Entrance to yosemite national park Re Answer 1 of 4: I have been told there would be a 2-3 hr wait to get into the park new El Porta, so I wanted to know if Big Oak Flat entrance near Haden Flat would be a better choice. A reservation is required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on weekends and holidays through October 27, 2024, for those driving into the park between 5 am and 3 pm: (The reservation system was weekends only in spring and early summer, seven days per week in July through August 16, and the end time was previously 4 For cool tips on the best park entrances and route maps, our guide on Yosemite National Park road conditions is worth a glance. Yosemite Valley is the main destination for most visitors but there are many places to go in the park. 13 h. Notifications and Alerts. Hi. 2025 updates; Where do we stay—Inside the park or outside the park? How should I book my We will be staying in Mammoth Lakes the week of June 9-13. Elias National Park in Alaska, which has a total area of 20,587. You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites. This entrance is closed from Nov/Dec through May/June. Highways 120 West, 140, 41 and 120 East/Tioga Road. Simply plan your trip, arrive at the park, pay the entrance fee and recreate responsibly! If you’re planning a trip to Yosemite Mariposa County in 2024, you may need to make a Temporary Peak Hours Vehicle Reservation to enter Yosemite National Park. national parks over the weekend, from Yellowstone to the Grand Canyon and beyond, calling for the government to stop the sweeping federal cuts to public Want someone else to drive you around Yosemite? Smart idea. Most National Parks in the United States require an entrance fee. Cue Eminem’s Lose Yourself for this one, because if you only have one shot, one opportunity, to seize everything you ever wanted, in one day at Yosemite. given the entrance is located on a one-way road. Pick up a map and brochure as you enter the park. Looking to stay in one of the towns near by but don’t know which one and what gate is best. The east entrance on Tioga Pass from Highway 395 is only open in the summer from about mid June through the fall when the snow fall begins sometime in November. South Entrance via Highways 120 & 95. Reservations required during peak hours in peak season. Two house-sized boulders, situated on either side of the inbound road, form an archway for visitors to pass through. We recognize the importance of providing clarity on that system as soon as possible to accommodate peak summer season travel planning. But one thing has changed in recent years at California’s world-famous park: Since 2024, visitors planning to drive into Yosemite during peak late-spring and summer months need an entry reservation. The 12 entrances to Yosemite National Park are: Arch Rock, Big Oak Flat, Aquí nos gustaría mostrarte una descripción, pero el sitio web que estás mirando no lo permite. This entrance is closed from Nov/Dec through Essential tips to maximize your experience during your visit to Yosemite: Optimal Visit Times: Arrive early in the morning (Before 5:00 AM) or later in the afternoon (After 4:00 PM) to avoid peak times and reservation requirements. The entrance fee payable at Yosemite entrances varies according to the type of vehicle and the length of your visit. on Monday, April 7, through 6 p. Yosemite National Park Hotels Things to Do Restaurants Flights Vacation Rentals Cruises Rental Cars Forums. YOSEMITE MAPS. Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevadas is a popular tourist destination due to the area's beautiful scenery and rich ecosystem. Access: Via Hwy 120. From spring through fall, you are likely to experience congestion in Yosemite Valley and at park entrances. Answer 1 of 10: It is my first time in Yosemite and I don’t know where to start. Tioga Pass Entrance (via Highway 120 from the east) is closed from around November through late May or June. A reservation is not required on Plan Your Trip to Yosemite National Park COVID-19 Opening Status. Private Vehicle: $35. Park passes can be purchased here, and park brochures may be available. South Entrance (Wawona/Fish Camp) Quick Info For Wawona Entrance: Open: Year round; Where is this entrance to Yosemite National Park located: West side of Yosemite, southernmost entrance, accessible from Highway 41. Answer 1 of 5: Hi, does anyone know where the Yosemite National Park sign is located when coming in the south entrance? Thanks. There are about 500 mature trees in the area, but the most famous residents include the titanic Grizzly Giant and the Tunnel Tree with a How to get entry tickets/ make reservations . The most popular entrance to Yosemite National Park is the South Entrance. 2. Equally impressive are the giant sequoia trees, which are some of the tallest, biggest, and oldest living things on the planet. Prominentparks. At least once I'm in the park I can drive South within the park. to Yosemite's south entrance near Wawona Hotel. Motorcycle: $30. every day. Yosemite is a wildly popular national park, receiving over three million visitors per year. Yosemite National Park is open all year, 24 hours a day. Oakhurst and what gate to enter through. 