If you’re looking for a great place to go this winter season, look no further than the magnificent Yosemite National Park. With many scenic locations and breathtaking views, Yosemite offers the ultimate outdoor experience.
But that benefit brings forth a different issue that needs answers: can you drink water at Yosemite? It has been one of the most common questions asked by travelers. Chances are, you might also have that question in mind. Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’re not just going to answer that one specific question. Instead, we’re going to share some of the most frequently asked questions about Yosemite’s Scenic Wonders. So with no further ado, let’s begin. (Read The 5 Best Camping Sites in California)
Is Yosemite open all year round?
Yes! The Yosemite National Park is open all year round and changes its sceneries depending on the season.
Should reservations be made in advance, or does Yosemite accept walk-ins?
Due to Yosemite’s extreme popularity and its natural scenic wonders, the park receives a high volume of reservation requests daily. The numbers increase even more during the holiday seasons. Unfortunately, the park cannot accommodate everyone.
Every year, Yosemite turns away thousands of guests due to fully booked properties. That also means the park is unable to accommodate walk-ins. So if you plan on going to Yosemite without a reservation, you’ll most likely end up looking for a different destination to stay.
Fortunately, many vacation rental websites and social media pages have listed and featured some of Yosemite’s properties. The staff does its best to update its website regularly, especially their calendar.
Do not wait until the last minute to make your reservation. Treat it like buying something on Black Friday. You need to be early, and you need to press the reserve button the moment reservations become open.
How do we check-in when we arrive?
You will go straight to the lodge, house, or condominium of your choice. When you’re there, head towards the main door that features a keypad.
Enter the last four digits of your phone number into the keypad to gain access to the property. A welcome binder will also be available on the kitchen table. Read the binder’s contents so that you’ll know what you can do in the surrounding area.
If you have further questions, you can call the official Yosemite hotline at 209-372-4945. Check-in time is anytime after 4:00 PM, while check-out time is after 10:00 AM.
Is there a fee to enter the park?
Yes, there is a $30.00 fee that you’ll have to pay upon entering Yosemite National Park. This fee is valid for seven days and collected by the park rangers stationed at the entrance gate.
The park doesn’t charge a cleaning fee, but you will need to keep the property tidy throughout your stay. Any excessive trash or damages to the property will result in additional charges.
For Yosemite hikers, you will still need to pay the fee when entering the park. Camping is available in the campgrounds.
However, you will still need to make reservations. Keep in mind that campground reservations tend to fill up faster than property reservations. Again, haste is required if you want to spend time at Yosemite’s.
Can you drink the water?
Now, we come to the main question. You might have heard rumors that Yosemite water is not drinkable.
But that’s not true. The park’s water is 100% safe to drink. It’s also safe for bathing and swimming. However, the water has high mineral content, so if you want a drink, we advise that you bring your own bottled water instead.
What does Yosemite provide?
Yosemite Scenic Wonders provides guests with many amenities. They provide dishware, silverware, cookware, pillows, blankets, towels, and linen.
For condiments, you’re going to get Folgers coffee and filters, hot chocolate, cream and sugar packets, salt & pepper, and Lipton team of your choice.
Other items that Yosemite provides include hand soap, dishwasher detergent, paper towels, and toilet paper.
For Yosemite West properties, firewood is also provided. All Yosemite properties have propane-powered barbecue stations. The park also includes propane. In short, Yosemite delivers all the necessary items that you need to have a comfortable and relaxing stay.
Does Yosemite have insurance?
Yosemite is partnering with Allianz travel insurance. For a minimal charge, you can ensure your entire trip. That means you get a full refund if anything happens that prevents you from making it to your trip.
Maybe you got into an emergency that needs to be dealt with right away. Or perhaps the elevation of Yosemite National Park doesn’t suit your preference. Whatever your reasons are, Allianz has you covered.
What should you pack?
Whatever it is, it shouldn’t differ from the way you pack for any other trip. Bring your hygiene items, along with your clothes and gadgets.
You can also bring groceries if you want to cook in your unit. If you plan on hiking, we suggest you bring your rain hiking pants, topwater shoes, and other relevant hiking gear.
Are there mosquitoes and other harmful insects?
Yes, there will be mosquitoes and other bugs when you’re in the outdoors. So make sure you have bug repellent with you if you plan on being outside for the majority of your stay.
Is RV (recreational vehicle) parking allowed?
No, the park doesn’t accept RV, nor does it allow parking on its premises. Violators will receive a fine, and their RV will be towed to the nearest town (which is around 40 miles away).
Conclusion
To recap, Yosemite is a great vacation destination that you should try. If you’ve been there before, you’d want to go back and experience it again. (Read A Beginner’s Guide to Camping)
The water is fine but is high in mineral content. So you might want to bring bottled water instead when outdoors. Make sure you make an early reservation during peak season.
Enjoy your trip.
