by Alex Gugel , all rights reserved
Yosemite GuideSeptember 25, 2024 - November 26, 2024 |
The October/November 2024 Yosemite Guide with information about trip planning, activities, scheduled events, and hours of operations for different facilities and services at Yosemite National Park (NP) in California. Published by the National Park Service (NPS).
Yosemite National Park
September 25 – November 26, 2024
1
Park Map
2
Services
4
Transportation 6
Events &
Programs
8
Trails
10
¡Un programa en español!
Yosemite
Essentials
Here’s what’s inside:
Keep this guide
with you to get
the most out of
your visit to Yosemite!
il
Upper Yosemite
Fall seasonal
Lower Yosemite
Fall seasonal
Columbia
Rock
5
4
2
6
7
Yosemite
Valley
Lodge
Yosemite Valley
Welcome Center
Swinging
Bridge
11
North
Dome
oo
North
Pines
15 Upper
Pines
M
p
a
eek
Cr
Mirror Lake
dry in summer & fall
Half Dome
Turn to pages 10 & 11 for trail information.
il
u
ir T
r a il
Vernal Fall
Footbridge
Vernal
Fall
M ist Tr a
Mist Tra
il
il
uir
John M Trail
Clark
Point
Nevada
Fall
Creek
nel
nti
e
S
oram
a Trail
Illilouette
Fall
Park Road
Roads with Restricted Access
Bike & Pedestrian Path (paved)
in
o.
r P rox
cie app
GlaClosed
Trail
North
Trail (closed in winter)
Parking Area
1
Shuttle Stop
Turn to pages 6 & 7 for more information
Tr
ai
l
Taft
Point
to
Half Dome &
Little Yosemite
Valley
Use John Muir Trail detour.
Sentinel
Dome
Pan
I l li
N t
o
v. R o
t
a
o
Ma d
y
8836 ft
2693 m
Permit required when
cables are up.
East
Yosemite Valley
Mist Trail closed for repairs
Mon – Thurs, 7 am – 3:30 pm,
UNTIL OCTOBER 31.
16
Trailhead
Parking
Jo h n M
Glacier
Point
iver
dR
ce
r
e
No vehicle access past this point
(without campground reservation,
wilderness permit, or
disability placard.)
Four
Mile
Tra
Sentinel
Falls
seasonal
l
17
18
19 14
M
r ai
pT
Loo
Happy Isles
Art & Nature
Center
7214 ft
2199 m
c
er
reek
te C
lou
et
y
Valle
or
irr
M
Church Bowl
Picnic Area
The Ahwahnee
3
Valle y L
Lower
Pines
Housekeeping 12
Camp
Curry Village
Sentinel
Beach
ed
Riv er
l
Tra
i
Eagle
Peak
1
Camp 4
to
El Capitan,
Valley exits
No
rth
s
i
d
eD
r.
Dr
.
So
u
ths
ide
Ten
ay
Tra
il
La
ke
semite Falls T
Yo
ra
Yosemite Guide
o
Yosemite Essentials
A peak-hours reservation is
required to drive into Yosemite
on some dates in 2024.
A reservation is required on
Saturdays, Sundays,
and holidays,
between 5 am and 4 pm
(until October 27.)
At least 15 bears have hit by
vehicles in Yosemite this year.
To learn more, scan the QR code or
visit go.nps.gov/reserve
You are driving in wildlife habitat. Follow
posted speed limits, drive carefully, and watch
for animals crossing the road. “Red Bear, Dead
Bear” signs on park roads mark places where
bears have been hit this year.
Book a reservation at Recreation.gov.
Visitors may enter the park with: a peak-hours reservation; a Wilderness or Half Dome
permit; in-park camping, lodging, or vacation rental; regional transit or a tour group.
It is illegal to approach or feed any wild animal,
including squirrels and birds.
Wildlife can cause injuries and transmit diseases. Human food is
unhealthy for wild animals. Animals used to being fed can become
dangerous and be killed as a result.
Proper Food Storage is Required by Law
Avoid accidentally sharing your food by properly storing it or keeping it
within arm’s reach.
Visiting Yosemite in Fall
Visitor services are limited this time of year, especially outside
of Yosemite Valley. Information centers, dining, shopping, and other
services may be transitioning to reduced hours or shutting down for the
season. Check pages 4 & 5 for hours.
Expect winter conditions, even in fall. By late October and November,
you may encounter colder weather (and even snow!) Before hiking, check
the weather forecast and pack warm and waterproof layers.
Tioga Road and Glacier Point Road typically close for the season
sometime in November. Closing dates depend on conditions. Tire chain
restrictions are also possible. Call 209/372-0200 (press 1, then 1) to check
the status of park roads.
