Yosemite, CA 95389 CA Yosemite,

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National Park Service Park National U.S. Department Department U.S.

of the Interior the of Postage and Fees Paid Fees and Postage U.S. Department Department U.S. Third Class Mail Class Third YYOSEMITOSEMITEE Y All busesfollowthesameroute,serving stopsinnumericalorder. Shuttle busesoperatedailyat15to20 minuteintervals.

OSEMITE March 31–June 19,7:00a.m.-10:00p.m. N El Capitan

March 14–30,9:00a.m.-10:00 p.m.

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o S u t h CHEDULE SPRING s i d V e MARCH 14, 2000 – JUNE 19, 2000 D r ALLEY iv e

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o Fall s e m Yosemite Glacier i 7 t e 8 Fall Yosemite Lower Creek by Pete Devine Falls Yosemite 4 1 8 6 5 3 2 7 Museum Walk-in Campground Yosemite Lodge/Camp 4(Sunnyside) ends at8:30p.m.afterApril1) (Service endsat5:00p.m.untilApril 1; Yosemite Falls Visitor Center Yosemite Village The Ahwahnee Yosemite Village/DayUseParking Rivers Curry Village Chapel 11 Yosemite Valley available in Gasoline isnot Court U.S. 1 9 6 Parking Day Use Center Visitor 10 Dome Sentinel Lodge Memorial LeConte i 5 Post Office 3 P P Village Yosemite Gallery Adams Ansel Store Village

Camp Housekeeping Look 12 Clinic Medical Trail to Trail Sentinel Dome 4

Bowl Church Inside! 2 Ahwahnee The lacie Point Glacier G r P Poi nt Rd

2 Valley Shuttle Village Curry 13 Bus Map ...... Back Panel Trail from Trail Glacier Glacier Point to Point Office Reservation Campground Vernal & & Vernal Nevada Falls Park Map 1 Pines Lower 3 Arches Royal P 14 • Planning Your Visit 14 12 15 13 10 11 15 9

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Upper PinesCampground Curry Village Ice Rink/Bike&RaftRentals LeConte MemorialLodge Housekeeping Camp/ Yosemite ChapelParking Sentinel Bridge/ Yosemite Village/DayUseParking Visitor Center Information...... 8 & 9 Pines Upper Pines North

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Seasonal Backpacking &

T e Valley Day Hikes...... 5 n a Mirror Lake y a Footbridge Fall Vernal C Activities ...... 10 – 12 r e e k Facilities & Services . . . 14 & 15 Yosemite News ...... 6 Photo by he last two miles to upper base camp are the hardest. Tom Slater throughout thepark. centers andstores for purchaseatvisitor Trail mapsareavailable be usedforhiking. This mapshouldnot Nature Notes...... 7 Trail to Trail

Snow Creek Snow After miles of flat walking up the floor of Lyell Canyon, and Tuolumne Meadows John Muir Trail Muir John Yosemite Valley Plan . . . Center climbing the headwall seems cruel punishment. We’ve 17 19 18 16 got extra heavy packs for our four days of work in the

Mist Trail Mist T alpine zone. The air thins as the trail steepens, the creek rushes Pines Campgrounds service ends8:30p.m.) (Service resumesApril1; Stables service ends8:30p.m.) (Service resumesApril1; Mirror Lake service ends8:30p.m.) (Service resumesApril1; Happy Isles down toward Tuolumne Meadows, our tired legs need a night’s rest. When we drag into camp and fire up the stoves,

Dome Half we’re satisfied that we’ve already earned our time in Yosemite’s beautiful high country. Thus begin the challenges of seeking to learn more about the Lyell Glacier. Fall Vernal Continued on page 1 YYOSEMITOSEMITEE GUIDEGUIDE YOUR KEY TO VISITING THE PARK

SPRING MARCH 14, 2000 – JUNE 19, 2000 VOLUME XXIX, NO. 1 Visiting a Yosemite Glacier

Continued from front cover

Far upstream from Yosemite Valley The next two full days stands the park’s highest summit, Mt. that we were in the alpine Lyell. On the north slope of this 4,000- zone, we scrambled like TO LEARN MORE… meter mountain is Yosemite’s largest bighorns, searching for glacier, the Lyell Glacier. The major ice faded paint and old brass Visit the glaciation of rivers that are credited with affecting caps that marked permanent Yosemite Valley exhibit at some of Yosemite’s main landscape fea- survey points. At one point the Valley Visitor Center. tures had all melted away by perhaps in the search, I inspected Attend one of several ranger 10,000 years ago, when the earth warmed one particular spot, scan- walks on Yosemite’s geology up just a few degrees. The Lyell Glacier is ning carefully, yet saw (see pages 10 and 11). a small remnant from a cool period called nothing. It was a testament the Little Ice Age, which lasted roughly to the experienced sharp eye Read about glaciers. Some A.D. 1350-1850. It is composed of com- of ranger Mark Fincher that books available at the Valley pressed snow layers that represent he—not five minutes later— Visitor Center include: The hundreds and hundreds of Yosemite win- spotted the faint circle of Geologic Story of Yosemite ters, from a time before Columbus landed orange paint marking Photo National Park by N. King in the Caribbean. Station II. The old paint had Huber, and Domes Cliffs and been fading for nearly 50 Waterfalls by William R. Jones WHAT IS A GLACIER? years, until it virtually Read “Nature Notes” on By definition, a glacier is ice that matched the orange lichen page 7. moves. Such ice, whether in polar lati- on the rock. tudes or high altitudes, is derived from Off-trail travel was rough snowflakes that accumulate fast enough going, over talus, till, and to outpace their melting rate over many glacially polished bedrock. rate from 1960 to 1999, to see if it may years. Once such a snowfield becomes The sun was strong, the air have changed. We also know that the deep enough, it starts to ooze, either was thin, and the slopes Lyell Glacier is still alive; at the top of the horizontally in the case of the polar ice were steep, but what magnif- ice sheet, a long crack called a bergshrund sheets, or down montane valleys in the Knee-deep in suncups. Photo by Tom Slater icent landscape. Oddly separates the ice body from the summit case of the alpine glaciers. The Lyell Glac- enough, we couldn’t see the headwall, indicating downslope move- ier is no more than half a kilometer long CHALLENGES OF THE SURVEY Lyell Glacier—it was covered in snow! ment. This crack showed fresh activity in and, in two adjacent lobes, is about a Last August, a group of interested sci- The El Niño winter of 1997/98 dropped unmelted snow while we were up there. kilometer in width. This rather humble ence teachers spent a few days on the twice the normal snowfall, and the winter The glacier yet moves! field of ice is one of the most studied Lyell Glacier starting to revive the data of 1998/99 added 125% of average on top All of us were pleased just to be up glaciers in the Sierra, with photographic gathering process. It is a long hike from of that. The there, exploring in Yosemite’s high- records of its size going back to John Tuolumne Meadows to the upper Lyell actual ice of est corner, studying something that Muir’s day. In fact, in 1872, Muir himself base camp, but the beauty of the land- the glacier was links us to Muir and Matthes, to the measured the rate of ice flow in the near- scape and our determination to see what buried under the Little Ice Age and to the Pleistocene. by Maclure Glacier. we could learn about Yosemite’s glaciers remaining snow Whether the globe warms enough to In 1930, the National Park Service and made it worth it. Lyell Canyon is one from these two melt all the Sierra’s glaciers, or if Ice François Matthes of the U.S. Geological of the park’s lesser known delights: miles heavy winters. Age conditions should return again, Survey initiated an annual measurement and miles of subalpine meadow, a mean- The snow sur- it’s interesting to know that series and photographic survey on the dering crystal river, wetlands, and face was not Yosemite has one of the planet’s Lyell and several other Yosemite area avalanche chutes filling a broad U-shaped smooth, but long-term thermometers tucked glaciers. For three decades the Lyell Glaci- valley. We camped near one of the last choppy with away in its highest country. er was photographed from standard stream crossings, where Indian people suncups a meter reference points, and the position of the had once camped before us. Our group or more deep, Pete Devine is the Education ice front and ice surface were measured. included a National Park Service wilder- making travel Director of Yosemite Institute, a ness ranger, and three dedicated science atop the glacier When these measurements were gradually Survey crew residential field science program discontinued in the 1960s and 1970s, a teachers who bring their students to slow and tricky. Photo by Tom Slater based in Yosemite Valley. Teachers long data stream was broken. Yosemite Institute’s environmental edu- Picture a sloping David Ficke, Roseanne Giorgio, cation program during the school year. surface of rock-hard snow, deeply scal- Tom Slater, and NPS wilderness loped such that when you’re standing in ranger Mark Fincher took part in a trough, the walls come up to your the summer 1999 Lyell Glacier elbow. Acres and acres of this waviform Survey. “badland” had to be laboriously criss- crossed on foot.

