Visiting Yosemite
Mariposa is the original gateway to Yosemite, and for many July 4 visitors, combining the event with a day in the park makes perfect sense. Here's the logistical information that matters most. For anything we don't cover here, the National Park Service is the authoritative source.
🎟️ Entry Reservations May Be Required
In recent years, Yosemite National Park has required timed-entry reservations during peak summer weekends. Requirements for July 2026 will be announced by the National Park Service — check before you go.
Reservations (when required) are booked through recreation.gov. Your standard Yosemite entry pass is separate from this reservation. If you have an annual pass, America the Beautiful pass, or Golden Eagle, you still need the timed-entry reservation during blackout windows.
Check current reservation requirements at nps.gov →Getting to Yosemite
Highway 140
The All-Year Highway
The scenic route up the Merced River canyon, entering at the Arch Rock Entrance near El Portal. Historically the most reliable year-round route, though subject to weather and slide closures.
Check conditions — section between Yosemite Bug Mountain Resort and Cedar Lodge has experienced closures.
Highway 41
The Southern Entrance
Enters at Wawona, near the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Best for visitors coming from Fresno or Oakhurst.
Higher-elevation route; generally open year-round but can have winter chain controls.
Highway 120
The Big Oak Flat Entrance
Enters at the Big Oak Flat Entrance. Best for visitors coming from the Bay Area or Stockton.
Highest elevation of the three routes; chain controls more common in winter.
Take the Shuttle, Skip the Stress
YARTS (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System) runs buses into Yosemite Valley from Mariposa, Midpines, and other gateway communities. It's comfortable, the driver handles the road for you, and you don't have to find parking in the Valley (which in summer is a real problem).
YARTS service runs year-round along the Highway 140 corridor from Merced. Check current schedules and fares on their website.
YARTS schedules and fares →What to Know Before You Go
- ▸Park entry fee: $35 per vehicle (7-day pass) as of 2025. America the Beautiful pass accepted. Check current fees at nps.gov.
- ▸Valley gets hot and crowded in July: Temperatures in Yosemite Valley can exceed 95°F. Arrive early, bring water, wear sunscreen.
- ▸Air quality varies: Summer wildfires can affect AQI. Check airnow.gov before committing to strenuous hikes.
- ▸Yosemite Falls in July: Water flow in Yosemite Falls decreases significantly through summer. For the dramatic waterfall photos, April–June is better; by July, flow is reduced or nearly absent.
- ▸Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias: Accessed via the South Entrance (Hwy 41). Free shuttle runs from the Welcome Center April–November.
- ▸Bring cash/card for gas: Gas stations inside the park are limited and expensive. Fill up in Mariposa, Fish Camp, or El Portal before entering.
The Park Service Is the Authority
Weather, road closures, reservation requirements, and wildfire conditions can all change quickly. For anything mission-critical to your trip, check with the National Park Service directly.