During the Day
While hiking or picnicking,
always keep your food within
arm’s reach. When away from
your vehicle, lock it and keep
all windows closed, with food,
drinks, and coolers hidden from
sight. Never leave food in a truck
bed or strapped to the outside
of a vehicle.
If you see a bear in the park, email yose_bear_mgmt@nps.gov or call the
Save-a-Bear hotline at 209/372-0322. To learn more about food storage
and bears, visit KeepBearsWild.org.
Some waterfalls may be dry. Waterfalls peak in spring, fed by snowmelt
at higher elevations, and are very low or dry by the end of summer.
Wildfires may affect air quality. Smoke from fires, both inside and
outside the park, may reduce visibility and pose a health concern,
especially for sensitive individuals.
Emergency Services
In an Emergency:
Call or Text 911
Non-emergency dispatch line
209/379-1992
Medical Clinic (Yosemite Valley)
209/372-4637
Open Mon to Fri, 9 am – 6 pm.
Urgent care walk-ins with out-ofpocket fees: 1 pm – 4:30 pm.
Yosemite Village Garage
Call 209/372-1060 for 24-hour
roadside assistance.
Lost & Found Check at the
nearest open information center
or hotel front desk, or visit
go.nps.gov/lost to report a lost
item.
Keep in Touch
Accessibility
For a complete list of
accessible services, exhibits,
and recreational opportunities,
download a Yosemite
Accessibility Guide at
go.nps.gov/AccessYosemite
Sign Language interpreting
is available upon request.
Contact Deaf Services at
209/379-5250 (v/txt). Two
weeks advance notice is
requested but not required.
Assistive Listening Devices
are available upon advance
request at information centers.
Accessible parking spaces
are available throughout
the park.
www.nps.gov/yose
@YosemiteNPS
At Night
Bears can easily break into vehicles.
Food, trash, and other scented
items may NOT be stored inside
vehicles overnight. These items
must be kept inside a food locker or
in a hotel room or hard-sided cabin
with doors and windows closed.
Food may also be stored inside a
completely hard-sided RV with all
windows and doors closed.
Park Regulations
The National Park Service
is bound by its mission to
protect Yosemite’s natural
and cultural resources for the
benefit and enjoyment of future
generations. Regulations are in
place to protect both visitors
and park resources.
Prohibited activities include:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Using drones
Feeding or approaching
wildlife
Collecting plants and
animals
Hunting animals
Picking up archeological
items, such as arrowheads
Using metal detectors
Driving vehicles into
meadows
Biking off of paved roads
Camping outside of
designated campgrounds
Possession of weapons
inside federal facilities
Possessing or using
marijuana, including
medical marijuana
Pets are not
allowed on
hiking trails.
Pets are only permitted on paved
walking and biking paths, in most
campgrounds, and in parking
areas. Pets must be leashed at all
times.
Service dogs are allowed anywhere that
visitors can go. Emotional support, therapy,
and companion animals are subject to pet
regulations.
Park Partners
To report illegal activity, call
park dispatch at 209/379-1992.
@YosemiteNPS
Enjoy your visit!
Park Map
Lake Eleanor
To
HETCH
HETCHY
O’Shaughnessy
& Lee Vining
Dam
Hetch Hetchy
Backpackers
Campground
Hetch Hetchy
Road
Tuolumne River
Hetch Hetchy
Entrance
White
Wolf
Big Oak Flat
Entrance
Big Oak Flat
Information
Station
seasonal
Yosemite
Creek
Porcupine
Flat
closed in 2024
Merced
Grove
Crane Flat
closed in 2024
seasonal
To
Mariposa
& Merced
El Portal
Upper Pines
Lower Pines
North Pines
Yosemite Valley
Welcome Center
YOSEMITE
VALLEY
Merced River
GLACIER
POINT
Tunnel View
Arch Rock
Entrance
Tuolumne Meadows
Visitor Center
Camp 4
Tamarack Flat
Big
Oa
kF
lat
Ro
ad
Tuolumne Meadows
campground closed in 2024
Tenaya Lake
Hodgdon
Meadow
CRANE Tuolumne
FLAT Grove
Closed approx.
Nov. to May/June
Tioga Road
Closed approx.
Nov. to May/June
NO overnight parking
starting Oct. 15
Evergreen Road
To
Groveland
& Manteca
Tioga Pass
Entrance
TUOLUMNE
MEADOWS
(Wilderness Permit Required)
Glacier Point Road
El Portal
Road
Bridalveil
Creek
Yosemite
West
Closed approx.
