YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK – Planning a trip to Yosemite just got simpler. Park officials have announced a more flexible peak-hours reservation system for summer 2025, giving visitors greater freedom while still managing heavy traffic during high-demand dates.
From May 24–26 (Memorial Day Weekend), daily from June 15 to August 15, and again August 30 to September 1 (Labor Day Weekend), travelers will need a reservation to drive through or enter the park between 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
No reservation is required outside of these dates and times, including May 27 to June 14 and August 16 to 29.
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Reservations will be available at Recreation.gov starting Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. PDT, and can also be secured seven days in advance of any visit, released daily at the same time. Each non-refundable reservation costs $2 and is valid for three consecutive days.
Visitors with lodging, campsites, or vacation rentals within the park, or those holding a wilderness or Half Dome permit, or traveling via the Yosemite Area Regional Transit System (YARTS) or with a guided tour, are exempt from the reservation requirement.
The southern gateway to Yosemite is spotlighted as an ideal base for exploring the park, especially for those looking to bypass reservations and parking hassles. A wide variety of guided experiences are available, many of which include hotel pickups and customized adventures to suit every interest.
For those facing wait times at the southern entrance during peak hours, nearby attractions offer plenty to fill the time.
From scenic train rides and off-road excursions to fine dining and lakeside retreats, the Highway 41 corridor promises 41 memorable ways to spend the day. Visitors are also encouraged to explore local galleries, museums, and cultural stops that showcase the Sierra Nevada’s natural charm.
For complete details and planning resources, visit YosemiteThisYear.com.
Source: Yosemite National Park Releases Summer 2025 Reservation Details in Official Update
