Perfect 3 Days in Yosemite in October
Perfect 3 Days in Yosemite in October is a clearly subjective thought. You might prefer difficult hikes for all three days or no difficult hikes whatsoever (though in Yosemite all hikes have some level of difficulty). However, I LOVED my 3 days in Yosemite in October and it included hiking and simply driving to admire the scenery. While you can easily tailor your trip to meet your preferences, here is my itinerary and perspective that can give you a good starting point!
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DAY ONE | 3 Days in Yosemite in October
Wawona and the Mariposa Grove
Yosemite was a major element to my California road trip, so we allotted 3 days to Yosemite. We drove into Wawona and Mariposa Grove in the late morning of day one! At this point of the trip, I wanted to do a difficult all day hike on day two. We stopped to speak with a ranger and judging from his response, I got the feeling my plans might be too lofty.
While his reaction didn’t fully deter me, I did make note. The hike from the parking lot to the California Tunnel Tree ended up being quite the reality check. For whatever reason I failed to consider the elevation of Yosemite. This hike is when I started realizing we were far from Florida sea level.
We walked the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail that seemed as if it would be easy, but definitely felt harder than expected. It was through this first hike that I realized the elevation was more significant than I thought and would be a huge factor.
Overall the hike is beautiful. You walk through a forest to make your way to the Giant Sequoias! There were plenty of people hiking as well, so you won’t be alone. It’s a beautiful journey and a good introduction to this incredibly beautiful part of California!
Consider Skipping If
With only 3 days in Yosemite, if you have Giant Sequoias on part of your California trip, you might want to consider skipping the Mariposa Grove and focusing all 3 days on the other areas of Yosemite where the grand views will take your breath away! However, I’m glad that we stopped here first as we had no other forest or giant trees on our agenda. Due to the California fires we had to skip the first stop on the road trip which was Sequoia National Park.
Mariposa Grove Hike Options:
- Big Trees Loop Trail | 1-2 hours and 0.3 miles. *Easy
- Grizzly Giant Loop Trail | 2-3 hours and 2 miles. *Moderate
- Mariposa Grove Trail | 4-6 hours and 7 miles. *Strenuous
- Guardians Loop Trail | 4-6 hours and 6.5 miles *Strenuous
DAY TWO | 3 Days in Yosemite in October
Originally I had planned to wake up around 5AM to start the John Muir Trail. I had this grand idea to complete this hike to the half dome, but after thinking through the Maripsa Grove hike, chat with the Ranger and realizing my friend wasn’t super excited about the long hike, I decided to let it go.
I had even wanted to climb the half dome, but never bothered to get the permit after realizing it just wasn’t realistic on this trip. If you do want to tackle this, the hike will be about 10 hours round trip from Mist Trailhead and you will need a permit to climb the half dome.
John Muir Trail
So we did start on the John Muir trailhead, knowing we would only do a small portion. We parked easily in a nearby carpark and noticed the signs not to leave food in the car due to bears. We had some lunch and snacks packed, but about twenty minutes in my friend realized she left her food in the rental.
I decided we should at least make it to the Vernal Falls Footbridge and then we can head back to the car. We weren’t sure to what degree this really mattered but didn’t want to chance it too much with a rental.
This hike starts with significant climbing. It was shocking for our Florida legs and lungs to be honest! The hike though is absolutely beautiful! We saw bears in the tallest of trees and felt the majesty of Yosemite. And our legs and lungs felt the climb and elevation!
Consider Horseback Ride Tours
When we made it to the Vernall Falls footbridge, we saw some people go by on donkeys and horses. I was a little jealous in that moment. However, since we had a car, we focused on driving and hiking throughout our 3 days in Yosemite in October. If you want to experience Yosemite on Horseback or mules, definitely look into it! It would make the climbs easier for sure and could be a great way to see some of Yosemite National Park.
Carpark to Vernal Falls Bridge
It was less than an hour from the carpark to the Vernal Falls Bridge and that was with plenty of stops to take photos! We also spent a while admiring the bears in the trees on the way back as well as plenty more photos! Overall, we spent two hours hiking from the car to the bridge and back.