Nov. to May
NO overnight parking
starting Oct. 15
Campgrounds in Yosemite
are reservation-only from
April to October. Not all
campgrounds are open
year-round. Turn to page 5
for more information.
Wawona Road
WAWONA
Yosemite History Center
Wawona
Visitor Center
Wawona Campground
North
seasonal
MARIPOSA GROVE
OF GIANT SEQUOIAS
South
Entrance
0
Gas Station
Entrance Station
Where to Find More Information
Information Centers
Start your visit here! Get help planning your trip, ask about closures and
trail conditions, and pick up junior ranger booklets and trail maps.
Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
9 am to 5 pm daily
The welcome center is the Valley’s NEW hub for visitor information. The
former visitor center is now the Yosemite Exploration Center, offering
rotating exhibits, a theater, and the Yosemite Conservancy Bookstore.
Both are located in Yosemite Village, near shuttle stops 1, 2, 4, & 5.
Campground
Information Center
Look up Current Conditions
To check for current road closures or tire chain
restrictions, call 209/372-0200 (press 1, then 1.)
For planned or long-term closures to park roads, trails,
and facilities, scan the QR code or visit
go.nps.gov/conditions.
Sign Up for Yosemite Traffic Alerts
Get up-to-the-minute text alerts for delays and unplanned
road closures: text ynptraffic to 333111
Wawona Visitor Center at Hill’s Studio
Get the Official NPS App
9 am to 5 pm daily (open until October 14)
This free app covers over 400 parks across the US!
Search for trails and other things to do, navigate
with the park map, view the program calendar,
and find your next park. Download Yosemite
ahead of time to access park information when
you’re offline. Download from your device’s
app store: search “National Park Service”.
Big Oak Flat Information Station
8 am to 5 pm daily (open until October 15)
Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center
9 am to 5 pm daily (open until September 26)
2
5 miles
Roads on map are simplified
and do not reflect degree of
windiness.
To
Oakhurst
& Fresno
There are only two gas stations inside
the park and NO GAS in Yosemite Valley.
5km
Experience Your America Yosemite National Park
Places to Explore
Things to Do
Some activities might not be available
by late fall, depending on conditions.
Explore by Car
Stop at scenic viewpoints like Tunnel
View or El Capitan Meadow as you
travel through the Valley.
Hit the Trail
GLACIER POINT
YOSEMITE VALLEY
The first stop for many park visitors, Yosemite Valley
is known for its towering granite walls and iconic
features like El Capitan and Half Dome. The Valley’s
many waterfalls roar in spring but slow or dry up
completely by late summer.
Start your visit at the new welcome center in
Yosemite Village for trail maps and park information.
Then stop by the Yosemite Museum and the
Yosemite Exploration Center for exhibits and cultural
demonstrations. Turn to page 4 for hours. Check
page 8 for a variety of talks, tours, and classes in the
Valley. Turn to page 11 for Valley hiking information.
Glacier Point Road is closed from approx. Nov.
to May. Call 209/372-0200 (1,1) for road status.
Take in stunning views of Yosemite Valley from 3,000
feet above the Valley floor. Other scenic overlooks
and numerous trailheads are also accessible from
Glacier Point Road.
30 mi (48 km) or 1 hour from Yosemite Valley
Directions From Yosemite Valley, drive south on
Wawona Road. After 9 miles, turn left onto Glacier
Point Road.
Explore hundreds of miles of trails,
from relaxing strolls to epic treks
through vast wilderness. Stop by
an information center to pick up
free trail maps and get ranger
recommendations tailored to you and
your interests! Turn to pages 10 & 11
for basic trail information.
Join a Ranger for a
Talk or Guided Walk
Turn to page 8 for a weekly schedule
of free programs.
Sign Up for an Art or
Photography Class
Engage with Yosemite in a whole
new way, and explore your creative
side! Turn to page 8 for details.
Ride a Bicycle
Explore miles of paved, scenic bike
trails through Yosemite Valley. Turn to
page 4 for bike rentals.
CRANE FLAT
Visit two giant sequoia groves north of Yosemite
Valley that are smaller and quieter than the Mariposa
Grove. Hike one mile down to the Tuolumne Grove or
1.5 miles down to the Merced Grove. Parking at each
trailhead is extremely limited.
16 mi (26 km) or 1/2 hour from Yosemite Valley
Directions From Yosemite Valley, take Big Oak Flat
Road to Tioga Road Junction at Crane Flat. Turn right
for Tuolumne Grove parking, or continue on Big Oak
Flat Road for 3.5 miles to Merced Grove parking.
