Snowshoe to Dewey Point: Winter Views over Yosemite Valley from Badger Pass
Snowshoe from Badger Pass to Dewey Point for an 8‑hour guided winter trek with sweeping views of El Capitan and the Yosemite Valley. This private tour pairs basic backcountry instruction with high-country scenery — ideal for strong hikers ready to trade a summer trail for a snow route.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for variable conditions
Temperatures can swing; use a moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof shell to manage sweat and wind on exposed ridgelines.
Start early
Morning firm snow makes ascents easier and reduces wind exposure at Dewey Point — plan to be moving by sunrise or shortly after.
Protect your water
Use an insulated bottle or carry a foam sleeve; water freezes quickly in subfreezing temps and dehydration sneaks up fast.
Trust your guide on route choice
Guides assess avalanche and snowpack conditions en route; follow route adjustments and safety briefings without hesitation.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Small high-country meadows along the route that hold wind-sculpted snow forms worth photographing
- •Historic ranger cabin remnants near Badger Pass that hint at early park winter operations
Wildlife
- •Mule deer
- •Steller’s jay
Conservation Note
Winter travel compresses alpine meadows and disturbs dormant wildlife; stay on guide-selected routes, avoid breaking new tracks across fragile habitats, and pack out waste.
Badger Pass has served winter visitors since the 1930s and helped establish Yosemite as a year‑round destination; Dewey Point has long been used as a scenic lookout by park staff and early tourists.
Photographer's Notes
- • Dewey Point outlook (the primary vantage)
- • Approach meadows with tree-framed foregrounds
- • Badger Pass ridge for wide-angle valley shots
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and dry during prolonged exposure to snow and wet conditions.
Three-layer clothing systemEssential
Base, insulating, and waterproof layers allow you to manage temperature during varied exertion levels.
Sunglasses or glacier gogglesEssential
Prevents snow glare and protects eyes from wind and UV reflected off snow.
Insulated water bottle or insulated sleeveEssential
Prevents hydration from freezing and encourages regular fluid intake.
Common Questions
Are snowshoes and poles provided?
Yes — the tour provides snowshoes and trekking poles and includes a brief skills session on how to use them.
How long is the hike and how much elevation gain?
Guides plan roughly a 6‑mile round-trip with about 1,200 feet of elevation gain, but exact distance and gain vary with route and snow conditions.
Is prior snowshoe experience required?
No prior experience is required; guides teach technique, but participants should be in good physical condition for sustained uphill travel.
Do I need a park entrance reservation or chain controls?
Yosemite entrance fees apply; in winter, some roads require chains or traction devices — check current park and Caltrans requirements before driving.
Are restrooms and facilities available on the route?
Facilities are limited once you leave the Badger Pass area; use restrooms at the start and be prepared for no services on the trail.
What is the cancellation policy for weather?
Trips may be canceled for severe weather, avalanche hazard, or road closures; the operator typically offers a full refund if they cancel due to conditions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Yosemite Valley, California
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Participants should have strong cardiovascular fitness and stamina for sustained uphill travel on snow with frequent breaks; prior hiking experience recommended.
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