Ticket reservations are now available: plan your summer vacation in Yosemite National Park
If you're planning a summer vacation to California's iconic Yosemite National Park, prepare in advance. Ticket reservations will be available starting at 11:00 a.m. ET/8:00 a.m. PT on Friday, January 5.
On December 13, the National Park Service announced the introduction of a new reservation system in the park, as Yosemite has been struggling with overcrowding for decades, as reported by Yahoo News. Its goal is to alleviate long queues to enter the park and make the experience more comfortable for both visitors and park officials.
Yosemite National Park is located in the western part of the country in California. It captivates visitors with its picturesque, pristine nature. Here, you can encounter rare species of animals and birds, breathtaking waterfalls, and cliffs. The park boasts 800 kilometers of hiking trails that offer travelers the opportunity to experience the park's unique beauty.
What days do I need to book tickets for?
During the summer season, reservations are necessary for the following days and times:
Weekends from April 13 to June 30: From 5:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (May 27 and June 19).
Every day from July 1 to August 16: From 5:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.
Weekends from August 17 to October 27: From 5:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays (September 2 and October 14).
All vehicles entering the park require a reservation, even if they are just passing through between 5:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. However, those entering the park before 5:00 a.m. and after 4:00 p.m. do not need a reservation.
Where can I purchase reserved entrance tickets to Yosemite National Park?
Visitors planning to explore Yosemite can reserve their spots through the government's centralized travel planning platform and reservation system, Recreation.gov.
The reservation fee is $2 per ticket and is non-refundable under any circumstances. It is paid separately from the park entrance fee. However, reservations can be modified up to 24 hours before the scheduled date. The administration advises visitors to cancel their reservation if they do not plan to use it.
Only one reservation fee is required for each vehicle, which covers all occupants.
Types of reservations
Visitors have two options for reservations: a full-day reservation or an afternoon entry reservation. Both types of reservations are valid for three consecutive days, including the arrival day.
Visitors with on-park lodging or camping reservations, wilderness or Half Dome permits, and those arriving on YARTS buses or authorized commercial tours do not require a vehicle reservation.
Where is Yosemite National Park located?
Yosemite National Park is situated in California, approximately 200 miles from San Francisco, 340 miles from Los Angeles, and about 120 miles from Fresno.
The National Park Service recommends that visitors check their website for updated information before planning a trip.