I would not classify it as easy, but it was beautiful and worth it! Had we not left food in the car we would have continued on passed the bridge, but this gave us more time to explore other areas of Yosemite and we did more hiking!
Half Dome Hike:
- Length: 14-17 miles (22-27 km), about 12-16 hours (out and back)
- Difficulty: Very Hard
- Traffic: Can get very busy
- Elevation gain: 4,800 feet (1463 m)
- NOT for beginners
- Permit required for the climb up Half Dome – The cables are removed every October, and replaced in late May.
Vernal Falls Hike Options via Mist Trail:
- Vernal Falls Bridge: 1.5 miles
- Top of Vernal Falls: 2.4 miles
- Vernal and Nevada Falls 6.4 miles
Yosemite Village
After the morning hike, we stopped in Yosemite Village which wasn’t far from where we parked. After talking with a ranger, we decided on the stops and additional hike for the day! Enjoy Yosemite Valley for a bit though and take in the sights! It’s absolutely beautiful!
Tunnel View
From the Yosemite Village, we drove to Tunnel View. This gives you views of El Capitan, Half Dome and a few other notable landmarks including Sentinel Rock. This view is said to change throughout the day and with every season. I can’t speak to that, but it is beautiful and worth a stop!
Sentinel Dome and Taft Point Trailhead
If you only have energy or time for one hike, then I’d suggest this one for your 3 days in Yosemite in October! We experienced woods with their changing leaves, incredible views at Taft Point and climbed the Sentinel Dome to enjoy the views from there.
If you only have energy or time for one hike, then I’d suggest this one!
This loop we did is considered moderate and covers 5.1 miles with over a thousand feet of elevation gain. The elevation of Taft Point is 7,500 feet and Sentinel Dome sits at 8,127 feet! This sea level girl definitely felt it!
By the time we got to Sentinel Dome I didn’t feel like I had it in me to go to the top. Thankfully my friend pushed through, because when are we going to be back? I’m so glad we did! The views were worth it! And what a place to relax for a bit before heading back to the car.
Considerations of Sentinel Dome and Taft Point
The drive from Yosemite Valley is easy via Wawona Road and Glacier Point Road, but it’s worth noting that Glacier Point Road is closed during winter. The trailhead here has one small bathroom if you need it, but it’s a popular trail so be prepared for a line and the bathroom is not in the best condition.
When we arrived to this area we had to drive up the road quite a bit to find parking and we felt that distance when the hike was done. If you want a good spot, get here early!
The Loop is More Difficult
Most people on the hike went to Taft Point which is a solid hike on its own! The other common path is to come back to the starting area and take the shorter hike to Sentinel Dome. We decided to loop around instead of repeating the starting point. When you leave Taft Point and head back, you will eventually see a fork in the trail. To continue to the start you would stay right.
We took the left and it was the hardest part of the hike! That section to the Sentinel Dome was tough! It was beautiful, but if you are low on energy or just don’t want a tough hike, consider skipping that portion. Just retrace your steps and when you see the starting area to your right, continue walking straight to be on the Sentinel Dome Trail.
Hike Options from Taft Point Trailhead:
- Taft Point: 2.2 miles (turn left)
- Taft Point with Loop to Sentinel Dome: 5.1 miles (read directions above)
- Sentinel Dome: 2.2 miles (turn right)
Glacier and Washburn Point
While you’re up this way, I suggest driving to Glacier and Washburn Points. It doesn’t require any hiking and the views are amazing!
By this point it had been a full day, so after taking some photos and appreciating the view, we headed back to our stay just outside of Yosemite National Park.
DAY THREE | 3 Days in Yosemite in October
Tioga Road
When we stopped in Yosemite Village on day two, the Ranger mentioned Tioga Road and how beautiful the views are on the drive. This day was all about driving and appreciating the beautiful views of Yosemite National Park.
Spoiler! The drive does not disappoint! From forests to mountains to lakes, this drive has it all! Our first actual stop was the Olmsted Point scenic spot. There is an area to park which allows you to soak up the views and take photos.
