See Yosemite Today YOSEMITE for a complete calendar of GUIDE what’s happening Your Key to Visiting the Park in the park. WINTER/SPRING 2001-2002 25¢ VOLUME XXXI, NO. 1

Seasons of Magic NPS Photo by C. W. Brown Look Cottonwood trees and Upper Yosemite Fall from Cook’s Meadow.

Inside! very year, visitors and friends ask the same Valley Map ...... Back Panel question: When is the best time to visit Park Map Yosemite? For me, that’s easy—winter or Planning Your Visit. . . . . 4 & 5 spring. Just when the crowds of summer Eand fall become a memory, just when the Merced The Changing Seasons...... 2 Camping ...... 3 River slows to a crawl, just when I think I’ve forgot- ten what rain sounds like, winter happens. Then Backpacking & Valley Day Hikes ...... 6 spring. And if you are fortunate enough to visit General Information ...... 7 Yosemite during these times of the year, it’s when magic happens as well! Continued on page 1 YOSEMITE GUIDE Your Key to Visiting the Park

WINTER/SPRING 2001-2002 VOLUME XXXI, NO.1 Seasons of Magic

Continued from front cover If I were to narrow it down even fur- MIRROR LAKE & HOT CHOCOLATE SPRING: ther, I would have to say that some of my Take a shuttle bus to The Ahwahnee LUNAR RAINBOW favorite seasons occur on the cusp—as fall and hike or ski out along the paved trails Can you really see a rain- fades to winter or winter explodes into just behind the hotel. (If it’s snowy, try bow at night? During the spring. These cusp seasons are where not to walk in ski trails.) This pleasant spring on clear nights of a full things can change literally overnight. On path will take you over a historic bridge moon, stop by the bridge at a November afternoon, you might see a or two crossing Tenaya Creek, then head the base of Lower Yosemite pencil of water trickle down the face of up to Mirror Lake. It’s a pleasant 3-4 mile Fall and take in a lunar rain- , then wake the next morn- round trip that’s great on a clear day. bow! ing after a rain to see it gushing! Picture Mirror Lake is perhaps one of the quietest yourself at that same spot in March: You corners of the Valley during this time of WATERFALL WATCHING might wake in the morning to see Upper year. Enjoy an in-your-face view of Half Yosemite is world-famous Yosemite Fall frosted over in walls of ice Dome from this spot, as well! Don’t forget for its spectacular waterfalls— that come crashing down as the day to stop in at The Ahwahnee before or Yosemite Falls, , warms up. after your journey for some hot chocolate. Vernal and Nevada Falls. But Here are some of my favorite outdoor a visit to Yosemite in spring THUNDER & SNOW CONE isn’t complete without taking things to do and see during what I laugh- Have you noticed a snow cone at the ingly refer to as the “off season.” in the other great Valley falls. base of Upper Yosemite Fall this winter? Have you seen Horsetail Fall This distinctive feature forms from the (an ephemeral, spring fall WINTER: frozen spray as it blows down the water- along the east buttress of El WILDLIFE WATCHING fall. The pile also rises higher as frozen Capitan)? Royal Arches You may think that all of Yosemite’s spray accumulates into ice sheets on the Cascades (directly behind creatures are safely tucked away in walls of the adjacent cliffs. When the ice The Ahwahnee)? The Giant hibernation during the winter. On the sheets shed, they pile up at the top of the Staircase cascades down contrary, this is a great time to find a snow cone. This mound of ice and snow Glacier Point just above Curry quiet place to stop and observe wildlife. can sometimes reach heights of about 300 Village. Sentinel Fall (the Early mornings and evenings provide the feet, about as tall as a 25-story building! world’s tenth largest waterfall) best viewing. Coyotes can often be seen FRAZIL ICE & STREAMS OF SLUSH careens down Valley walls just trotting through white meadows, some- Waterfalls in the park occasionally to the west of times stopping to pounce on prey still produce a late winter and early spring and can be seen easily from active under the blankets of snow. Deer phenomenon called frazil ice at the base Leidig Meadow, west of sometimes browse in the snow looking of the fall. Small ice crystals develop in Yosemite Lodge. for leftover shoots or acorns. turbulent super-cooled stream water when GIANT SEQUOIA GROVES NPS Photo the air temperature suddenly Spring is a great time to take “Every clear, frosty morning loud sounds are heard drops below freezing. These in the big trees. There may booming and reverberating from side to side of the ice crystals become pressed still be some snow on the Valley…The strange thunder is made by the fall of together as more crystals ground as late as April, but sections of ice formed of spray that is frozen on the form, transforming creeks with some sturdy hiking face of the cliff along the sides of the Upper Yosemite Fall. This frozen spray gives rise to one of the most into streams of slush. Frazil shoes, you can head off into ice sometimes reaches a interesting winter features of the Valley—a cone of ice some of the quietest places on at the foot of the fall…”—John Muir depth of more that 20 feet earth. See pages 4 or 5 or refer along Yosemite Creek at to Yosemite Today for grove the Lower Yosemite Fall. locations and details. In 1997, it was above TO LEARN the railings of the Lower Kristina Rylands contributed to this article. Yosemite Fall Bridge, almost She serves as editor-in-chief for Yosemite MORE... completely burying it. National Park and has lived in the area See Yosemite Today for winter for 9 years. and spring activities through- out the park. Check out the Yosemite Field Seminar catalog which offers SUPERINTENDENT’S MESSAGE outdoor classes throughout the winter and spring. Call Welcome to the story of America’s response to terror- and granite domes. Yosemite’s story truly the Yosemite Association at Yosemite. The ism in its management of the site of the unfolds when we look up and beyond 209/379-2321 or visit their tragic events of Oklahoma City Bombing. And in the the Valley walls. Whether you take to the web site at www.yosemite.org. September 11 have future, we will tell the story of September slopes of Badger Pass, enjoy a walk to caused us all to 11 and America’s response. Mirror Lake, or simply appreciate that look at what it National Park Service sites—such as the this amazing place has been set aside for means to be an Statue of Liberty, the light of America’s future generations, I encourage you to American. Our promise; Fort McHenry, inspiration for make your own Yosemite connections.