WAWONA & THE MARIPOSA GROVE
Watch for Wildlife
The Mariposa Grove is home to over 500 mature
giant sequoias and many miles of trails. Shuttle
service from the parking area to the grove operates
spring through fall (check page 7 for hours.) Stop in
Wawona for more trails, visitor services, and the
Yosemite History Center (open daily.)
Visit meadows around dawn and
dusk for the best chance of spotting
birds and other wildlife. Remember
it’s illegal to feed or approach any
wildlife in the park.
30 mi (48 km) or 1 hour from Yosemite Valley
Directions From Yosemite Valley, drive south on
Wawona Road. Watch for signs for the Mariposa
Grove just before the park’s South Entrance.
Explore Beyond
Yosemite Valley
Wander through one of the park’s
giant sequoia groves, hike along
a reservoir to a waterfall at Hetch
Hetchy, or explore the peaks and
meadows of the High Sierra.
Earn a Junior Ranger
Badge
Pick up a free Junior Ranger
Handbook at any open information
center. Complete the activities while
you explore the park, then return
your book to receive a badge!
HETCH HETCHY
Walk across the O’Shaughnessy Dam, hike along the
reservoir, or access Yosemite’s wilderness.
40 mi (64 km) or 1½ hours from Yosemite Valley
Directions From Yosemite Valley, take Big Oak Flat
Road (Hwy 120 W.) Just outside the Big Oak Flat
Entrance, turn right on Evergreen Road. Hetch Hetchy
Rd is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Vehicles
and trailers over 25 ft long and 8 ft wide are not
permitted on the narrow, winding Hetch Hetchy Rd.
TIOGA ROAD &
TUOLUMNE MEADOWS
Tioga Road is closed from approx. Nov. to May/
June. Call 209/372-0200 (1,1) for road status.
Tioga Road is a 45-mile scenic drive through
Yosemite’s high country, with access to trailheads,
scenic vistas, and popular destinations like Tenaya
Lake and Tuolumne Meadows. Services are extremely
limited in this remote area, so fill up on gas, snacks,
and water before you go.
54 mi (87 km) or 1½ hours from Yosemite Valley
Directions From Yosemite Valley, take Big Oak Flat
Road (Hwy 120 W) to Crane Flat. Turn right onto
Tioga Road (Hwy 120 E.)
Yosemite Guide September 25 – November 26, 2024
3
Services
Seasonal operating dates and hours are subject to change.
YOSEMITE VALLEY
1 indicates the nearest shuttle stop(s).
Turn to page 6 for a map of the Yosemite Valley Shuttle System.
Yosemite Valley Welcome Center 1
2
4
Yosemite Exploration Center & Theater 2
9 am – 5 pm
4
5
9 am – 5 pm
Yosemite Museum 2
4
5
10 am – 5 pm
Wilderness Center 2
4
5
8 am – 5 pm (until Oct 20)
Happy Isles Art & Nature Center 16 open Mon – Fri, 9 am – 4 pm (until Oct
18); may close early
Yosemite Conservation Heritage Center (Sierra Club) 12
Open Wed – Sun, 10 am – 4 pm (until Sep 29)
GIFTS, GEAR, & GROCERIES
YOSEMITE VILLAGE 1
2
4
ehicles only
authorized v
INFORMATION & EXHIBITS
YOSEMITE VILLAGE SERVICES
Yosemite Exploration Center
& Theater, Bookstore
Yosemite
Museum
The Ansel Adams Gallery
Wilderness Center
Post Office
5
authori
zed v
ehic
les
on
ly
to
The Ahwahnee
4
Village Store
Village Grill
to
Lower Yosemite Fall
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Bike
Rentals
Garage
to Shuttle Stop 1
CURRY VILLAGE SERVICES
Yosemite Conservancy Store (Welcome Center) 9 am – 5 pm
to Shuttle Stops 14 & 19
Yosemite Conservancy Bookstore (Exploration Center) 9 am – 5 pm
Front
Office
Campground
Reservation Office
Meadow
Grill
Gift &
Grocery
northeast corner
of parking area
Bike Rentals
Mountain
Shop &
Mountaineering
School
THE AHWAHNEE 3
Gift Shop 8 am – 9 pm (9 am – 7 pm starting Oct 27)
Sweet Shop 7 am – 10 pm
North
2
Welcome
Center
Northside Drive (one w
ay)
The Ansel Adams Gallery 9 am – 5 pm (10 am – 5 pm starting Nov 1)
Art, books, & gifts.
Village Store 8 am – 9 pm (8 am – 8 pm starting Oct 1)
Large selection of groceries & gifts.
Medical
Clinic
Degnan’s
Kitchen
5
Yosemite Museum Store 10 am – 5 pm, may close for lunch.
