Arches & Yosemite Drop Timed Entry Reservations for 2026

Two major U.S. national parks have announced that timed entry reservation systems will not be required in 2026, signaling a shift toward more flexible, data-driven visitor management.

Arches National will not require advanced timed-entry reservations this year. Visitors may enter during regular operating hours with a valid entrance pass.

Superintendent Lena Pace encouraged visitors to plan ahead, arrive early during peak periods, and remain flexible, particularly on weekends and holidays when entrance lines and parking congestion are more likely. As an International Dark Sky Park, Arches also encourages after-hours visitation for stargazing experiences.

Reservations will still be required for Devils Garden Campground and for self-guided and ranger-led Fiery Furnace hikes. Visitors are encouraged to check real-time entrance conditions via the park webcam before arrival.

Yosemite National Park also confirmed it will not implement a vehicle reservation system in 2026. The decision follows a comprehensive review of 2025 traffic patterns, parking capacity, and visitation levels, which showed most weekdays operated within manageable limits.

Rather than requiring season-wide reservations, Yosemite will expand targeted operational strategies, including:

• Real-time traffic monitoring
• Active parking management in Yosemite Valley
• Additional staffing during peak periods
• Enhanced visitor alerts and trip-planning tools
• Promotion of weekday visitation and recreation outside Yosemite Valley, including Tuolumne Meadows, Wawona, and Hetch Hetchy

Park leadership emphasized that this approach provides flexibility to manage peak congestion while preserving open access when capacity allows.

What This Means for Operators

For inbound operators and group tour planners, the removal of timed entry reservations at both parks simplifies itinerary planning for 2026. However, peak-period congestion remains likely, particularly on weekends and holidays.

Members are encouraged to continue advising clients to:

• Arrive early when possible
• Consider weekday visitation
• Explore lesser-traveled areas within each park
• Monitor official park channels for real-time conditions

IITA will continue monitoring visitor management policies across the National Park System and share updates as additional parks announce 2026 operating plans.