Mareesa E.
Google
Yosemite in summer is EXTREMELY crowded. We went on Wednesday, July 23, 2025. I took a recommendation from a friend and decided to be at the South entrance gate off the 41 by 5:45am. Gates open at 6 am. Best decision ever!!
Yosemite seemed to be all ours, with no traffic, availability to see so much in one day, and allowed time to really take in the sunrise beauty Yosemite offers.
I recommend packing your own lunch to save time as well. Reservations are required, so be sure to make them prior to your visit. It's only $2 and allows 3 consecutive days in the park. The best view, in my opinion, was at Glacier Point. Being in the park this early allowed us to see and hike Bridal Veil falls, Swinging bridge, El Capitan, the valley meadow hike at Swinging bridge below El Capitan, take a soak in the Merced River with a view of Yosemite falls, go to the visitors center, visit Yosemite Village, go into the Ahwahnee hotel and take the hike behind it, visit Glacier Point ( MUST SEE!!) and take the hike at Maripos Grove. We were done by 4:00pm.
Traffic began to get really bad around 11:30am. If you are visiting, I highly recommend being at your preferred entrance gate before 6 am. Take Electric bikes as well, there are bike trails throughout the valley and allow you to see so much more!!
I also recommend GOING THE SPEED LIMIT. 21 Bears were hit last year and signs are posted throughout the roadways at the locations where each one was hit :( If you are in a hurry, Just DON'T GO. Someone passed me over the double yellow line because I was going the posted speed limit which endangered our vehicle occupants, theirs, and wildlife. Preserve this amazing place by being patient and kind!!
We will be back again for camping in Yosemite!! All the campgrounds looked wonderful!!! YOSEMITE IS STUNNING!