North
Pizza
Deck
YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE 7
Gift Shop 8 am – 8 pm. Gifts & snacks.
North
CURRY VILLAGE 14 19
Yosemite Mountain Shop 8 am – 8 pm (8:30 am – 6:30 pm starting Oct 22)
Hiking/climbing gear & apparel.
Curry Village Gift & Grocery 8 am – 8 pm
HOUSEKEEPING CAMP 12
Grocery 8 am – 8 pm (open until Oct 7)
FOOD & BEVERAGE
YOSEMITE VILLAGE 1
2
4
5
Degnan’s Kitchen
Breakfast: 7 am – 11 am; Lunch: 11:30 am – 6 pm
Peet’s Coffee, deli sandwiches, & grab-and-go items. Indoor & outdoor seating.
entrance
Amphitheater
Bar 1899,
Seven Tents
Pavilion,
Coffee
Corner
Pool &
Showers
TOURS & ACTIVITIES
Book tours & activities anytime at TravelYosemite.com.
Yosemite Valley Lodge Tour & Activity Desk 7 7:30 am – 7 pm
Yosemite Valley Lodge Pool 7 closed for the season
Village Store Tour & Activity Kiosk 1
2
4
8 am – 7 pm
Curry Village Tour & Activity Kiosk 14 19 closed for the season
Village Grill 11 am – 6 pm (open until Oct 27.) Burgers & more. Outdoor seating.
Curry Village Pool closed for renovation
THE AHWAHNEE 3
Curry Village Ice Rink opens Nov 15
Coffee Bar 6:30 am – 10:30 am
Mountaineering School (Curry Village) 14 19 8:30 am – 12 pm,
1 pm – 4:30 pm. Guided hiking & rock climbing experiences.
The Ahwahnee Bar 11:30 am – 11 pm (closes 10 pm starting Oct 28)
Beer on tap, cocktails, & light bites.
Ahwahnee Dining Room
Breakfast: 7 am – 10 am; Dinner: 5:30 pm – 9 pm.
Fine dining. Appropriate attire respectfully required for dinner. Dinner reservations
strongly recommended: 209/372-1489 or OpenTable.com.
YOSEMITE VALLEY LODGE 7
Base Camp Eatery Breakfast: 6:30 am – 10:45 am (opens 7 am starting Oct 28);
Lunch/Dinner: 11 am – 9 pm (closes 8 pm starting Oct 28.) Fast casual burgers,
chicken, & more. Indoor & outdoor seating.
BIKE RENTALS
Yosemite Valley Lodge Bike Stand 7 9 am – 6 pm
(closes at 5 pm starting Oct 2, open until Oct 27, conditions permitting)
Curry Village Bike Stand 14 19 9 am – 6 pm
(closes at 5 pm starting Oct 2, open until Oct 27, conditions permitting)
Village Store Bike Stand 1 2 4 9 am – 6 pm
(closes at 5 pm starting Oct 2, open until Oct 27, conditions permitting)
Starbucks Coffee 6:30 am – 6:30 pm (7 am – 5 pm starting Oct 28)
Mountain Room Lounge Mon to Fri: 4:30 pm – 10 pm,
Sat & Sun: 12 pm – 10 pm. Beer on tap, cocktails, & light bites.
Mountain Room Restaurant Mon – Fri: 5 pm – 10 pm;
Sat/Sun: 12 pm – 10 pm; last seating at 9:30 pm.
Upscale casual steakhouse. Reservations recommended: OpenTable.com.
RELIGIOUS SERVICES
Yosemite Community Church (The Chapel) Pastor Brent Moore
Call 209/372-4831 or visit YosemiteValleyChapel.org for information.
Sunday Services: 9:15 am
CURRY VILLAGE 14 19
Seven Tents Pavilion Breakfast: 7 am – 10 am; Dinner: 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm.
Casual dining with rotating menu of hearty meals. Indoor seating.
Peet’s Coffee Corner 6:30 am – 11 am
Bar 1899 11:30 am – 10 pm (4 pm – 9 pm starting Oct 26)
Beer on tap, cocktails, & light bites.
Pizza Deck 12 pm – 9 pm. Pizza whole or by the slice. Outdoor seating.
Taqueria @ Meadow Grill closed for the season
Jennie’s Ice Cream closed for the season
4
Experience Your America Yosemite National Park
OTHER SERVICES
Laundry (Housekeeping Camp) 12 8 am – 10 pm
Showers (Curry Village) 14 19 24 hrs
Yosemite Village Post Office 2
Sat: 10 am – 12 pm, Sun: closed
4
5
Mon – Fri : 8:30 am – 5 pm,
Yosemite Village Garage 1 2 4 8 am – 12 pm, 1 pm – 5 pm
Propane available during regular operating hours. 24-hour roadside assistance:
call 209/372-1060. No gas available in Yosemite Valley.