THE LIVING GLACIER In the end, we could not find all the points we needed. We took all six of the YOSEMITE standard reference photographs but they actually show more snow than glacier. GUIDE Two essential transect end points remain Published by the Yosemite Association, undiscovered; they’ve either eroded in cooperation with the National Park away, or were still buried under snow- Service and the Yosemite banks. At this point, we can’t quantify Concession Services Corp. the changes in the glacier as much as we’d like. We know from the historical Edited by Kristina Rylands surveys that the Lyell Glacier shrank Production by Skip Gaynard Designs steadily between 1930 and 1960; we’d NPS Coordinator, Martha Lee 13,114 foot Mt. Lyell is named for Sir Charles Lyell (1797-1875), an eminent English like to be able to compare the recession Printed by Premier Offset Printing, Inc. geologist. Photo by Tom Slater 1 PARKPARKPARK RULESRULESRULES

HELP KEEP WILDLIFE WILD DRIVE SAFELY It’s the Law Did you know that feeding or In 1999, there were 381 motor closely approaching any park vehicle accidents in Yosemite wildlife is prohibited by federal National Park. Sixteen bears were law? Your food is a threat to the hit by vehicles. Speeding kills There are federal laws and survival of park animals. It can wildlife and people. Slow down regulations specific to damage their health, make them and follow these driving tips to national parks that protect vulnerable to death from cars, or avoid accidents: Yosemite, its wildlife, historic lead to dangerous behavior. Treat your food Obey posted speed limits. Slow and prehistoric sites and as if it were poison to animals, because the result is often the same. down when road conditions war- structures, and natural Even though animals may look tame—especially when searching for a rant. Be alert to rocks in the beauty. Protect your park hand-out—they are capable of inflicting serious injury, and in extreme roadway, wildlife crossing, or by following these rules: cases, causing death. Never attempt to touch or closely approach any other unexpected situations. park wildlife. Instead, view them through binoculars or telephoto California law requires that all lenses. A good rule-of-thumb: if an animal is aware of your presence, Camping or sleeping in vehicles vehicle occupants wear seat you’re too close. is permitted only in designated belts, and children 4 years of age campsites and is prohibited along (or under 40 lbs.) be restrained in an approved child safety seat. roadsides, in turnouts, or in RECREATIONAL parking lots. Do not stop in the roadway! Find ❖ CLOSURE ON THE a safe turnout if you wish to take EL PORTAL ROAD a photo, consult a map, or enjoy Bicycles (including mountain park scenery or wildlife. bikes), in-line skates, and strollers No recreational uses are allowed Be courteous. Pull into turn-outs must remain on paved roads and in the construction zone along the to allow other vehicles to pass. El Portal Road (Highway 140). This designated paved bike paths. includes walking, climbing, hiking, When roads are steep and slip- They are not allowed on hiking swimming, fishing, bicycling, and pery, shift down. Avoid excessive trails or anywhere off-pavement. kayaking. Rough road conditions may slowing on curves, or your vehi- ❖ be encountered. cle may slide. Traffic is not allowed to stop, use In early spring, road conditions Motor vehicles must stay on turnouts, or turn around. may change suddenly. Wet asphalt may be slippery or icy, established roads open to public Passengers must remain in vehicles. travel. Vehicles are not permitted especially in shady spots or on No overnight parking is permitted bridges. Keep speed down and off-road. along the road. allow extra distance for the vehi- cle in front of you. ❖ For information on road access and closure, call 209/372-0200 or ask at Water from melted roadside Store your food properly, keeping any visitor center. snow often freezes on road sur- it away from bears and other faces, creating treacherous “black Yosemite animals (see page 3 Hauling gear to the Mt. Lyell base camp. ice.” This can occur even when for details). Photo by Tom Slater the weather appears dry and fair. ❖ Anticipate snowplows as they FISHING REGULATIONS may be working just around the Pets frighten wildlife and disturb next curve. Wait for a signal hikers. They must be leashed at Special fishing Stream and river fishing season begins from the plow driver before pass- all times and are not permitted regulations apply on on the last Saturday in April and contin- ing. the Merced River in ues through November 15. The only on any park trails, with the Stay on your side of the road, Yosemite Valley from exception is Frog Creek near Lake Eleanor, exception of paved trails on the especially on tight curves. Be Happy Isles down- where fishing season opens June 15 in order floor of Yosemite Valley. aware of bicyclists and pedestri- stream to Pohono to protect spawning rainbow trout. All lakes ans. ❖ Bridge. In this and reservoirs are open to fishing year- stretch of the round. Don’t drink and drive. It’s a fatal Do not remove any objects from river, it is catch- A valid California sport fishing license combination. the park, including pine cones, and-release only must be displayed by all persons 16 years Special regulations for the rocks, leaves, obsidian, historic for native rainbow trout. Only artificial lures of age and older who are fishing in Yosemite El Portal Road (Highway 140): items, etc. If you find an object or flies with barbless hooks may be used, National Park. Licenses must be plainly that may be prehistoric or and bait fishing is prohibited. Brown trout visible, attached to outer clothing at or Obey lowered speed limits in construction zone. Rough road historic, do not move it. Note its limits are five fish per day and ten in above the waistline. For more information possession. It is the responsibility of the about licenses and fishing, inquire at visitor conditions exist. No stopping or location and inform a ranger. If angler to identify fish species. centers. turning around in construction you must collect something, zone. please pick up litter! RAFTING REGULATIONS ❖ WILL I NEED Rafting regulations have been implement- Rafting on the Merced River in Yosemite The use of metal detectors in ed to protect river habitat and provide for Valley is open to any type of non-motorized TIRE CHAINS? the park is illegal. Please report visitor safety. The entire length of the vessel or other flotation device between It is recommended that you Merced River within Yosemite Valley will be Stoneman Bridge and Sentinel Beach from possible violations to a park carry tire chains in your vehicle closed to all flotation devices whenever the 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. In addition, ranger. (including rental cars) between river gauge at Sentinel Bridge reads 6.5 feet the South Fork of the Merced River in November and April, as a sudden ❖ or higher. Wawona is open for rafting from 10:00 a.m. storm could make them mandatory to 6:00 p.m. daily between Swinging Bridge Firearms and hunting are at any time. Due to changing and Wawona Campground. prohibited in Yosemite National weather conditions, any vehicle Each occupant of vessels or flotation devices FOR MORE entering a chain control area must Park. Report possible hunting on park rivers must have in their carry chains under park regulations, violations to the park’s tip line, INFORMATION possession, and readily available, an appropri- even if their use is not mandatory 209/372-0214, or to the Depart- ately sized U.S. Coast Guard approved life ABOUT... at the time. Chains should be vest. ment of Fish and Game’s tip line, obtained in advance; several towns Food storage guidelines, In order to protect the river’s banks, rafters 888/DFG-CALTIP, 24 hours a day. on highways leading into Yosemite see page 3. are encouraged to get out only on sand or rent them. Vehicles over 6,000 lbs. ❖ Camping and campfires, gravel bars, and swimmers should use sandy are required to use link-type chains, see page 4. beaches to enter and exit the water. Rafters All public buildings are and on sets of dual tires, only one Wilderness regulations, must be aware that fallen trees may exist in designated as non-smoking. tire needs chains. Once in the park, see page 5. the river. This natural debris can create haz- tire chains are available at retail out- Fire safety guidelines, ardous conditions to river users, so extreme lets for purchase, but not for rent. see page 7. caution should be used. Bicycling rules, These rafting regulations may be see page 9. subject to change. 2 BEARSBEARS

