Yosemite In Winter: Crane Flat Trails

Yosemite National Park doesn’t shut down in wintertime: For those who appreciate grand scenery and outdoor adventure, Yosemite in winter is as promising as in summer. Among Yosemite’s excellent winter destinations is Crane Flat, not far southeast of the Big Oak Flat entrance on the west side of the park. Accessible year-round along the Big Oak Flat Road and a portion of the Tioga Road, this stretch of rolling woods and meadows rewards cross-country skiers, snowshoers, and winter hikers with giant sequoias and broad mountain views.

Yosemite in winter: skiing and snowshoeing

Set at 6,200 feet, Crane Flat is laced with a number of ungroomed ski and snowshoe trails of varying length and difficulty. The 3-mile roundtrip trek to the Crane Flat Lookout is well worth the effort, given the fine view available from the fire tower. More impressive prospects are available from the Clark Range View Trail, a 4-mile roundtrip route tracing a former logging track. An easy 1.75-mile trail explores the Crane Flat Campground. Another short, popular route drops one mile into the Tuolumne Grove, one of several stands of giant sequoia in Yosemite. The Merced Grove, accessible via a 1.5-mile trail, is another beautiful sequoia wood; the ultimate drop into the grove is quite steep. The Tuolumne and Merced groves are smaller and—not least because they’re reachable only by foot—less crowded than the famous Mariposa Grove in the south of the park, another excellent site for winter recreation. Giant sequoias aren’t the only mighty conifers in the Crane Flat area. The 2.25-mile Rockefeller Grove Trail leads to the namesake wood of enormous sugar pines, the most massive pine species in the world. These gargantuan trees were forever spared from the axe and chainsaw courtesy of a grant from the philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, Jr. in 1930, which transferred ownership of the plot from private timber companies to the National Park Service. The Rockefeller Grove winter trailhead is the Merced Grove parking lot. For those visiting Yosemite in winter who seek a long, vigorous snowshoe or ski outing, the 6.25-mile Gin Flat Loop Trail is a good choice. It commences off the Tioga Road. Remember to dress properly for your cross-country adventure: Wear warm layers so you can thermoregulate. Always bring along extra food and water in case of contingencies, and don’t set out without a good trail map and a compass—not to mention the knowledge of how to use them. Remember that you’re sharing these trails with other winter recreationists: If you’re snowshoeing, stay out of ski tracks. Keep in mind, too, that skiing and snowshoeing may not be possible if snow levels are too scanty. That doesn't mean you can’t still visit Yosemite in winter, of course: You can always hike! If you’re looking to experience the wonders of Yosemite in winter, consider checking out the Crane Flat trail network. Whether you’re following coyote tracks, marveling at an enormous sugar-pine cone, or simply drinking in the sight of snowy woods, you’ll be experiencing a magical side of one of America’s sacred places—and having a hearty blast while you do so.

Yosemite In Winter: Reservations

If you’re planning to visit Yosemite in winter, consider making your reservations with Yosemite’s Scenic Wonders. We offer Yosemite reservations within the gates of the park. With one of our cozy cabins, condominiums, or homes, your Yosemite accommodations will be just minutes from your favorite Yosemite winter activities. Give us a call at 1-888-YOSEMITE (1-888-967-3648) to learn about our rentals and to make your Yosemite reservations today. Yosemite National Park Blog Scenic Wonders’ Yosemite blog provides the latest news related to Yosemite National Park. By reading our blog, you’ll stay up to date on Yosemite in winter, including activities, accommodations, and more. Image credit: Rennett Stowe