WAWONA & MARIPOSA GROVE
CRANE FLAT
INFORMATION & EXHIBITS
LIMITED SERVICES
Wawona Visitor Center at Hill’s Studio 9 am – 5 pm (until Oct 14)
Big Oak Flat Information Station 8 am − 5 pm (until Oct 15)
Yosemite History Center Open daily
Yosemite Conservancy Bookstore (Big Oak Flat Information Station)
Open Fri – Tues, 9 am – 5 pm (open until Nov 12)
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Crane Flat Gas & Grocery 8 am − 5 pm (store open until Oct 27.)
Year-round, 24-hour pay-at-the-pump.
Wawona Hotel Dining Room Breakfast: 7 am – 10 am
Lunch: 11 am – 3 pm (11:30 am – 2 pm starting Oct 15)
Dinner: 5 pm – 9 pm (5:30 pm – 8:30 pm starting Oct 15)
Lounge Service: 5 pm – 9:30 pm
EL PORTAL
OTHER SERVICES
LIMITED SERVICES
Wawona Store & Pioneer Gift Shop 8 am – 8 pm
El Portal Market 9 am – 7 pm
Yosemite Conservancy Bookstore (Wawona) 9 am – 5 pm (until Oct 14)
El Portal Service Station staffed 8 am – 5 pm. 24-hour pay-at-the-pump.
Yosemite Conservancy Depot (Mariposa Grove) 9 am – 5 pm
Golf Course Golf: Th–M, 8 am – 6 pm; Disc golf: Tu & W, 12 – 6 pm
(open until Oct 27)
TIOGA RD & TUOLUMNE MEADOWS
Golf Shop & Snack Stand 7 am – 6 pm (open until Oct 27)
Tennis Courts 8 am – dusk
LIMITED SERVICES
Stable closed for the season
Services are very limited in this remote area of the park. Fill up on gas, snacks, and
water ahead of time. The nearest gas is available inside the park at Crane Flat or
12 miles east of the park at Lee Vining.
Wawona Post Office Mon – Fri: 9 am – 1 pm, Sat: 9 am – 12 pm, Sun: closed
Wawona Service Station staffed 9 am – 6 pm. 24-hour pay-at-the-pump.
Propane available during staffed hours only.
Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center 9 am – 5 pm (open until Sep 26)
Parsons Memorial Lodge closed
Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center 8 am – 5 pm (until Oct 14)
GLACIER POINT
Tuolumne Meadows Post Office closed
Tuolumne Meadows Store closed
LIMITED SERVICES
Tuolumne Meadows Grill closed
Gift Shop 9:30 am – 5 pm (until Oct 13, if conditions allow).
Small selection of gifts & snacks.
Zero Landfill Initiative: Propane Canisters
Exciting news, campers: you can now buy
and exchange Little Kamper 1 lb. propane
canisters in Yosemite stores, including the
Village Store, Curry Village Gift Shop,
Mountain Shop, Wawona Store, and El
Portal Market.
How it works:
1. Purchase a canister.
2. Use up the fuel.
3. Bring the canister back to any store that
participates in the Little Kamper propane
exchange program
4. Trade in your empty canister for a full
one at a lower price.
CAMPING & LODGING
In alliance with the Zero
Landfill Initiative, Yosemite
Conservancy, the National
Park Service and Yosemite
Hospitality are working
together to reduce
improper disposal of singleuse propane canisters and
send less waste to our local
landfill. This project was
made possible in part by a
grant from the National
Park Foundation through
the generous support of
Subaru of America.
CAMPING A reservation is required for all campgrounds between
April and October. Most campgrounds do not remain open year-round.
Visit go.nps.gov/campground for a full list of Yosemite campgrounds.
First-come, first-served camping in the fall:
• Camp 4 (open year-round, reservation-only through Oct 27)
• Wawona (open year-round, reservation-only through Oct 27)
• Hodgdon Meadow (open year-round, reservation-only through Oct 27)
Upper Pines Campground remains open year-round (reservations are
required all year.) All other open campgrounds are reservation-only for the
remainder of the season. Check go.nps.gov/campground for closing dates.
When a reservation is required, check for availability at Recreation.gov, or
by calling 877/444-6777.
Sleeping inside a vehicle is only allowed at a registered campsite. Sleeping
overnight in a parking lot or on the side of the road is NOT permitted.
