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Yosemite Tests Parking Reservation System To Address Congestion

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YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK (KCBS) – A pilot parking reservation system for Yosemite Valley is being tested for two upcoming weekends. Reservations are now being accepted for a small fee.

The park can become very busy, especially on the weekends. "Late morning is when the pileup starts to happen within Yosemite Valley," park ranger Eugene Moisa told KCBS.

Moisa explains visitors are now able to reserve a parking space in Yosemite Valley for the weekend of June 25 and 26, along with the 4th of July weekend. The transaction fee costs $1.50.

The ranger said 150 spaces are available. "A new parking lot that was put in and opened last year. It's directly west of the Yosemite Lodge," Moisa explained.

Reservations can be made online or by phone. "Recreation.gov has a reservation system there on their website. Or you can call their toll-free number, 1-877-444-6777," Moisa said.

Visitors must arrive before 11 in the morning or forfeit their reservation. A ranger will have a record of reservations and will direct drivers to parking spaces.

If successful, the pilot program will be extended.

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