BEARS ARE NOT TO BLAME: STORE FOOD PROPERLY Each year black bears are killed in Bears have damaged cars for as little as a PICNIC AREAS Yosemite National Park as a direct result stick of gum or an empty soda can, so Stay close to your food and put it away as of human carelessness and improper food thoroughly search your car and remove soon as you are finished eating. Bears may storage. Some call it a “bear problem,” but all potential bear attractants. Bears can enter picnic areas, even when people are bears are not to blame. clearly smell any food in a car, even present, so be prepared to scare them away. Mountain Driven by their powerful sense of smell, when it’s stored in the vehicle’s trunk! black bears are drawn to human food. Once Bears recognize ice chests, grocery bags, TRAILHEADS they get it, they continue to seek it out— and other food-related containers. Such It is highly recommended that no food or from backpacks, picnic tables, ice chests, items, even when empty, have residual Lions food-related supplies be left in vehicles and even cars. As their natural fear of peo- odors. Remove them from vehicles and parked overnight at trailheads. There are ple fades, they may become aggressive. store them securely. Also remove drinks, food storage boxes for backpackers at all When bears become too aggressive, they garbage, and scented articles such as soap, major trailheads in the park. Ask for loca- Mountain lions are a normal often have to be killed. In 1999, there were sunscreen, and toothpaste from vehicles. tions when acquiring a wilderness permit. and very important part of the 768 incidents involving bears, resulting in Don’t forget to check the glove compart- park ecosystem, helping to keep over $224,000 in damage and five human ment! WILDERNESS injuries. Four bears had to be killed. The Clear your car’s interior of clutter. This deer populations in check. The National Park Service strongly only way to stop this devastating cycle is to will reduce the chances of a bear mistak- They are attracted to areas encourages backpackers to carry and use make sure that all food and trash are stored ing an article for food, and increase the bear-resistant food storage canisters. These with healthy deer populations, properly. chances that you will find any stray portable containers are the most effective which includes many areas of french fries or other overlooked food. way for backpackers to store food in wilder- the park. Although lion attacks NO FOOD IN CARS! Child car seats should be removed from ness areas. Backpackers staying in are extremely rare, they are In 1999, over 318 cars were damaged vehicles since they often have residual designated backpacker camps adjacent to by bears in the park, and most of these food smells. possible, as is injury from any High Sierra Camps or in Little Yosemite incidents were caused by improper food Remove all trash and place it in animal- wild animal. We offer the Valley are required to use metal food stor- storage. If your car will be parked in resistant trash cans or dumpsters. following recommendations age lockers provided or portable canisters. Yosemite after dark, it must not contain for your safety: any food or related items. CAMPGROUNDS All garbage and food items must be stored Federal regulations require that all in a food locker, canister, or properly sus- food and related supplies be stored and pended from a pole. The counterbalance Do not leave pets or pet food technique (either from a cable or a tree secured at all times in the metal “bear outside and unattended, especially boxes” in each campsite (except when branch) may not be used where bear boxes at dawn and dusk. Pets can attract food is being prepared and eaten). Each exist. Bear resistant canisters are required at box measures 38"x48"x22". No food stor- 9,600 feet elevation and above. Plan ahead– mountain lions into developed All food, garbage, and toiletries must be age is allowed in vehicles. areas. Keep bear boxes latched and secured contained within canisters. (See article with their clips at all times. Bears enter below for rental locations and canister ❖ campsites during the day, even when details.) people are present. Avoid hiking alone. Watch children AFETY Dispose of garbage frequently in animal- S closely and never let them run Never approach a bear, regardless of its resistant dumpsters and cans. Don’t leave ahead or lag behind on the trail. any garbage in your campsite, especially size. If you encounter a bear, act immedi- Talk to children about lions, and at night. ately: throw small stones or sticks toward the bear from a safe distance. Yell, clap teach them what to do if they LODGING hands, bang pots together. If there is more meet one. Remove all food and food-related items than one person, stand together to present from vehicles. Guests staying in hard- a more intimidating figure, but do not sur- ❖ sided cabins must store such supplies round the bear. Use caution if you see cubs, indoors. as a mother may act aggressively to defend Guests staying in canvas tent-cabins must them. What should you do store food and related items in lockers When done immediately, these actions if you meet a mountain lion? (ask at front desk for locker locations). have been successful in scaring bears away. Keep food out of cars! This is what happens Clean out trash, empty food containers, Never try to retrieve anything once a bear when a bear smells food in a vehicle. and scented articles from vehicles before has it. Report all bear incidents to a park Never approach one, especially if Photo by Steve Thompson leaving them parked overnight. ranger (see hotline number below). it is feeding or with kittens. Most mountain lions will try to avoid a NOTE: These regulations and precautions help decrease the chance of confrontation. Always give them a personal injury or property damage. However, bear damage and con- way to escape. frontations are still possible, even when all the guidelines are followed. SAVE -A-BEAR HOTLINE ❖

To report trash problems, Don’t run. Stay calm. Hold your USE BEAR-RESISTANT FOOD CANISTERS improper food storage, bear ground, or back away slowly. Face sightings, and other bear-relat- the lion and stand upright. Do all In an effort to decrease incidents between up and returned at any of the rental loca- ed problems, leave a message bears and people, and to keep bears wild, tions throughout the park. Increased avail- for the Bear Management you can to appear larger. Raise your the National Park Service strongly encour- ability of canisters park-wide and reduced Team at 209/372-0200 (press 2, arms. If you have small children ages backpackers to use bear-resistant food rental fees are due to a cooperative agree- then 4). Your call can be made with you, pick them up. canisters. These containers are the most ment between the Yosemite Association anonymously. effective way for backpackers to store food and Yosemite Concession Services Corp. ❖ in the wilderness. All other techniques are considered delaying tactics only, as bears If the lion behaves aggressively, are largely able to undo most well-known wave your arms, shout, and throw food storage methods. Each plastic canister objects at it. The goal is to convince weighs about 3 pounds, fits in a full-sized DONATE A CANISTER it that you are not prey and may backpack, and is capable of holding 5 to 7 days supply of food for one person. & SAVE A BEAR be dangerous yourself. If attacked, fight back! Canisters may be rented for a flat fee of Make a donation to the Yosemite Associa- $3 per trip plus a refundable security tion’s “Save a Bear” campaign and help ❖ deposit. They may also be purchased for eliminate food-related human/bear conflicts approximately $75. They are available at in the wilderness. Donations will be used to Generally, mountain lions the following locations: Year-round at the purchase bear-resistant food storage canisters are calm, quiet, and elusive. Yosemite Valley Sports Shop, Mountain for use in the distribution program described Sightings are rare, so if you Shop at Curry Village, Crane Flat Store, in the adjacent article. The program makes Wawona Store, and El Portal Market. canisters easily available and encourages their spot one, consider yourself Seasonally at Yosemite Valley Wilderness use. privileged! Center, Wawona Information Station, Big Help save a bear by donating a bear can! Oak Flat Permit/Information Station, Hetch Call the Yosemite Association at 209/379- Hetchy Entrance Station, Tuolumne Mead- 2646 for more information. ows Mountaineering School, and Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center (see pages 14 and 15 for hours). Canisters can be picked Photo by Mike Floyd 3 CAMPINGCAMPING