12 h 15 m. Wawona is located at the southern entrance to Yosemite National Park. Hetch Hetchy is open all year but may close intermittently due to snow. A reservation will be required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on some days from April 13 through October 27, 2024, for those driving into the park between 5 am and 4 pm as follows: April 13 through June 30: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and on holidays (May 27 and June 19). Still, the park is fairly close to major cities and airports. In 2025, Yosemite National Park required visitors to make a reservation to see the incredible February Firefall event on weekend days, but has not yet announced a summer 2025 reservation system. You don't need reservations to visit or enter Yosemite National Park, but reservations for lodging or camping are essential if you plan to spend the night in the park 7-Day Entrance Fees Private Car $20. Check with CalTrans for the current conditions of roads outside Yosemite National Park or call 1-800-427-7623. Yosemite reservations will not be required during the summer of 2023. As I understand it, we cannot drive south from the town of Bigi Sur to Cambria because PHW 1 is closed near Lucia, so we'll have to backtrack and drive north toward Monterey. Reservations are no longer required to visit Yosemite National Park for the remainder of 2024. 00, or you can get an American the Beautiful Pass valid for all national parks and federal fee areas for $80. Learn more about each of these scenic routes into Yosemite, and get some ideas for things to do along the way. As of Thursday, Yosemite had yet to announce its official plans for entrance reservations in the spring and summer. If the entrance station is unstaffed when you arrive, you can pay on the way out. Frequent visitors, seniors, military, and others may save As one of the country’s most beautiful parks, Yosemite National Park in California should be on everyone’s must-see list. It is home to over 1,200 square miles of breathtaking beauty, including towering waterfalls, granite cliffs, and sequoia groves. The next day, savor Yosemite Valley. You need a lodging or campground reservation if you plan to spend the night during times a reservation is required to drive into the park. . Most lodges that claim to be in Yosemite area, on further drill down say that they are at least 60 to 90 minutes driving distance away from Yosemite. Yosemite National Park is located in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. Top pros - location very close to Yosemite National Park, facility and swimming pool Explore Yosemite National Park Ticketed Entry in Yosemite National Park, California with Recreation. On February 16, the National Park Service announced that beginning Friday, May 20, 2022, Yosemite National Park will implement a peak hours reservation system. Yosemite: Entrance Reservations in 2025. Best map for: Casual day-visits, scrapbooking, showing off to other National Park geeks. There's another benefit to having a Yosemite or National Parks pass: on busy summer weekends when traffic is backed up dozens deep at the entrance gates, the park service will frequently set up a special lane just for pass holders to use so they can buzz Yosemite National Park has since become my favorite national park (and place!) in the U. Yosemite Valley Roads. This is the least predictable of all of Yosemite National Park entrances. Open. Skip to main content. Traffic Warnings. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and much more. Southern Yosemite Highway 41 is your direct access to the south entrance of Yosemite National Park. This is my first time, and need guidance on finding the exact distance of a lodge from an OPEN entrance to Yosemite. Cancel. Hetch Hetchy Road Open sunrise to sunset (closed when it is snowing or snow is forecast overnight; call number above for updates). Whether you choose to enter via the Tioga Pass, El Portal, Big Oak Flat, Hetch Hetchy, While we welcome you to Yosemite, you should expect traffic congestion, especially in Yosemite Valley and at park entrances. Picking either Fresno or Merced to land your plane means you’re setting foot on the easy Know Before You Go. You will receive a copy of the Yosemite Guide when you enter the park. If you’re traveling from the south, the South Entrance is just north of Fish Camp town (Hwy 41). Perfect for After three years, Yosemite National Park's Mariposa Grove is once again open to explorers — just in time for summer. 2025 updates; Where do we stay—Inside the park or outside the park? How should I Entrance Reservations in 2025. Check out our recommendation of how many days you should spend in Yosemite. In addition, you will find the best scenic views you can imagine here. 1 million people visit Great Smoky Mountains each year – more than Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon combined. Get directions, travel tips and updates on road conditions to help ensure a smooth journey to this iconic destination. The Park occupies an area of 1,189 mi², and consists of four main entrances; Highway 140 from Merced, Highway 120 from the West, Highway 41 from the North, Tioga Pass from Lee Vining. Yosemite National Park is open 24 hours per day, 365 days per year (conditions permitting). It is 12 mi from the west gate entrance of Yosemite National Park. The park has resumed campground reservations for the summer, with a limited capacity. The South Entrance to Yosemite National Park is open year-round and will be the closest way in if you’re coming from San Diego (8 hours) or Los Angeles (6 hours). Unlike other national parks that charge entrance fees, Great Smoky Mountains is free to enter because of an agreement made in Things to know before your visit to Yosemite National Park Entrance fee. Then, they are met by a set of drive-through entrance booths clad with arcing stone walls, recalling the construction of the Desert View Watchtower, in a modern interpretation that incorporates exposed steel columns and beams. Access it via 120 and by Evergreen Road. In addition, the park provided an update on an important spring break ban. ; Check out Yosemite's current Where to Go and What to Do in Yosemite National Park. The entrance is 12 miles west of Lee Vining. Mariposa. What is the best entrance to Yosemite National Park? Enter the west side of the park through Arch Rock entrance (Hwy 140) or Big Oak Flat (Hwy 120 W) or arrive from the east at Tioga Pass (Hwy 120 E). Right now I’m leaning towards a place called Berkshire Inn, Groveland Yosemite