Yosemite Faces Overcrowding After Dropping Reservations

Yosemite dropped its timed-reservation system after a comprehensive evaluation of traffic patterns, parking availability, and visitor use in 2025.

March visitation numbers increased by approximately 45% compared to the previous year, reaching the highest level since 2016.

Visitors have reported entrance station backups of up to 90 minutes and parking lots filling up before noon.

The National Park Service encourages visitors to arrive early, visit during weekdays, and explore less crowded areas of the park.

Some visitors appreciate the new policy, finding it easier to enter without prior planning.

March 2026 visitation increased by 45% compared to March 2025.

Parking inside Yosemite Valley often fills before noon on weekends.

Wait times at entrance stations have been reported to exceed 90 minutes.

Arrive before 7 a.m. to secure parking and avoid long lines.

Visit during the shoulder season (late October or early May) or on weekdays.

Explore less crowded areas such as Tuolumne Meadows, Wawona, and Hetch Hetchy.

Check the park website for real-time conditions and updates before your visit.

Visitors who arrive later in the day.

Those seeking a peaceful and uncrowded experience.

Park staff and resources managing increased visitor volume.

Q: Why did Yosemite drop its reservation system?

Q: What are the best times to visit Yosemite to avoid crowds?

Q: What should I do if parking is full when I arrive?

Yosemite National Park is experiencing significant overcrowding after removing its timed-reservation system.

Visitors should plan their trips carefully, arriving early and considering alternative locations within the park.

Park officials are actively monitoring traffic and visitor use to address congestion issues.

The change impacts visitor experience, park resources and traffic management.