MERCED — Summer reservations for the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System are now open as YARTS prepares to launch its expanded seasonal service into Yosemite National Park.

Beginning Friday, May 22, YARTS will shift to its full summer schedule on the Highway 140 route from Merced and Mariposa. Seasonal summer routes from Sonora, Groveland, Oakhurst and Fresno will also begin service into the park, with buses from Mammoth Lakes scheduled to start July 1.

This year’s summer season is expected to draw heavier traffic into Yosemite Valley after the National Park Service removed the vehicle reservation requirement. YARTS officials said riding the bus offers a convenient way to avoid congestion while reducing the number of cars entering the park.

“The best thing about YARTS is connecting people from all walks of life to one of the most awe‑inspiring natural habitats on the planet, letting them experience it stress free without worrying about driving or parking,” Transit Director Serenity Anderson said. “It is truly special to see Yosemite’s majesty in a relaxed environment on YARTS.”

Advance reservations are strongly encouraged, as only a limited number of walk‑on tickets are available. One‑way and round‑trip fares vary by destination, with discounted rates offered for seniors, disabled passengers, veterans and older children. Children under 5 ride free, and each child ages 6 to 12 may ride free with a full‑fare adult. All buses include lavatories and both overhead and undercarriage storage.

Passengers traveling into Yosemite on YARTS are still responsible for paying National Park Service gate and non‑resident fees, which must be purchased separately through Recreation.gov. YARTS does not collect or verify payment of park entry fees.

YARTS is a California Joint Powers Authority representing Merced, Mariposa, Tuolumne, Madera and Mono counties and the City of Fresno, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service. The Merced County Association of Governments provides administrative and operational support.

Schedules, fares and reservations are available at yarts.com or by calling (877) 989‑2787.