length for recreational vehicles in Valley Station (Inyo N.F.) 760/647-3044; Highway CAMPING RESERVATIONS campgrounds is 40 feet. 41, Oakhurst Ranger Station (Sierra N.F.) Camp 4 (Sunnyside) Walk-in Campground 559/683-4636. For private campgrounds and CAMPFIRE RULES Reservations are required for Yosemite Valley’s is open all year on a first-come, first-served basis; lodging outside Yosemite, call the respective auto campgrounds year-round and summer these campsites are not wheelchair accessible. chamber of commerce or visitor bureau listed To improve air quality in Yosemite through fall for Hodgdon Meadow, Crane Flat, Sites are rented on a per-person basis, and six on page 8. Valley, campfires are permitted only Wawona, and half of Tuolumne Meadows. All people will be placed in each campsite, regard- between 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. other campgrounds (except group and stock less of the number of people in your party. from May 1 through October 15. campgrounds) are first-come, first-served. GROUP CAMPGROUNDS Camp 4 (Sunnyside) often fills before 9:00 a.m. Firewood collection is prohibited in Camping reservations will be available in each day May through September. blocks of 1 month at a time, up to 5 months in There are group campsites at Tuolumne Mead- Yosemite Valley. This includes “dead There is a 30-day camping limit within ows, Hodgdon Meadow, Wawona, and Bridalveil and down” wood. advance, on the 15th of each month through Yosemite National Park in any calendar year; the National Park Reservation System (NPRS). Creek campgrounds. Reservations can be made Outside the Valley, wood may not be however, May 1- September 15, camping limit through NPRS; up to 30 people are allowed in Thus, for: in Yosemite Valley is 7 days. gathered at elevations above 9,600 each group campsite. Tent camping only. Pets feet or in sequoia groves. CAMPING FIRST DAY TO are not permitted in group sites. Check-in/check- ARRIVAL DATE MAKE RESERVATION OUTSIDE out time is noon. Cutting standing trees or attached limbs, alive or dead, is prohibited, as All dates thru 08/14/00 03/15/00 YOSEMITE VALLEY is the use of chainsaws. 08/15/00 thru 09/14/00 04/15/00 SERVICES Check-in/check-out time for campgrounds Please start campfires with news- 09/15/00 thru 10/14/00 05/15/00 outside the Valley is noon. Maximum length There are no hookups in Yosemite camp- paper. Do not burn pine needles or for recreational vehicles is 35 feet. grounds, but there are sanitary dump stations in cones, as they create unnecessary 10/15/00 thru 11/14/00 06/15/00 There is a 30-day camping limit within Yosemite Valley (all year), and summer only in smoke. 11/15/00 thru 12/14/00 07/15/00, etc. Yosemite National Park in any calendar year; Wawona and Tuolumne Meadows. Shower and Campfires are permitted only in however, from May 1 to September 15, the laundry facilities are available year-round in established fire rings. From May through September, campsites are camping limit outside the Valley is limited to a Yosemite Valley; see page 15 for locations and in heavy demand and prospective campers are total of 14 days, except for Wawona, which is hours of service. Bear-proof food storage lockers See fire safety information on page 7. encouraged to call NPRS as early as possible in limited to 7 days. Wawona and Hodgdon Mead- are available in all Yosemite campgrounds (they the period. ow are open all year. Other campgrounds outside measure 45”w x 18”h x 34”d). See Bears Are Not Written requests should be made to NPRS so To Blame on page 3 for food storage guidelines. the Valley are open only during the summer Reservations may be made from they are received no sooner than 2 weeks before months. See grid below for details. the 15th of the month that the desired camping 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pacific time. arrival date goes on sale. Written requests will RULES AND REGULATIONS TOLL-FREE RESERVATIONS: not be processed until the 15th of the month (at CAMPING IN AREAS 800/436-7275 Camping/sleeping in vehicles is permitted the same time telephone requests are being URROUNDING OSEMITE ONLINE RESERVATIONS: S Y only in designated campsites. taken). Include desired location, type of equip- reservations.nps.gov ment you will be camping in (i.e., tent, RV, The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) operates a Maximum of 6 people (including children) You may reserve only one campsite at a time. etc.), as well as method of payment. Online variety of campgrounds on a seasonal basis and 2 vehicles per campsite. INTERNATIONAL CALLERS: reservations can be accessed through reserva- near Yosemite in the Inyo, Sierra, and 301/722-1257 tions.nps.gov from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pacific Pets are permitted only in specific camp- Stanislaus National Forests. Many of these grounds (check grid below). Pets must be on time. campgrounds are operated on a first-come, TDD (TOLL-FREE): a leash at all times, are not allowed on any 888/530-9796 first-served basis; however, some may be hiking trails, and may not be left unattended MAIL-IN RESERVATIONS: YOSEMITE VALLEY reserved. Unlike Yosemite, the national forests while tied in a campsite. allow dispersed camping in some areas NPRS Check-in/check-out time for Yosemite Valley (outside of designated campgrounds). Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. P.O. Box 1600 Cumberland, MD 21502 campgrounds is 10:00 a.m. Campsites are Campfire permits are required. For additional Generators may be used sparingly between assigned by NPRS at the time the reservation is information, contact the local USFS 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Up to two campsites may be reserved made. Campers may request a specific campsite district offices: Highway 120 West, at a time. Reservations may be made with Dishwater and sewage must be disposed of in number if it is available at the time the reserva- Groveland Ranger Station (Stanislaus N.F.) Mastercard, Visa, Discover, personal check, designated utility drains. tion is made. All campsite assignments are 209/962-7825; Highway 140, Mariposa or money order. final—you may not switch or change camp- Ranger Station (Sierra N.F.) 209/966-3638; Electrical extension cords may not be con- sites after you arrive in the park. Maximum Highway 120 East, Mono Lake Ranger nected to campground restroom outlets.

) OIL (B RILL G IDING PACES EARBY R ALLEY * EARBY EARBY N V /S ATER N N EE W OILETS ABLES PACE ATER T LLOWED TATION ITES F T ITS OR S PACE S OILETS A S W T P ILES FROM LEVATION OSEMITE OF AILY ENT AP TREAM LUSH IT ICNIC IRE ETS UMP ARKING HOWERS AUNDRY ROCERIES WIMMING ISHING ORSEBACK CAMPGROUND E M Y # D RV S T T S F P P F P D P S L G S F H NOTES** IN YOSEMITE VALLEY

Open April-September NORTH PINES 4,000' 0 81 $15/s 1,220 m Reservations required Open All Year UPPER PINES 4,000' 0 238 $15/s 1,220 m Reservations required Open mid March-October LOWER PINES 4,000' 0 60 $15/s 1,220 m Reservations required Open All Year/Walk-In CAMP 4 WALK-IN 4,000' 0 35 $3/p First-come, first-served (Sunnyside) 1,220 m Limited parking

OUTSIDE YOSEMITE VALLEY WAWONA Open All Year Wawona Road 4,000' 27 93 $15/s Reservations required (Highway 41) 1,220 m May-Sept. ($15); First-come, near Wawona first-served Oct.-April ($10) BRIDALVEIL CREEK 7,200' 25 110 $10/s Open July-early Sept. Glacier Point Road 2,194 m First-come, first-served HODGDON MEADOW Open All Year Big Oak Flat Road 4,872' 25 105 $15/s Reservations required 1,484 m (Hwy. 120 west near May-Sept. ($15); First-come, Big Oak Flat Entrance) first-served Oct.-April ($10)

CRANE FLAT Open June-September Big Oak Flat Rd. near 6,191' 17 166 $15/s Reservations required the Tioga Road turnoff 1,886 m TAMARACK FLAT Open July-early Sept. 6,315' 23 52 $6/s Tioga Road Three-mile access road not 1,924 m (Highway 120 east) suitable for large RVs or trailers. First-come, first-served

WHITE WOLF 8,000' 31 74 $10/s Open July-early Sept. Tioga Road 2,437 m First-come, first-served (Highway 120 east) Not suitable for RVs over 30’ YOSEMITE CREEK Open July-early Sept. 7,659' 35 75 $6/s Tioga Road Five-mile access road not suit- 2,333 m (Highway 120 east) able for large RVs or trailers First-come, first-served Open July-early Sept. PORCUPINE FLAT Tioga Road 8,100' 38 52 $6/s RV access front section only 2,468 m (Highway 120 east) First-come, first-served

TUOLUMNE MEADOWS Open July through Sept. 8,600' 55 304 $15/s 1 Tioga Road 2⁄ advanced reservations, 2,620 m 1 (Highway 120 east) 2⁄ same-day reservations. 25 walk-in spaces available for backpackers/campers without vehicles */s = per site **Dates approximate /p = per person 4 HIKINGHIKING && BACKPACKINGBACKPACKING

SPRING IN THE WILDERNESS

Spring wilderness users will find lower Maximum group size is 15 people for trailhead quota system which limits the elevations a little soggy with a new crop of trail travel and 8 people for off-trail number of people who may begin Watch wildflowers waiting for the warmth of the travel. overnight hikes from each trailhead, each sun. Some trails will be open and clear, but Check current weather conditions and day. This system is designed to avoid hikers should remember that most of forecasts prior to your trip. Be prepared overcrowding and to reduce impacts to Your Step! Yosemite’s trails rise rapidly from spring for sudden extreme changes in weather. wilderness areas. At least 40% of each thaw to deep snow cover into mid-July, trailhead quota is available on a first-come, and unexpected snowstorms can bring Leave an accurate itinerary with first-served basis the day of, or one day snow to lower elevations throughout the friends/family before your trip. Carry a prior to, the beginning of your trip. Permit In 1999, rangers in Yosemite signal mirror and whistle. Don’t go out spring. stations are located in Yosemite Valley at worked on 158 search and alone unless you are very experienced. HIGH WATER/STREAM CROSSINGS the Wilderness Center, Wawona, Big Oak rescue operations. Nine people During the spring and early summer, Carry plenty of food and water. You will Flat, Hetch Hetchy, and Tuolumne died in the park due to need to eat and drink more in cold Meadows. (Through May 26, there will be melting snow and ice will cause high water accidents. levels and swift currents in rivers and weather. limited access to trails departing from streams. Do not underestimate the power Be prepared for an emergency bivouac O’Shaugnessy Dam due to construction on Tripping and falling are common of rushing water—it can be deadly. When even when out just for the day. Be the Hetch Hetchy Road.) Call 209/372- accidents on park walkways and crossing an unbridged creek, look for a familiar with your gear and carry 0200 or go to the wilderness web site for natural bridge of logs or rocks. Be careful— minimum repair materials. open permit station locations and hours. trails, especially in slippery they can be extremely slippery. If none are Permits are also available by advance conditions. Prevent hypothermia. Avoid the reservation. available, cross in a wide shallow spot that combination of wetness, wind and cold. ❖ is not above rapids or falls. Unbuckle your Know symptoms and treatment PROTECT YOSEMITE’S WILDERNESS At night, artificial lighting is kept to a waist strap, use a long stick for stability, methods. Carry emergency fire starting Pack out all trash and toilet paper/sanitary and face upstream while crossing. Do not materials. products. minimum; always carry a flashlight. tie yourself into “safety ropes”—they can Use gas stoves rather than wood fires. ❖ drown you. Trail maps, hiking guides, and other literature may be obtained at visitor centers Store food in bear-resistant food storage Rock climbing and scrambling PLAN CAREFULLY or ordered from the Yosemite Bookstore, canisters. Bears can be active year-round. Use topographic maps and guidebooks to are the leading causes of injury P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318, plan your trip. Carry a “topo” map and Camp in an existing, well-used campsite and death for unprepared and 209/379-2648 or fax 209/379-2486. at least 100 feet from water. You must be compass and know how to use them. inexperienced hikers. Routes are WILDERNESS PERMITS 4 miles from any populated area and 1 Choose a reasonable route. Cold and Free wilderness permits are required year- mile from any road before camping. often more difficult than they altitude can sap energy. Allow plenty of appear, and even a short fall can round for all overnight trips into Bring a container to carry water to your time for rest, food storage, and campsite Yosemite’s wilderness. They are not cause serious injury or death. Before selection. camp from lakes or streams. required for day hikes. Yosemite uses a you scramble or climb on Yosemite’s Purify all drinking water—boil for 3-5 rocks or walls, provide yourself with minutes, use a Giardia-rated filter or an iodine-based chemical treatment for proper equipment and training. WILDERNESS PERMIT RESERVATIONS effective results. ❖

