Yosemite National Park's Timed Entry System Ends, Leading to Overcrowding and Long Wait Times Yosemite National Park visitors are facing severe overcrowding and long wait times after the park abandoned its timed entry system in February 2026. The decision, part of a broader shift by the National Park Service (NPS) to eliminate reservations at three major parks—including Arches and Glacier—has resulted in chaotic conditions, with hour-long lines at entrance gates and parking lots reaching capacity within hours of opening. On May 2, 2026, visitors reported delays of up to 90 minutes at key locations, including the Hetch Hetchy parking lot and the south entrance on Highway 41. The situation has raised concerns among park officials, advocates, and tourists alike, highlighting the unintended consequences of removing a system designed to manage visitor flow. The NPS announced the end of timed entries in a February 18, 2026, press release, citing plans to rely on "real-time traffic management measures" such as temporary traffic diversions and additional seasonal staff. However, the strategy has failed to curb the surge in visitors. Data from March 2026 shows a significant increase in recreation visits compared to the same month in 2025, with some entrance gates left unstaffed during business hours. Signs reading "Station closed. Pay when exiting the park" appeared at several locations, yet Yosemite Superintendent Ray McPadden expressed confidence in the approach, arguing that the reservation system was an overreaction to seasonal issues.#national_park_service #yosemite_national_park #hetch_hetchy_parking_lot #south_entrance_highway_41 #national_parks_conservation_association
