The Yosemite Exploration Center, formerly the Valley Visitor Center, is open year-round from 9 am to 5 pm.
The entrance fee at Yosemite National Park is $35 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. You can also purchase an annual pass for $70. No per-person fee is required, as the fee is per vehicle with 15 or fewer passenger seats.
By Car: Drive from San Francisco (~4 h via Highways 120/140) or Los Angeles (~6 h via Highways 99 and 41). Multiple entrances (Big Oak Flat, Arch Rock, South). Shuttle: Free in-park service spring–fall. Air: Fly into Fresno (FAT) or Mammoth (MMH), then rent a car or shuttle.
At Yosemite National Park, parking is free. Key lots include Yosemite Village (no RVs or trailers, served by shuttle stop #1) and Curry Village (RV spaces available, served by shuttle stops #14 and #19). No overnight parking in day-use lots. Motorcycles can park in regular spaces.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Yosemite National Park, nestled in California’s Sierra Nevada, is a breathtaking destination renowned for its granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and ancient sequoias. Hike the iconic Half Dome for a challenging adventure with panoramic views, or stroll to Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America. Glacier Point offers unmatched vistas of the valley, while the Mariposa Grove enchants visitors with its towering giant sequoias. For a tranquil escape, explore Mirror Lake or take a leisurely bike ride through Yosemite Valley. From epic hikes to serene landscapes, Yosemite National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
- Area (mi²)
- 1187
- Annual visitors
- 3 900 000
- Established year
- 1864
Top 3 Facts about Yosemite National Park
At certain times of the year, a unique natural event called frazil ice occurs, where flowing water turns into a slushy, icy mixture due to specific temperature conditions. This phenomenon is notable for its rare occurrence and unique texture.
Yosemite boasts some of North America’s tallest waterfalls, including Yosemite Falls at 2,425 ft and the cascades of Vernal and Nevada Falls.
It welcomes over four million visitors annually, ranking it among the busiest U.S. national parks.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research roads, trail conditions, and seasonal closures on NPS.gov; reserve lodging, campsites, and permits well in advance.
Pack Appropriately
Dress in layers for temperature swings, bring sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, first-aid kit.
Respect Wildlife
Keep distance from wildlife, never feed or approach animals, follow Leave No Trace guidelines and food-storage rules.
Stay Informed
Check the NPS website and visitor centers for real-time alerts, trail conditions, and weather forecasts.
Seasons
Late April–June, waterfalls at peak flow, wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds; higher trails may still have snow.
July–September, warm weather, all roads and trails open, ideal for hiking, climbing, and valley activities.
September–October, cooler temps, autumn foliage, fewer visitors, great photography and wildlife viewing.
December–February, snow-covered valley, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating at Curry Village Ice Rink.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Yosemite National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
The closest city to Yosemite is not directly adjacent but among the major cities, Fresno is about 78 miles away. For smaller towns, El Portal is one of the closest, located about 14 miles west of Yosemite Valley along State Route 140.
-
The Lower Yosemite Falls Trail is a great option for kids, as it is an easy, 1-mile loop with a paved and stroller-friendly path that offers stunning views of the waterfall and its mist. This trail is short, taking about 30 minutes to complete, and is suitable for families with young children.
-
You can bring your dog to certain areas, such as campgrounds, fully paved roads, sidewalks, and bicycle paths, but they are not allowed on trails, shuttle buses, or public buildings. Dogs must be on a 6-foot leash at all times and cannot be left unattended. They are not permitted in walk-in campsites, group campsites, or lodging areas.
-
You can park an RV, camper, or motorhome, but there are size limits. In Yosemite Valley, the maximum RV length is 40 feet and the maximum trailer length is 35 feet. Only certain campsites can accommodate larger vehicles.
-
Yosemite Falls is the top attraction, known as one of the world’s tallest waterfalls, with its peak flow occurring between late fall and midsummer, especially in May when melting snow creates a significant amount of water.