Rehabilitation of The Ahwahnee
After more than 95 years in service,
The Ahwahnee is continuing
a multi-phase comprehensive
rehabilitation plan to preserve
the hotel’s historic integrity, while
bringing the building to code
with modern fire and seismic
safety standards. Scaffolding and
construction noise may be present
during parts of the rehabilitation
project.
For information about backpacking and wilderness permits, turn to page 10.
LODGING Lodging inside the park is operated by Yosemite Hospitality.
Reservations may be made up to one year in advance and are strongly
recommended. Book a stay online at www.TravelYosemite.com or by calling
888/413-8869.
For general information about staying
overnight in Yosemite or nearby
communities, scan the QR code or visit
go.nps.gov/sleeping
Due to these historic projects,
Ahwahnee parking lot space has
been reduced. Parking is valet only
with a $30 nightly charge, $15
day-use ($10 with validation.) This
change will only be during this
historic project and will return to
normal upon completion.
Yosemite Guide September 25 – November 26, 2024
5
Transportation
Yosemite Valley Shuttle System
Shuttles operate from 7 am to 10 pm daily.
Camp 4,
Yosemite Valley Lodge,
Yosemite Falls Parking
El Capitan
Picnic Area
Exploration Degnan’s
Center
Kitchen
Lower
4
5
Yosemite
Fall
Cathedral
Beach
10
2 Welcome Center
1 Yosemite Village Parking
7
19
12
Housekeeping Camp
11
El Capitan
Meadow
3
6
8
9
The
Ahwahnee
18
Lower Pines Campground
14
Curry Village – eastbound
Four Mile
Trailhead
Curry Village – westbound
17 Mirror Lake
15
Upper Pines Campground
North
16
Happy Isles
Valleywide Shuttle
serves ALL stops in Yosemite Valley
d River
rce
e
M
East Valley Shuttle
serves east Valley destinations ONLY
The FREE Yosemite Valley shuttles operate from 7 am to 10 pm daily.
Valleywide Shuttle (green)
Serves ALL stops. Runs approx. every 22 – 32 min. Round-trip time of 1.5 hours.
East Valley Shuttle (purple)
Serves east Valley destinations ONLY. Runs approx. every 18 – 22 min.
Round-trip time of 50 min.
Pets are NOT allowed on shuttles.
Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere that visitors can go. A service dog is trained to perform a specific task to assist a
person with a disability. Emotional support, therapy, and companion animals are subject to all pet regulations.
Yosemite Valley Shuttle Stops
STOP SHUTTLES
1
2
3
4
DESTINATION
Yosemite Village Parking
ALL Shuttles.
Welcome Center
ALL Shuttles.
The Ahwahnee
Valleywide Shuttle ONLY.
Degnan’s Kitchen
Valleywide Shuttle ONLY.
AT THIS STOP
Parking, welcome
center, Village
Store.
Welcome center,
Village Store,
Exploration Center,
museum, post
office, shopping,
dining.
Lodging, fine
dining.
Welcome center,
Village Store,
Exploration Center,
museum, post
office, shopping,
dining.
Exploration Center,
museum, post
office, gallery,
wilderness center
STOP SHUTTLES
DESTINATION
AT THIS STOP
9
El Capitan Meadow
Valleywide Shuttle ONLY.
Scenic area.
10
Cathedral Beach
Valleywide Shuttle ONLY.
Picnic area.
11
Four Mile Trailhead
Valleywide Shuttle ONLY.
Trailhead.
12
Housekeeping Camp &
Yosemite Conservation
Heritage Center
ALL Shuttles.
14
Curry Village—eastbound
ALL Shuttles.
Lodging (seasonal),
laundry (seasonal),
exhibits & programs
(seasonal).
Parking, lodging,
dining, gift &
grocery.
15
Upper Pines Campground
ALL Shuttles.
Pines campgrounds.
16
Happy Isles
ALL Shuttles.
Trailhead, Art &
Nature Center.
17
Mirror Lake
ALL Shuttles.
Trailhead.
5
Exploration Center
Valleywide Shuttle ONLY.
6
Lower Yosemite Fall
Valleywide Shuttle ONLY.
Trailheads, picnic
area.
7
Camp 4,
Yosemite Valley Lodge,
Yosemite Falls Parking
Valleywide Shuttle ONLY.
Parking, lodging,
camping, trailheads,
casual dining.
18
Lower Pines Campground
ALL Shuttles.
Pines campgrounds.
8
El Capitan Picnic Area
Valleywide Shuttle ONLY.
Picnic area.
19
Curry Village—westbound
ALL Shuttles.
Parking, lodging,
dining, gift &
grocery.
