Yosemite National Park has implemented a reservation system for accessing the park grounds for the summer of 2024. If you are planning a trip and still need to secure your access into the park, here are our tips for getting a Yosemite National Park Reservation in 2024 (or bypassing it altogether).
What is the Yosemite National Park Reservation System?
It is a new system put in place to help regulate the number of visitors in the park this summer, manage the traffic, parking and entry points.
Reservation.gov is where visitors can view the calendar of available dates. However, it is important to note, that even if a date you plan to visit on is not available (marked as NA on the calendar), more spots will open up seven days in advance of that date. There is also a new half-day reservation option, which allows visitors to enter Yosemite in the afternoon!
LEARN MORE & SECURE PARK RESERVATION
July & August 2024 Reservations
As of mid-June, there are plenty of reservations still available for the months of July and August.
This is an incredible time to visit as most of Yosemite’s higher elevation trails and roads are fully accessible. This means visitors can usually explore more of the park, including high country areas like Tuolumne Meadows and Glacier Point. July and August also have longer daylight hours, providing more time for exploration and enjoyment of the park’s natural beauty.
Securing a Weekend Reservation
Looking at the calendar and wondering how you can still access the park on a weekend if there are no spots available? Reservations are good for three consecutive days. This means all you have to do is book for a Thursday and you’ll get access to the park on Thursday, Friday and Saturday!
Getting in Without a Reservation
Early in the Morning or Late Afternoon
Getting into the park before 5am or after 4pm means you do not need a park pass to explore. Take a peek at our blog “A Guide to Visiting Yosemite National Park at Off-Peak Times” to learn more about why we love these times of day.
Group Lead Programs
There are plenty of programs you can take advantage of that not only get you access into the park, but help you discover even more of the natural beauty and adventure of Yosemite.
- Mountaineering School
This guide service offers fantastic activities for every adventure seeker. As the only authorized climbing guides in the Park, they know these cliffs like no one else — and can share their unparalleled knowledge with everyone from pros to complete novices. The school also offers group hikes and guided overnight backpacking trips. - Artistic Flare
Sign up for an Outdoor Adventure or art class with Yosemite Conservancy or a photography class with the Ansel Adams Gallery.
Unique Transportation Methods
- Take YARTS, the Yosemite Area Transportation System, which includes the cost to enter Yosemite. With the free national park shuttle system operating in Yosemite Valley, YARTS is a great way to visit the park. Please note YARTS also has a reservation system separate from the park.
- Ride into Mariposa Grove on Horseback with Yosemite Trails Horseback Adventures.
- Walk, hike or ride a bicycle in.
Access Through Hetch Hetchy
Located in the secluded northwest corner of Yosemite National Park, 1.5 hours from Yosemite Valley you’ll find Hetch Hetchy, an area where no reservations are required for getting into the park.
This is an incredible spot that is less traveled, but no less beautiful. There are plenty of day hikes, backpacking trails and even fishing to be found here. In this area, however, it is important to note that the road to Hetch Hetchy is open only during daylight hours, from sunrise to sunset.
Book The Trip!
The 2024 Yosemite National Park reservation system should not deter you from making the trip of a lifetime this summer. As you can see there are many ways to get a reservation or bypass one altogether through exciting experiences and programs. So the question is – when are you booking your trip?