NPS Photo national parks tell our National Anthem; and Yosemite, Enjoy your visit. National parks like YOSEMITE the story of America’s struggles and suc- scenic wonder of America’s greatness— Yosemite not only help us appreciate the GUIDE cesses. The USS Arizona Memorial at symbolize the very freedoms attacked on stories of our nation’s heritage, but help Published by the National Park Service, Pearl Harbor tells the story of how Ameri- September 11. From parks we can learn preserve what we value most for the ben- in cooperation with the Yosemite ca united and responded when attacked about important moments in our history. efit of future generations—the natural Association and Yosemite during World War II. Manzanar National We can learn how we’ve treated each and cultural wonders of this great land. Concession Services Corp. Historic Site, a lonely internment camp other in the past. We can learn about NPS Editor and Coordinator in Nevada, tells the story of where Ameri- what we value as Americans. Kristina Rylands can citizens of Japanese ancestry were While you are here, I hope you will see Production by Skip Gaynard Designs sent as a reaction to this attack. The for more than David A. Mihalic Printed by Casey Printing, Inc. Email comments on this issue to National Park Service is beginning to tell just spectacular scenery and waterfalls Superintendent Yose_Guide@ nps.gov

1 CHANGINGCHANGING SEASONSSEASONS

Special Protection for Special Places

Visitors to Yosemite are the park’s

most important guardians. With Photo by Denise Guidi nearly 4 million people watching Half Dome winter scene in Ahwahnee Meadow. over its special plants, animals, WINTER/SPRING TRIP PLANNING historic, and archeological sites, imagine how well-protected these When planning a trip to Yosemite, keep The road to the Mariposa Grove is also are available at retail outlets for purchase, park resources could be! in mind the changing seasons. The timing closed in winter. but not for rent. of your visit will determine the amount of WILL I NEED TIRE CHAINS? TEMPERATURE During your visit to Yosemite be clothing to bring, the availability of differ- ent campgrounds and parking lots, and the It is recommended that you carry tire Weather in Yosemite can change rapidly aware that there are people who need for tire chains. Call road and weather chains in your vehicle (including rental during all seasons of the year. Since areas in either intentionally or unknow- information (209/372-0200) before you and 4-wheel-drive vehicles) between the park range from 2,000 to 13,000 feet in ingly harm park resources. Please leave home. Here are some general guide- November and April, as a sudden storm elevation, the lower foothills can be experi- contact a park official if you see lines: could make them mandatory at any time. encing spring while the higher elevations Under state regulations, any vehicle enter- remain in the grip of winter. any of the following illegal acts: ROADS ing a signed chain control area must carry feeding wildlife The Tioga Road (Highway 120 East) and chains, even if their use is not mandatory SNOW PLAY SAFETY collecting plants Glacier Point Road beyond Badger Pass Ski at the time. Chains should be obtained in Each year sleds, toboggans, innertubes, hunting animals Area are closed each year from late fall advance; several towns on highways lead- saucers, and other sliding devices cause collecting reptiles and butterflies through spring. These roads generally close ing into Yosemite rent them. Vehicles over more injuries, on the average, than any for the season with the first major snow- 6,000 lbs. are required to use link-type other winter activity. Please slide safely. picking up archeological items storm after November 1 and re-open by late chains; on sets of dual tires, only one tire Sledding is not allowed in the Badger such as arrowheads May or early June, conditions permitting. needs chains. Once in the park, tire chains Pass area. using metal detectors to locate and collect historic objects driving vehicles into sensitive meadows BEARS IN WINTER AND SPRING camping outside of designated Did you know that black bears do not In campgrounds and tent-cabin areas away). If this is unsuccessful, throw small campgrounds truly hibernate in winter? Rather, they you must store your “food” in food stor- stones or sticks toward the bear from a safe possession of weapons descend into a deep sleep, frequently awak- age lockers, day and night. distance (the intent is to scare the bear, not ening and occasionally wandering around. In hotel rooms and hard-sided cabins, to injure it). Use caution if you see cubs, as If you see activities that could Because of this, it’s not only important— you may store “food” inside rooms (be a mother may act aggressively to defend harm people or park resources, but also required by federal regulation— sure to keep the windows closed if you them. Never try to retrieve anything once a jot down any descriptions or a that you keep your food stored properly, leave). bear has it. When done immediately, these vehicle license plate number and even during winter. In picnic areas and on the trail, be sure actions have been successful in scaring to stay with your “food” at all times. bears away. contact the park dispatch office If you are backpacking, it is strongly rec- Report all bear incidents and sightings to at 209/379-1992. KEEP BEARS WILD AND YOUR PROPERTY SAFE ommended that you use a bear canister a park ranger. (You can also call the Save-a- Pets Bears are attracted to many things we (they are required in some areas). Inquire Bear hotline to report bear sightings and Some visitors choose to bring might not think of as food. So, consider about food storage requirements when incidents, as well as trash and food storage “food” to be any item with a scent, regard- you get your wilderness permit. problems: 209/372-0322.) pets along on their vacations. In less of packaging. This includes canned Yosemite, pets have a few rules to foods, sealed bottles, drinks, soaps, cosmet- WHAT TO DO IF YOU SEE A BEAR NOTE: These regulations and precau- follow: ics, toiletries, perfumes, trash, ice chests Never approach a bear, regardless of its tions help decrease your chance of Pets are only allowed in devel- (even when empty), and unwashed items size. If you encounter a bear in a developed personal injury or property damage. oped areas, on roads, and paved used for preparing or eating meals. Each area of the park or on a hiking trail, act However, bear damage and confronta- campsite in the park has food storage trails. They are not allowed on immediately: yell, clap hands, and bang tions are still possible, even when you lockers measuring approximately 33”x pots together. If there is more than one follow all the guidelines. Failure to other trails or in wilderness areas. 45”x 18.” person, stand together to present a more comply with these regulations may Pets must be on a leash or Never leave your “food” in your vehicle intimidating figure, but do not surround result in a citation and/or impound- otherwise physically restrained. after dark. the bear (allow the bear a way to run ment of property. For the courtesy of other visi- tors, human companions are responsible for cleaning up and DRIVE SAFELY depositing pet feces in trash KEEP YOSEMITE’S receptacles. This protects pets California law requires that all vehicle occupants wear seat belts, WATER CLEAN and children under four years of age (or under 40 lbs.) be restrained in and wildlife from disease. an approved child safety seat. To protect yourself from disease, treat any In winter and early spring, road conditions can change surface water before drinking. Treatment suddenly. Wet asphalt may be slippery or icy, especially in methods include boiling for 5 minutes, use FOR MORE shady spots or on bridges. Keep speed down and allow of a Giardia rated water filter, or iodine INFORMATION ABOUT... extra distance from the vehicle in front of you. based purifier. Water from melted roadside snow often freezes on road To prevent the spread of Giardia and other Food storage guidelines, see this page. surfaces, creating treacherous “black ice.” This can occur even when the weather appears dry and fair. water-borne disease organisms, use rest- Camping and campfires, see page 3. Anticipate snowplows as they may be working just room facilities where available. In natural areas where facilities are not available, day hikes, see page 6. around the next curve. Wait for a signal from the plow driver before passing. wash dishes, bathe, camp, and bury human Wilderness regulations, see page 6. Don’t drink and drive. It’s a fatal combination. waste (6” deep) at least 100 feet away from any water source or trail. Bicycling rules, see page 5.