We continued driving mere minutes before stopping again at Tenaya Lake. Then continued on for less than ten minutes before stopping again to appreciate expansive Tuolumne Meadows with mountains as a backdrop. And then in less than twenty minutes we were admiring Tioga Lake. Finally, before exiting Yosemite on the eastern side, we stopped at a random spot to enjoy the beauty!
Lee Vining
We made it to Lee Vining around 10:30AM and stopped at a coffee shop. There is not much in Lee Vining, but we enjoyed our stop at El Mono Motel & Latte Da Coffee Cafe. The coffee was good and pastries were delicious! The little garden area was so cute and the employee here was super nice and welcoming!
Looking on the map, you can’t help but notice the massive Mono Lake. So we decided to drive toward it and see if there are any good views of the lake. While the lake views didn’t wow, the area is so dry and felt so different from Yosemite, even though we were mere minutes from Yosemite. We enjoyed taking photos and soaking in the desert vibes.
Tioga Road Again
On the way back over Tioga Pass, it surprisingly didn’t feel repetitive. It was the same coin but a different side and still held the same awe. We did stop at a lake (I think it was Tioga Lake) and enjoyed our sack lunch. Then continued on and savored the drive on the way back. We stopped in Groveland before returning to our budget stay just outside Yosemite.
My Friend’s Favorite Day
My friend declared this day her favorite of the 3 days in Yosemite in October! It was a nice change of pace to simply drive and appreciate the views. I enjoyed our hikes, but the elevation proved more impacting than I had thought it would. So driving gave us an easy day to appreciate Yosemite’s beauty and also proved more diverse in terms of what we saw.
From forests to lakes and mountains to desert, the varied landscape was interesting and beautiful! Planning a trip with a little of both I think is worth it, but if hiking isn’t for you, there is plenty to see by driving around!
Weather in Yosemite
The weather for your 3 days in Yosemite in October is wonderful for being outside and exploring this beautiful national park! Averages in October are highs in the upper 60s and lows in the lower 40s. If you get an early start, it will be cold, but warms up to a perfect temperature in the day.
Yosemite experiences four distinct seasons and temperatures can vary based on elevation. Summer is high season and Winter causes some areas of the park to be closed. Good weather and less people make spring and fall wonderful times to visit.
October in Yosemite:
- Average high: 69°F (21°C)
- Average low: 42°F (6°C)
- Precipitation: Light, with an average of 2 inches (51 mm)
- Conditions: Generally mild days and cool nights, with fall colors peaking
FAQ
Will a reservation be required for Yosemite?
Possibly! Check the official website for any specific information. During my trip, we went after the busy season and no reservation was required. However, I see on the website that reservations are required for weekends and holidays until October 27. During the busy summer months, reservations are required everyday!
Is 3 days enough for Yosemite?
Yes, 3 days is enough, but you could easily spend more especially if long hikes are on the agenda! During my 3 days in Yosemite I left feeling like I really saw the beauty of this national park, but I didn’t do any long hikes.
Will there be waterfalls in Yosemite in October?
I didn’t see any waterfalls in Yosemite in October. Spring, when the snow is melting, is the time to visit Yosemite if you want to see waterfalls! May or June is said to have peak runoff.
Is October a good month for Yosemite?
Yes! It’s a great month to visit Yosemite! The weather is great and the crowds have thinned from the Summer craze.
How busy is Yosemite in October?
There were plenty of people in Yosemite in October, but it never felt crowded. Overall, I think October is a great time to visit! No roads were closed, there were people around, but it wasn’t crowded!
How to Get Around
The best way to get to Yosemite and to various viewpoints or hiking trailheads is by car. This is also the most budget friendly option as well! If you have it in your budget and prefer tours, then you have a few different types to choose from to fill your 3 day Yosemite itinerary.
Where to Stay
For the most budget friendly, consider staying just outside of Yosemite. However, there are a range of options inside the park!
With a View
Budget Friendly Inside Yosemite
Room for a Family
I hope you feel more prepared to spend 3 days in Yosemite National Park! Travel to Yosemite is worth it and I hope you have the best time exploring this stunning National Park!