Do all washing at least 100 feet from any Swift currents and wet, slippery water source or trail. Wilderness users who plan to enjoy Yosemite’s beautiful high country during the rocks can cause you to fall and be peak season (May through September) are encouraged to make permit reservations. Dispose of human waste in a small hole swept over a waterfall. Never swim at least 100 feet from water and trail. Call 209/372-0200 for the latest information. Currently, reservations are available from or wade in streams above waterfalls 24 weeks to 2 days in advance of the trip start date, and can be made by writing to Pets and weapons are prohibited. or in swiftly moving water. Wilderness Permits, P.O. Box 545, Yosemite, CA 95389, or by calling 209/372-0740. Bicycles, strollers, and moter vehicles are Include the following in your request: name, address, daytime phone, number of never allowed on Yosemite’s hiking ❖ people in the party, method of travel (i.e., ski, snowshoe, foot, horse), number of trails. Any unbridged stream crossing may stock (if applicable), start and end dates, entry and exit trailheads, and principal destination. Include alternate dates and/or trailheads. be hazardous. If a bridge is not A $5 per person non-refundable processing fee is charged for all reservation nearby and you must cross, do so at requests. Payment by check or money order should be made to the Yosemite For wilderness information, a wide, shallow spot that is not Association. Credit card payments are accepted with valid card number and call 209/372-0200 or go to above rapids or waterfalls. expiration date. www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness ❖ Reservation phone lines are often busy. We encourage you to make your request in writing. Mailed requests are processed simultaneously with phone requests. Supervise children closely when around all bodies of water. 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 1 mile to lake Easy 1/2 hour to lake Vehicle access available Shuttle Stop #17 (1.6 km) with placard

LOWER YOSEMITE FALL Yosemite Falls 1/2 mile round trip Easy 20 minutes round trip with assistance Shuttle Stop #7 (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 #8 (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 Winter route available

TOP OF VERNAL FALL 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 NEVADA FALL Same as above 7 miles round trip Strenuous 6 to 8 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 mid- (27.4 km) 4,800' (1,463 m) elevation gain October; otherwise cable route is closed

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

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

HIKE AND LEARN On The IN YOSEMITE MESSAGE FROM THE Yosemite Field Seminars (through the Web SUPERINTENDENT Yosemite Association) offers excellent outdoor courses for adults and families in Welcome to Yosemite! botany, geology, astronomy, human The National Park Service is the agency of your history, wildlife, ecology, photography, The official Yosemite NPS Home Page federal government dedicated to preserving our painting, and nature writing. Most classes (www.nps.gov/yose/) contains the latest nation’s heritage. Our mission was set by Congress involve day hiking, or you can venture in 1916: park information. into Yosemite’s wilderness on one of “to conserve the scenery and the natural and several backpack trips (beginning through ❖ historic objects and the wild life therein and to advanced levels). provide for the enjoyment of the same in such There are over 65 seminars listed in the Camping reservations can now manner and by such means as will leave them new 2000 catalog. Call or write for your be made online from 7:00 a.m. unimpaired for the enjoyment of future copy and sign up soon. Classes take place to 7:00 p.m. Pacific time generations…” from February through October, and many participants return year after year. (reservations.nps.gov). Fulfilling that mission is a challenge in any of our nation’s 380 national Seminars include free camping, or if you parks, monuments, and historic sites. It is particularly difficult in an ❖ prefer, room reservations can be made for amazing place like Yosemite. But, you can help us! an additional cost. A sampling includes: The Yosemite Association’s Yosemite Spring and early summer are special times to be here. And this spring, we will release a draft plan for how to make a visit to Yosemite, and Spring Foothill Wildflower Walks Online (yosemite.org) features visitor especially the Valley, a more enjoyable experience. The Draft Yosemite Geologic Wonders of Yosemite information, a bookstore, a listing of Valley Plan will be released for public review in early April and will be Miwok Ethnobotany outdoor classes, membership news, open for comments until early July. This plan has several different Sketching Yosemite History the daily weather forecast, a live- alternatives that will allow us to provide for your enjoyment of Yosemite, but in a manner that leaves the scenery, the natural and historic resources, Writing Wawona’s Wonders camera view of Half Dome and and the park’s wildlife “unimpaired” so that future visitors may enjoy Lyell Canyon Introductory Backpack Yosemite Valley, and even a 3-D Yosemite too. Summer Family Day Hike Adventures QuickTime video of Yosemite Valley. This Yosemite Guide has a host of information to help your visit be more The Yosemite Association is an enjoyable. The center insert contains information on the Draft Yosemite ❖ educational, non-profit organization that Valley Plan and how you can find out more about the issues. Whether you publishes books, videos, maps, and other care about how we should manage traffic in the future, what facilities The Yosemite Fund Home Page publications. It has a supportive should be provided or removed, or how to restore the Valley to its previous membership of 8,300 individuals. (www.yosemitefund.org) frequently has more wild and scenic splendor, you can make a difference by telling us View the Yosemite Field Seminar project updates with photographs what you think during the public comment period. Beginning in April, that 2000 catalog on the Yosemite online. The site currently features opportunity will be available to you while you’re in the park. The Guide Association’s web site: yosemite.org provides a brief overview of the plan, lists where to drop off your photos of the restoration work at Call for a free catalog: 209/379-2321 comments, and where to get more information during your visit. or write Yosemite Field Seminars, Glacier Point. Other features include Yosemite is important to all of us. I hope you’ll take a moment to let us P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318 “Wild Card,” “Waterfalls,” and “Tips know what you think. It’s a way you can help preserve Yosemite for future For Travelers,” along with current generations. donation information. Sincerely, GET INVOLVED! ❖ You are invited to take part in the park’s planning processes. To make comments The Yosemite Concession Services David A. Mihalic on a park plan, to find out more, or to get on the planning mailing list: Page (www.yosemitepark.com) features Visit Yosemite’s Planning web page at www.nps.gov/yose/planning 200 pages of information on lodging, E-mail your request to [email protected] shopping, dining, and park activities Write to Yosemite Planning, Yosemite National Park, P.O. Box 577, with links to other Yosemite-related Yosemite, CA 95389 web sites. It also includes a live- camera view of Half Dome, online gift shop, and off-season lodging US F K IDS reservations. J T OR ❖

The Ansel Adams Gallery site (www.anseladams.com) features BECOME A fine art photography, gifts, calendar JUNIOR/SENIOR of events, and photos of Yosemite and RANGER! Mono Lake. ❖ Learn about Yosemite while having fun and earn a Junior YATI, Yosemite Area Traveller (ages 8-10) or Senior (ages 11- 12) Ranger patch. Pick up a Information (www.yosemite.com), Junior/Senior Ranger activity web site contains the latest informa- paper at the Valley Visitor Cen- tion on an 11,000-square-mile area ter (there is a $3 fee). Junior/ Senior Rangers are required to containing and surrounding A Lyell Glacier survey marker. attend one guided program, Yosemite. Includes lodging informa- pick up one bag of trash, and tion, travel advisories, and road and complete the activity paper. weather conditions. Collect your trash (recycle what you can!) and deposit it in one ❖ CLASSROOMS IN THE PARK of the bear-proof dumpsters located throughout the park. The Yosemite Institute’s home page Yosemite National Park is the ideal out- resources. Fall visits feature a Miwok Indian Before the guided program (www.yni.org) describes its residential, door classroom for exploring natural and theme. Reservations can be made begin- begins, tell the presenter that in-park field-science program for ele- cultural history. Yosemite’s Parks As Class- ning June 1. Class size is limited to 35 you are working on a Junior or rooms program coordinates with the students, although it may be possible to mentary, middle, and high school Senior Ranger patch. When you California State Curriculum Framework for schedule 2 classes the same day. have the requirements checked students, and post-visit challenge upper elementary grades and offers ranger- For further information regarding off (your parents can check off units. led field trips. Each program lasts 1 to 2 this and other National Park Service that you picked up trash), bring hours. Park entrance fees are waived for the education programs, contact the the completed activity paper visit. Education Office at 209/375-9505, and check-off sheet to the Val- These programs emphasize the National or visit the web site at ley Visitor Center to redeem Park Service message of protection and www.nps.gov/yose/teach.htm them for your patch. preservation of natural and cultural