2 CAMPINGCAMPING

are not wheelchair accessible. Sites are rented on CAMPING RESERVATIONS a per-person basis, and six people will be placed REGULATIONS Reservations may be made from in each campsite, regardless of the number of 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pacific time. Reservations are required year round for Proper food storage is required 24 hours a day. people in your party. Camp 4 often fills before TOLL-FREE RESERVATIONS: Yosemite Valley’s auto campgrounds and sum- 9:00 a.m. each day May through September. Maximum of six people (including children) 800/436-7275 mer through fall for Hodgdon Meadow, Crane and two vehicles per campsite. Flat, Wawona, and half of Tuolumne Meadows. ONLINE RESERVATIONS: All other campgrounds (except group and stock CAMPING IN AREAS Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. reservations.nps.gov campgrounds) are first-come, first-served. SURROUNDING YOSEMITE Generators may be used sparingly between You may reserve only one campsite at a time. Camping reservations will be available in 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. INTERNATIONAL CALLERS: blocks of one month at a time, up to five The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) operates a 301/722-1257 months in advance, on the 15th of each month variety of campgrounds on a seasonal basis CAMPFIRES TDD (TOLL-FREE): through the National Park Reservation System near Yosemite. For additional information, ■ (NPRS). In order to improve air quality in Yosemite 888/530-9796 contact the local USFS district offices: Valley, campfires are only permitted May 1 MAIL-IN RESERVATIONS: Highway 120 West, Groveland Ranger Station through October 15 between 5:00 p.m. and Thus, for: NPRS (Stanislaus NF) 209/962-7825; Highway 140, 10:00 p.m. CAMPING FIRST DAY TO Mariposa Ranger Station (Sierra NF) 209/966- P.O. Box 1600 ARRIVAL DATE MAKE RESERVATION 3638; Highway 120 East, Mono Lake Ranger ■ Firewood collection is prohibited in Cumberland, MD 21502 All dates thru 4/14/02 11/15/01 Station (Inyo NF) 760/647-3044; Highway 41, Yosemite Valley. This includes “dead and Up to two campsites may be reserved Oakhurst Ranger Station (Sierra NF) 559/683- down” wood. at a time by mail or phone with Mastercard, 4/15/02 thru 5/14/02 12/15/01 4636. For private campgrounds outside ■ Please start campfires with newspaper. Do Visa, Discover, personal check, or money 5/15/02 thru 6/14/02 1/15/02 Yosemite, call the respective chamber of com- not burn pine needles or cones, as they order. For more information, call the park merce or visitor bureau listed on page 4. create unnecessary smoke. campgrounds office at 209/372-8502 or visit 6/15/02 thru 7/14/02 2/15/02 online (www.nps.gov/yose/trip/camping). 7/15/02 thru 8/14/02 3/15/02 GROUP CAMPGROUNDS 8/15/02 thru 9/14/02 4/15/02 There are group campsites at Tuolumne Mead- From May through September, campsites ows, Hodgdon Meadow, Wawona, and Bridalveil are in heavy demand and prospective campers Creek Campgrounds. Reservations can be made are encouraged to call NPRS as early as possi- through NPRS; 13 to 30 people are allowed in ble in the period. each group campsite. Tent camping only. Pets, Reservations can be made by phone, mail, and generators are not permitted in group sites. or online. All requests are processed at the same time, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. beginning on the 15th of each month. Written requests will SERVICES be accepted 2 weeks prior to the 15th. Include desired location, type of equipment you will All sites include picnic tables, firepits or grills, be camping in (i.e., tent, RV, etc.), as well as tent space, parking, and a food storage locker method of payment. (45"w x 18"h x 33"d). See Bears in Winter and Spring on page 2 for food storage regulations. Toilet facilities are available in campgrounds; YOSEMITE VALLEY however, Tamarack Flat, Yosemite Creek, and Porcupine Flat contain vault toilets only. There is a 30-day camping limit within Yosemite National Park in any calendar year; Shower and laundry facilities are available however, May 1- September 15, the camping year-round in Yosemite Valley; showers are limit in Yosemite Valley and Wawona is 7 also available at Tuolumne Meadows. See days inclusive, and 14 days outside the Valley. Yosemite Today for locations and hours of Campers may request a specific campsite num- service. ber if it is available at the time the reservation RVs over 24 feet are not recommended for is made. All campsite assignments are final— Tamarack Flat, Yosemite Creek, and Porcu- you may not switch or change campsites after pine Flat campgrounds, and RVs are not you arrive in the park. Maximum length for permitted in walk-in and group campsites. recreational vehicles in Valley campgrounds There are no hookups in Yosemite camp- is 40 feet. grounds, but there are sanitary dump stations Camp 4 (formerly Sunnyside) Campground is in Yosemite Valley (all year), and summer a walk-in campground and is open all year on a only in Wawona and Tuolumne Meadows. Photo by Mike Floyd first-come, first-served basis; these campsites Yes. People do camp in winter!

C AMPGROUNDS IN Y OSEMITE N ATIONAL PARK

MILES NUMBER FROM OF STREAM YOSEMITE SITES/ DAILY TAP WATER PETS GROCERIES STOCK CAMPGROUND ELEVATION VALLEY SPACES FEE * WATER (BOIL) ALLOWED NEARBY CAMP NOTES** NORTH PINES 4,000'/1,200m 0 81 $18/s ●●●Open April-September Reservations required

UPPER PINES 4,000'/1,200m 0 238 $18/s ●●●Open All Year Reservations required

LOWER PINES 4,000'/1,200m 0 60 $18/s ●●●Open March-October Reservations required CAMP 4 WALK-IN 4,000'/1,200m 0 35 $5/p ●●Open All Year/Walk-In (Sunnyside) First-come, first-served. Limited parking IN YOSEMITE VALLEY

WAWONA 4,000'/1,200m 27 93 $18/s ● ●●●Open All Year Wawona Road (Highway 41) Reservations required May-Sept. ($18); near Wawona First-come, first-served Oct.-April ($12)

BRIDALVEIL CREEK 7,200'/2,194m 25 110 $12/s ●● ●Open July-early September Glacier Point Road First-come, first-served

HODGDON MEADOW 4,872'/1,484m 25 105 $18/s ●● Open All Year Big Oak Flat Road Reservations required May-Sept. ($18); (Hwy. 120 West near the First-come, first-served Oct.-April ($12) Big Oak Flat Entrance)

CRANE FLAT 6,191'/1,886m 17 166 $18/s ●●●Open June-September Big Oak Flat Road, near Reservations required the Tioga Road turnoff

TAMARACK FLAT 6,315'/1,924m 23 52 $8/s ● Open June-September Tioga Road Three-mile access road not suitable for (Highway 120 East) large RVs or trailers. First-come, first-served

WHITE WOLF 8,000'/2,437m 31 74 $12/s ●● Open July-early September Tioga Road First-come, first-served (Highway 120 East) Not suitable for RVs over 27'

