Mariposa, Calif (Jan. 6, 2015) Yosemite/Mariposa is majestic all year-round, but did you know it especially beautiful (and affordable!) in winter which makes winter one of the best times to visit Yosemite. See our top ten tips for experiencing an unforgettable winter vacation in Yosemite.

1. Stay and Ski Packages

Want to hit the slopes this season? Did you know that Yosemite's Badger Pass is the most affordable winter ski destination in California? And one of the most family-friendly with opportunities for parents to watch from the sundecks while the kids tackle more than ten runs with beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. Many lodges in the area offer a stay and ski packages, student discounts, and more. Check out deals for Badger Pass.

2. Stay in a B&B or vacation rental

In many destinations cozy B&B's and secluded vacation rentals come with a hefty price tag. That's not the case in Yosemite/Mariposa County. A vacation rental or cabin in Yosemite West, Wawona, Mariposa or Midpines can be just the thing for large families or groups, where you can rent a whole house for less than it would cost for traditional hotels. Just the two of you? Experience the romance of a winter getaway at a charming B&B.

3. Luxurious Spas – for less!

When it's cold outside the best way to warm up is to indulge in a spa experience. Check out deals for the Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite's fabulous Ascent Spa. With a special deal code you can book your room, spa time, and get a discount on dining all for one price – the winter rate for this deal is 1/2 the rate you'll find in summer for this package! Check it out.

4. Stress-free and Affordable Travel

Worried about winter driving in Yosemite? Don't worry about buying or renting chains. Take the YARTS!Yosemite Area Regional Transit System (YARTS) offers visitors to Yosemite/Mariposa the opportunity to have door-to-door service from their hotel to Yosemite Valley. At mere $12 per round-trip ticket you can forget about winter driving in snow and instead sit back an watch the scenery, no matter the weather.  The route only runs through the western Arch Rock entrance on Hwy 140 and picks up at several hotels and safe public parking areas along the way.

5. Fabulous Winter Package Deals on Activities

Want to book your room, a valley tour, a snowboarding lesson, ice skating session and, oh yeah – your rentals – all for one reduced price? You can this winter. Look for Stay 'n' Play add-ons when you book your room.

6. Adventures Beyond the Park

With winter rates so low you can afford to be leisurely. The sierras are as beautiful, less crowded and way more affordable in winter than at any other time. Plan to spend one day just enjoying the charming historic towns that dot the surrounding areas outside Yosemite National Park. For antique shopping and historical sight-seeing you will love the slow pace of towns such as Mariposa and Coulterville.

7. Drink and Be Merry!

A more affordable tasting experience then California's more popular wine regions, Mariposa boasts several local wineries and breweries – all in close proximity to Yosemite. Try one of the region's rich zinfindels or syrahs or enjoy a pint of locally brewed wheat, pale ale, or stout.

8. Hike…yes, hike.

Are there Yosemite winter hikes? You bet! When Badger Pass is a skiers paradise in the Sierras above, the Valley Floor stays relatively snow free for some of the most enjoyable trails. Take a walk to Lower Yosemite Falls, or do the full Valley Loop Trail. Take pictures of the mists gathering around the north face of Half Dome or walk up to lovely Mirror Lake.

9. Old-fashion Sleigh Rides

Bundle up and cozy in for a sleigh ride through the pines with actual jingles bells ringing merrily. Another activity that is only available in winter, it is a nostalgic and fun way to enjoy fresh snow and stunning scenery.

10. Culinary Discoveries

Your mountain adventure would not be complete with a hearty venison or trout dinner, right? Or decadent steakhouse experience. Yosemite/Mariposa County features several restaurants that can range from the grand Ahwahnee Hotel, to less formal but still elegant dining, made-from-scratch cafes, and retro burger joints. Very few chains mean every place has a mom 'n' pop flare that can only be found here.

About Yosemite/Mariposa County

Located in the heart of California and home of Yosemite National Park, Mariposa County is a world class destination for all seasons. Combining the rich history of California's gold rush with its engaging events, international iconic landscape, and welcoming locals, it's no wonder Yosemite/Mariposa County attracts millions of travelers from all over the world each year. For more information, visit the Yosemite/Mariposa County Tourism Bureau at YosemiteExperience.com or call 209-742-4567.

For More Information Please Contact: 

Noel Morrison 

+209-742-4567

noelm@yosemiteexperience.com