Long lines, full parking lots and traffic jams: Yosemite’s no-reservation summer gets its first test

May 26, 2026

Yosemite is seeing long entrance lines, full parking lots, and heavy crowding as its first summer without a timed reservation system gets underway. Visitors arriving later in the morning are running into delays and congestion, especially around Yosemite Valley and other high-demand areas.

The article says the change reflects a shift away from season-wide reservations and toward real-time traffic management, with park staff using tactics like redirecting vehicles and adding seasonal personnel. Even so, the early results suggest the park is struggling to absorb the surge in visitors without the old system.

The practical advice is to arrive very early, expect parking to fill by mid-morning, and use shuttles or walk once you’ve parked. Officials are also warning people not to park in roadways or unmarked spots because of safety risks and possible towing or citation. RV Travel