6 NATURENATURENATURE NOTESNOTESNOTES Fire Safety GEOLOGISTS DISAGREE: MUIR VS. WHITNEY

Nineteenth-century scientists were puz- his own. He, too, was fascinated with the zled by Yosemite Valley’s origin as many geologic history of Yosemite Valley. Muir Each year campfires, cigarettes, first-time visitors are today. Their efforts to advanced the hypothesis that it was the and human carelessness cause explain what they saw resulted in a variety action of glaciers, an “over-sweeping ice unwanted fires in Yosemite. of theories about the creation of the Valley’s current,” that had carved the Yosemite sheer walls and spectacular waterfalls. landscape. He worked to popularize the These fires can be prevented by Josiah D. Whitney was the State Geologist theory and it came to be known as following a few simple rules. for California and Director of the California “Muir’s discovery.” Geological Survey who made many of the Whitney was not impressed nor con- AMPFIRES first studies of Yosemite during the 1860s. vinced. He characterized Muir’s ideas C In his view, Yosemite Valley had not been as absurd, and passed them off as the Build small campfires using only formed by erosion or glaciation or any other ravings of a “mere shepherd.” Doggedly, established campfire rings. Be aware traditional geologic force. He believed that a Whitney defended his “cataclysm” theory of conditions such as weather and valley so deep could only have been created for some twenty years until his death. by a sudden, catastrophic collapse of that While Muir was not exactly correct in his items nearby that could accidentally section of the earth below it. Because Whit- explanation of the work of the glaciers, he catch fire. Never leave a fire ney was an accomplished Harvard professor was remarkably close. Later studies proved unattended. Put out campfires with quite a reputation as a scholar and sci- the basic soundness of this theory and From The Complete Guidebook to by stirring with water a half hour entist, his theory gained some acceptance. helped establish John Muir’s reputation Yosemite National Park by Steven P. At about the same time, mountain wan- as a thoughtful and insightful student Medley, available at all Yosemite Bookstores before you leave the site, and derer John Muir was making observations of of the Sierra. and retail outlets throughout the park. remember to carefully feel charred material to make certain the fire is out. See page 4 for campfire rules. ❖

PORTABLE CAMPING STOVES Refuel stoves only when they are cold and in a well-ventilated area. ❖

CHARCOAL BRIQUETTES Because charcoal uses oxygen rapidly, you should never use it in At least one or more glacial advances filled The Tioga Glaciation, 30,000 years ago. Glaciers recede, leaving, “Lake Yosemite” confined spaces, such as tents or Yosemite Valley to its brim, 1 million to 10,000 years ago. 250,000 years ago. vehicles. After use, dunk charcoal briquettes in water until cold. Check them carefully. Never empty hot or warm briquettes in trash dumpsters. SPRING RUNOFF—SPECTACULAR, BUT DANGEROUS ❖ The water level of rivers and Melted snow-water is cold! Hypothermia streams depends on snow-melt, can be a serious result of continuous CIGARETTES and during warm weather can cold water contact; don’t venture into increase quickly in both depth water until it warms up, later in the Never smoke while walking or in and speed. A placid stream early summer. an area with flammable materials. in the morning may be a raging Rafting and boating are prohibited Crush butts completely before torrent by late afternoon. High during periods of high water (see article throwing them into a garbage water is expected throughout on page 2 for rafting regulations). spring runoff. can. Never drop cigarettes on the Don’t underestimate the ground or throw them out of a danger and power of moving car window. water in all parts of Yosemite. Here are some guidelines for safe recreation and hiking: SAFE DRINKING WATER Stay back from stream and riverbanks and avoid “rock Giardiasis is an intestinal disease caused by Giardia lamblia, a pro- hopping.” Rocks near the tozoan. Associated symptoms include chronic diarrhea, abdominal water’s edge can be cramps, bloating, fatigue, and loss of weight. Treatment by a dangerously slippery. physician is necessary to kill the organism. Giardia lamblia is carried by humans as well as some domestic Supervise children closely and wild animals, and may contaminate lakes and streams. When- when around ALL bodies ever possible, only tap water should be used for drinking. If using of water. surface water or melted snow, treat by boiling for 5 minutes or by Hikers and backpackers: using a Giardia-rated water filter. If used properly, an iodine- Choose routes carefully. based purifier is another alternative. Use extreme caution when The National Park Service is working with the U.S. Environ- crossing streams which can mental Protection Agency and the California Department of Health be exceptionally hazardous. Services to develop a program to ensure that the drinking water in Yosemite is protected. The program, one of the first in California, will be based on an assessment of potential threats to water sources.

TICK-BORNE DISEASES

Be aware that ticks may exist in the park, The Lyell Glacier, headwaters of the Lyell Fork of the and consult your doctor if you believe Tuolumne River. Photo by Kristina Rylands you’ve been bitten. If you are diagnosed with Lyme disease or relapsing fever, and you believe you got it in Yosemite, have your doctor contact the Park Sanitarian at 209/379-1033.

7 PLANNINGPLANNINGPLANNING

AREAS TO VISIT IN YO

TRANSPORTATION To and From Yosemite YOSEMITE VALLEY VIA The Yosemite Connection / Gray Line Yosemite Valley is world famous for its What is the 209/384-1315 or in CA 800/369-PARK impressive waterfalls, cliffs, and unusual rock www.via-adventures.com formations. It is generally open year-round and may be reached via Highway 41 from best way FRESNO — Fresno, Highway 140 from Merced (see Service between Fresno/Yosemite Inter- “Important Road Information” on page 9), national Airport and Fresno hotels to Highway 120 from Manteca, and in late Yosemite Valley, seasonally (May 15 - spring through late fall via the Tioga Road to visit (Highway 120) from Lee Vining. Many October 31). Wheelchair-lift equipped with activities and services are available in advance notice. Schedule, prices, and Yosemite Valley. Detailed information on Yosemite? reservations available by calling VIA or by Yosemite Valley is available at the Yosemite visiting their web site. Valley Visitor Center in Yosemite Village. See map on the back panel, and for scheduled MERCED — Valley activities, see pages 10-11. Service from Merced Amtrak Station and There is no “best way” to visit the Transpo Center to Yosemite Valley Visitor park. Your experience in Yosemite Center and Yosemite Lodge. Deluxe coaches MARIPOSA GROVE depends on the time you have provide several round-trips daily between Merced and Yosemite. Wheelchair-lift AND WAWONA available and your interests. Many equipped with advance notice. Schedules The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias 1 fine maps and books are sold in visitor available at Yosemite Lodge tour desk, is located 36 miles (1 ⁄4 hours) south of Yosemite Valley via the Wawona Road Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, or by calling centers and park stores to help plan (Highway 41), 2 miles from the park’s South VIA or visiting their web site. Tickets can be Entrance Station. The road to the Mariposa your visit. Publications such as purchased from drivers. Grove is not plowed in winter and is subject to closure for extended periods. Activities Yosemite’s Official Park Handbook, The Yosemite Area Regional Trans- portation System (YARTS) will begin include hiking, ranger-led walks, and tram published by the National Park tours of the Grove (weather permitting) late transit service May 19, with trips originating spring through fall. (Road work scheduled for Service, or The Yosemite Visitor’s Kit are from Mariposa, Merced, and Mono Counties. the Mariposa Grove may reduce or eliminate Passengers can purchase round-trip tickets on tram operations.) Trail brochures, printed in available at visitor centers, gift shops, tour-style coaches at reasonable prices. YARTS English, French, Japanese, and Spanish are or by mail from the Yosemite available at the Grove trailhead. To reduce offers a choice to travelers in the region who traffic congestion and avoid parking Association Bookstore, P.O. Box 230, would rather ride on a bus from outlying com- delays, ride the free shuttle bus (spring munities to Yosemite Valley than drive their through fall) from Wawona to the Grove. El Portal, CA 95318, 209/379-2648, vehicles into Yosemite National Park. Buses run The Pioneer Yosemite History Center in Wawona is a collection of historic buildings fax 209/379-2486, yosemite.org. at hours most convenient to park visitors and associated with people and events that provide seamless service with the existing Remember that road and trail shaped the national park idea in Yosemite. shuttle bus system within the park. Schedules Interpretive signs and a brochure provide a conditions and available services may are available throughout the park, beginning self-guiding tour of the Center year-round. in May. For additional information, call toll See page 12 for activities and additional change with the weather. For information about Wawona and the free 877/99-YARTS, (beginning March 20), or Mariposa Grove. current conditions and general visit www.yosemite.com/yarts. information, call 209/372-0200. Within Yosemite Free shuttle bus service is provided through-out GLACIER POINT the eastern portion of Yosemite Glacier Point, an overlook with a Valley year-round. In summer, free commanding view of Yosemite Valley, EN shuttle buses run from Wawona to Half Dome, and the High Sierra, is located the Mariposa Grove, and from 30 miles (1 hour) from Yosemite Valley. ENTRANCE FEES The view from Glacier Point provides an Tioga Pass to Tenaya Lake. Hik- opportunity to see Yosemite Valley from its ers’ buses run daily to Glacier Point rim. From Yosemite Valley, take the Wawona THE PARK IS OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, late spring through autumn and Road (Highway 41) 14 miles to the Chinquapin YEAR-ROUND. between Tuolumne Meadows and junction, then turn left onto the Glacier Point Road. The road ends at Glacier Point. (fees subject to change) Yosemite Valley late June through The Glacier Point Road is generally open Labor Day. Call 209/372-1240 for from late spring through late fall. In winter, TYPE PRICE NOTES hikers’ bus fee, schedule, and reser- the road is plowed only as far as the Badger vations, or stop by any tour desk. Pass Ski Area; Glacier Point can be reached Vehicle $20 Valid for 7 days. via skis or snowshoes only.

