Yosemite National Park is requiring entrance reservations for weekends in February as the annual spectacle of Horsetail Fall glowing orange when backlit by sunsets draws crowds to the park.
This unique lighting effect happens only on evenings with a clear sky when the waterfall is flowing and when the sun is at the right angle in mid–to-late February. This event attracts many visitors to a small area, causing traffic congestion, parking issues, safety concerns, and impacts to natural and cultural resources. In order to manage this event, a reservation will be required to enter Yosemite National Park on the weekends of February 10–11, February 17–19, and February 24–25, 2024, even for those not visiting Horsetail Fall. Visitors who arrive Mondays through Fridays (except Monday, February 19) won't need a reservation. The $35/car entrance fee is valid for entry for seven days, regardless of day of arrival.
Day-use Reservations
Beginning at 8 a.m. PT on Friday, December 1, 50 percent of day-use reservations are available for all three weekends at https://www.recreation.gov/timed-entry/10086745.
Beginning at 8 a.m. PT two days prior to a day-use reservation date, the remaining 50 percent of day-use reservations will be available. For example, on February 23 at 8 a.m., day-use reservations for February 25 will be available.
Each user can make one reservation per seven days. An occupant of the arriving vehicle must be the reservation holder (with photo ID). The reservation is then valid for seven consecutive days (including arrival date).
Reservations are taken almost immediately. Be sure to have an account on recreation.gov and be logged in and ready to get a reservation promptly at 8 a.m. Pacific time.
The non-refundable reservation fee is $2. You will pay the park's entrance fee (or show an annual or lifetime pass) when you arrive.
Cancelled reservations become available immediately on Recreation.gov.
Each user can make one reservation per day. Only one reservation is needed per vehicle (regardless of the number of people in the vehicle). An occupant of the arriving vehicle must be the reservation holder (with photo ID).
Day-use permits are valid for seven consecutive days for unlimited entries.
In-Park Camping, Lodging, or Vacation Rentals
If you have a reservation for one of the following, you do not need an additional reservation. You still pay the $35/car entrance fee upon arrival (credit card only) unless you have an annual or lifetime pass. The overnight vehicle permit you receive will be valid for seven consecutive days for unlimited entries. Your overnight vehicle permit is valid for seven days starting on the date of your campground or lodging reservation.
- Day-use reservation (valid for 7 consecutive days for unlimited re-entries)
- Campground reservation at Upper Pines, Wawona, Hodgdon Meadow, or Camp 4
- Lodging reservation at The Ahwahnee, Yosemite Valley Lodge or Curry Village
- Private lodging or vacation rental reservation in Wawona, Yosemite West, or Foresta
- Commercial use authorization
Regional Transit or Tour Groups
If you have a reservation for Yosemite Area Regional Transporation System (YARTS) or with an authorized tour group, you do not need an additional reservation or permit.
