Can You Enter Yosemite for Free?

Yosemite National Park offers various ways to enter the park for free or at a reduced cost, providing opportunities for visitors to experience the park's natural beauty regardless of their budget. The park waives its entrance fee on select days, including national holidays and special events. Additionally, certain groups like fourth-graders, military members, and seniors can enter for free or at a reduced rate through special programs. By volunteering or using alternative entry options like hiking or shuttle services, visitors can further minimize costs. Discover more opportunities to visit Yosemite without breaking the bank.

Free Entrance on Certain Days

On select days throughout the year, Yosemite National Park waives its entrance fee, offering visitors a chance to experience the park's majestic beauty without the added expense. These fee-free days provide an excellent opportunity for individuals and families to discover the park's stunning landscapes, hike scenic trails, and connect with nature. Mark your calendars for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, the first day of National Park Week, National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day, as these are the designated fee-free days. Take advantage of this cost-effective way to venture into one of America's most iconic national parks, and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

Fourth Graders Get in Free

Through the Every Kid Outdoors program, fourth-grade students can snag a free annual pass, granting them and their families access to Yosemite National Park and other federal lands without the burden of an entrance fee. This initiative aims to inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and environmental stewards. To participate, fourth-graders can obtain a voucher online, which can be exchanged for a free annual pass. This pass permits access to all national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges that charge an entrance fee, including Yosemite. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to discover America's natural wonders with your family, and create lifelong memories along the way!

Military Members Save Big

As a token of appreciation for their service, current U.S. military members and their dependents can enjoy free access to Yosemite National Park and other federal recreational lands year-round. This benefit is made possible through the America the Beautiful Pass Program, which offers a free annual pass to current U.S. military members and their dependents. This pass grants access to more than 2,000 recreation sites managed by the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Bureau of Reclamation. Military members can obtain their free pass by presenting their military ID at any national park or federal recreational land that charges an entrance fee.

Volunteer for a Pass

Earn a free annual pass to Yosemite National Park by volunteering 250 hours of service with participating federal agencies, such as the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This incredible opportunity allows you to contribute to the preservation and conservation of America's natural wonders while earning a valuable reward. As a volunteer, you'll have the chance to engage in various activities, from habitat restoration to wildlife conservation, and make a tangible impact on the park's ecosystem. In return, you'll receive a free annual pass, granting you access to Yosemite and other federal recreational lands that charge an entrance or standard amenity fee.

Every Kid Outdoors Program

Through the Every Kid Outdoors Program, fourth-graders and their families can discover federal lands, including Yosemite National Park, at no cost. This initiative aims to promote outdoor recreation, education, and environmental stewardship among young people. By obtaining a free pass, families can enjoy a year of unlimited access to America's most breathtaking natural wonders.

Get Your Free Pass

The Every Kid Outdoors program offers a free annual pass to all U.S. fourth-graders, allowing them to discover Yosemite and other national parks with their families. This program aims to inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and stewards of America's natural wonders. To obtain the pass, fourth-graders can visit the Every Kid Outdoors website and print a voucher, which can be exchanged for a pass at a participating federal land or recreation area. The pass grants free access to national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges, as well as other federal recreational lands, for the fourth-grader and up to three accompanying adults or an entire non-commercial vehicle.

Explore Federal Lands

With their new pass in hand, fourth-graders and their families can now discover the vast array of federal lands and recreational areas, including Yosemite National Park, where they can hike to Yosemite Valley, bike through the Sierra National Forest, or kayak on Lake McClure. The Every Kid Outdoors program offers a gateway to venture into America's natural treasures, fostering a deeper appreciation for the great outdoors. From scenic drives to camping trips, the possibilities are endless. By traversing federal lands, kids can develop a sense of wonder, curiosity, and environmental stewardship. With their free pass, they can create lifelong memories with family and friends, while cultivating a love for nature and the outdoors.

Annual Pass for Seniors

For seniors aged 62 and above, the America the Beautiful Senior Pass offers a unique opportunity to visit Yosemite National Park without incurring entrance fees. To take advantage of this benefit, it's essential to understand the eligibility requirements and the perks that come with this lifetime pass. In the following section, we'll outline the key details of the Annual Pass for Seniors, including its benefits, purchase, and renewal process.

Eligibility Requirements Explained

Senior citizens aged 62 or older can take advantage of the America the Beautiful Senior Pass, a lifetime pass that grants access to more than 2,000 recreation sites managed by the National Park Service, including Yosemite National Park.

To be eligible for this pass, you must:

• Provide proof of age and residency
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
• Apply in person at a participating federal recreation area or online through the USGS website

Lifetime Pass Benefits

As a Senior Pass holder, you'll access a wealth of benefits, including free entry to Yosemite National Park and other participating federal recreation areas, as well as discounts on camping, swimming, and other activities. This lifetime pass is an excellent investment for seniors who love discovering the great outdoors. With the Senior Pass, you'll enjoy unlimited access to over 2,000 recreation sites managed by the National Park Service, US Forest Service, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Bureau of Reclamation. Take advantage of this incredible opportunity to visit America's natural wonders without worrying about entrance fees.

Purchase and Renewal

Purchasing an America the Beautiful Annual Pass for Seniors is a cost-effective way to visit the country's natural wonders while saving money on entrance fees. This pass is specifically designed for U.S. citizens or permanent residents 62 years or older, offering a discounted rate of $20 per year.

• Visit America's most breathtaking national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges without breaking the bank.
• Enjoy unlimited access to over 2,000 recreation sites managed by the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Bureau of Land Management.
• Create lasting memories with family and friends while discovering the beauty of America's great outdoors.

Yosemite's Free Shuttle Service

Yosemite's free shuttle service, which operates from late May to early October, covers most areas of the park, making it an environmentally friendly and convenient way to get around without worrying about parking. This service allows visitors to easily access popular attractions, such as Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, and Glacier Point, without the hassle of driving and parking. The shuttle route includes stops at many trailheads, campgrounds, and scenic overlooks, providing ample opportunities to discover the park's natural beauty on foot or by bike. By using the shuttle service, visitors can reduce their carbon footprint and enjoy a more relaxed and carefree experience in Yosemite.

Hike in From a Neighboring Town

For those seeking a more immersive experience, hiking into Yosemite from a neighboring town can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to enter the park. This approach allows you to connect with nature and experience the park's scenic beauty up close. You'll have the opportunity to discover hidden gems and take in breathtaking views that many visitors often miss.

• Imagine walking through a serene forest, surrounded by towering trees and the sound of birds chirping.
• Picture yourself standing atop a mountain, with the valley floor stretching out before you like a canvas of natural wonder.
• Envision the sense of accomplishment and pride that comes with earning your entrance into Yosemite through your own two feet.