Individual $10 In a bus, on foot, bicycle, motorcycle, LODGING or horse. Valid for Highway 132/49 7 days. Reservations for all overnight lodging in LODGING Yosemite can be made by calling 559/252- Coulterville Visitor Center Yosemite Pass $40 Valid for 1 year in 4848 or by writing to Central Reservations, AND ACTIVITIES P.O. Box 333 5007 Main Street Yosemite. Yosemite Concession Services, 5410 East OUTSIDE THE PARK Coulterville, CA 95311 Home, Fresno, CA 93727. Lodging in Golden Eagle Pass $50 Valid for 1 year in 209/878-3074 all national parks. Yosemite Valley includes Curry Village, YATI (Yosemite Area Traveller Information) Housekeeping Camp, Yosemite Lodge, 369 W. 18th Street Highway 140/49 Golden Age Pass $10 For U.S. citizens and The Ahwahnee. Lodging outside Merced, CA 95340 Mariposa Visitor Center (Lifetime) or permanent Yosemite Valley includes the Wawona www.yosemite.com (also info. for Fish Camp, Wawona, Yosemite West) residents 62 and P.O. Box 425 Hotel, and in summer, White Wolf Lodge West Highway 120 over. 5158 Highway 140 and Tuolumne Meadows Lodge. Rates Highway 120 Chamber of Commerce Mariposa, CA 95338 range from $45 per night for a basic tent Golden Access Pass Free For blind or P.O. Box 1263 800/208-2434 or 209/966-2456 cabin with nearby bathroom, to $265.50 (Lifetime) permanently Hotel Charlotte, Suite B mariposa.yosemite.net/visitor disabled U.S. per night for a room at The Ahwahnee Groveland, CA 95321 citizens or (rates are subject to change). Reservations 800/449-9120 or 209/962-0429 East Highway 120 permanent Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce are highly recommended and may be Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau residents. made up to 1 year and 1 day in advance. and Mono Lake Visitor Center P.O. Box 4020 P.O. Box 130 55 West Stockton Street Highway 395 and 3rd Street Sonora, CA 95370 Lee Vining, CA 93541 In 1995, Congress approved the Recreation Fee 800/446-1333 or 209/533-4420 760/647-6629 Demonstration Program which authorized the www.thegreatunfenced.com www.leevining.com UserFee National Park Service (NPS) to temporarily raise Highway 41 entrance fees in several parks to fund projects that Yosemite Sierra Visitor Services for deaf visitors will be available during the improves this park directly benefit park users. Through September Bureau 1999, Yosemite National Park has collected approx- 40637 Highway 41 summer months, June through August. For further imately $35 million from this user fee. Eighty percent of these fees remain in Yosemite to help Oakhurst, CA 93644 information or to request an interpreter for specific fund maintenance, visitor services, and natural restoration projects. The other 20% helps fund 559/683-4636 dates during the late spring and summer, call 209/372- projects at many NPS sites which do not charge user fees. www.sierranet.net/~ysvb 4726 (TDD) between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. daily, or Yosemite projects include installing new signs; purchasing alternative-fuel shuttle buses write to: Deaf Services Program, Valley Interpretation, for use in Yosemite Valley; rehabilitating campgrounds, amphitheaters, and sewer systems P.O. Box 577, Yosemite, CA 95389. The TDD number park-wide; repairing park trails; and maintenance projects to preserve and protect historic prop- for lodging reservations is 559/255-8345. The TDD erties and natural resources throughout the park. number for campground reservations is 888/530-9796. Campground reservations can be made online at reservations.nps.gov between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Pacific time. 8 YOURYOURYOUR VISITVISITVISIT

