Yosemite in September: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack
Peak crowds · VisitWhen score 60/100 · #8 of 12 months
September is peak season — expect the year's biggest crowds at Yosemite National Park: crowds run 88% of the August peak (472,983 average visits), days average 83°F with 12.5 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.
Crowds in September
Yosemite averages 472,983 recreation visits in September — 88% of what August, the peak month, draws. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging — book early and start days at dawn.
Weather & daylight
Days are warm (highs average 83°F), and nights stay mild (lows average 51°F). It is typically dry (0.4″ of precipitation). Mid-month daylight runs 12.5 hours.
NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station YOSEMITE PARK HQ, CA US (3 mi from park coordinates, 4,018 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of September.
What to pack for Yosemite in September
Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.
- Sun protection and 2L+ water per person — highs average 83°F
- Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month
Want quieter or kinder conditions? The computed best months for Yosemite are March and April.
Common questions
Is Yosemite crowded in September?
Yes — September runs 88% of Yosemite's peak, averaging 472,983 recreation visits (NPS, 2021–2025).
What is the weather like in Yosemite in September?
Average highs of 83°F, lows of 51°F, 0.4″ of precipitation (NOAA 1991–2020 normals, YOSEMITE PARK HQ, CA US station).
What should I pack for Yosemite in September?
Sun protection and 2L+ water per person; Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — the full weather-computed list is on this page.
See also: the best national parks to visit in September · Last verified 2026-07-16