Yosemite experiencing near-record crowds 2025

According to  a San Francisco Chronicle article written this month, Yosemite National Park experienced increased  visitor numbers this year. 2.92 million visitors have visited this summer, which is up 7% from last year during the same time frame.  With back-to-school season upon us, traffic to Yosemite will naturally drop, offering the perfect excuse for you to make the trip this fall!

“This summer, we expanded access, offered new and improved facilities, experiences, and programs, all in testament to our dedicated park staff and partners,” says acting Superintendent Ray McPadden.

Frogs on the Mountain : The Mountain Yellow-Legged Frogs in Yosemite
By Adalgisa and David Nico 
This fun book is about a family who visits Yosemite and discovers mountain yellow-legged frogs living in the lake. They learn about these endangered frogs and how everything is connected. It's a great way to pack literacy along on your trip to Yosemite.

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Here are three great reasons why you must visit Yosemite with your family this fall!

1. Smaller Crowds = More Time to Do the Things You Love!
Summer often brings near-record numbers of visitors, but in fall the crowds thin out. You’ll find shorter lines at shuttle stops, less traffic on the valley loop, and easier access to iconic spots like Tunnel View, Glacier Point, and Yosemite Falls.

Image from the book Frogs on the Mountain by Adalgisa and David Nico

​2. Fabulous Fall Colors in the Valley
Yosemite in the fall is a glorious site to see. The valley glows with vibrant yellows and oranges—especially the big-leaf maples, dogwoods, and black oaks. The contrast of fall color against granite cliffs like El Capitan and Half Dome makes for stunning photography.

Image from the book Frogs on the Mountain by Adalgisa and David Nico

3. Crisp Air and Clear Views
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and clearer skies. The smoke and haze that can sometimes affect summer views are less of an issue, so Half Dome and El Capitan stand out in sharp relief. Hiking feels more refreshing too, without the high summer heat.

Frogs on the Mountain : The Mountain Yellow-Legged Frogs in Yosemite
By Adalgisa and David Nico 
This fun book is about a family who visits Yosemite and discovers mountain yellow-legged frogs living in the lake. They learn about these endangered frogs and how everything is connected. It's a great way to pack literacy along on your trip to Yosemite.

Image of bird in tree by water and mountain from the book Frogs on the Mountain by Adalgisa and David Nico

Fall is the perfect time for you to plan your family trip to Yosemite to experience the natural wonders this national park has to offer. Bring along some books for your children to make the trip even more special with the books of Bringing National Parks to Life authors Adalgisa and David Nico! 
​Let me know what you think of these great books in the comments!

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