Warm Weather Set to Melt Yosemite Snow and Boost Waterfalls

Yosemite National Park is shifting quickly from winter to spring, with temperatures expected to climb into the 80s this week after a recent round of snowy weather.

Less than a month ago, Yosemite Valley was buried under roughly 18 inches of snow, while higher elevations across the park received even deeper accumulations. Much of that snow has already melted in lower areas as warmer conditions settle in.

Park officials say the upcoming warm spell will accelerate snowmelt across the Sierra, helping fuel the park’s famous waterfalls as runoff surges through the valleys.

But the transition from snow to sunshine also comes with risks for outdoor recreation.

While Yosemite Valley is clearing out, snow is expected to linger in higher elevations well into the spring, meaning hikers venturing above the valley floor could still encounter winter conditions. The National Park Service warns that some trails remain covered, and visitors traveling in the backcountry may still need skis or snowshoes along with solid navigation skills.

Rapid snowmelt can also create hazards in the mountains. As temperatures rise, snow bridges over creeks and rocky terrain can become unstable, making crossings unpredictable.

Park officials recommend that hikers check current trail conditions before heading out, use caution in areas where snow remains, and consider trekking poles for added stability.

For visitors, the coming week offers a reminder of how quickly the Sierra can change, where summerlike warmth in the valley can still coexist with winter conditions higher up in the mountains.