Yosemite National Park — The carefully constructed wooden walkways of Yosemite National Park are a vital element of the park’s vast trail network as they allow tourists to experience wetland areas without damaging the fragile habitat underfoot. From Mariposa Grove to Sentinel and Stoneman Meadows, these boardwalks are crucial to keeping foot traffic safely away from flora and fauna below.
Updated 21 September 2026 — getting into Yosemite in 2026
Yosemite is not requiring entrance reservations for day visitors in 2026. The park paused the system after reviewing 2025 traffic and parking data, and is managing peak days with real-time diversions and extra seasonal staff instead. An entrance fee or interagency pass is still required, and non-US residents now pay a $100 per-person surcharge on top. Boardwalk wildlife encounters like this one remain a matter of luck and attention.
While Yosemite’s boardwalks allow visitors to experience some of the park’s unique ecosystems without damaging them or getting soggy feet, they can also create an atmosphere where hikers can become disconnected to their surroundings as they don’t require the situational awareness to negotiate uneven terrain. Just like a sidewalk in a big city, while walking down the predictable planks of boardwalk tourists can simply stare at their phones rather than engaging with their surroundings.
The following video is a prime example of tourists completely disengaged with Yosemite’s natural wonders as they are locked in staring at their phones. This couple was completely oblivious to a bobcat prowling on a boardwalk just feet in front of them. As the bobcat poised to pounce, they were fixated on a tiny screen and missed the incredible moment.
It is wise to carry a fully charged phone while exploring our National Parks in case of emergencies but if you are planning a National Park visit, consider putting your device on airplane mode so you don’t fall victim to missing incredible moments like this. Remember folks, if there was ever a time to disengage from your electronics it is when you pass through the gates of a National Park.
