Sierra Nevada
Yosemite Packing List: Summer and Winter Checklist
A Yosemite packing list for summer and winter: hiking layers, bear-safe food storage, tire chains, and what to bring for the Mist Trail and Half Dome.
By Alex Khachigian · Updated September 2026 · 2 min read
Yosemite Valley is hot in summer, while Tuolumne Meadows at 8,600 feet stays cool. Winter brings snow and chain controls.
This list covers essentials, seasonal extras, Mist Trail and Half Dome gear, and bear rules.
In This Guide
Year-Round Yosemite Essentials
Cell service is spotty and high-country weather changes quickly.
- Offline maps and printed park map
- Water bottles (Valley has filling stations)
- Base layer, fleece and puffy
- Rain shell
- Hiking shoes with traction
- Sunscreen and hat
- Headlamp
- Park pass and any entry reservation
Bear-Safe Food Storage in Yosemite
Bears break into cars, and fines apply. All food and scented items go in metal bear lockers; backpackers need a canister, rentable in the park.
Summer Packing List for Yosemite
Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road are usually open. Valley highs reach the 90s; be off exposed summits by early afternoon.
- Sun hat and sun shirt
- 2 to 3 liters of water for long hikes like Upper Yosemite Fall
- Electrolytes
- Insect repellent for Tuolumne
- Water shoes
Winter Packing List for Yosemite
Tioga Road and most of Glacier Point Road close. Yosemite has required all vehicles to carry chains in winter, even with 4WD; many rental companies ban them.
- Tire chains
- Waterproof boots and wool socks
- Insulated jacket and gloves
- Microspikes
- Snowshoes for Badger Pass or the Mariposa Grove
What to Pack for the Mist Trail and Half Dome
In my reel, I called the Mist Trail’s spring spray tremendous. The granite steps are slippery year-round.
Half Dome requires a permit and is 14 to 16 miles round trip with about 4,800 feet of gain.
- Rain jacket
- Sticky-soled shoes
- Gloves for the cables
- Water filter
- Headlamp
Spring and Fall in Yosemite
Spring has peak waterfalls and some snowbound roads. Fall has fewer crowds, but Yosemite Falls may be dry. Tunnel View can swing 40 degrees in a day.
Leave No Trace in Yosemite
Stay on trails in Cook’s Meadow and Tuolumne Meadows. Never feed wildlife, including squirrels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need chains for Yosemite in winter?
Yosemite has required all vehicles to carry chains in winter, even with 4WD.
Can I leave food in my car in Yosemite?
No. Use the metal bear lockers.
What should I wear to hike the Mist Trail?
Grippy shoes and a rain jacket, especially in spring.
What is the weather like in Yosemite in summer?
Valley highs are in the 80s and 90s. The high country gets afternoon thunderstorms.
Can I bring bear spray to Yosemite?
No, it is not allowed.
Destination guide
My Yosemite hotel, Airbnb and tour picks
