Will Yosemite National Park require reservations this summer to curb crowds? What to know
Briefly

Yosemite National Park has been grappling with significant overcrowding for decades, witnessing a visitor surge from 2 million in 1980 to 4-5 million annually. This has led to long waits at gates, traffic congestion, and littered hiking trails. Various management plans have been attempted, including a reservation system launched in 2020 for health safety during the pandemic. As of early 2025, the park will announce details about its next reservation system, essential for managing peak season tourism effectively, especially given the serious issues witnessed in previous years.
Yosemite National Park has faced significant overcrowding issues over the decades, with visitor numbers growing from 2 million in 1980 to around 5 million annually.
The park has implemented various management plans, including a reservation system that began in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic to address crowd control.
Yosemite plans to announce its reservation system details early in 2025, emphasizing the need for clarity recognized as vital for effective travel planning.
Park officials have described the chaotic conditions during peak season, highlighting issues such as overflowing toilets and long lines, resulting from the absence of a reservation system.
Read at Sacramento Bee
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