I am wondering if Yosemite will be too cold/snowy in November for a trip with relatives from the East coast. We just moved here from Va. and have not been there yet.
Any ideas as to where to stay with a group of 7, 2 kids?

November is a pretty risky month for Yosemite. It may be OK but I wouldn't risk it. Tioga pass and other higher points will probably be closed.

We had a wonderful trip to Yosemite the first week in December (1997). Yes there was snow in the higher elevations, but that just added to the beauty. There are no crowds in the valley except for deer, coyotes, etc. We stayed just outside the south entrance (coming up from Fresno) at the Tenaya Lodge. We had the Lodge to ourselves and at a low season rate of $69. We were able to walk the valley floor in peace, hike to the Mariposa Grove of Redwoods and enjoy one of our national parks without the crowds! Daytime temps in the 40's and 50's, nights in the 30's and the high 20's. Enjoy!!!

As you can see, it takes all kinds to make a world. The previous message would be totally unacceptable to me. Much too cold but to others it is fine. It is all a matter of perspective.

I think that for us Californians, November is not when we would go to Yosemite. It would be too cold for me too. But, coming from the East Coast, it might be just right---certainly not the winter weather they are used to at home. Yes, Tioga Pass might be closed--you don't say what time in September, as September is usually the month that the weather changes! It could be empty and beautiful if you're willing to deal with the winter. I would try to make it a total Yosemite experience and stay at the Ahwahnee Hotel right in the middle of the park. It's terribly crowded in summer but would probably be a joy in September. For your kids, look under Maripose school district on the Internet and find them all the Indian legends about Yosemite--there are stories about all the mountains etc. I think it's reasonable but you must decide---we are way too spoiled here in California as we get to go when we choose!

Sorry, it's Mariposa with an "A". Also, just north of Yosemite going toward Sacramento is the Gold Rush Country with lots of stuff to do with children--of Black Bart, Mark Twain etc. fame--not ever very crowded but great fun. Columbia is our favorite little town with Murphys a second!

Kam:

The question is about Yosemite in November, not September. There is a big difference.

Sorry, in my brain dead state, I started talking about November and replaced it with September. However, all of my thoughts refer to NOVEMBER!! November is the transitional month, not September.