We could all use a breath of fresh air to ring in the new year of 2022. Grab your family or your significant other and head to Yosemite National Park to breathe in the mountain air, see abundant wildlife, take in awe-inspiring sights such as waterfalls, giant sequoias, and famous cliff sides. You’ll find plenty to do to kick off your 2022 in style.
Start Your Year Off Right With Adventure in Yosemite
While Yosemite is best known for its summer adventures, anyone who has visited in the winter will tell you what a spectacular locale it is for winter fun. Yosemite gets plenty of snow each year to play host to your favorite snowy pastimes. And, once you’re done playing in the cold, there are plenty of places where you can head inside to cozy up and get warm.
Ice Skating in Curry Village
Curry Village is way more than just a place to stay. On the property, you’ll find plenty of activities and tours, but in the winter, you can’t skip the ice skating rink. This family-friendly activity is perfect for any visitor. When you’re done, you can warm up by the firepit under the gaze of Half Dome.
Backcountry Ski Tours
Choose from a number of different guided tour options to pick the perfect backcountry ski tour for you and your traveling companions. Whether you’re looking for a half day tour or want to stay overnight, there’s a tour option for you. Each tour guide is from the Yosemite Mountaineering School and is an expert ski guide. During the tour, you’ll glide along groomed trails.
Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding
There’s no better time of year for mountain adventure at Badger Pass Ski Area.
Looking for more of an adrenaline rush during your visit to Yosemite National Park? Look no further than the downhill skiing and snowboarding offered at Badger Pass Ski Area. From mid-December to mid-March, skiers and snowboarders of all levels can find a run that’s perfect for their skill level. And, if you’re skiing for the first time, you can sign up for lessons from an expert.
Snow Tubing and Snowshoeing
Snowshoe your way into a fresh new year of powdery snowfall!
If you’re a snow lover who wants a more relaxed outdoor adventure, you’ll be happy to learn Yosemite also has snow tubing and snowshoeing options. Snow tubing is the perfect outdoor adventure for everyone in the family, ages 4 and up. Simply hop into a tube, and enjoy the thrill of sliding down the hill. If you’re looking to snowshoe, you can rent snowshoes and hike on your own or take a guided tour.
Where To Stay in Yosemite as a Couple: The Ahwahnee
If you’re traveling as a couple this winter to Yosemite, book a room at The Ahwahnee for a cozy, romantic atmosphere. The Ahwahnee has amenities such as a gift shop full of locally made artworks, a sweet shop, a restaurant, and a cozy bar.
If you’re looking to treat yourselves as you ring in the new year, be sure to book one of The Ahwahnee’s junior suites or The Mary Curry Tresidder Suite, also known as the Queen’s Room. This suite features a four-poster canopy bed and a grand bathroom — it’s the perfect place to celebrate your love.
Where to Stay in Yosemite as a Family: Yosemite Valley Lodge
Cozy up for a fresh new year at the Yosemite Valley Lodge.
For those traveling with the whole family or small children, the Yosemite Valley Lodge has a number of family rooms to choose from. As well, the lodge has amenities such as an activities desk, an outdoor amphitheater, a gift shop, and multiple dining options.
If you’re looking for a room that will fit the whole family, you should check out the family rooms and bunk rooms. The family rooms have a king-size bed, a bunk bed with a double bed on the bottom bunk, a dining table, and a TV with a DVD player. The bunk rooms feature a queen-size bed and a bunk bed with a double on the bottom.
Where to Eat in Yosemite
Throughout Yosemite National Park and the surrounding properties, you’ll find a variety of places to eat. Whether you’re looking for a fancy, dress-up and sit-down vibe or just want to grab a meal on your way out the door for an adventure, there’s something just for you.
For a Fancy New Year’s Celebration Meal: The Ahwahnee Dining Room
Set your intentions for a grand year with a grand meal at The Ahwahnee Dining Room.
The Ahwahnee Dining Room is the perfect place for a fancy, holiday meal. Open year-round, dinner at The Ahwahnee is all about views and scrumptious meals. For dinner, you can enjoy prime rib, locally sourced fish, or something lighter such as a kale caesar salad.
For a Quick or Grab-And-Go Family Meal: Basecamp Eatery
If you’re more in the mood for a grab-and-go meal, head over to the Basecamp Eatery at the Yosemite Valley Lodge. Here you can get Starbucks coffee, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The menu features fresh dishes made up of local and seasonal ingredients or grab-and-go options such as sandwiches and salads.
This year, you can bring the new year in with style while being surrounded by all the beauty that nature has to offer. Yosemite National Park is often considered a summer destination, but snow and lighter occupancy make winter the perfect time to visit. Whether you’re traveling with the family or just want a romantic getaway, you can customize your new year’s visit to Yosemite to fit your unique travel needs.