●●

OUTSIDE YOSEMITE VALLEY YOSEMITE CREEK 7,659'/2,333m 35 75 $8/s Open July-early September Tioga Road Five-mile access road not suitable for RVs (Highway 120 East) over 24' or trailers. First-come, first-served

PORCUPINE FLAT 8,100'/2,468m 38 52 $8/s ● Open July-September Tioga Road RV access front section only (Highway 120 East) First-come, first-served

TUOLUMNE 8,600'/2,620m 55 304 $18/s ● ●●●Open July-September 1 MEADOWS ⁄2 advanced reservations, 1 Tioga Road ⁄2 same-day reservations (Highway 120 East)

*/s = per site **Dates approximate /p = per person 3 PLANNINGPLANNINGPLANNING AREAS TO VISIT IN YO

N TRANSPORTATION Gasolin Stanislaus in Yosem National To and From Yosemite OSEMITE ALLEY Forest Y V To THE YOSEMITE AREA REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION Yosemite Valley is world famous for its Manteca 120 SYSTEM (YARTS) offers park visitors an alterna- impressive waterfalls, cliffs, and unusual rock What is the tive to driving their car into Yosemite by pro- formations. It is open year round and may viding transit service throughout the region. be reached via Highway 41 from Fresno, 140 This new voluntary bus service provides sched- Highway 140 from Merced, Highway 120 Tun View uled round-trip transportation to Yosemite West from Manteca, and in late spring To To best way through late fall via the Tioga Road (Highway Merced 41 Fresno from the outlying communities. Expanded 120 East) from Lee Vining. Many activities summer service is offered mid-May to mid- and services are available in Yosemite Valley. to visit September. Daily service from Mammoth Lakes Detailed information is available at the Valley runs in July and August. For schedule and more Visitor Center in Yosemite Village. See the information visit the YARTS web site at shuttle bus map and scheduled Valley activi- Yosem Yosemite? www.yosemite.com/yarts or call toll free ties in Yosemite Today. 877/98-YARTS (877/989-2787). Lake Nation Eleanor 6 VIA, THE YOSEMITE–AMTRAK CONNECTION/GRAY O’Shaughnessy Park MARIPOSA GROVE Dam Your experience in Yosemite depends LINE, offers service from Merced Amtrak e Hetch Riv r on the time you have available and Station and Transpo Center to Yosemite AND WAWONA ne d Hetchy lum oa uo R Backpackers' T Valley Visitor Center and Yosemite Lodge. The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias y h Campground your interests. Many fine maps and c 1 t is located 36 miles (1 ⁄4 hours) south of Hetch e (Wilderness Deluxe coaches provide several round-trips tch H Hetchy He Permit Required) books are sold in visitor centers and daily between Merced and Yosemite. Yosemite Valley via the Wawona Road Entrance (Highway 41), 2 miles from the park’s South park stores to help plan your visit. Wheelchair-lift equipped with advance Camp White

Entrance Station. The road to the Mariposa To Mather Wolf notice. Schedules available at Yosemite E

Grove is closed in winter. Activities include 120 v Publications such as Yosemite’s Official e r Lodge tour desk, Yosemite Valley Visitor g re hiking, ranger-led walks, and tram tours of Big e n d Park Handbook, published by the Center, or by calling VIA or visiting their web R oa the Grove (weather permitting) late spring Oak o R a a d g Flat io National Park Service, or The Yosemite site. Tickets can be purchased from drivers. through fall. Trail brochures printed in Entrance T 209/384-1315 or in CA 800/369-PARK, or English, French, Japanese, and Spanish are Yosemite Road Guide are available at visitor available at the Grove trailhead. To reduce Hodgdon umn visit www.via-adventures.com. 120 ol e R Creek Meadow u ive S T r traffic congestion and avoid parking To o ork centers, gift shops, or by mail from u th F delays, ride the free shuttle bus (spring Manteca through fall) from Wawona to the Grove. the Yosemite Association Bookstore, Within Yosemite Tuolumne Free shuttle bus service is provided through- The Pioneer Yosemite History Center in Grove Valle P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318, Wawona is a collection of historic buildings 4 Tamarack Yosemite Visit out the eastern portion of Yosemite Valley Flat Falls Cent Crane Big associated with people and events that O Yosemite Merced Flat a

209/379-2648, fax 209/379-2486, year-round. In summer, free shuttle buses k F l shaped the national park idea in Yosemite. Grove a Valley t Trailhead R 1 run from Wawona to the Mariposa Grove, o Hw or www.yosemite.org. Interpretive signs and a brochure provide a a To y 120 El Capitan d Glacie Tioga Road Point and from Tioga Pass to Tenaya Lake. Hikers’ self-guiding tour of the Center year-round. closed late fall to Remember that road and trail late spring east Tunnel buses run daily to Glacier Point late spring See Yosemite Today for activities and additional of this point Arch Bridalveil Sen Rock View Fall Dom conditions and available services through autumn and between Tuolumne information about Wawona and the El Entrance Mariposa Grove. Portal may change with the weather. For Meadows and Yosemite Valley late June 3 er Rd To iv Glaci int R er Po through Labor Day. Call 209/372-1240 for Merced M d er ce current conditions and general hikers’ bus fee, schedule, and reservations, or 140 Chinquapin Badger Bridalveil information, call 209/372-0200. stop by any tour desk. Yosemite Pass Creek

