and quiet snow-filled trails.

For sequoia grove hikes, snow can transform the trails into a winter wonderland — but be prepared for icy or soft snow underfoot.

Hostel Advantage in Winter
Since Jackass Hostel sits at lower elevation and doesn’t often get heavy snow, it serves as a more reliable base when snow is unpredictable.

The communal, laid-back atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after chilly hikes or snowy adventures.