Fall and Winter
at the Logger's Retreat
Autumn leaves with frost
An autumn walk near the house
After a light snow
Deck at sunset after snow
Raymond Mountain after fresh snow
Dining room on a snowy morning
Picnic area in snow
A sunny morning after snow
Northern view after snow
Raymond Mountain in winter
Our driveway before plowing
Our driveway after plowing
The Narrow Gauge Inn office
A good place to park before storms
Playing in snow near the house
Deep snow at Badger PassFall and winter are special seasons at the Logger's Retreat. The crowds of summer thin out and life takes on a more relaxed pace. Fall colors in the Yosemite area have an unforgettable beauty all their own. And there is perhaps nothing more peaceful than watching low clouds drift through the trees after a gentle rain, or viewing a fresh snowfall clinging to the ridges above the valley.
Though the pace is more relaxed during these seasons, being prepared for the unexpected becomes more important. The days are generally cooler and temperatures can change quickly. The nights can get quite cold. Cloudy days, rain, and then snow become ever more likely as winter approaches. Even so, cloudy or overcast periods are usually followed by bright, sunny days and crystal-clear nights. Even in the coldest months, daytime temperatures are usually above freezing for much of the day. If you are the hearty type who doesn't mind "roughing it" a bit, fall and winter can be absolutely the best time to visit the area.
You should be prepared for snow when traveling in the mountains during the months of November through April. Always carry tire chains and know how to use them safely. Late at night, an extra sleeping bag or two in the back of your car could be a life-saver if your car were to become disabled for any reason. Slow down and take it easy -- don't try to rush to your destination. Be prepared for slippery patches in the road at any time. Four-wheel drive vehicles can be particularly useful during and after snowstorms.
The Logger's Retreat can be a wonderful place to stay during winter weather, but it is not for everyone. We are located in a fairly remote mountain area. Nothing is guaranteed up here, and only you are responsible for your own safety. Pipes can freeze during very cold spells. Power outages do occur, sometimes for extended periods. We do keep a small electrical generator at the house, but it will only provide limited power, and you'll have to know (or learn) how to use it. Fortunately we are always eager to help you, and usually only a phone call away. If conditions really do become unbearable, the Narrow Gauge Inn or the Tenaya Lodge can usually provide assistance during such emergencies.
The Logger's Retreat itself is located at the top of a very steep, winding driveway. We share the lower half with two other families. After snowstorms, ice and snow can make the driveway unusable for one or more days, even after it has been plowed. If you know that a storm is approaching, your gracious neighbors at the Narrow Gauge Inn will allow you to park in their lot at the bottom of the hill, across the highway from us (but be sure to coordinate with them first). The walk to the house from there is about 1000 ft long, with about a 200 ft elevation gain. At nearly 5000 ft elevation, it can be real work. If you are not willing or able to accept this possibility, then please do not plan to stay at our house during the winter months. Late spring, summer or early fall are better options for you.
On the other hand, if you are willing to accept the potential inconveniences of a winter stay at the Logger's Retreat, you will not be disappointed. The views are spectacular, the privacy is unmatched, and the accomodations are just about as comfortable as you can get anywhere. This is luxurious mountain living at its best!
Fall and winter features of our property include:
- Terrific views of the fall colors, even from your dining, living and bedrooms.
- National Forest lands directly behind the house for autumn and winter hikes, x-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snow play.
- Our hot tub runs year-round.
- ~5 minutes to the Tenaya Lodge for ice skating and sleigh rides (check their schedules).
- ~10 minutes to the snow play area near Fish Camp.
- ~45 minutes to Badger Pass ski area.
- Two plastic toboggans and two saucers available for guests to use (anywhere except on the driveway of course!). Be sure to return them after use.
times