Permits & Reservations

Horsetail Fall: February 2025 Reservation Requirements

Horsetail Fall can glow orange when it's backlit by sunset, which can make it appear to be on fire. This unique lighting effect happens only on evenings with a clear sky when the waterfall is flowing and when the sun is at the right angle in mid– to late February. This event attracts many visitors to a small area, causing traffic congestion, parking issues, safety concerns, and impacts to natural and cultural resources.

In order to manage this event, reservations will be required for entry to Yosemite on:

• February 8–9, 2025
• February 15–17, 2025
• February 22–23, 2025 

 

 

Entrance Reservations

Reservations will be required for entry to Yosemite February 8–9, February 15–17, and February 22–23, 2025 due to the Horsetail Fall event.

We will announce details on plans for managing visitor access in summer 2025 by the end of the year.

Lodging and Camping

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.

Wilderness Permits

• Permit required for overnight hiking

Half Dome Permits

• Permit required to hike Half Dome when the cables are up

Business Permits and Commercial Use Authorizations

Learn more about commercial use authorizations for commercial passenger vehicles, tours, etc.

Special Use Permits

Special Events Permits, First Amendment Permits, and Right-of-Way Permits

• General Information and Guidelines
• Special Event Permit Application [833 kb DOCX]

Film Permits

• General Information
• Permit Application [855 kb DOCX]

Wedding Permits

• General Information
• Wedding Locations
• Permit Application [826 kb DOCX]

Permission to Scatter Cremated Remains

• General Information
• Permit Application [50 kb PDF ]

Educational Fee Waivers

• General Information
• Permit Application [53 kb PDF]
• Lesson Plan Outline [25 kb PDF]

Research and Collection Permits

• General Information and Application