Plan Your Visit to Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of central California, USA.
Yosemite National Park is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of central California, USA.
Yosemite National Park is managed by the National Park Service. Most visitors need a park entrance pass, and some activities require separate reservations. Prices and reservation systems change, so confirm current details on nps.gov/yose before you go.
A standard vehicle or per-person entrance pass covers park entry for a set period (often 7 days). An America the Beautiful annual pass also works at all US national parks.
Some parks require timed-entry vehicle reservations, campground bookings, or lottery permits for popular trails and lodges in peak season.
Visitor centers, shuttle buses, and ranger programs are free or low-cost once you are inside the park. Hours vary by season.
Yosemite National Park is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of central California, USA.
It's known for towering granite formations El Capitan and Half Dome, waterfalls including Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall, and Yosemite Valley's meadows, along with giant sequoia groves in Mariposa Grove.
It's one of the most-visited national parks in the US.
Secure entry tickets, timed slots, or park passes for Yosemite National Park before you lock lodging.
Pack layers, water, and sun protection. Conditions change quickly in the parks.
Most visitors base themselves near Yosemite Valley, California, and travel in by transit, tour, or car.
Hours, prices, and access rules change. Confirm details on nps.gov/yose before you go.
Iconic meadows framed by granite walls.
A towering granite face popular with climbers and photographers.
The park's signature dome; cables season requires a permit.
One of North America's tallest waterfalls.
A classic roadside waterfall near the valley entrance.
Giant sequoias in the park's south end.
A sweeping overlook of the valley and High Sierra.
Do I need a park pass?
Yes, most vehicles need an entrance pass. America the Beautiful annual passes are also accepted at US national parks.
When is the best time to visit?
Shoulder seasons often mean milder weather and shorter lines. Peak summer and holidays are the busiest.
How long should I plan?
Allow at least a few hours for highlights; popular parks and complexes easily fill a full day.
Are prices on this page guaranteed?
No. Treat any figures as approximate and confirm current rates on the official operator site before you book.
Is Yosemite National Park suitable for kids?
Many areas are family-friendly, but check stair counts, heat exposure, and any age or height limits for specific attractions.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, weather-appropriate layers, and offline maps if cell service is unreliable.
Yosemite National Park is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of central California, USA.
It's known for towering granite formations El Capitan and Half Dome, waterfalls including Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall, and Yosemite Valley's meadows, along with giant sequoia groves in Mariposa Grove. It's one of the most-visited national parks in the US.
