VISITING YOSEMITE
- The park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The entrance station to Hetch Hetchy is only open during daylight hours
- Entrance fees are required year-round, excluding fee-free holidays.
- Permits are NOT required for day hikes within the Park, unless you are hiking to the top of Half Dome.
- Wilderness permits are required for any backpacking or camping within the Park.
2025 PEAK HOURS RESERVATIONS
A reservation will be required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on some days from May 24 through September 1, 2025, for those driving into the park between 6 am and 2 pm as follows:
- May 24 through May 26 (Memorial Day weekend): A reservation is required from 6 am to 2 pm on Saturday through Monday.
- May 27 through June 14: A reservation is not required at any time.
- June 15 through August 15: A reservation is required from 6 am to 2 pm every day.
- August 16 through August 29: A reservation is not required at any time.
- August 30 through September 1 (Labor Day weekend): A reservation is required from 6 am to 2 pm on Saturday through Monday.
Driving through the park also requires a reservation if entering between 6 am and 2 pm. If you're planning to visit after peak hours, please do not arrive before 2 pm.
Reservations open on May 6, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. PDT on Recreation.gov, covering all peak-hour entry dates for the season. Additional reservations will be released daily, seven days in advance of each arrival date, also at 8:00 a.m. PDT – giving you more chances to plan or go with the flow.
OUR FAVORITE HIKES
MODERATE TO STRENUOUS:
Four Mile Trail switchbacks 3,200 feet up from Yosemite Valley to Glacier Point, providing wonderful views of the valley, Half Dome, North Dome, El Capitan, Cathedral Rocks, the Royal Arches, Tenaya Canyon, and Yosemite Falls.
The Mist Trail is a very popular hike known for its stunning views of Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. It's moderately strenuous with a mix of paved and rocky paths and many stairs. Continue on to Half Dome for the ultimate hiking experience. (requires permit)
EASY TO MODERATE:
All trails in Mariposa Grove and Tuolumne Grove are excellent and are host to some of the tallest giant sequoias in the world.
The trailhead to Lower Yosemite Fall is about a mile west of the village and the .5-mile trail brings you to the base of the Lower Fall.
MUST-SEE AREAS OF THE PARK
Tunnel View provides one of the most famous views of Yosemite Valley, showcasing the immensity of the granite walls that surround Yosemite Valley and providing a classic view of El Capitan, Half Dome, Sentinel Rocks, Cathedral Rocks, and Bridalveil Fall.
After leaving Tunnel View and continuing into the Valley, stop by Bridalveil Fall and walk the half mile to the base of the waterfall.
Yosemite Valley is a world-famous glacial valley in YNP, known for its towering granite cliffs. It is the heart of the park and where you will be able to get a good view of Yosemite Falls.
Photo credit to: Dave Richie
TOUR AND EQUIPMENT RENTAL
- To learn more about 4x4 Tours and Rentals, go to Yosemite Adventure Co | Jeep Tours, UTV Rentals, Rykers and more! - Yosemite Adventure Co
- 833-533-7494
- Hiking gear equipment rental can be found at Alpenglow Gear Co., 40680 CA-41, Unit A, Oakhurst.
- 559-800-8099
- https://alpenglowgearco.wixsit...