http://www.jimmys-adventures.net/hiking-yosemite-november/
Can I drive around Yosemite in November – my first visit to California and I’m sure of weather conditions?
Hi everyone
I’m visiting California for the first time 15-25 November. After going to LA and San Francisco I’m thinking of driving East to Yosemite. After this I would like to see Mono Lake and that area – how can I get to this area?
On the map it indicates that the pass between the two will be closed – is it safe to drive around this area (120 – 108 – 395) and what are these roads like at this time of year? Are they mountainous and bendy? Also I’d really appreciate an indication of how long this would take to drive in a standard car.
After this will it be okay to drive south on the 395 before coming back west to LA, or is this ever closed? Any other tips anyone wants to give about this trip are most welcome. I’m travelling with an 18 month old, so will not be skiing or involved in hectic hiking – but intend a more superficial tourist trip that she will enjoy.
Many thanks for your time all
Hannah
Hi,
I live in Yosemite. November is a time of very strange weather changes in Yosemite. It is next to impossible to exactly predict what the weather is going to be, but here’s a few things to know….
1) The first major snowstorm of the season (read “road-closing”) usually occurs in November. Be prepared, especially since you have a young one. Bring warm clothes, and rent snow-chains for your tires in case a storm causes them to be required to drive on the roads here.
2) IF the major snowstorm occurs, then the following roads will close till April-May: The Mariposa Grove Road, The Glacier Point road, and (VERY impotant) the Tioga Road leading across Yosemite to Mono Lake. If this road is closed, then likely most roads north of the park will also be closed (save the ones directly going into Lake Tahoe). This is important for your trip, because it makes in much more difficult to see Mono Lake. Other park roads may close in a storm, but this is only temporary because of conditions.
3) The roads are mountain roads, so drive slowly (posted park speed limits are not much more than 35 MPH). Also Ice can be on roads at this time.
4) Private Vehicles are most definitely still allowed in Yosemite.
My reccomendation is to call Yosemite before you come, or check the NPS website for road conditions. Then change your plan accordingly if needed.
Yosemite Phone Number: 209-372-4901 (option 1 will get you to road conditions)
Yosemite NPS website: http://www.nps.gov/yose
Also Caltrans Road information (for ANY highway in California) — 1-800-GAS-ROAD –> It will ask you to state the highway number…just type it on the phone keypad
Hope this helps! Remember that people just like you come to Yosemite in the fall and winter all the time!
Safe Travels!
My Yosemite Panorama Trail Hike Part 1