Beneath towering granite cliffs and ancient sequoias, the night sky in Yosemite feels brighter, closer, and full of awe and wonder. On clear nights, you may see the silvery Milky Way stretch across the sky alongside countless stars, inviting reflection on time, space, and our place in the world. Stargazing has a way of awakening both creativity and curiosity for all ages, while also reminding us why dark skies are important for life on Earth. Here’s your guide to stargazing in Yosemite.
What Makes Yosemite Stargazing Special
Yosemite’s night skies are extraordinary thanks to the park’s minimal light pollution, allowing for clear views of thousands of stars most nights. You’ll also discover nighttime viewing experiences beyond the stars that are unique to the park.
The Milky Way is often visible on moonless nights from July through October, when skies are clear and warm evenings make lingering outside especially enjoyable.
From April through June, full-moon nights during peak waterfall season can also bring the natural phenomena of moonbows to Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls, when moonlight catches the mist to form a rainbow that can be captured in photos.
From April to June and again from September to October, climbers on the walls of El Capitan create tiny chains of headlamps that glow against the granite like fireflies suspended in midair.
Where to Go Stargazing in Yosemite
You can look up just about anywhere in Yosemite and catch an eyeful of stars, but these spots offer views of the night sky framed by some of the park’s most iconic scenery.
Yosemite Valley
Just 24 miles from the Big Oak Flat entrance, Yosemite Valley is one of the most accessible places to experience stargazing in Yosemite.
El Capitan Meadow
Gaze at the stars from the base of El Cap. Watch the headlamps of Yosemite’s rock climbers as they ascend the massive granite wall for one of the most memorable nighttime sights in the park.
Tunnel View
Tunnel View offers a postcard-perfect view of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome. By night, those same silhouettes become the dramatic foreground for a sky full of stars.
Cook’s Meadow
Further into Yosemite Valley, the Cook’s Meadow Boardwalk offers a peaceful observation point. The open meadow creates a broad viewing area, while the soundscape of Yosemite Falls adds to the atmosphere.
Glacier Point
Open seasonally from May to November, Glacier Point offers high-elevation stargazing with breathtaking views of Half Dome and Yosemite Valley.
Glacier Point Overlook
More than 3,000 feet above Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point offers views of the valley floor during the day and just as jaw-dropping views of the constellations at night. The high alpine vistas make it one of the most dramatic (and popular) places in the park to stargaze.
Washburn Point
Quieter than Glacier Point Overlook, Washburn Point is another exceptional place to watch the stars, with sweeping views of Half Dome and the high country.
Sentinel Dome
For those willing to add a short hike, Sentinel Dome is one of the most rewarding places to watch the stars come out. Its summit offers near-360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and the sky above.
Wawona
It takes about 50 minutes to drive from Yosemite Valley to Wawona Meadow in the southern end of the park.
Wawona Meadow
This low-elevation meadow is surrounded by forest near the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, with clear sightlines overhead in a quiet area that’s especially peaceful after dark.
Tioga Road
Open seasonally from late May or June to November, Tioga Road leads to Yosemite’s high country for some of the park’s best high-elevation stargazing.
Tenaya Lake
On the opposite end of the park, Tenaya Lake offers clear views of the night sky with little to no light interference. This alpine setting feels especially magical after dark, when the still water can reflect the stars above.
Best Times for Stargazing in Yosemite
Summer and fall (July through October) are typically the best times for stargazing in Yosemite. During these months, warmer weather, clearer skies, and seasonal access to higher-elevation areas make it the best time to see the Milky Way. August can be an especially exciting time to visit, as meteor showers like the Perseids add even more magic to the night sky.
It is also important to consider the moon phase when planning your outing. New moon nights are best for stargazing because darker skies make stars and celestial details easier to see, while bright moonlight can reduce visibility.
Yosemite National Park is open 24/7, though seasonal road closures may affect access to certain viewpoints.
Guided Stargazing Experiences in Yosemite
Make the most of Yosemite stargazing with guided experiences.
Ranger-led Stargazing
The National Park Service (NPS) runs night-sky programs during the summer. These programs may include astronomy talks, telescope viewing, or guided stargazing to identify constellations. Check the park calendar for the program schedule.
Group Sierra Sunset and Stargazing
Enjoy the best of the backcountry in Stanislaus National Forest during a relaxing evening that begins with a spectacular Sierra sunset and an optional sunset walk while your guide and chef prepare a BBQ picnic. After dinner, lie back in reclining chairs for a historical and cultural night-sky tour and journey through the stars.
Tips for Stargazing in Yosemite
- Check the moon phase before you go. Bright moonlight can make it harder to see the stars.
- Pack stargazing essentials. Warm layers, snacks, water, and a red light filter for your flashlight will make the experience more enjoyable. Check out our seasonal packing list for Yosemite.
- Wait for full darkness. The night is darkest 1–2 hours after sunset through 1–2 hours before sunrise.
- Give your eyes time to adjust. Avoid bright white light (including phone screens) for at least 30 minutes before stargazing.
Where to Stay in Yosemite
Set on 85 forested acres, Under Canvas Yosemite blends comfort and nature with upscale safari-style glamping. By day, relax in comfortable indoor and outdoor spaces, from the main lobby tent with café-style dining to inviting lounge areas furnished by West Elm. By night, settle onto your private deck and look up as the stars begin to emerge overhead, or gather around the campfire for s’mores, storytelling, and shared moments beneath the night sky.
Located just 10 minutes from Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat entrance, with a designated YARTS shuttle stop, Under Canvas Yosemite offers easy access to the park while surrounding you with the stillness of California Black Oak and Ponderosa Pine forest for a unique and unforgettable stay.