Yosemite Valley is experiencing one of its wettest winters in more than four years, making this spring the ideal time to visit for waterfalls and wildflowers.
Make sure to swing by early in the season to see the ephemeral falls that are at their fullest this time of the year. Among these brief, but stunning attractions, are Horsetail Fall and Ribbon Fall. Yosemite’s most iconic waterfall, Yosemite Falls, whose multiple cascades can be seen from numerous places around the valley, leaves onlookers in awe of its power and force. Don’t miss Yosemite Falls “moonbow” or lunar rainbow, visible on a clear spring night with a full moon, guided photography tours are available. To see rainbows during the day, check out Vernal or Bridalveil Fall, when sunlight hits the mist below the falls and creates a kaleidoscope of beautiful colors.
A return in rainfall also means a return in some of the area’s best attractions such as whitewater rafting. Enjoy a guided whitewater half-day or full-day excursions down the sinuous Merced River to experience class IV whitewater rapids. Best time for whitewater rafting is typically April-June. Wildflowers are also making a big return this spring. The famous wildflowers of the Wild and Scenic Merced River are blazing color along the canyon in shades of poppy orange, amethyst lupine and magenta redbuds. Beginning in late April and early May, delicate white dogwood blooms begin budding all over Yosemite Valley. Spring is the best time for taking guided nature walks to explore the beautiful profusions of wildflowers and enjoy the return of dozens of species of songbirds.
After the sunsets, gather the family for a different story every night and cozy accommodations at Yosemite and within Mariposa County. Families can also explore Yosemite under the starry sky on the Night Prowl guided adventure, taking place April through November, with permitting weather conditions.
With something for everyone, it’s easy to start making memories in Yosemite. Bring the kids, visit with friends or plan a work or group retreat. To book your spring adventure in Yosemite/Mariposa County, visit YosemiteExperience.com.
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