6
Experience Your America Yosemite National Park
49
Tuolumne
Meadows
Sonora
YARTS
120
Tuolumne Meadows Hikers Bus
Yosemite Valley
to Sonora
departs 2–3x daily
summer only
$ YARTS.com
departs 1x daily
summer only
$ TravelYosemite.com
Groveland
Tioga Rd
120
to
Merced
Buck
Meadows
Mariposa
Yosemite Valley
to Mammoth Lakes
departs 2x daily
summer only
$ YARTS.com
Lee Vining
Mammoth Lakes
Big Oak Flat Rd
Yosemite
Valley
140
YARTS
YARTS
El Portal
Yosemite Valley
to Merced
Valley Shuttles
frequent daily service
year-round
395
Glacier Point
multiple departures daily
year-round
$ YARTS.com
Glacier Point Tour Bus
YARTS
Wawona Rd
Yosemite Valley
to Fresno
departs 2x daily
summer only
$ YARTS.com
departs 2x daily
summer only
$ TravelYosemite.com
Wawona
Mariposa Grove Shuttle
49
frequent daily service
spring through fall only
Fish Camp
Public
Transportation
41
North
Oakhurst
to
Fresno
in Yosemite National Park
Mariposa Grove Shuttle
Free shuttle service from the grove’s Welcome Plaza & Parking to the
Arrival Area & Trailhead. Shuttles pick up every 15 minutes.
• Shuttle Hours (until Nov 2): 8 am to 5:30 pm (last bus leaves
Mariposa Grove at 6:30 pm.)
• Shuttle Hours (starting Nov 3): 8 am to 3:30 pm, weather
permitting (last bus leaves Mariposa Grove at 4:30 pm.)
When shuttles are not operating, the Mariposa Grove can be accessed
ONLY via a 2-mile hike on the Washburn Trail.
Tuolumne Meadows Hikers Bus
The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) is a public
transit system that provides service into Yosemite. Enjoy year-round
service from Merced and seasonal service from Sonora, Mammoth
Lakes, and Fresno. Buses are air-conditioned, bike-friendly, wheelchairaccessible, and equipped for rider comfort. Save gas, save time, save
money, by taking YARTS! For bus schedules and tickets, visit
www.YARTS.com or call 877/989-2787.
Service has concluded for the season. Visit TravelYosemite.com for
more information.
Glacier Point Tour Bus
Runs until Oct 13, if conditions allow. Visit TravelYosemite.com or an
in-park tour desk for more information and to purchase tickets.
Bicycling in Yosemite
Parking
Bring your own bike, or find half-day and full-day rentals at Yosemite
Valley bike stands (available seasonally, turn to page 4 for hours.)
Enjoy several miles of scenic bike paths through Yosemite Valley. Bicycles
are also permitted on park roads (cyclists must obey traffic laws.) Bicycles
are NOT allowed on hiking trails. Helmets are required by law for
children under 18. The speed limit on bike paths is 15 mph.
E-bikes with two or three wheels, fully operable pedals, and electric motors less than 750
watts (1 horsepower) are allowed everywhere bicycles are allowed.
In Yosemite Valley, use one of three main parking areas: Curry
Village 14 19 , Yosemite Village 1 , or Yosemite Falls 7 . Parking can
completely fill by late morning on weekends and holidays. Once you find
a parking space, keep it. Walk, bike, or ride a shuttle to trailheads and
other destinations. Park only in designated parking spaces or in a paved turnout,
pulled completely off the road. Vehicles parked on vegetation or blocking traffic are
subject to citation and may be towed.
Yosemite Guide September 25 – November 26, 2024
7
Events & Programs
Visit go.nps.gov/YosemiteCalendar or the NPS app
to view even more programs on the online calendar.
Program offerings are subject to change.
Photo by Evan Russel
YOSEMITE VALLEY: PROGRAMS FOR FAMILIES
DAY & TIME
PROGRAM
HOST
FEE?
REGISTER?
10 am – 2 pm
M – F, until 10/18
Kids’ Open Studio Free self-guided kid’s art activities at the Happy Isles Art and Nature Center (shuttle stop 16.) Drop in anytime during
open studio hours!
YC
free
no; drop-in only
2 pm (15 min)
daily
Family Ranger Talk Topics vary. Meet in front of the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center (shuttle stops 1/2/4.)
NPS
free
no; drop-in only
YOSEMITE VALLEY: WALKS, TALKS, & TOURS
DAY & TIME
PROGRAM
HOST
FEE?
REGISTER?
10 am (1 hr)
select dates*
Ranger Walk Join a ranger for a naturalist walk and take a closer look at Yosemite. Meet in front of the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center
(shuttl