Things not to miss: Glacier Point, tunnel view, half dome
What to eat: Village grill, The Ahwahnee dining room, Curry Village Pavilion
Where to stay: The Ahwanee, Yosemite large loft apartmentsTenaya Lodge, Curry Village
Average weather: 84° / 50°F
We have visited Yosemite three seasons a year, but we hope to visit in September. Our friends who went last year told us it was great to experience the park so empty.
September (and May) is the best time to visit the park as it is low season and temperatures are ideal for hiking and exploring. The park is still accessible, but you will not be bothered by the summer crowds. After September, the hiking trails and roads are closed due to snow. So when planning, keep in mind that some campsites close at the end of September, and many in mid-October.
If you’re looking for waterfalls, most of them are slowly trickling or disappearing in the fall, so May might be the better choice.