It has already been a year since California had a great winter, with record snow. I have been waiting for the right conditions to get to Yosemite before a massive winter storm. I realized recently that I have never posted the images from that trip.
For me the right conditions are a fast moving storm coming (called an atmospheric river) bringing a lot of moisture. Ideally the storm should hit Yosemite in late afternoon and last all night. The temperature in Yosemite should be low enough to produce snow and I want at least 12 to 16 inches. The fast moving storm is important because I want sunny skies the next day.
The storm happened in the middle of the week last year, we drove ahead of the storm and stayed in the park, while the storm dumped around 18 inches of snow in Yosemite. I know Yosmesite is quiet in winter in the middle of the week, but add to this a winter storm advisory and it was really empty.
The next morning, the sun was shining, snow was heavy, it was a winter wonderland. I highly recommend making the trip to Yosemite in winter.
Merced River
Snow covered Ridge
Yosemite Valley after a snowstorm
Tunnel View at Yosemite
Merced River
Snow covered tree in Yosemite.
Intimidate view of the Merced River