National Park’s revised entry reservation system. They are strictly first come first served. Explore Yosemite National Park in California with Recreation. Regions Of The Park We created this map to show you the different Yosemite regions and entrances. Related: 7 trips to take right now if you want to escape the crowds How to get to Yosemite National Park. Maps Yosemite National Park. Park passes can be Entrance Reservations. in summer), Maps / Yosemite Park Map with Entrances – Yosemite Gold. Per Person: $20. com. We will be staying in Mammoth Lakes the week of June 9-13. From Madera, follow Yosemite Ave - Highway 145, east to Southern Yosemite Highway 41. In summer 2025, reservations will be required at all park entrances except Hetch Hetchy, which will be managed on a first come, first served basis (as was the case in 2024) daily from June 16 With its various entrances, Yosemite National Park offers visitors diverse access points to explore its extraordinary natural wonders. Learn more about making a reservation for camping or lodging if you plan to spend the night. ; Take CA-140 E from Merced to enter Yosemite through the Arch Rock Entrance. North Entrance via Highways 120 & 6. Sitting right outside the park’s west entrance, it’s one of those places that blends eco-conscious design with a strong sense of place, making it a rather unique resort in Yosemite National Park. What park entrance to use when driving from Big Sur Mar 30, 2025; Rafting/float inside park Mar 29, 2025; Entrance to Yosemite NP Mar 26, Trump’s purge of federal employees is already harming the visitor experience at national parks across the country. Can you get into Yosemite without a reservation in February? No reservations Here’s what you should expect to pay to visit this historic American landmark located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range in California. The following costs are per vehicle, not per person: Non-commercial car, pickup truck, RV, or van with 15 or fewer passenger seats At Yosemite National Park, you can see and experience a wild variety of things – giant sequoias, black bears, the highest waterfall in North America, and some of the best hiking routes in the California Sierras, to name a few. Click here for current Travel Alerts from Yosemite National Park. Getting to Yosemite National Park. The entrance you use depends on where you are coming from. You can’t go wrong ordering a burger in town. This is the best entrance for visitors from San Jose since it’s the most direct route. Report inappropriate content . Yosemite National Park includes nearly 1,200 square miles of mountainous scenery, including high cliffs, deep valleys, tall waterfalls, ancient giant sequoias, and a large wilderness. April 13 through June 30: A reservation is required from 5:00am to Entrance Reservations in 2025. Learn how to visit Yosemite in a way that is fun, memorable, and safe. Free shuttles run throughout Yosemite Valley daily (until 10 p. You won’t regret it! By Author Elizabeth Ciobanu. Over 14. I've made it my vow to visit it every year, and it sparked my mission of visiting all of the national parks in America. Decide which entrance to Yosemite is best based on the goals of your trip. Parking is available at Yosemite Welcome to Yosemite National Park: An Explorer's Paradise Background: Yosemite National Park, located in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, is a. Valid for 7 days. National Park Entrance Fees . See all. All scheduled programs are listed in our calendar. This entrance to Yosemite is only open during the summer, and offers easy access to outdoor activities like Tioga and Ellery Lakes and the stunning Tuolumne Meadows. Follow Yosemite Freeway 41 north to your destination. Pick up a map and brochure as you enter your national park. You can drive to Yosemite all year and enter via Highways 41, 140, and 120 from the west. We recognize the importance of providing clarity on that system as Entrance Reservations in 2025. With your very limited time, basically 7 hours total in the park, you will have to drastically reduce your A reservation is required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on some days from April 13 through October 27, 2024, for those driving into the park between 5 am and 4 pm as follows:. Remember, the park is accessible 24 hours a day (excluding Hetch Hetchy), allowing for flexible planning. There are other areas too, but those are the highlights most visitors want to see. ; Take CA-120 E toward Manteca and follow signs to Yosemite. Skip to content. Money from the entrance fees goes toward park-specific projects, Welcome to Yosemite National Park! Prepare to let your curiosity guide you to new places. Yosemite. Where can I find the South Entrance to Yosemite National Park? Yosemite's South Entrance is found on the southern edge of Yosemite National Park. Distance to Landmarks: The Entrance is usually used by those coming from Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Lakes. Lodging and Camping. Pack your patience: millions of people visit Yosemite from April through October. Entrances to Yosemite are typically open from around 9 am to 5 pm, although this can vary depending on the season and can change due to weather conditions. We will announce details on plans for managing visitor access in summer 2025 soon. Surrounded by beautiful trees and granite mountains, Tenaya Lodge is the perfect environment for outdoor enthusiasts with great hiking trails, waterfalls, rivers, and creeks to explore in and around Yosemite. 