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Yosemite National ParkSnowy Half Dome
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Yosemite National Park
Frequently Asked Questions
 

Do I need a reservation to visit Yosemite?
No, you don't need a reservation to visit Yosemite. However, if you plan to spend the night in Yosemite, you should have a reservation for lodging, camping, or backpacking.

Are there vehicle restrictions in Yosemite?
You can drive your car into and around Yosemite (shuttle buses are not mandatory).

Some roads have vehicle length restrictions and others close seasonally.

Will I need to bring tire chains?
Tire chains may be required in fall, winter, and spring due to snowy or icy conditions.

How do I get to Yosemite?
You can find driving directions here.

Will the Tioga Road be open?
The Tioga Road (Highway 120 through the park) is open approximately late May through October, though these dates vary depending on conditions. You can see a list of opening and closing dates since 1980.

When do the Half Dome cables go up and come down?
The Half Dome cables usually are installed by the weekend before Memorial Day weekend, but this can vary depending on conditions and trail crew availability. The cables usually remain up through Columbus Day (in October). The National Park Service strongly discourages hikers from attempting the cable route when the cables are down. Learn more about the Half Dome hike.

What is there to see in Yosemite?
You can find a list of attractions in Yosemite here.

What is there to do in Yosemite?
You can find a list of activities here.

When is the best time of year to visit Yosemite?
It depends what you're looking for! While most people visit Yosemite during summer, there are advantages to visiting throughout the year. You can find more information here.

How can I protect bears from my food (and my food from bears)?
Yosemite's bears are always searching for food and consider anything that looks like or smells like food to be food. Learn how to store your food while visiting Yosemite.

Can I bring my pet to Yosemite?
Pets are allowed in Yosemite, but with some restrictions. You can find more information here.

Is Internet access available in Yosemite?
Internet kiosks and wi-fi are both available. You can find more information here.

Will my cell phone work in Yosemite?
Digital cell service is available in and near Yosemite Village to AT&T and Verizon customers (you may get a weak signal elsewhere in Yosemite Valley, as well). Verizon customers with analog-capable phones may receive service near Wawona, Crane Flat, and Tuolumne Meadows. If you have any information to add, please let us know.

How can I get a job or find volunteer work at Yosemite?
A variety of organizations hire employees and volunteers to work in Yosemite. Learn more about jobs, internships, or volunteer positions.

 
Do you have a question that's not answered here? Send us an email and we'll consider adding it to this list.
Red dogwood leaf
Yosemite Through the Seasons
Information about conditions throughout the year
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Walking dog on leash
Pets in Yosemite?
Information about bringing your pet to Yosemite
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Lodging & Camping
Spending the Night in Yosemite
Information about lodging, camping, and backpacking
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Intern speaking to visitors
Internships
Find out about internships in Yosemite!
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Natural fires were low intensity prior to suppression.  

Did You Know?
Prior to fire suppression by Euro-American settlers, approximately 16,000 acres burned each year in Yosemite National Park either by natural fires or through American Indian fire management practices.

Last Updated: June 12, 2008 at 02:09 EST