If you’re planning a trip to Yosemite National Park, late summer 2025 may be your best window in years. As someone who has been guiding in Yosemite for over three decades, I can confidently say this season offers a rare combination of beauty, tranquility, and accessibility that’s not to be missed.
Why Late Summer Is Always a Great Time to Visit Yosemite
Late August through September has long been considered one of the best times to explore Yosemite. Here’s why:
- Smaller Crowds: As families return to school and summer vacations wind down, the park becomes noticeably quieter.
- Perfect Weather: Daytime temperatures are comfortably warm, and evenings are cool — ideal conditions for hiking and camping.
- No Mosquitoes: By this time, mosquito activity is minimal, making outdoor adventures much more enjoyable.
What Makes Yosemite Even Better in 2025?
This year, Yosemite is experiencing a noticeable drop in visitor numbers. Concerns earlier in the year about budget cuts and reduced staffing led many travelers to reconsider their summer plans. However, despite early reports, the park has remained clean, well-managed, and welcoming.
Visitors are discovering a silver lining: fewer crowds and more campsite availability — something that has been rare in peak seasons over the past decade. The reduced foot traffic means you can enjoy iconic destinations like Half Dome, Glacier Point, and Cathedral Lakes with more peace and solitude than in recent memory.
In fact, local officials have affirmed that the National Park Service is focusing on enhancing front-facing visitor experiences. So far, that’s exactly what we’ve seen.
International Tourism Decline = More Room to Explore
Historically, late summer brings an uptick in international visitors. But in 2025, global tourism to the U.S. continues to trend downward. As a result, this August and September could be some of the quietest late-season months in Yosemite in years.
For travelers who’ve always dreamed of exploring Yosemite without the crowds, this is a golden opportunity.
Wildfire & Smoke Update: So Far, So Good
Another common concern in late summer is wildfire smoke. While fire season is always a factor in California, Yosemite has seen minimal smoke impacts this year. Several small fires have been quickly contained, and the park has largely enjoyed clear skies. Even when fires occur nearby, Yosemite’s vast landscape often provides pockets of clear air in unaffected areas.
Of course, conditions can change, but for now, the outlook is promising.
Don’t Miss These Late Summer Adventure Deals
If you’re looking for a guided Yosemite experience in August or September, now is the time to act. We still have limited availability for several all-inclusive adventures — and we’ve reduced prices for last-minute bookings!
Upcoming Trips:
- Aug. 23–27 – 5-Day Cathedral Lakes, Clouds Rest & Half Dome – Only $1,460
- Sep. 4–7 – 4-Day Glacier Point to Half Dome – Only $1,260
- Sep. 15–19 – 5-Day Olympic Hoh Rainforest & Blue Glacier – Only $1,460
Check out all available trips and book your adventure here.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let outdated headlines or clickbait articles keep you from an unforgettable Yosemite experience. Late summer 2025 may go down as one of the best times in decades to visit the park — fewer people, better access, and all the natural wonder you’ve been dreaming of.
See you on the trail!
Scott Gehrman is the Executive Director and Founder of Lasting Adventures, Inc., a Yosemite-based nonprofit offering guided backpacking trips, day hikes, and youth programs. With over 30 years of experience in Yosemite, he is passionate about connecting people to wild places through adventure and education.
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