GLACIER POINT West Ski W Area S

o a winter

Glacier Point, an overlook with a com- u w only th Fork o M n manding view of Yosemite Valley, Half erced River a R ODGING o L Dome, and the Sierra Nevada, is located 30 a EN d ENTRANCE FEES miles (a 1-hour drive) from Yosemite Valley. Reservations for all overnight lodg- ek The view from Glacier Point provides an e r C a ing in Yosemite can be made by opportunity to see the Valley from its rim. ln ua hiln THE PARK IS OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, calling 559/252-4848, by writing to From Yosemite Valley, take the Wawona Road WawonaC YEAR-ROUND. Central Reservations, Yosemite Con- (Highway 41) 14 miles to the Chinquapin Wawona Campground (fees subject to change) cession Services, 5410 East Home, junction, then turn left onto the Glacier Point Road. The road ends at Glacier Point. 2 Fresno, CA 93727, or by visiting Pioneer TYPE PRICE NOTES The Glacier Point Road is generally open Sierra Yosemite www.yosemitepark.com. Lodging in History from late spring through late fall. In winter, National South Mariposa Forest Center Grove Vehicle $20 Valid for seven days. Yosemite Valley includes Curry Vil- the road is plowed only as far as the Badger Entrance lage, Housekeeping Camp, Pass Ski Area, and then Glacier Point can be Individual $10 In a bus, on foot, 41 To Yosemite Lodge, and The Ahwah- reached via skis or snowshoes only. See Fresno bicycle, motorcycle, nee. Lodging outside Yosemite Yosemite Today for schedule of activities. or horse. Valid for Valley includes the Wawona Hotel, seven days. and in summer, White Wolf Lodge Yosemite Pass $40 Valid for one year and Tuolumne Meadows Lodge. in Yosemite. Rates range from $48.00 per night Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau Yosemite Store and Visitor Center for a basic tent cabin with nearby P.O. Box 4020 5027 Highway 140 National Parks Pass $50 Valid for 1 year in 542 Stockton Road Mariposa, CA 95338 bathroom, to $318.75 per night for all national park Sonora, CA 95370 209/966-3888 areas. a room at The Ahwahnee (rates are 800/446-1333 or 209/533-4420 www.yosemite.org subject to change). Reservations are www.thegreatunfenced.com Golden Eagle $15 Covers entrance highly recommended and may be California Welcome Center, Merced Hologram for fees at other federal made up to one year and one day in Highway 41 710 W. 16th Street National Parks Pass sites. advance. Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau Merced, CA 95340 40637 Highway 41 800/446-5353 or 209/384-2791 Golden Age Pass $10 For U.S. citizens Oakhurst, CA 93644 www.yosemite-gateway.org (Lifetime) or permanent 559/683-4636 residents 62 and INFORMATION www.sierranet.net/~ysvb over. OUTSIDE THE PARK Highway 132/49 VISITOR CENTERS Golden Access Pass Free For blind or Coulterville Visitor Center (Lifetime) permanently Highway 120 West P.O. Box 333 The four visitor centers in Yosemite National Par disabled U.S. Highway 120 Chamber of Commerce 5007 Main Street are excellent resources for park information, wilde citizens or P.O. Box 1263 Coulterville, CA 95311 ness permits, and park-related publications an permanent Hotel Charlotte, Suite B 209/878-3074 residents. Groveland, CA 95321 mariposa.yosemite.net/visitor handouts. See Yosemite Today for hours of operatio 800/449-9120 or 209/962-0429 and more information. Highway 140/49 Mariposa County Visitor Bureau YOSEMITE VALLEY VISITOR CENTER “WHAT HAPPENS TO MY ENTRANCE FEE DOLLARS?” (also info. for Fish Camp, Wawona, Open daily all year. Yosemite West, and Buck Meadows) Thanks to the Recreational Fee Demonstration Program, a temporary pro- P.O. Box 967 BIG OAK FLAT INFORMATION STATION gram approved by Congress in 1995, 80% of your $20 entrance fee remains 5158 Highway 140 Closed in winter; generally open spring in Yosemite to help fund projects that improve the park and your visit. Mariposa, CA 95338 through fall. PROJECTS COMPLETED INCLUDE: 800/208-2434 or 209/966-2456 www.homeofyosemite.com WAWONA INFORMATION STATION AT Significantly upgraded the visitor orientation theatre in Yosemite Valley HILL’S STUDIO Repaired sections of the sewer line that services Yosemite Valley Highway 120 East Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce Closed in winter; generally open spring Replaced picnic tables, fire rings, and signs in out-of-Valley campgrounds and Mono Lake Visitor Center through fall. CURRENT AND FUTURE PROJECTS INCLUDE: P.O. Box 130 TUOLUMNE MEADOWS VISITOR CENTER Highway 395 and 3rd Street Stabilizing historic backcountry cabins Lee Vining, CA 93541 Closed in winter and spring; generally open Refurbishing roads, trails, and utilities throughout the park 760/647-6629 summer through fall. www.leevining.com 4 YOURYOURYOUR VISITVISITVISIT MITE NATIONAL PARK

N Yosemite Village/ Yosemite (40 km) of groomed track at no charge. ailable Falls Visitor Center ley Yosemite Maps of marked ski and snowshoe trails are Lodge The Ahwahnee available at park visitor centers or through CRANE FLAT El Curry the Yosemite Association (209/379-2648 or Capitan Village Crane Flat is a pleasant forest and mead- www.yosemite.org). For cross-country and Valley Day ow area located 16 miles from Yosemite downhill ski school information and condi- Get More View Parking Valley at the junction of the Big Oak Flat tions, call 209/372-1000. For Ostrander Ski Bridalveil Road and the Tioga Road. To see giant Hut reservations call 209/372-0740 on or Fall sequoias, park at the Tuolumne Grove park- Info... after December 3, Monday through Friday, Yosemite Valley ing area located on the Tioga Road (Highway (Elevation 4,000 feet/1,220 meters) 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 120 East), and walk one mile down to the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. In win- ■ Recorded General Park ter, snowshoes or cross-country skis may be Ice Skating The Curry Village Ice Information including: needed. For activities and area information, Skating Rink is open from mid-November Road & Weather Conditions, see Yosemite Today. through early March, conditions permit- Trip Planning Information, etc. e 209/372-0200 Hwy 120 Take a 4-mile round-trip hike or ski into the ting. Rental skates are available. For more closed late fall to late spring west Merced Grove of Giant Sequoias, located 3.5 To 395 information, call 209/372-8341. ■ Western U.S. National Parks of this point & Lee miles north of Crane Flat or 4.5 miles south of 415/556-0560 Vining the Big Oak Flat entrance along the Big Oak ■ On the Web 120 Flat Road (Highway 120 West). The trailhead is Bicycling More than 12 miles of paved marked by a post labeled B-10 and a road sign. bikeways wind through the eastern end of Yosemite National Park Tioga Yosemite Valley. Weather permitting, www.nps.gov/yose Tuolumne Pass Meadows Entrance rental bikes, baby jogging strollers, and Yosemite Concession Services Lembert bicycle child trailers are available at www.yosemitepark.com Dome ork Facilities along a F Mount an Yosemite Lodge (all seasons) and Curry Tioga Road 5 D Dana Camping Reservations available 13,053 ft TIOGA ROAD reservations.nps.gov summer only 3,979 m Village (summer). Check with rental agent

