Anybody have any suggestions for two days at Yosemite during the first week of December?

Answer 1

Hiking, sightseeing, photography, rock climbing and skiing are all possibilities.

The trails around the Valley floor are always passable. The trails that go up to Nevada/Vernal Falls and Yosemite Falls can get icy and tricky in winter, but sometimes are not a problem. It depends on the rain/snow recently versus the sunshine melting it off.

You can look up at all the same cliffs and waterfalls that you can in the summer, although only the largest waterfalls will be running in winter.

It is a great time to do photography because the lower angle of winter light makes for mpre dramatic views. And the high-country (and maybe the valley) being dusted in snow can be very beautiful.

Rock climbing and bouldering is just as doable, albeit with warmer clothes and during the shorter days. At least you don't need 2 gallons of water a day on big wall climbs like in the summer!

A few weeks each winter you can X-C ski in the Valley, right after a snowfall. There are few spots along Highway 120 between the entrance and the Valley where you can X-C ski on some unplowed roads.

Best for skiing would be Badger Pass, within the park, about a 45 minute drive from the Valley. There is a medium-sized, family-oreinted downhill ski area there and the trailhead for free trails out towards Glacier Point along the unplowed road for cross-country skiiers.

The visitors center and grocery store is open year round. Some of the galleries and shops have reduced hours in winter.

Expect days that could be 25F to 45F, sunny, windy, or snowing. Dress in layers. Skiiers' "powder pants" or bibs make a good warm layer for your legs while hiking, sightseeing around. Bring tire chains for your car (unlike I-80, you can't buy them roadside).

Have fun.

Answer 2

Warm clothes, lots of socks, enjoy the view!