Sierras
12 Best Hotels Where To Stay In Yosemite In Winter
Planning a trip to Yosemite National Park and wondering where to stay in Yosemite in winter? In this post, I’ll be sharing my favorite Yosemite hotels that stay open year-round! Don’t have time to read the entire post? The Ahwahnee is the best hotel in Yosemite Valley that stays open in the winter months! While the majority of people visit Yosemite in the summer, it has its own special kind of charm in the winter season. With snow-covered granite mountains and frozen waterfalls, you can enjoy magical landscapes that are unlike anything else in California. As a Central California local, I’ve been to Yosemite in winter on numerous occasions and…
20 Best Things To Do In Yosemite In Winter (By a Local)
Yosemite’s towering granite peaks, meandering rivers, and stunning frozen waterfalls create the perfect backdrop for winter adventures in the mountains. If you’re planning a trip to this National Park and are looking for all the best things to do in Yosemite in winter, I’ve got you covered! As a Central California local, I’ve been to Yosemite in every season – but there is something magical about visiting Yosemite in the winter. During the off-season, you can witness the classic Yosemite locations in a whole new aspect covered in a blanket of magical snow. From snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to ice skating and downhill snowboarding, winter months also bring a lot…
15 Fun Things To Do In Mammoth Lakes In Winter
Planning a trip to Mammoth this season? In this post, I cover all the best things to do in Mammoth Lakes in winter – so you can find the perfect activities for your visit and have an enjoyable time! As a California local, I visit Mammoth several times in the winter months. From skiing and snowboarding to incredible snowshoeing trails and soaking in steamy natural hot springs, Mammoth offers countless options for winter fun. The spectacular peaks of the eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains also provide a breathtaking backdrop for The Village at Mammoth which attracts over a million visitors every year. If you’re ready to embrace the winter season, here…
California Winter Packing List (By a Local)
Planning to visit California in winter? I have put together this handy California winter packing list so you’ll know exactly what to bring along on your trip! As a California local, I consider myself pretty lucky with our overall mild winters. But depending on what activities you have planned, different areas in California do get snow and can be very cold. If you plan to only pack dresses and shorts, you might not have the best time when you arrive and aren’t dressed for the right weather conditions. Plus, your winter packing list for a coastal trip will look a bit different than packing for a skiing or snowboarding trip…
20 Best Places Where To See Fall Colors In Yosemite
While California has a reputation for always being warm and sunny, we do experience some seasonal changes here as well, especially at Yosemite National Park. As a travel photographer, for the past few years, I have been on a mission to find all the best places where to see fall colors in Yosemite! Yosemite National Park has a short fall season that lasts from the end of October to the beginning of November. During this time you can witness the changing of trees from lush greens to golden hues all throughout the Yosemite Valley. To help you plan your fall mountain adventure, here are all of the best spots to…
20 Best Winter Hikes In California (By a Local)
Winter is one of those seasons when many people like to cozy up on the couch, catch up on the latest Netflix shows, and wait for spring to arrive. But the colder seasons also bring lots of opportunities to go on incredible winter hikes in California – crowd-free! As a California local, I like to take advantage of the winter months to head outdoors. This is a great season for outdoor fun because you won’t have to deal with dangerously hot weather, issues finding parking, and congested trails. In this post, I cover all the best winter hikes in California, from the mountains to the coast. I’ve personally hiked all…
How To Hike Inyo Craters Trail In Mammoth Lakes
Planning to visit Inyo Craters in Mammoth? Inyo Craters is a short and interesting wilderness trail that leads to a set of volcanic craters hidden deep within the forest. This trail offers a look into the unique geology makeup of Mammoth Lakes and has amazing views along the way. In this guide, we share everything you need to know to hike the Inyo Craters trail year-round. This guide includes where to park, what to expect, and know before you head out there! Table Of Contents: Inyo Craters Trail Location & Parking If you’re planning to hike the Inyo Craters Trail in the summer, you can drive on Dry Creek Road…
How To Visit Hilltop Hot Springs In Mammoth Lakes
Mammoth Lakes is known for having several amazing natural hot springs that are easily accessible all year long. If you’re planning a trip to Mammoth and are looking for a stunning hot spring in the area, we recommend putting Hilltop Hot Springs on top of your list! With expansive mountain views, fresh air, and rejuvenating mineral qualities, visiting Hilltop Hot Springs is a must-do activity in Mammoth. This is an especially great winter destination if you’re looking for something relaxing to do in the area after skiing or snowboarding. In this post, we share how to reach Hilltop Hot Springs, what to expect, what to bring, and other visitor tips…
How To Visit Hot Creek Geological Site In Winter
Hot Creek Geological Site is a stunning location to visit year-round, but winter is an especially wonderful time to explore this unique geological wonder. The trail that leads to Hot Creek Geological Site stays accessible all year long making it one of the best winter hiking destinations near Mammoth Lakes if you’re looking for a fun activity to do besides skiing and snowboarding. With expansive mountain views, unique volcanic scenery, a meandering river, and surreal hiking trails, the Hot Creek Geological site is a must-visit location in Mammoth! In this guide, I cover how to visit Hot Creek Geological Site in the winter including where to park, what to bring,…
The Ultimate California Packing List (2023)
Planning a trip to the Golden State and looking for a handy California packing list? Then you’re in luck! I have lived in California most of my life so I know exactly what to wear in this state in different seasons and locations. I’m also a full-time travel blogger so I’ve spent my fair share of time on the road and have become quite the pro at efficient travel packing. Over the years I have consolidated my packing lists down to one mega list. In this packing guide, I share this list with you so you’ll know exactly what to bring to California (including a printable checklist at the…
