Yosemite National Park’s temporary reservations system for day-use vehicle comes to an end on Friday, October 1. Good news for fall travelers hoping to explore Yosemite Mariposa County in full. That’s one less thing to worry about in your trip-planning process.

The expiration of required reservations which went into place during the pandemic comes at a great time as lodging prices drop for fall and into the winter and Yosemite National Park remains open at all entrances. Also dropping are the temperatures, which means that Yosemite will be wide open for the best time to hike the park’s hundreds of miles of trails. 

Visiting Yosemite Mariposa County this autumn and winter means you’re supporting tourist-based businesses, some of which have created Special Offers to show their gratitude and help make a trip even more affordable.

Even with the end of the reservation system, trip planning is still a key component of making a vacation a memorable one for all the right reasons. There is so much to see and do that planning an itinerary in advance is key to having a great experience. Arrive at the park’s gates early and stay late to maximize your time in this natural wonder and enjoy stunning sunsets from places like Taft Point and Glacier Point.

The Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau urges visitors to travel safely by wearing a mask, social distancing and respecting Nature’s Rules while in Yosemite Mariposa County and all outdoor destinations.

In Other Parks

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park has a 50-mile scenic drive called Going-to-the-Sun road. Driving this road is one of the most popular activities in the park and as of now it will still cost you a $2 reservation per vehicle. The rest of the park is unrestricted.

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park still has a reservation system to prevent overcrowding through October 11. 

The timed-entry permit system offers two kinds of permits. One gives you access to the entire park, including the Bear Lake Road Corridor. The other lets you enjoy all park sites and excursions except the Bear Lake Road Corridor. 

They base reservations on parking capacity. When the lots hit 85 percent, they stop letting people in.