2024 Free Entrance Days in the National Parks. Images homepage; Photos; stone built rangers station cabin covered in snow at the eastern entrance to Yosemite National Park on highway 120 the Tioga Pass. Yosemite, established in 1864, is a superstar of the National Park System for good reason. It does not matter if you have a Lodge reservation, Yosemite National Park, California. Yosemite’s Big Oak Flat Entrance Views like this are available to anyone taking Highway 120 into Yosemite from the Big Oak Flat Entrance. From Highway 99 in Fresno, take Highway 41 north into Yosemite National Park. Search This Site All NPS Open Menu Close Menu. I have seen guidance saying we should drive to Answer 1 of 9: Hi All, I will be heading to Yosemite in early October for 2 nights and in the process of finding lodging ! I’ll be coming from a week in Lake Tahoe (Olympic valley) . The landmark project, which began in July 2015, was completed to protect the . El Portal Road (continuation of Highway 140 from Merced). Location: Located on the eastern side of the park and at a higher elevation. Come experience the national parks! All National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone (other fees, including timed entry or reservation fees, may apply). On our last day, we plan to go to Yosemite and then drive to San Jose. Yosemite Valley & Wawona (4,000 ft / 1,200 m): 69°F (21°C) / 39°F (4°C) Yosemite National Park offers 1,200 square miles of breathtaking natural terrain. Contact Us. ; Merge onto I-205 E and then I-5 N. This road is seasonal and it only open in the summer and early fall. From SF, drive 4 hrs to the South Entrance / Hwy 41, maybe stopping for lunch in Oakhurst. Yosemite National Park covers nearly 1,200 square miles of mountainous terrain in the Sierra Nevada of California. After February 26: We will announce details on plans for managing visitor access in summer 2025 by the end of the year. Things to Do Near the Yosemite South Gate: Learn more about how to reserve your entrance to Yosemite. At roughly 750,000 acres, Yosemite is a massive national park, and as such, choosing where to stay and what to do can feel overwhelming. Building on lessons learned during the summer reservation systems in 2020 and 2021, the peak hours reservation system is designed to spread visitation out and reduce If you’re driving to Yosemite from Los Angeles or anywhere in Southern California, you’ll probably enter the park via the South Entrance. Millions of people visit Yosemite each year to experience its beauty and its many opportunities for enjoyment. Aquí nos gustaría mostrarte una descripción, pero el sitio web que estás mirando no lo permite. Reservations When traveling in the park, it is also important to note the opening and closing times for each entrance. Once inside the South Entrance, you can explore the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, take a dip in Wawona Swimming Pool, or enjoy some fishing in Tenaya Lake. But we’ll do Yosemite Valley is world famous for its impressive waterfalls, meadows, cliffs, and unusual rock formations; accessible by car year-round. Yosemite National Park holds a special place in our hearts. Reservations Required . This small town has a grocery Hetch Hetchy Entrance to Yosemite National Park is the only entrance that has opening and closing hours. Ideally a visit to Yosemite would include time in Yosemite Valley, time along Glacier Point Road, and if it is open, time along Tioga Road and time at the Mariposa Grove at the southern end of the park. In order to make your initial time visiting this breathtaking sliver of the Sierra Nevada a little easier, I’ve compiled a first-timer’s guide that draws on what I’ve learned during my years of backpacking, car camping, and snow Entrance Reservations in 2025. 00 per vehicle If you arrive in your private car, the entrance fee is $20 per car, is valid for seven days, and includes all occupants of the car. If you arrive after 8 am on weekends—especially Saturdays and holiday weekends—be prepared for multiple delays followed by inability to find a place to Yosemite National Park protects nearly 1,200 square miles (311,000 Ha) of the Sierra Nevada in California. 718 mi/1155 km. The Tioga Pass Entrance is particularly known for its winter closure due to heavy snowfall, limiting Plan your trip to Yosemite National Park. ; 2. Easy Public Transportation: Round-trip bus service on YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) is offered 3x daily from Mono County. Yosemite National Park protects nearly 1,200 square miles (311,000 Ha) of the Sierra Nevada in California. America the Beautiful—National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands 4. The drive along the scenic Merced River Canyon, Top questions about Yosemite National Park. This tiny town is home to about 160 people who live there year-round. The park’s west entrance, located about 5 miles south of downtown Joshua Tree, will be closed to all inbound and outbound traffic from 6 a. 2024 Reservation Requirements. The best Yosemite cabins to rent inside the national park with options for all budgets and group sizes. Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free dates: Monday, January 15 — Martin Luther King Yosemite Not just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the strength of granite, the power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and the tranquility of the High Sierra. The park offers a wide range of public transportation, from free shuttle buses to fee-based tours. Continue with this Yosemite National Park Scenic Drive Guide. It's enough to make you reconsider just what is the happiest place on earth. Would this Información en español. It's also more expensive by about $100 per night. Many of these Gold Rush–era communities have seen a jolt of new energy, thanks in part to booming wine As I understand it, Rush Creek is about 15-20 minutes closer to the Big Oak Flat entrance. Highway 120 Leave the crowds behind at this entrance. Any ideas on what is better midline’s. The Big Oak Flat entrance to Yosemite National Park is located on CA Highway 120 roughly 24 miles (39 km) east of Groveland, CA. Before reaching the park, you’ll pass through Mariposa (about an hour from Yosemite Valley). Yosemite National Park: Beyond the Entrances. Grand Canyon National Park. Yosemite peak period tickets will be released in two different allotments: 1) Full day tickets to Yosemite National Park will be available for purchase at 8:00 AM Pacific Time on January 5, 2024 for the entire season (April 13 – October 27, 2024). Just imagine yourself relaxing at a converted Yosemite National Park Hotels Things to Do Restaurants Flights Vacation Rentals Cruises Rental Cars Forums. A visit, whether you stay in well-connected Yosemite Valley or head out into the vast wilderness, is a humbling experience. Last Updated on: May 27, 2023 by Yosemite Gold. Entrance Reservations. The Yosemite Guide contains information about trip planning, activities, and visitor services. Not just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the strength of granite, Tioga Pass Entrance (via Highway 120 from the east) is closed from approximately November through late May or June. The Tioga Pass entrance station in Yosemite National Park sits at nearly 10,000 feet of elevation, with high alpine lakes and meadows – but it’s also nearly a two-hour drive down into Yosemite Valley! Photo Credit Tioga Pass Entrance. How far is it from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park? Entrance Reservations in 2025. The park is easy to reach, just a half-day drive from Atlanta, Charlotte, and Nashville. Because I had never been through the south part of Yosemite, we decided to stay in the mountain community of Oakhurst, California. Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free dates: Monday, January 15 — Martin Luther King Entrance to Yosemite National Park Photo: Getty Images. How to get there: This entrance is located on Evergreen Road. BEST WEEK EVER Try out unlimited access with 7 days of All park entrances (except Hetch Hetchy) are open 24 hours per day. Yosemite Entrances There are 4 Yosemite entrances - From the East - you can enter the park via Highway 120 through Lee Vining. While Yosemite is huge, it is only the 16th largest national park in the United States and is small compared to Wrangell-St. Inbox. Getting to Yosemite National Park Driving to Yosemite. We recognize the importance of providing clarity on that system as soon as 4. the disadvantages/problems with each of these choices. In 2023, there were days where visitors waited in line for over 3 hours in order to enter Yosemite. With black bears on the move due to the changing spring weather, guests are being asked to leave food Aquí nos gustaría mostrarte una descripción, pero el sitio web que estás mirando no lo permite. Directions to Yosemite. A lack of staffing at Yosemite National Park, and the decision to open campgrounds, has raised the prospect of existing staff being unable to maintain restrooms as visitors head to the park for some R&R. Before we get started on the best things to do in Yosemite, it’s important to know that for a major portion of the year you will have to make a reservation in order to enter Yosemite National Park. January 1 through February 7: No reservation required to drive into Yosemite. The National Parks: America's Best Idea is story of an idea as American as the Declaration of Independence and just as radical. Groveland provides access to the Big Oak Flat Entrance Fees: $30 per vehicle. The East entrance is called the Tioga Pass Entrance. February 8 through 23: A reservation is required 24 hours per day on Saturdays, Sundays, and on Washington's Birthday (Monday, February 17). Proceed north to your destination. Explore Yosemite National Park with this guide to the park's entrances, neighboring communities, and surrounding airports. Yosemite instituted a new day-use pass system in June to ensure social distancing within the park, so you’ll need to plan ahead to A reservation will be required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on some days from April 13 through October 27 between 5:00am and 3:00pm* as follows: . Weekday Visits: If possible, visit mid-week. The bulk of Yosemite National Park lies above the valley, a vast expanse of high-country meadows, Yosemite Entrances There are 4 Yosemite entrances - From the East - you can enter the park via Highway 120 through Lee Vining. m. 3. ; What makes this Yosemite entrance stand out: A functioning steam train and a resort to stay at. Simply pay your entrance fee at the gate when you enter Yosemite National Park. Being a Floridian, I didn't even consider the possibility of snow/ice in June and that Tioga Road may be closed Yosemite National Park continues to keep busy with announcements heading toward its busiest season. 1850 Restaurant is a favorite, with a brewery on-site, or Charles Street Dinner House offers elevated fare. The park entrance fee can be paid upon arrival. Could someone outline the advantages/benefits vs. Permit required for overnight hiking; Half Dome Permits Yosemite and Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks requires visitors have an entrance pass, which is $35 for those who enter the park by vehicle, according to the National Park Service. Alerts In Effect Dismiss more information on current conditions Dismiss View all alerts. Permit required for overnight hiking; Half Dome Permits Welcome to Yosemite National Park! Prepare to let your curiosity guide you to new places. Scenic Route (via CA-140): Follow I-580 E to I-205 E and I-5 N. Every section of Yosemite National Park is unique, with ample opportunities to explore. Crews work precariously on Saturday, March 22, 2025, to remove loose boulders from above a major rockslide that closed both lanes of Highway 140, one of the primary routes into Yosemite National Park. Tenaya Lodge is a 4-diamond resort located just outside the south entrance to Yosemite National Park. I believe it's 12 miles to the Tioga Pass park entrance from Highway 