d ount a for restrictions on rental bike use. o Tuolumne AND TUOLUMNE Regional Information offmann R May a Meadows L 850 ft g y io www.yosemite.com 307 m Lake T Visitor e ll EADOWS Center F M o r k Bike Rules — For your safety and to Yosemite Area Regional ne Tenaya The Tioga Road is generally open from late Lake protect Yosemite National Park, Transportation System (YARTS) May through late October or early November please follow these rules: www.yosemite.com/yarts Olmsted and offers a 39-mile scenic drive through Point forests and past meadows, lakes, and granite California law mandates bicyclists under Yosemite Association 18 years of age wear helmets. yosemite.org k domes. The road’s elevation ranges from 6,200 e Clouds e re C Rest ya feet at Crane Flat to 9,900 feet at the Tioga Bikes are allowed only on paved bikeways Yosemite Fund a Mount Lyell Pass Entrance Station. There are many scenic and park roads (unless the road is closed www.yosemitefund.org alf iver 13,114 ft d R 3,997 m ome e and recreational opportunities in these areas. to bicycle use). rc e Merced Yosemite Institute M Lake Check visitor centers and park bulletin boards Bikes are not allowed off-road or on pedes- www.yni.org/yi Vernal for updated information on available services Fall & trian and hiking trails. The Ansel Adams Gallery Nevada and activities. From late fall through late Fall Bicyclists must obey all posted traffic signs www.anseladams.com spring, this area is only accessible by cross- o and travel with the flow of traffic when on uett e C country skis or snowshoes. For activities, see VIA/Gray Line ree k road used by automobiles. www.via-adventures.com Inyo Yosemite Today. National ad Forest e fall to east Horseback Riding Weather and trail nt RESERVATIONS conditions permitting, 2-hour, half-day, and ETCH ETCHY full-day rides depart from stables in Yosemite ■ Lodging Reservations H H Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, and Wawona 559/252-4848 Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, a source of spring through fall. Closed in winter. Call TDD 559/255-8345 drinking water and hydroelectric power for 209/372-8348 for information. ■ Campground Reservations Ranger Station the City of San Francisco, is also home to (callers from U.S. and Canada) Food Service & Lodging spectacular scenery and the starting point Hiking & Backpacking Yosemite offers 800/436-7275 Campground for many less-used wilderness trails. Towering er TDD 888/530-9796 rced Riv k Me cliffs and high waterfalls are easily seen from over 800 miles of hiking trails parkwide. For Peaks and Landmarks ■ the walkway on top of O’Shaughnessy Dam. updated trail information, visit the Wilderness Campground Reservations Gas Station Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is located 40 miles Center in Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne (International callers only) Sierra 301/722-1257 National 05 km 5 miles from Yosemite Valley via Highway 120 and Forest Meadows (spring through fall); in winter, Evergreen and Hetch Hetchy Roads. Vehicles check at the Valley Visitor Center, over 25 feet are prohibited on the road due or call 209/372-0200. Wilderness to its narrowness. permits are required for overnight AVERAGE PRECIPITATION wilderness users. For wilderness AND TEMPERATURES permit information and reserva- IN YOSEMITE VALLEY in Yosemite Valley. There is a fee for all sightseeing tions, call 209/372-0740 or go to FT M VISITOR ACTIVITIES tours. For reservations and more information, www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness. For some ideas (4,000 /1,220 )* on Valley day hiking, as well as informa- www.nps.gov/yose/trip/activities call 209/372-1240 or stop by any hotel tour desk. MONTH PRECIPITATION MAXIMUM MINIMUM Information is also available online at tion about wilderness travel, see page 6. (inches/cm) (F°/C°) (F°/C°) rograms and Exhibits Naturalist-guided walks www.yosemiteparktours.com. January 6.2/15.7 49/9 26/-3 nd programs as well as self-guided walks are available. Rock Climbing Classes The February 6.1/15.5 55/13 28/-2 ultural history demonstrations of basket-weaving, Skiing and Snowshoeing In winter, Yosemite Yosemite Mountaineering School and March 5.2/13.2 59/15 31/-0.5 eadwork, or traditional games are offered at the offers downhill skiing at Badger Pass in addition to Guide Service offers beginner through April 3.0/7.6 65/18 35/2 ndian Cultural Exhibit in Yosemite Valley. Other three main areas for cross-country skiing and advanced classes in Yosemite Valley May 1.3/3.3 73/23 42/5.5 xhibits are in the Valley Visitor Center, Yosemite snowshoeing: Badger Pass, Crane Flat, and the spring through fall, and in Tuolumne June 0.7/1.8 82/28 48/9 Museum, Nature Center at Happy Isles (summer), Mariposa Grove. These areas all have marked win- Meadows in late spring through sum- July 0.4/1.0 90/32 54/12 eConte Memorial Lodge (summer), Wilderness Cen- ter trails. Badger Pass offers approximately 10 miles mer. Call 209/372-8344 for information. August 0.3/0.8 90/32 53/11.5 r, The Ansel Adams Gallery, Parsons Lodge in September 0.9/2.3 87/30.5 47/8 uolumne Meadows (summer), and Glacier Point October 2.1/5.3 74/23 39/4 ummer). Check park visitor centers and bulletin November 5.5/14 58/14 31/-0.5 oards for additional information, and see activities December 5.6/14.2 48/9 26/-3 sted in Yosemite Today. Annual 37.3/94.7 *For temperatures at 8,000 feet (2,440 m), subtract 10-20 degrees. ours For a relaxing and informative experience, ke a sightseeing tour on a bus or open-air tram weather permitting). These tours, narrated by nformed guides, operate daily to most points of nterest in the park, including Yosemite Valley (year ound), Tuolumne Meadows (summer), Glacier oint, Wawona, and the Mariposa Grove of Giant equoias (spring through fall). Two-hour moon- ght tours show Yosemite Valley in a different ght during summer months (on nights around a ull moon). In winter, tours are conducted on eated and enclosed motor coaches; stops are made

the best-known scenic locations NPS Photo Half Dome as seen from the Valley rim.

