Yosemite National Park
Sierra Sun Times file photo
July 2, 2021 - We're expecting a busy Independence Day weekend! A reservation is required to drive into Yosemite National Park. Please do not drive up to Yosemite if you don't have a reservation; reservations are not available at park entrance stations. While no more reservations are available for this weekend, you can check for cancellations at https://www.recreation.gov/timed.../10086745/ticket/10086746 and find other options at https://go.nps.gov/reserve.
If you have a reservation, arrive before mid-morning or later in the afternoon to avoid long delays at entrance stations (sometimes more than two hours). Upon arrival, please be ready to show your reservation and ID, and have your credit card or pass ready if you haven't already paid the entrance fee.
If you want to travel through the park over Tioga Pass and are coming to or from the San Francisco Bay Area (or farther north), you will probably arrive at your destination more quickly if you use Highway 108 (Sonora Pass).
We hope you have a safe and enjoyable Independence Day weekend!
With Independence Day right around the corner, we wanted to remind you of a few things to think about if you’re visiting this Fourth of July weekend:
Make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day! It's going to be hot, so drinking enough water and eating some salty snacks is key to having an enjoyable and safe experience in the park.
Keep your skin protected by applying enough sunscreen. Sunscreen helps prevent sunburns and shields you from the sun’s powerful rays.
Shallow water does not mean safe! In past years, we've had people drown even with low water. Staying out of moving water and choosing swimming areas carefully is essential.
Proper food storage can help save a bear’s life! When you're hiking or picnicking, be sure to keep all food, drinks, toiletries, trash, and other scented items within arm's reach all the time. You can leave food in your car during the day (but not after dark) as long as the windows are closed and food it out of sight. (At night, keep food in a food locker or hotel room.)
If you see a bear on a trail, stay at least 50 yards away. If you see a bear near a developed area (such as a campground or a parking lot), act immediately to scare it away by yelling as loudly and aggressively as possible.
Weather in Yosemite is subject to change at any moment. Make sure that you stay aware of the weather in the park (https://go.nps.gov/wxmap) to ensure your own safety. Seek shelter if you hear thunder or see lightning.
Fireworks are prohibited in national parks!
Remember, you are responsible for your own safety in Yosemite National Park. Following these tips for yourself and others is fundamental to having a great holiday weekend!
A reservation is required to drive into Yosemite National Park (https://go.nps.gov/reserve). Arrive before mid-morning or later in the afternoon to avoid long delays at entrance stations.
Source: YNP
