Entry requirements
Entering Yosemite National Park requires a pass, whether you’re visiting for the day or for an extended stay. Those wanting a longer visit — from one day to one week — must keep their passes with them whenever they’re in the park. Day visitors can purchase an admission pass at park entrance gates or in Yosemite Valley. Week-long passes are available at the Yosemite Valley, Wawona or Big Oak Flat information stations.
If you’re planning an extended stay, the national park service issues wilderness permits, which are required for all overnight visits or trips into the backcountry or beyond the designated wilderness boundaries. Additionally, you may be asked to show your permit to Park Rangers.
Types of Passes
The type of pass or permit you’ll need is determined by who’s visiting, when, how long and whether they’ll be crossing the northeast boundary of the Yosemite Wilderness, which is not within the national park. A wilderness permit is recommended for day visitors interested in backcountry hikes if the hike would take them outside the Yosemite Valley.
You can purchase different kinds of passes for day, overnight, and week-long visits. Two of the most common passes are annual passes and family passes. Annual passes are valid for a year from the date of purchase and are non-transferable to other individuals. Family passes are valid for a seven-day period from the date of purchase and single-day passes are available for individuals or educators.
Who Qualifies for Free Admission?
Some people qualify for free entry into the national park. U.S. citizens or permanent residents holding an accessible pass, senior pass, military pass, or an interagency annual pass, can enter the park free of charge.
Those under 16 years of age are allowed to enter Yosemite for free, and those with disabilities can get an Access Pass. The Access Pass provides access to over one-hundred recreation sites and national parks for free. This pass is available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities.
Fee Structure Explained
Fees are valid for a seven-day visit and vary depending on the type of pass purchased. For individuals, a single-day pass to the park costs $35; a weekly pass costs $65; and an annual pass costs $75. Family passes that include up to two adults and four children are available for $100. Other passes, such as the annual pass for senior citizens (65 and older) and the Access Pass for people with disabilities are also available.
The fees collected from the passes go toward upkeep and maintenance of the park, as well as environmental conservation, visitor center exhibits, and educational programs. In addition to these fees, an additional fee is charged for camping, backcountry access, wilderness trips, and other recreational activities.
From where to purchase
Passes are only available at the Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and Big Oak Flat Information Centers. You can also purchase passes online, and you’ll earn a discounted rate when you purchase a pass online rather than at the park gates.
There are a few different ways to buy passes online. You can purchase a pass directly from the Yosemite National Park website, from third-party websites, or from organizations that provide discounts such as the AAA or AARP. When ordering online, be sure to verify the source and the discounts offered.
Planning a Visit to Yosemite
If you want to visit Yosemite, make sure you plan ahead and obtain the right pass before your trip. The park has a variety of activities to take part in, from day-hikes to backcountry exploration. When you purchase your pass, make sure it’s valid for the intended duration of your visit and your type of activities.
The pass is your ticket to enter and explore the park. Depending on the type of activity, you may need addtional permits and/or additional fees.
Backcountry Rules and Regulations
If you’re going on a backcountry trip, you must remember that the wilderness areas are regulated and that visitors must comply with rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
You must carry the proper equipment for the conditions such as maps, navigational tools, food, clothing, and camping gear. Leave No Trace principles must also be observed when camping or recreating in the park. This includes staying on designated trails, camping at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams, and disposing of waste properly.
Knowledge is key to staying safe and having a successful visit. Before entering the wilderness areas of the park, make sure you are well informed and have all the necessary permits. Do research and get to know the National Park Services regulations and California State laws.
Weather Warnings
Yosemite is known for its changing weather conditions and high elevation. Snowpack in the Sierra Mountains can start to accumulate as early as October and remain in some areas through June. If you plan to visit in winter, be sure to check the weather forecast and be prepared for snow.
High winds and snow-laden branches can create the tendency for tree limbs to break off, so always have shelter and proper clothing available and watch out for avalanches.
During the summer, temperatures range from the 70s to the 90s. Storms can create dangerous conditions in the park and cause sudden flash floods. Be prepared for the weather and research the park’s current conditions before heading out.
Environmental Impact
Yosemite is considered a fragile natural habitat, so visitors must take special care to protect the park’s resources. Research the impact of human activity on the environment and how you can help by respecting the natural world. Avoid disturbing wildlife and stay on designated trails, keeping a safe distance from wild animals.
The rivers and streams in Yosemite are habitat for native fish species, so any activities around water must be done with caution. Regulations regarding the use of motorized vehicles in the park are also in place to protect the natural environment.
Keep in mind that Yosemite is a living, breathing environment and that it’s the visitors’ responsibility to protect and preserve it. Nature’s delicate balance must be respected, and thoughtful respect for the environment will ensure that Yosemite is preserved for our future generations.
