What to know when heading to Yosemite this summer

YOSEMITE, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – Despite the summer heat, Yosemite National Park continues to stay busy with visitors traveling from all over the world to see its beauty.

Park Ranger Scott Gediman says the summer months have been so busy the last couple of years that everyone visiting needs a reservation to get into the park every day of the week until Aug. 16.

“Right now we’re in our peak hours reservation system. So folks that come in before 4 p.m. need a reservation. So those are available online and people can get those. But even with reservations, we’re still seeing long lines at entrance stations and crowding and things like that,” said Gediman.

With long lines at each of the five entrances, he has this advice.

“Pack your patience and by that I mean, you know, we’re coming to Yosemite and know that people are excited to get here and park and, you know, hit the trail or go fishing or whatever you’re going to do but just please be patient,” Gediman said.

Whether climbing Half Dome, hiking to get a closer look at one of the waterfalls, or taking a quick dip in the river, Gediman says it is important for visitors to pace themselves and enjoy the view.

“The park is the size of the state of Rhode Island, it’s huge and there is absolutely no way you can see it one day people say. You’ve been here so long, I’ve been here 28 years now have I seen every bit of the park? No,” said Gediman.

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