Yosemite Reservations Update
No reservation is required to visit Yosemite or view Horsetail Fall in February 2026.
Viewing access: Park at Yosemite Falls parking and walk 1.5 miles each way to the El Capitan viewing area. If that lot is full, park at Yosemite Village or Curry Village and take the free shuttle to Yosemite Valley Lodge/Yosemite Falls.
Road & parking restrictions:
No stopping, parking, or unloading along Northside or Southside Drives near El Capitan.
One lane of Northside Drive will close to allow pedestrian access; short, temporary road closures may occur after sunset on busy weekends.
Vehicles with disability placards may access El Capitan Picnic Area and park in designated turnouts.
Facilities: Vault toilets and trash/recycling dumpsters are available at El Capitan Picnic Area.
Be prepared: Bring warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and a headlamp or flashlight. Expect cold, dark walks back to your vehicle and possible icy conditions.
Protect the park: Stay on trails and in durable areas, avoid meadows and fenced areas, and always pack out trash or use provided dumpsters.
We anticipate that the National Park Service will provide updates later this year regarding possible summer 2026 reservations. As soon as announcements are made, we’ll share the details here.
With reservation requirements removed this year, it’s more important than ever to check current conditions before and during your visit. When parking in the busiest areas of Yosemite Valley fills up, vehicles may be redirected to other parts of the park, which can affect travel time and plans. Visitors are strongly encouraged to sign up for real-time park alerts by texting “Yosemite” to 33311. These updates provide timely information as conditions change throughout the day, including traffic, parking, and weather impacts.
Visitors are also encouraged to purchase their park entrance pass in advance. Buying online is quick and seamless and can significantly speed up entry into the park. At times, visitors with a digital entrance pass may be eligible for priority lanes. Purchase your pass at recreation.gov and don’t let the entrance slow you down. Please note: cash is not accepted at park entrances.
International Visitor Fee Update (Effective January 1, 2026)
The U.S. Department of the Interior has announced a new ($100) per-person fee for international (non-U.S. resident) visitors entering select U.S. national parks, including Yosemite. Entrance Pass alternatives, such as the non-resident America the Beautiful Pass ($250), cover the non-resident visitor plus up to three adults on a commercial tour, or all occupants in a private vehicle, and are valid at any U.S. national park for one full year. All passes and fees can be purchased online in advance at recreation.gov. Digital entrance passes are strongly encouraged, and purchasing passes in advance will significantly reduce wait times.
Important reminder: Yosemite National Park entrance stations do not accept cash.
Have more questions? You can contact us at the Visitor Center.
Call us at (559) 683-4636 or email info@yosemitethisyear.com.
