We're thinking of driving to Yosemite and spend a few days there around xmas time. What's open? Where to stay? What to do there? Hike? Snowshoe? Which roads are accessible from the south? Do we need tire chains? Never used them before.

Please advise.

Thanks!

I haven't been to Yosemite in the winter, but here are a couple of websites that should answer most of your questions about roads, etc.

http://www.nps.gov/yose/

http://www.yosemitefun.com/index.htm

May be difficult. Yosemite is a really popular destination for Christmas and books up months ahead. But there might be cancellations so check www.nationalparkreservations.com/yosemite.htm and then give them a call. Try for Yosemite Lodge.

One should always carry chains when driving in the sierra from late Fall through Spring. You may not need them - but if you don't have them you may not be allowed through because the CHP does spot "chain checks".

One thing you didn't ask, but you better arrange for, is lodging -- this is actually a time when many people go there. Do NOT arrive without a place to stay!

> What's open?
www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/hours.htm
www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/conditions.htm

> Where to stay?
Any place with a vacancy, that is within your price range and has the amenities you require.
www.yosemite.com/tripplan/lodging.html

> What to do there?
www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/things2do.htm
www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/winter.htm
www.yosemite.com/tripplan/thingstodo.html

> Do we need tire chains?
"Tire chains are often required on park roads. When they are, you must carry and know how to use them, regardless of the type of vehicle you are driving."

The weather forecast looks pretty good for the next week
http://tinyurl.com/bocof

HOWEVER, the weather in the Sierras can go from mild and sunny to white-out blizzard in a matter of hours, and with almost no warning. Watch the weather VERY carefully, and be prepared for anything. If you are not used to winter driving, the Sierras are NOT a place to learn!!

Thanks, all, for the detailed replies and great info! I'll look into it, and get back w/ any additional questions.

There's also a ski place inside/close to Yosemite NP? Is that a good place to stay too? We want to try out snowshoeing--first timers.

If we were to stay outside the park, which areas should we stay at? And how long is the drive into the park?

If xmas is all booked up, we might try to go a few days after xmas.

Thanks again for all your help!

I don't want to keep raining on your parade here - but a "few days after Christmas" is between Christmas and New Year's. Except for the height of summer between July 4th and Labor Day, you couldn't pick a more booked up time of year.

Badger Pass (the ski area in YNP) is a great place - but it doesn't have accomodations. Day use only . . . . .

What is the closest place (city) to the park you can stay if you're driving from San Francisco? How far is the drive in? Is it worth it to stay outside? Or we should try to find accomodation inside the park?

Is Curry Village the only option for budget lodging (something around $100)? Even the wood cabins w/ private baths are priced at $120 + tax already. And the availability is very limited as others have pointed out.

Any other choices?

thanks.

Since being close to the Valley is important to you (as it should be), here are links to lodging outside the Valley.

www.yosemite.com/tripplan/hwy140acc.html
www.yosemite.com/tripplan/SearchResults.asp?fw=1

The map and the listing show that there are a few places about $100 that are within an hour of the Valley. No guarantee that any of them have vacancies, or have any amenities you require, or even are places that anyone would want to stay -- I've never been to any of them. You'll have to examine and contact each of them yourself.

At this late a date, for one of the busiest times of the year for Yosemite, you may not find ANYTHING available in your price range.

If you find a place to stay... Badger Pass ski area is small but unsually not very crowded, and is oriented to beginner to moderate level. Snow shoeing or esp. cross-country skiing are great in Yosemite Valley. The terrain is flat and the scenery fantastic. There is also an outdoor ice skating rink, great at night.