5 ONON THETHE TRAILTRAIL

EXPERIENCE THE WILDERNESS IN THE WINTER & SPRING . . . SAFELY Protect There are many ways to experience the nal mirror and whistle. Solo activities how to use your gear and carry minimum wildness of Yosemite. While the forces of require increased precautions. repair materials. nature can create unexpected hazardous Cold and altitude can sap energy. Allow Avoid the combination of wetness, wind, Yosemite’s conditions, with a little common sense and plenty of time for rest, campsite selection, and cold. Know symptoms and treatment some pre-planning you can minimize the and proper food storage. methods for hypothermia. Carry emer- human risks associated with many of these gency fire starting materials. Wilderness activities: Stay on designated trails or routes. Carry and know how to use a map and com- Stay away from river and creek banks dur- PLANNING AND SAFETY pass. ing high water conditions in spring and Visitors to Yosemite’s wilderness should avoid “rock hopping.” Stream polished Avoid scrambling in steep terrain or off- Pack out all trash and toilet be familiar with the use of snowshoes or rocks along the water’s edge may be slip- trail. If new to climbing, take a class to paper/sanitary products. skis in order to navigate deep snow condi- pery when wet or dry. tions. Those who choose to explore learn important safety techniques before ❖ Yosemite’s more remote wilderness areas venturing out alone. If you choose to cross a stream without a bridge, avoid deep and/or swift water. If should be competent in winter wilderness Check weather forecasts prior to your trip. crossing on a natural bridge of rocks or Use gas stoves rather than wood travel, route finding, winter camping, and Plan for sudden extreme changes in logs, consider where you will land if you fires. survival skills. weather. fall. Never cross above rapids or falls. To ❖ Be honest about your abilities and plan Carry plenty of water and food. You will prevent being pulled under by its weight, activities toward the least experienced need to eat and drink more in cold unbuckle your pack’s waist strap so you Camp in an existing, well-used member of your group. weather. can shed it if you fall in. Do not tie your- campsite at least 100 feet from Always tell someone where you are going Be prepared for an emergency bivouac self into safety ropes—they can drown you. water and trail. You must be 4 and when you are due back. Carry a sig- even when out just for the day. Know WILDERNESS PERMITS miles from any populated area Free wilderness permits are required year and 1 mile from any road before round for all overnight trips into Yosemite’s camping. wilderness. They are not required for day hikes. Permits are available on a first-come, ❖ first-served basis the day of, or one day prior to, the beginning of your trip. In winter, To minimize trampling of vegeta- permits are issued at Badger Pass (for trips tion, bring a container to carry originating there); or self-register at Big Oak water to your camp from lakes or Flat Entrance Station, Wawona Information Station, or Hetch Hetchy Entrance Stations, streams. or at the Valley Visitor Center. Call 209/372- ❖ 0200 or go to the wilderness web site for information on making advance reserva- Maximum group size is 15 people tions, and Wilderness Center locations for trail travel and 8 people for and hours. Wilderness users who plan to enjoy off-trail travel. Yosemite’s beautiful high country during ❖ the peak season (May through September) are encouraged to make permit reservations. Yosemite is a natural preserve. Reservations are taken from 24 weeks to 2 days in advance of the trip start date. For Pets, weapons, bicycles, strollers, permit reservations and general wilderness and motor vehicles are never information, call 209/372-0740 (after allowed on Yosemite’s wilderness December 3, Monday through Friday, trails. 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). ❖ For wilderness information, call 209/372-0200 or go to See page 2 for food storage regula- www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness tions and for water quality W.Photo by R. Jones In winter, the Valley’s south rim is accessible on cross-country skis or snowshoes by way of information. the Glacier Point Road.

YOSEMITE VALLEY DAY HIKES IFFICULTY PPROXIMATE DESTINATION / TRAIL STARTING POINT DISTANCE D / A NOTES ELEVATION GAIN HIKING TIME

BRIDALVEIL FALL Bridalveil Fall 1/2 mile round trip Easy 20 minutes round trip with assistance Parking Area (0.8 km)

MIRROR LAKE Mirror Lake 2 miles round trip Easy 1 hour round trip Vehicle access available (a seasonal lake) Shuttle Stop #17 (3.2 km) with placard

LOWER YOSEMITE FALL Lower Yosemite Fall 1/2 mile round trip Easy 20 minutes round trip with assistance Shuttle Stop #6 (0.8 km)

UPPER YOSEMITE FALL TRAIL Camp 4 (Sunnyside Camp- 2 miles round trip Strenuous 2 to 3 hours round trip Check conditions at Visitor Center COLUMBIA ROCK ground) near Shuttle Stop #7 (3.2 km) 1,000' (300 m) elevation gain in winter

TOP OF YOSEMITE FALL Same as above 7.2 miles round trip Very Strenuous 6 to 8 hours round trip Check conditions at Visitor Center (11.6 km) 2,700' (810 m) elevation gain in winter

MIST TRAIL OR JOHN MUIR TRAIL

VERNAL FALL FOOTBRIDGE Happy Isles/Shuttle Stop #16 1.4 miles round trip Moderate 1 to 2 hours round trip Check conditions at Visitor Center (2.0 km) 400' (120 m) elevation gain

TOP OF Same as above 3 miles round trip Strenuous 2 to 4 hours round trip Check conditions at Visitor Center (4.8 km) 1,000' (300 m) elevation gain Winter route available

TOP OF Same as above 7 miles round trip Strenuous 5 to 6 hours round trip Check conditions at Visitor Center (11.3 km) 1,900' (570 m) elevation gain Winter route available

TOP OF HALF DOME Same as above 17 miles round trip Extremely Strenuous 10 to 12 hours round trip Cables up from June to early (27.4 km) 4,800' (1,463 m) elevation gain October; otherwise cable route is inaccessible

GLACIER POINT Southside Drive 4.8 miles one way Very strenuous 3 to 4 hours one way Check conditions at Visitor FOUR MILE TRAIL (7.6 km) 3,200' (960 m) elevation gain Center; Closed in winter and early spring

VALLEY FLOOR LOOP Lower Yosemite Fall 13 miles full loop (20.8 km) Moderate 5 to 7 hours full loop Get full description from Shuttle Stop #6 6.5 miles half loop (10.4 km) 2.5 to 3.5 hours half loop Visitor Center

6 GENERALGENERAL INFORMATIONINFORMATION

LOST AND FOUND

To inquire about items lost or found at one of Yosemite’s restaurants, hotels, lounges, shuttle buses, or tour services, call Yosemite Concession Services at 209/372-4357, ELP OUR ARK or write YCS Lost & Found, P.O. Box 578, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389. H Y P For items lost or found in other areas of the park, call the National Park Service at 209/379-1001, or write to NPS Warehouse, 5083 Foresta Road, B-759, El Portal, CA 95318. YOSEMITE MISCELLANEOUS ASSOCIATION THE YOSEMITE FUND P.O. Box 230 P.O. Box 637 Bear Canister Rental El Portal, CA 95318 Yosemite, CA 95389 Available year round for $3 per trip at the Yosemite Valley Sports Shop, Curry Village Mountain Shop, Crane Flat Store, and Wawona Store; available seasonally at the Yosemite 209/379-2646 415/434-1782 Valley Wilderness Center, Big Oak Flat Information Station, Wawona Information Station, www.yosemite.org www.yosemitefund.org Tuolumne Meadows Mountaineering School and Sport Shop, Tuolumne Meadows Store, and the Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station. Canisters may be rented or returned at any rental Anyone who loves Yosemite and The Yosemite Fund is a nonprofit location in the park. wishes to become more closely in- organization dedicated to protecting volved with the park is encouraged to and preserving Yosemite—one of the Babysitting become a member of the Yosemite most cherished parks in the world. Limited babysitting available for registered guests at Yosemite Lodge and The Ahwahnee. Call front desk or concierge for additional information. Association. The Yosemite Association Thanks to gifts from dedicated is a nonprofit organization dedicated “Friends of Yosemite,” the Fund has Fishing to the support of Yosemite National distributed over $13 million for more Fishing season along the Merced River is from the last Saturday in April through November Park through a program of visitor than 150 projects that would other- 15. Special regulations apply within Yosemite National Park. Visit the park’s web site at services, publications, and member- wise not be possible. The Yosemite www.nps.gov/yose/trip/fishing.htm or ask at any visitor center. ship activities. For over 70 years, the Fund has helped rehabilitate mead- Association has provided important ows, rebuild trails, and has installed Kennel financial support to the National over 2,000 bear-proof food storage (Spring through fall, weather permitting) Located at the stable in Yosemite Valley. Dogs must be gentle, over 10 pounds, with proof Park Service, and has made possible lockers throughout the park. of shots and license required. 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 209/372-8348 the funding of many projects and You can help by becoming a Friend purchases otherwise not affordable of Yosemite through a donation to Employment Opportunities through normal government the Fund. All donors of $25 or more Would you like to be part of Yosemite’s future? Employment opportunities exist at Yosemite appropriations. receive a “thank you” gift, the Fund’s National Park with the National Park Service, Volunteers in Parks, and Yosemite Concession Memberships of $30 or more entitle full-color biannual magazine, and Services Corporation. www.nps.gov/yose/jobs you to receive a free “thank you” gift acknowledgement at the Friends of YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK along with other benefits, including Yosemite Honor Wall at the Valley For vacancy information on the web: www.usajobs.opm.gov discounts on Yosemite Association Visitor Center. Employment hotline: and The Ansel Adams Gallery mer- 209/372-0200-6-1-1 (for permanent positions) chandise, a quarterly journal, and 209/372-0200-6-1-2 (for seasonal positions) To contact the Yosemite National Park Human Resource Office, call 209/379-1805 or write: opportunities to volunteer in the Yosemite National Park, Human Resource Office, P.O. Box 700, El Portal, CA 95318 park and attend member activities.

