Yosemite National Park
Gateway to iconic views and unforgettable moments, Yosemite National Park begins just beyond Yosemite’s southern gateway—where your adventure starts before you even enter the park.
Visitors will not need a reservation to drive into Yosemite in 2026. This change provides more flexibility for travelers, while the park continues to actively manage traffic and support safe, enjoyable experiences for all.
Important Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
Visit on weekdays when crowds are lighter and parking is easier.
Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.
Save time at the gate — purchase your digital entrance pass before arriving at any entrance station.
Explore beyond Yosemite Valley. The park is huge, with incredible landscapes and experiences throughout.
Stop by the Oakhurst Visitor Center for the latest updates, maps, and insider tips.
Sign up for real-time park updates by texting “Yosemite” to 33311. These alerts provide timely parking information as conditions change throughout the day.
Your go to guide for entering the park.
Up to date information on Yosemite News & Happenings.
You've figured out where to go and what to do. Now, it's time to decide where to stay. Many options are available throughout the region, including hotels, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, campgrounds, RV sites, and much more! Explore the options!
- Spring: Waterfalls thunder to life in Yosemite National Park, making it the most powerful and awe-inspiring time to visit.
- Summer: Long, sun-filled days open up high-country adventures and iconic views from valley floor to alpine peaks.
- Fall: Fewer crowds and golden foliage create a quieter, more relaxed way to experience Yosemite’s beauty.
- Winter: Snow transforms the park into a peaceful wonderland, perfect for cozy views and classic cold-weather fun.
Discover the icons of Yosemite National Park
Get ready to be swept off your feet by sky-high granite cliffs, roaring waterfalls, ancient Giant Sequoias, and awe-inspiring trails. Yosemite National Park is one of the most iconic and unforgettable destinations in the world. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a weeklong trek, these top attractions should be on your list.
Southern Gateway Attractions
Yosemite Valley Maps & Information
View or Download the Yosemite Valley map with shuttle routes and stops.
Please Note: Most services inside the park are operational, but some are impacted by ongoing projects like shuttle stop improvements and hazard tree removal; for more information, visit the NPS FAQ page and review concessionaire services.
YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transit System) offers transportation to and from Yosemite from gateway towns. Operating in the southern gateway towns of Oakhurst and Fish Camp along Highway 41, YARTS runs from mid-May through mid-September.
FREE VALLEY SHUTTLE: To help find your favorite icons in Yosemite Valley, you can view and download the Yosemite Valley Shuttle Map.
Yosemite Itineraries
Explore Yosemite
LoadingTrails
With hundreds of miles of trails (there's over 800 miles in Yosemite alone), you truly can spend a lifetime hiking, riding (where allowed) and just plain exploring Yosemite and the Southern Yosemite Gateway Region!
Make the most of your visit to Yosemite National Park
This National Park Service series breaks down the sometimes ambiguous rules of recreating in the outdoors. Not all visitors have the same background and experience with nature. Things that seem obvious to some - like brushing your boots before a hike, not picking flowers, or not feeding wildlife - can seem strange or harmless to others. There's no shame in admitting "I Didn't Know That!"
More Planning Resources
Here are a few more resources that we recommend incorporating into your planning arsenal:
- Yosemite National Park Services: For current conditions, special alerts, and more information inside Yosemite National Park.
- Yosemite Gateways: More information on the Park's four major entrances.
- Hike Smart Yosemite: Plan and prepare for a safe and enjoyable hiking trip in the park.
- Google Street View: Check out Yosemite's iconic spots!
- Yosemite Bears: Learn more about the bears of Yosemite National Park
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