Yosemite National Park Suspends Reservation System for 2023

Many national parks across the US introduced reservation policies to address increasing visitor numbers during the pandemic. However, Yosemite National Park has decided to temporarily suspend its reservation requirements for summer day use in 2023. This change is expected to make visits easier for tourists, especially those planning once-in-a-lifetime vacations.

Jonathan Farrington, CEO and Executive Director of the Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau, remarked, “This decision will help our visitors, particularly those traveling from other states and countries who tend to plan their trips up to a year in advance. For our friends closer to the region, this enables more spontaneity in visiting the park.”

Reasons Behind the Introduction of the Reservation System

In 2022, visitors entering Yosemite between 6 AM and 4 PM from late May through September were required to make a reservation in addition to paying the park entrance fee. This system was initially introduced to manage the surge of visitors during the pandemic.

While this reservation system aimed to enhance visitor experience and safety, it posed challenges. The need to secure spots months in advance led many potential visitors to abandon their plans altogether due to missed lottery opportunities.

Concerns Over Overcrowding Without Reservations

With the majority of construction projects wrapping up and social distancing measures lifted in parks, the timing seems suitable for suspending the pass. However, there are concerns regarding potential overcrowding. Local businesses, particularly in the tourism sector, hope that visitor numbers will return to pre-pandemic levels without the barrier of the pass. Yet, many worry that removing this control could reintroduce issues such as traffic congestion and crowded trails.

Despite the concerns, Yosemite officials have noted that overcrowding was an ongoing issue long before the pandemic. They are actively seeking more permanent solutions to visitor management as they evaluate options for the future.

Steps Visitors Can Take to Minimize Overcrowding

During the suspension of the reservation system, visitors can contribute to reducing overcrowding by:

• Arriving early to avoid long lines at park entrances
• Visiting during off-peak hours, ideally outside of 10 AM to 2 PM
• Utilizing public transportation or commercial tours, like the Yosemite Valley Shuttle, instead of personal vehicles
• Choosing off-season visits and enjoying full days within the park rather than attempting short, rushed visits

Yosemite Mariposa County is celebrated as a year-round destination, offering unique experiences across all seasons. As Farrington states, “If you’ve enjoyed your summer visit, you will appreciate the stunning beauty and cooler temperatures of fall, the tranquility of winter, and the vibrant wildflowers of spring.”