VOLUNTEERS IN PARKS Individuals and groups interested in community service projects in Yosemite can call the Volunteer Program Manager at 209/379-1850. Free camping is provided and entrance fees are waived during your work project.

YOSEMITE CONCESSION SERVICES Contact Yosemite Concession Services Corporation at the General Offices in Yosemite Village or call 209/372-1236. www.yosemitepark.com/jobs.html Become a

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PART YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION Outdoor seminars, some for college credit. P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318. 209/379-2321 of the www.yosemite.org/seminars YOSEMITE INSTITUTE FUTURE Non-profit environmental education organization. Week-long, field-based sessions for school groups, teachers, and other groups. P.O. Box 487, Yosemite, CA 95389. 209/379-9511 www.yni.org/yi o continue the National Park Ser- vice’s goals of preserving park NPS EDUCATION BRANCH resources and serving visitors, Wawona Ranger Station, P.O. Box 2027, Wawona, CA 95389. 209/375-9505. For entrance T waivers for educational groups, call 209/372-0206 www.nps.gov/yose/learn Yosemite needs employees and volunteers from all walks of life, from all ethnic back- SERVICES FOR DISABLED grounds, with the knowledge, skills, and

abilities to turn those goals into reality. NPS Photo by C. Marie Mackie An accessibility brochure is available at park entrance To protect park resources and to serve the and future generations. Young and old alike stations and visitor centers. public, Yosemite employs a permanent and a give of their time and expertise to assist Wheelchair rental available at Yosemite Medical Clinic, seasonal workforce of over 700 individuals National Park Service staff. every year. The variety of paid positions For specific employment information, or to 209/372-4637, and the Yosemite Lodge bike stand, available may surprise you: biologists, crimi- find out what positions are currently available 209/372-1208. nal investigators, human resource managers, and how to apply, contact the Human accountants, electricians, historians, and Resources Office by calling 209/379-1805. even traditional park rangers. Whatever the You may also access either the Yosemite job, a rewarding experience with Yosemite National Park web site at www.nps.gov/yose National Park and the National Park Service or USAJobs at www.usajobs.opm.gov for a Nanette Oswald, Yosemite’s Deaf is guaranteed. listing of employment opportunities as they Services Coordinator, interprets Yosemite National Park also has active Vol- occur. ranger-led activities and provides unteers in Parks, Youth Conservation Corps, Selection for employment will be made park information for deaf and and Student Conservation Association without regard to race, color, religion, sex, hard-of-hearing visitors in spring programs. Participants of these splendid national origin, political affiliation, marital sta- through fall. For more informa- tion about the Deaf Services programs come from every state and nearly tus, physical handicap, age, membership or Program, come to the Valley every country in the world to help preserve non-membership in an employee organiza- Visitor Center information desk, and protect America’s natural and cul- tion, personal favoritism, or other or call 209/372-4726 (TDD) or tural heritage for the enjoyment of this non-merit factors. 209/372-0642 (voice). The TDD number for lodging reservations The National Park Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer is 559/255-8345; for camping reservations, call 888/530-9796. NPS Photo

7 Photo by Kodak by Photo Half Dome Vernal Fall for Valley for (seasonal) Mirror Lake Meadows Tuolumne

and

Snow Creek Trail to Photo by Chamberlin/Kodak by Photo Yosemite Guide

Shuttle bus service to Happy Isles Loop Road closed in winter. See Yosemite Today schedule.

k

e

e

r C

Vernal Fall Footbridge

point a

beyond this

No bicycles y a Fall. Vernal

More detailed trail maps are available for purchase at visitor centers and stores throughout the park. See page 6 of

n day hike descriptions. e Half Dome

Nevada Falls, T to Vernal and John Muir Trail Mist Trail and Lake Mirror Trail to Seasonal

r

ive R

Stable d e rc Me Upper Pines North Pines Nature Center at Happy Isles P at P Parking Trailhead Royal Arches

Half

20 Lower Pines Lake. Jaenecke J.M. by Photo Dome Mirror The Ahwahnee Curry Village Church Bowl Housekeeping Camp Facilities and Facilities services in CurryVillage will be closed from November 26 thru December 21, 2001. i Point Glacier To LeConte Memorial Lodge Visitor Center Day Parking 5 Chapel Yosemite Village Yosemite

Yosemite Falls

k e e r C

Lower Yosemite Fall

e

t i

A lunar rainbow, Lower Yosemite Fall. Lower Yosemite A lunar rainbow,

m

e

s

o Y Swinging Bridge

Yosemite Lodge

r

e

v i Point Glacier Trail to Four Mile

R

d e Columbia Rock c r e Sentinel Beach

M

Yellow Pine e

Camp 4 (Sunnyside) Walk-in

v

i

r

D

e

d Fall i Yosemite

Upper Point and s

Columbia

Trail to h

t

u

o

S

Photo by Mike Osborne Mike by Photo

e

v

i

r D

e

d i s h t r o

N N

Cathedral Beach

Roadway Bus Only Shuttle Bus Stop Shuttle Trailhead Hiking Trail Bike Path Campground Picnic Area Restroom Parking Information

The Three Brothers. NPS Photo NPS Bridalveil Fall. P i Map not to scale

U.S. Department Third Class Mail of the Interior Postage and Fees Paid National Park Service U.S. Department P.O. Box 577 of the Interior Yosemite, CA 95389 G-83