395, which is the road down the eastern side of the Sierra from Lake Tahoe. National Park California Info; Alerts; Maps; Calendar; Fees; Loading alerts. A park pass costs $35/vehicle at the Yosemite National Park entrance stations and is valid for seven days. Rush Creek Lodge tends to have that effortlessly cool, laid-back feel that makes people want to stay just a little longer. Yosemite Valley Special: Sure, the Valley is on the classic park service map, but there is a lot going on in Yosemite Valley – there Yosemite National Park is famous for it’s majestic waterfalls, it’s giant hanging valleys and amazing hikes. But 140 is an easier drive and longer to reach the entrance station - but a shorter drive after you enter to your hotel. Bay Area travelers may also prefer it, especially in winter, since Highway 140 stays at lower elevations and avoids the steep, icy climbs of other entrances. The slide came crashing down across both lanes of Highway Hello, We are planning to drive from Big Sur to Yosemite in September, and I am seeing conflicting information on where to enter the park. Learn some tips for a fun visit to Yosemite. The park is managed by the National Park Service and covers 759,620 acres (1,187 sq mi; 3,074 km 2) [3] in four counties – centered in Tuolumne Less than 40 minutes from Yosemite’s Arch Rock Entrance, it’s simple to visit the park for the day and come back to enjoy Mariposa’s shops and restaurants in the evening. Enter the South Entrance from highway 41 All park entrances (except Hetch Hetchy) are open 24 hours per day. Wawona Road (continuation of Highway 41 from Fresno). First protected in 1864, Yosemite National Park Yosemite National Park is open 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Yosemite is open. ) If you like to fill your days to the brim, then drive an hour to Glacier Point & Sentinel Dome with your picnic dinner. to 4 p. Wawona has cabins where visitors can set up a base camp for their park vacation. National Park officials are continuing their pursuit to allow a better experience for visitors in the park, which includes facing the number 1 complaint – crowds, particularly at popular destinations like Half Dome, Tunnel View and Yosemite Falls. Download a simple park map (highlighting campgrounds) Yosemite National Park includes nearly 1,200 square miles of mountainous scenery, including high cliffs, deep valleys, tall waterfalls, Tioga Pass Entrance (via Highway 120 from the east) is closed from approximately November through late May or June. April 13 through June 30: A reservation is required from 5 am to 4 pm on Saturdays, Sundays, and on holidays (May 27 and June 19). Yosemite National Park Tourism That is adjacent to the toll plaza kiosks that most would consider the "entrance" to the park with plenty of parking. Basic Information Entrance fees, weather forecasts, hours of every park at your The Yosemite National Park spans more than 1,000 square miles of some of the most picturesque mountainous scenery in the United States. Yosemite National Park anticipates sharing details about this year's reservation system in the near future. Getting to Yosemite can add a lot to your trip—if you take time to explore the historic towns on your way to the park. We have some additional information about special programs, such as the Parsons Memorial LATEST March 31, 1:35 p. Home to enormous ancient Yosemite Entrance Reservations. Arrive at Yosemite before mid-morning, especially on weekends, to avoid delays at entrance stations and popular areas like Yosemite Valley and Glacier Point. Yosemite National Park Ticketed Entry. Check the park website for updates on Download the official map to find your way around Yosemite National Park including park roads, trails, lakes, visitor centers, and the entrances. Big Oak Flat Road (continuation of Highway 120 from Manteca). 19 square miles. But you should be aware of the 16 different ways to pay the Yosemite National Park entrance fee so you can plan Personally I think entering the Park through the Arch Rock entrance is the best. Entrance Reservations in 2024. Yosemite National Park anticipates sharing details about this year's reservation system early in 2025. ; Top Stops Answer 1 of 16: I read that the park entrances are open 24 hrs (just drive in if no one at kiosk and pay on the way out). From east Modesto, the road follows the Tuolumne River through rolling hills and picturesque cliffs to historic La Grange—a charming, Entrance Reservations in 2025. All park entrances (except Hetch Hetchy) are open 24 hours per day. In Yosemite, these giants are located outside of the valley in Mariposa Grove near the South Entrance. Images. Only 30 minutes away from the Yosemite south entrance, Oakhurst seemed a perfect base for visiting the park and nearby sites in Madera County. Entrance Fee for Yosemite Driving Routes: 1. What is the main entrance into Yosemite? The Big Oak Flat Entrance on Hwy 120 is considered the main entrance into the park. Not sure how they otherwise compare. America the Beautiful—National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Annual Passes do cover park entrance fees (but not reservation requirements or fees if they are in place). Get the basics you need to know for your Yosemite visit. Entrance Fees (valid for seven days with receipt) All of the roads in Yosemite National Park are scenic, but the most famous scenic drive is along the Tioga Road, a 46-mile (62 km) drive from Crane Flat to Tioga Pass. A reservation is not required on other days. 5. gov. RentByOwner™ 1 Bedroom Rental 【 Adventure Awaits! 