Changes are underway in Yosemite National Park for 2024 That could affect your Plans!

 

Yosemite National Park News – December 13, 2023 – In a surprise move today Yosemite National Park announces (Temporary / Permanent Changes to the way visitors will access Americas most popular national park in 2024 and potentially beyond. The return of a Vehicle Reservation system int he parks busiest seasons will once again go into effect in 2024. The Park had already instituted a reservation only system for the popular Fire fall Season in February, but today announced a universal Weekend and peak season reservation system that will begin in April and run through October in 2024.

Let’s make 2024 a year of unforgettable Yosemite adventures!

“I have reviewed the system and understand the lazy approach that the park system is making in implementing this solution for the park. I do not feel that they have kept the best interests of the American public with this decision, instead they have taken short cuts to push back at the parks abundant growth on the past 10 years.” – Publisher of Sierra Rec Magazine

Yosemite National Park Restrictions reservations

Yosemite National park had visitation of around 3.6 million visitors in 2022 which was an increase over 2021 and is assumed to again risen again in 2023. We have seen reports of traffic nightmares in the Valley that have mad ethe Yosemite Valley experience rather unappealing and problematic.

Peak Hours Vehicle Reservations System, designed to enhance your Yosemite experience while preserving its natural beauty.

Views above Matthes Lake

1. When Reservations Are Required:

  • April 13 to June 30: Weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and holidays from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • July 1 to August 16: Seven days a week from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • August 17 to October 27: Weekends (Saturday and Sunday) and Monday holidays from 5 a.m. to 4 p.m.

2. Types of Reservations:

  • Full Day: Allows entry at any time during the day.
  • Afternoon: Permits entry after 4 p.m.

3. Making Reservations:

  • Initial reservations open on January 5, 2024, at 8 a.m. PST on Recreation.gov .
  • Additional reservations open one week before your planned visit.

4. Duration of Reservations:

  • Each reservation grants one vehicle access for three consecutive days from the first valid day.

5. Who Must Make Reservations:

6. Who Doesn’t Need Reservations:

  • Lodging or campsite guests within Yosemite.
  • Early birds entering before 5 a.m.
  • Wilderness or Half Dome permit holders.
  • Tour participants (Yosemite 360 Tours, Incredible Adventures, Discover Yosemite Tours).
  • YARTS users (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System).

7. Alternatives if You Can’t Secure a Reservation:

8. Planning for the Future:

Yosemite is actively working on the Visitor Access Management Plan to address congestion and ensure a quality visitor experience. Stay tuned for more updates!

For detailed information and to secure your reservations, visit our website or Recreation.gov .

Let’s make 2024 a year of unforgettable Yosemite adventures!