Southside Drive

Southside Drive in Yosemite Valley is California’s best autumn boulevard.

Bigleaf maple, Pacific dogwood and black oak line the section of the drive between Valley View and El Cap Meadow, though it is the maple that provide the drive’s delicate texture. At times during peak, the forest rains leaves which swirl and dance behind passing cars.

Color spotter Sam Xi caught the action at peak. It will continue into early November and is one of several not-to-be-missed peak fall color experiences.