14 Miles To Yosemite Park South Entrance 】 Oakhurst, California, US is the #1 House in Oakhurst, 15 miles from Yosemite National Park and 6 miles from Bass Lake and Lewis Creek Trail. “Yosemite National Park anticipates sharing details about this year’s National Park Service Search. As others have noted, 120 gets you into the park faster but with more driving to your hotel. Yosemite is open all year, though some areas of the park are inaccessible by car from approximately November through May due to snow. It is the epitome of experiencing real American outdoor culture first hand. Explore This Park Explore the National Park Service Exiting nps. Yosemite has 6 regions and 5 entrances, so you need to think carefully about what you want to see and which entrances A Yosemite annual pass is available for $70. Despite What do you need to know about Yosemite reservations in 2024? Let’s dive in: In December 2023 the National Park Service announced that Yosemite National Park will implement two different reservation systems in As America’s first swath of public land set aside for protection, Yosemite National Park is often credited as the site that birthed the entire national park idea. Peak hours reservations are required for summer 2022! Learn more about how to reserve your entrance to Yosemite. Traffic in Yosemite Valley can back up for miles once parking lots fill. Getting Here. Park Entrance: Only one entrance is only open Entrance Reservations in 2025. This is ideal for those staying outside the part on the western During the summer months, there are four entrances to Yosemite National Park. This entrance is conveniently located off Highway 41, making it easily accessible from Fresno or Oakhurst. This entrance is only 1 mile from Rush Creek Lodge & Spa, the newest resort in the area. Visit Mariposa Grove (hike, walk, stroll. Experience Yosemite. Entrance Reservations in 2025. ; Why You Should Choose Fish Camp Entrance? There are the 5 entrances to Yosemite, and while one may be more convenient depending on your route, you will not be disappointed with any of them. Entrances to Yosemite National Park and Their Highlights. "This past week, the acting superintendent of Yosemite National Park made the executive decision that we will be honoring all existing campground reservations. Where is Yosemite National Park, and What Entrance Should I Take? Nestled within the Sierra Nevada, Yosemite National Park is located in central California, approximately 5-7 hours from Los Angeles and 4 hours from San Francisco. The farthest north of all entrances on the west side of the park, the Hetch Hetchy Entrance leads you to one of the park’s quieter areas which only sees 1% of total park visitation. Tangent Imagez/Shutterstock. RMM53BBX – Along Highway 64, the Desert View/ East Entrance Sign welcomes visitors to Grand Canyon National Park. From the south, out of Fresno, take CA-41 north through Oakhurst to the Yosemite National Park (/ j oʊ ˈ s ɛ m ɪ t i / yoh-SEM-ih-tee [5]) is a national park of the United States in California. Either 120 or 140 is fine. I am planning to visit Yosemite for 3 nights during end of June/beg July time frame. A reservation is required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park on some days from April 13 through October 27, 2024, for those driving into the park between 5 am and 4 pm as follows:. We are debateing whether to stay at the Yosemite Cedar Lodge by the Western Entrance or the Narrow Guage Inn by the southern entrance. S. Yosemite Valley. Just as the spring tourist season is getting started, a major rockslide has closed one of the primary routes into Yosemite National Park. Overview of Yosemite National Park. A unique natural feature welcomes visitors to the park, via the Arch Rock entrance. Amtrak to Yosemite: Stress-Free Travel to the National Park; Exploring Gold Country Wine Tasting: Top Wineries & Experiences; Exploring the Grass Valley Mines: Sierra Sky Ranch is located on the outskirts of Oakhurst, California on Highway 41 leading to the southern entrance of Yosemite National Park. Each entrance to Yosemite National Park presents its own set of challenges, from seasonal closures to potential traffic congestion. Yosemite National Park Entrance Fees. 636 mi/1024 km. From Highway 120 (Big Oak Flat Road), you can turn onto Evergreen Road, which leads directly to the Hetch Hetchy entrance. For a word that is oft-overused, epic is in play here. Highly variable, with sunny and relatively warm days, but still an occassional winter storm. Most Direct Route (via I-580 E and CA-120 E): Take I-580 E from San Francisco. CA Highway 120 is the most direct route into Yosemite National Park from the San Francisco Bay Area, Entrance Reservations in 2025. Please note that to drive into Yosemite National Park between May 20 and September 30, 2022 during peak hours (6:00 am–4:00 pm) you must have a reservation, which costs $2. Start the day at Tunnel View to watch the sunrise. How big is Yosemite National Park? Yosemite National Park has a total area of 1,189 square miles (3,074 km 2) or 747,956 square acres. Yosemite National Park. South Entrance. Early birds avoid traffic! From spring Yosemite National Park sits one of the most popular national parks in the country with more than 3 million visitors just in 2021. If you’ve never been to Yosemite, words may not even be enough to prepare you for what is coming. Finally drive an hour down to Yosemite Valley for the night to your reserved lodging. Because of this, Yosemite National Park recently announced that will require reservations for select dates April through Thousands of protesters descended on U. ). Yosemite National Park Admission Fees. Sign in Yosemite National Park has five entrances. Yosemite National Park is high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of Central California. You will learn more about ways to get to the sights, entrance requirements, and places to stay. If you are planning to visit Yosemite Valley by car for the day, arrive before 9 am, after which parking is usually full. on Thursday Yosemite National Park in California, for example, Entrance fees collected by the National Park Service totaled $199 million in fiscal year 2016. Hodgdon Meadow/Big Oak Flat Entrance: 45 minutes; Welcome to Yosemite National Park! Prepare to let your curiosity guide you to new places. Yosemite National Park is enormous, so before you decide how to get there, Yosemite Westgate Lodge features a restaurant, an outdoor seasonal pool and spacious rooms with a 32-inch flat-screen satellite TV. EV charging is available in Yosemite National Park at no cost, courtesy of Yosemite Hospitality. (I'm currently at 18 of 63!) Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of California, Yosemite offers visitors an enticing blend of natural wonders and outdoor activities. We don’t think Yosemite is the hardest US national park we’ve planned (that title goes to Yellowstone), but it’s certainly not the easiest either. How to get around Yosemite, including information about public transportation and tire chain use (if you're visiting October through April) Safety, public health, and park Compared to the sprawling and interconnected park system of the US National Parks, Yosemite is relatively simple. The closest entry to Yosemite NP is from the east side, on Highway 120 over Tioga Pass. The park is most famous for is towering waterfalls and famous rock formations in Yosemite Valley, ancient giant sequoias , and subalpine meadows . If you are planning to visit Yosemite Valley by car from spring through fall, arrive before 8 am, after which parking is usually full. Navigating the sprawling expanse of Yosemite National Park begins with a key decision: choosing the right entrance. Yosemite’s South Entrance is located 3 miles from the small town of Fish Camp (six-minute drive) and 16 miles Entrance Reservations in 2025. Check road conditions and Hetch Hetchy hours Reservations are required for entrance to Yosemite National Park 24 hours a day on these weekend dates, including Monday, February 19th, for Washington’s Birthday. It is open year round during daylight See more Yosemite National Park anticipates sharing details about this year's reservation system in the near future. Situated at 4,800 ft along the northwest boundary of Yosemite National Park, Don’t be surprised if you can’t receive calls or texts in the park. 2) After noon tickets and some additional full Advance park entry reservations were previously required for anyone not staying in lodging located within the park's boundaries, but as of March 1, that's no longer the case. We recognize the importance of providing clarity on that system as soon as Explore the National Park Service Exiting nps. Weather. Since the park is open 24/7, we’re going to make the most of it. Despite a drafted news release circulating last week about the apparent approval of a 2025 reservation system for Yosemite National Park, no such release has been issued Download this stock image: entrance to yosemite national park brian mcguire - H2PA5B from Alamy's library of millions of high resolution stock photos, illustrations and vectors. Being a Floridian, I didn't even consider the possibility of snow/ice in June and that Tioga Road may be closed Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass. Wilderness Permits. The Tioga Pass Entrance to Yosemite National Park is the best entrance for access to Tioga Lake, Glacier Canyon, and the Ellery Lake Lookout. Each of the five main entrances offers As one of the first national parks, Yosemite helped pave the way for the National Park System, and over its sprawling 1,200 square miles — equivalent to the size of Rhode Island — the park 1 Day Yosemite Itinerary. South Entrance via YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK INFORMATION Basic Yosemite Park Information. There are four main highway access roads to Yosemite National Park, three of which are generally open all year. Start your adventure early by stopping at your entrance and enjoying the beautiful sites and towns it boasts. Full documentary by Ken Burns now streaming. You don't need reservations to visit the park, but you should make reservations for lodging and campgrounds well in advance. Preservation Efforts and Challenges. Just before you head into South Entrance is Fish Camp, a small town with a gas station and general store for restocking before heading into Yosemite. A reservation will be required to drive into or through Yosemite National Park from 6 a. My wife and I are traveling to Yosemite the second weekend of August and we are in a confusing situation. Your fare includes the Park entrance fee. (I understand they Top questions about Yosemite National Park. Hetch Hetchy Hidden in Yosemite National Park’s peaceful northwest corner, Hetch Hetchy Valley is a treasure worth visiting in all seasons. [6] [7] It is bordered on the southeast by Sierra National Forest and on the northwest by Stanislaus National Forest. All properties include your entrance reservation! Download this stock image: Cabin in Yosemite National park - H91640 from Alamy's library of millions of high resolution stock photos, illustrations and vectors. Highway 132 provides a scenic, laid back route to Yosemite’s North Entrance. Yosemite’s plunging waterfalls and sheer granite cliffs are just as spectacular as they’ve been since the last Ice Age, roughly 20,000 years ago. Yosemite National Park Tourism: Tripadvisor has 89,008 reviews of Yosemite National Park Hotels, Attractions, motels like Yosemite View Lodge, which is close to the park entrance. However, the Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station is open only during daylight hours (approximately) and some roads are closed due to snow from around November through May or June. Each entrance has its own unique character and special points of interest along the way. You also can purchase the Yosemite Pass for $70 for unlimited visits to the park for 12 months. qfoaw zmrpes ouxj pwnimlw leztjdkux zxicxr ywva pwvvu atjia vhksg jqcod lajx xemv ajjr vkob