faq.subtitle Yosemite
No entrance reservations required in 2026. Pay $35 per vehicle at entry stations. International visitors (16+) pay $100 per person fee.
May and September are ideal. May has peak waterfalls and wildflowers. September offers fewer crowds and fall colors. Summer is very crowded. Winter is beautiful but high-elevation roads closed.
Nearest airport is Fresno (FAT), 2-2.5 hour drive. YARTS buses run from Fresno and Merced ($22). Most visitors rent a car for flexibility.
Yes, safe if you follow rules. Always store food in bear lockers. Never approach wildlife - stay 50m from bears. Bear spray is prohibited in Yosemite. $5000 fine for feeding bears.
Yes! Book exactly 5 months ahead at 7 AM Pacific Time. Summer spots sell out in minutes. Backcountry hiking requires wilderness permits. Plan 12-18 months ahead for summer 2026.
Useful tips for visiting Yosemite
Book lodging and camping exactly 5 months in advance at 7 AM Pacific - summer spots vanish in minutes.
Store ALL food in bear lockers - $5000 fine for feeding bears. Bear spray is prohibited in Yosemite.
Visit in May for peak waterfalls, or September to avoid crowds. High-elevation roads (Tioga, Glacier Point) closed until late May.
Use the free Valley Shuttle inside the park. Parking is extremely difficult in summer - arrive before 9 AM or take YARTS bus.
Swimming in rivers is dangerous. Swift currents and cold water claim lives every year. Stay out of the Merced River above waterfalls.
Bring layers - temperatures range from freezing to 90°F (32°C) depending on season and elevation.
Bring sunscreen, hat and sunglasses - UV rays are intense at high elevation, even on cloudy days.
Keep your entrance pass for 7 days - valid for multiple entries. $35 per vehicle, $80 for annual America the Beautiful pass.
Average temperature by month
location.transport.subtitle
| location.transport.title | location.transport.price | location.transport.app | location.transport.note |
|---|---|---|---|
location.transport.bus | 22 $ | YARTS | YARTS buses connect Fresno and Merced to Yosemite Valley. Year-round on Hwy 140, seasonal on other routes. Summer reservations recommended. |
location.transport.bike | 15 $ | — | Bike rentals available in Yosemite Valley. 12 miles of paved paths. Perfect for exploring the flat valley floor. |
Cost of food, accommodation and services
Prices are approximate and may vary by season and area.
Hotels and rental prices
Prices are approximate. Book in advance during high season.
location.payment.subtitle
Cards accepted at most park facilities. Bring some cash for vending machines and small purchases.
No currency exchange in park. Exchange in Fresno or use ATMs. USD only accepted.
15-20% at restaurants. Tips appreciated for tour guides and shuttle drivers.
Attractions and points of interest