An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
Official websites use .gov A
.gov website belongs to an official government
organization in the United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A
lock (
) or https:// means you've safely connected to
the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official,
secure websites.
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. First protected in 1864, Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more. Learn how to best prepare for your visit to Yosemite.
Top Trip Planning Tips
Plan Ahead
A reservation is not required to enter Yosemite in 2026. The park entrance fee still applies when you arrive. We strongly recommend that you make a reservation for lodging, camping, and backpacking.
Pack your Patience and be Flexible
Millions of people visit Yosemite from April through October. Yosemite Valley is the main destination for most visitors but there are many places to go in the park.
Early Birds Avoid Traffic!
From spring through fall, arrive in the park before or after peak hours (before 9 am and after 5 pm) to avoid delays and traffic congestion. It's a good idea to see check current conditions to check road status including what road construction may be happening in the park during your visit.
Be sure to follow prompts for downloading offline content. Cell service in the park is limited, and you'll want to have content available on your phone so it's accessible anywhere in the park.
Keep Wildlife Wild
Do not approach or feed animals (or let them approach you). Getting close to park animals can have negative results for both you and them. Squirrels and deer injure far more people in Yosemite than bears and mountain lions. Being close to wildlife also exposes you to diseases. So, respect wildlife from a distance. Always practice proper food storage and follow speed limits.
Enjoy Rivers and Waterfalls Safely
Make smart decisions around Yosemite's waterfalls, rivers, and lakes. If you're thinking of cooling off or crossing a river or creek, choose a place with calm water. Look downstream to see where you'll go if you get swept away by hidden currents: if it's into rapids or over a waterfall, choose a safer place. Stay back from swiftly flowing water: a slip on wet (or even dry) rock is all it takes to get swept away.
Be Prepared for your Adventure
Going for a hike or climb? Great! Plan ahead and be sure you're prepared. Bring appropriate footwear and clothing for various conditions, plenty of water and food, a headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries), and a good map and compass. Be sure someone knows where you're going and when you plan to return so they can let us know where to look for you if you fail to return.
Plan Ahead Before Packing your Pet
Pets are allowed in Yosemite on leashes and in most campgrounds, but they are not allowed on most trails. Sometimes these furry family members are best left at home. Find out what you can (and can’t) do with your pet.
Find authorized guiding and transportation companies that operate in Yosemite. Authorization to operate is not a recommendation by the NPS.
The Yosemite Conservancy bookstore specializes in the very best Yosemite guides, maps, and books. Many of our titles are written by park based experts, making them some of the most comprehensive resources you will have.
When you shop at Yosemite Conservancy bookstore you are also supporting the park. Proceeds go straight back into helping preserve and protect the park, and provide a wide range of visitor services.
