Permits & Reservations

Horsetail Fall: February 2023 Reservation Requirements

Horsetail Fall can glow orange when it's backlit by sunset, which can make it appear to be on fire. This unique lighting effect happens only on evenings with a clear sky when the waterfall is flowing and when the sun is at the right angle in mid– to late February. This event attracts many visitors to a small area, causing traffic congestion, parking issues, safety concerns, and impacts to natural and cultural resources.

In order to manage this event, reservations will be required for entry to Yosemite on:

• February 10–12, 2023
• February 17–19, 2023
• February 24–26, 2023 

Learn more by reading through our Frequently Asked Questions.

 

 

Entrance Reservations

Reservations will not be required to visit Yosemite National Park during the summer of 2023, but reservations will be required for entry to Yosemite February 10–12, February 17–19, and February 24–26, 2023. Reservations were required in the summers of 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic and in summer 2022 when numerous key visitor attractions were closed for critical infrastructure repairs.

Planning for the Future

Yosemite has been grappling with congestion—even gridlock—for decades. We want to build from the lessons learned from the last three summer of managed access.   Look for an announcement in December, when we'll start seeking your help to design an approach that provides a great visitor experience while protecting Yosemite's natural and cultural resources.

Lodging and Camping

Other than the entrance fee, you don't need a reservation or permit to visit Yosemite. However, you should get a lodging or campground reservation if you plan to spend the night.

Wilderness Permits

• Permit required for overnight hiking

Half Dome Permits

• Permit required to hike Half Dome when the cables are up

Business Permits and Commercial Use Authorizations

Learn more about commercial use authorizations for commercial passenger vehicles, tours, etc.

Special Use Permits

Special Events Permits, First Amendment Permits, and Right-of-Way Permits

• General Information and Guidelines
• Special Event Permit Application [833 kb DOCX]

Film Permits

• General Information
• Permit Application [855 kb DOCX]

Wedding Permits

• General Information
• Wedding Locations
• Permit Application [826 kb DOCX]

Permission to Scatter Cremated Remains

• General Information
• Permit Application [50 kb PDF ]

Educational Fee Waivers

• General Information
• Permit Application [53 kb PDF]
• Lesson Plan Outline [25 kb PDF]

Research and Collection Permits

• General Information and Application