Yosemite National Park

Overview

Yosemite National Park is open year-round, 24 hours a day, with no entrance reservations currently required outside the peak summer season (May 24 - September 1, 2025 requires reservations 6am-2pm only). The park is currently in winter conditions. Yosemite Valley and major access roads via Highway 140, 120 West, and 41 remain accessible, though winter driving conditions require chains or 4WD when conditions dictate. Tioga Road (Highway 120 through the park) and Glacier Point Road are closed for winter and typically remain closed until May or June, depending on snowpack. Winter campgrounds open include Upper Pines in the Valley, plus Wawona and Hodgdon Meadow. Camp 4 is also available year-round. Lodging options like The Ahwahnee, Yosemite Valley Lodge, and Curry Village remain operational with concessions running. Badger Pass Ski Area concessions are currently closed for the 2024-2025 season, though self-guided winter recreation is still possible in that area. Hetch Hetchy entrance is always accessible without reservations during daylight hours. Winter visitors should prepare for snow, ice, and variable weather conditions. No wilderness permit fees apply in winter, making it an excellent time for experienced winter campers. Waterfalls are typically at lower flow in winter compared to spring peak flows.