Yosemite National Park Ticketed Entry
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, a reservation will be required to enter Yosemite National Park on the weekends of February 8–9, February 15–17, and February 22–23, 2025, even for those not visiting Horsetail Fall. Visitors who first arrive Mondays through Fridays (excluding the 17th) won't need a reservation. The $35/car entrance fee is valid for entry for seven days, regardless of day of arrival.
Only one day use reservation is required for the vehicle and all occupants. Visitors are allowed up to 1 private vehicle or 1 motorcycle day use reservation every seven days. Reservation holder must be in the vehicle or on the motorcycle at the time of entry and prepared to show photo ID. Annual and Lifetime Pass discounts and terms of the pass apply for entry.
Photo ID and Pass must be presented at entry station with day use reservation confirmation or will be charged the full entry fee. Please be prepared to pay with credit or debit card only.
Please have a printed or digital copy of your day use reservation available to be scanned at the park on the day of arrival and each day you enter. Reservations are valid for seven consecutive days beginning with the day of arrival reserved. Pass holders must provide Annual or Lifetime Pass (if applicable) for validation or will be required to pay the entrance fee, credit card and debit only. All reservation holders be prepared to show photo ID.
For visitors with overnight accommodations inside Yosemite National Park, including but not limited to, The Ahwahnee Hotel, Yosemite Valley Lodge, Curry Village, Wawona Campground, Hodgdon Meadows Campground, Camp-4 Campground, and Upper Pines Campground, are not required to obtain a day use reservation. Your overnight accommodations serve as your entry reservation. Entry fee still applies and will be collected at the entrance station.
Day use Reservations can not be sold, auctioned or transferred
For additional information about entry tickets, please visit Frequently Asked Questions About Yosemite National Park Peak Hour Reservations .