EMITE NATIONAL PARK

(spring through fall). Two-hour moonlight tours Who To CRANE FLAT Call... Crane Flat is a pleasant forest and meadow area located 16 miles from Yosemite Valley at the junction of the Big Oak Flat Road and the INFORMATION Tioga Road. To see giant sequoias, park at the Tuolumne Grove parking area located on the Recorded General Park Tioga Road (Highway 120), and walk 1 mile Information including: down to the Tuolumne Grove of Giant Road & Weather Conditions, Sequoias. In winter, snowshoes or cross- show Yosemite in a different light during country skis may be needed. For activities Trip Planning Information, etc. and area information, see page 12. summer months. In winter, tours are con- 209/372-0200 ducted on heated and enclosed motor Or take a 4-mile round-trip hike or ski into Western U.S. National Parks the Merced Grove of Giant Sequoias, located coaches; stops are made at the best-known 415/556-0560 3.5 miles north of Crane Flat or 4.5 miles scenic locations in Yosemite Valley. There is south of the Big Oak Flat entrance along the a fee for all sightseeing tours. For reservations On the Web (see page 2) Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 West). The trailhead is marked by a post labeled B-10 and and more information, call 209/372-1240 NPS Home Page a road sign. or stop by any hotel tour desk. www.nps.gov/yose/ Yosemite Concession Services RECREATION www.yosemitepark.com Camping Reservations Bicycling More than 12 miles of paved reservations.nps.gov bikeways wind through the eastern end of Yosemite Valley. Weather permitting, Yosemite Area Traveller Info. TIOGA ROAD rental bikes, baby jogging strollers, and www.yosemite.com AND TUOLUMNE bicycle child trailers are available at Yosemite Association MEADOWS Yosemite Lodge (all seasons) and Curry yosemite.org Village (summer). Check with rental agent Yosemite Institute The Tioga Road is generally open from late for restrictions on rental bike use. www.yni.org spring through late fall and offers a 39-mile scenic drive through forests and past meadows, Yosemite Fund lakes, and granite domes. The road’s elevation Bike Rules www.yosemitefund.org ranges from 6,200 feet at Crane Flat to 9,900 For your safety and to protect Yosemite feet at Tioga Pass. There are many scenic and The Ansel Adams Gallery recreational opportunities in these areas. National Park, please follow these www.anseladams.com rules: Check visitor centers and park bulletin boards VIA/Gray Line for updated information on available services California law mandates bicyclists under www.via-adventures.com and activities. From late fall through late 18 years of age wear helmets. spring, this area is only accessible by cross- country skis or snowshoes. Bikes are allowed only on paved bikeways and park roads (unless the road is closed RESERVATIONS to bicycle use). All bikes are prohibited from pedestrian Lodging Reservations and hiking trails and off roads. 559/252-4848 TDD 559/255-8345 Bicyclists must obey all posted traffic signs and travel with the flow of traffic when on Campground Reservations (callers from U.S. and Canada) ETCH ETCHY roadways used by automobiles. H H Bicycles are not allowed in the construc- 800/436-7275 TDD 888/530-9796 Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, a source of tion zone on El Portal Road. drinking water for the city of San Francisco, Campground Reservations is also home to spectacular scenery and the starting point for many less-used backcoun- Horseback Riding Weather and trail (International callers only) try trails. Towering cliffs and high waterfalls conditions permitting, 2-hour and half-day 301/722-1257 are easily seen from the walkway on top of rides depart from stables in O’Shaughnessy Dam. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is located 40 miles from Yosemite Valley via Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Mead- Highway 120 and Evergreen and Hetch ows, and Wawona spring through AVERAGE PRECIPITATION Hetchy Roads. Vehicles over 25 feet are fall. Call 209/372-8348 for infor- AND TEMPERATURES prohibited on the road due to its narrowness. mation or see page 15. The Hetch Hetchy Road will be under IN YOSEMITE VALLEY construction through May 26 2000. The road (4,000 FT/1,220 M)* will be closed on weekdays (Monday through Hiking & Backpacking Friday) and on some weekends. See “Impor- Yosemite offers over 800 miles MONTH PRECIPITATION MAXIMUM MINIMUM tant Road Information” below. of hiking trails park-wide. For (inches/cm) (F°/C°) (F°/C°) updated trail information, visit January 6.2/15.7 49/9 26/-3 the Wilderness Center in February 6.1/15.5 55/13 28/-2 Yosemite Valley or call 209/372- March 5.2/13.2 59/15 31/-0 Vining Chamber of Commerce 0200. Wilderness permits are April 3.0/7.6 65/18 35/2 and Mono Lake Visitor Center required for overnight back- May 1.3/3.3 73/23 42/5 P.O. Box 130 country users. For wilderness June 0.7/1.8 82/28 48/9 Highway 395 and 3rd Street Lee Vining, CA 93541 permit information and reserva- July 0.4/1.0 90/32 54/12 760/647-6629 tions, call 209/372-0740. For August 0.3/0.8 90/32 53/11 www.leevining.com some ideas on hiking, as well as September 0.9/2.3 87/30 47/8 information about backpacking, October 2.1/5.3 74/23 39/4 see page 5. November 5.5/14 58/14 31/-0 December 5.6/14.2 48/9 26/-3 Rock Climbing Classes VISITOR CENTERS VISITOR ACTIVITIES Annual 37.3/94.7 The Yosemite Mountaineering *For temperatures at 8,000 feet (2,440 m), subtract 10-20 degrees. The four visitor centers in Yosemite National Park School and Guide Service offers PROGRAMS AND EXHIBITS are excellent resources for park information, Naturalist-guided walks and programs as well as self- wilderness permits, and park-related publications guided walks are available. Cultural history and handouts. demonstrations of basket-weaving, beadwork, IMPORTANT ROAD YOSEMITE VALLEY VISITOR CENTER or traditional games are offered at the Indian Cultural INFORMATION Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. See page 10 Exhibit in Yosemite Valley. Other exhibits are in for more information. the Valley Visitor Center, Yosemite Museum, Nature Construction and restoration projects will be ongoing in several Center at Happy Isles (summer), LeConte Memorial locations throughout the park. Specifically, you can expect roadwork BIG OAK FLAT INFORMATION STATION Lodge (summer), Wilderness Center, and The Ansel along the 6.4-mile section of the El Portal Road (Highway 140) March 24 to April 30, open Thursday through Adams Gallery. Check park visitor centers and bul- between El Portal and the Big Oak Flat Road intersection, and along Monday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for letin boards for additional information, and see the Hetch Hetchy Road. Both roads were severely damaged by flood- lunch); open daily beginning May 1. See page activities listed on pages 10-12. 12 for more information. ing in January 1997. During construction you may experience rough roads, flagging operations, traffic delays, or restricted access. WAWONA INFORMATION STATION TOURS For current road information and access schedules, Open for the season May 12, daily 8:00 a.m. to For a relaxing and informative experience, take a check at any ranger station or visitor center, or call 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch). See page 12 for sightseeing tour on a bus or open-air tram (weather 209/372-0200 (recorded information). For additional infor- permitting). These tours, narrated by knowledge- more information. mation on driving in Yosemite, see “Drive Safely” on page 3. able guides, operate daily to most points of interest TUOLUMNE MEADOWS VISITOR CENTER in the park, including Yosemite Valley (year-round), After the Tioga Road opens for the season Tuolumne Meadows (summer), Glacier Point, beginner through advanced classes in Yosemite in late May or early June, open daily 9:00 Wawona, and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Valley spring through fall, and in Tuolumne ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES

YOSEMITE VALLEY

VALLEY VISITOR CENTER INDIAN VILLAGE OF AHWAHNEE LECONTE MEMORIAL LODGE Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in Yosemite Village Located behind the Yosemite Museum and always open. There Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. just west of the main post office (shuttle bus stops #6 and #9). is sometimes the opportunity to join Indian Cultural Program (beginning May 3). Located at shuttle stop #12. The LeConte Information, maps, wilderness permits (until April), books, staff for demonstrations or programs about Ahwahneechee skills Memorial Lodge, Yosemite’s first public visitor center, is exhibits, and a multilingual One Day in Yosemite program. and culture. operated by the Sierra Club and features a children’s corner, library, and a variety of environmental education and evening YOSEMITE MUSEUM programs. For more information on programs, see activities Located in Yosemite Village next to the Visitor Center. SELF-GUIDING TRAILS scheduled below, bulletin boards at the LeConte Memorial, There are four self-guiding trails in Yosemite Valley: two near campgrounds, Valley Visitor Center, and post office. You may NDIAN ULTURAL EXHIBIT I C the Visitor Center in the Yosemite Village area, one at the east also call 209/372-4542. Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch). Displays end of the Valley near Mirror Lake, and one in Curry Village. interpret the cultural history of Yosemite’s native Miwok and Paiute people from 1850 to the present. Demonstrations of The Miwok in Yosemite is a short loop trail that winds through basket-weaving, beadwork, and/or traditional games are the Indian Village of Ahwahnee, a reconstructed Miwok- NATURE CENTER AT HAPPY ISLES presented. This exhibit may be under construction in Paiute village. A booklet is available at the trailhead and in Open daily (beginning May 12) 10:00 a.m. to noon and 12:30 March and April. Check the Visitor Center for a schedule the Visitor Center. Large print materials are available in the p.m. to 4:00 p.m. This family-oriented nature center includes of Indian Cultural Demonstrations if the museum Visitor Center for the visually impaired. The trail begins wildlife dioramas, tracking tips, interactive exhibits, and four building is closed. behind the Yosemite Museum. different environments: forest, river, talus, and fen. You can also see substantial evidence of the huge 1996 rockfall from the Changing Yosemite is a 1-mile trail that begins in front of the Glacier Point cliff far above the Nature Center. The Center is a THE ANSEL ADAMS GALLERY Visitor Center, near shuttle bus stop #6. It winds through a short walk from shuttle bus stop #16. Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. nearby meadow and explores the changes that have led to (beginning May 1). Located in Yosemite Village next to the the Yosemite we experience today. A booklet is available at Visitor Center. The Gallery offers works of Ansel Adams and the trailhead, and large print materials are available for the YOSEMITE CEMETERY contemporary photographers, local handicrafts, gifts, film, visually impaired at the Visitor Center. books, digital photography services, camera rentals, and more. This historic cemetery is located across the street and just west Monthly photo exhibits. For information, call the Gallery at Mirror Lake Interpretive Trail is a short loop adjacent to Mirror of the Yosemite Museum. People buried here include Native 209/372-4413 or visit their web site at www.anseladams.com. Lake, a seasonal lake on Tenaya Creek. Exhibits focus on the Americans, casual park visitors, and people who played rich natural history of the area, Native American use, and important roles in the development of what is now Yosemite history of this popular destination. To reach the start of the National Park. A Guide to the Yosemite Cemetery is available at the WILDERNESS CENTER trail, walk 1 mile from shuttle bus stop #17 to the disabled Valley Visitor Center. Open daily (beginning April 7) 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in parking spaces near the lake. The self-guiding trail begins Yosemite Village between The Ansel Adams Gallery and the post here. office. One-stop resource for backpackers in need of wilderness permits, maps, bear canisters, and guidebooks. Displays provide Legacy of Curry Village is an easy stroll commemorating the This symbol indicates programs and facilities suitable information on pre-trip planning, minimum impact camping early days of Camp Curry. Pick up a map and guide at the for visitors in wheelchairs, with assistance. techniques, and wilderness preservation issues. Curry Village front desk or tour desk.

WALKS AND TALKS Join a ranger or naturalist for an easy walk to explore Yosemite’s natural and cultural history. Programs are usually offered daily JOHN MUIR IN YOSEMITE PIONEER WOMAN in the mornings. Topics may include geology, ecology, wildlife, EW RODUCTION VISITS YOSEMITE waterfalls, human history, and current park management issues. N P ! Additional walks may be offered when staffing allows. Check The Tramp and The Roughrider Sarah Hawkins invites you to share her fliers at lodging desks and the Visitor Center for additional Join John Muir and experiences as a pioneer woman in her two programs and detailed descriptions. President Theodore performances, Sarah Hawkins Contemplates Professional photographers from The Ansel Adams Gallery Roosevelt at their a Fourth Marriage, Part One and Sarah and Yosemite Concession Services lead camera walks and photo historic meeting at Hawkins: Pickaxes and Petticoats, Part Two. classes. Check below for details and sign-up requirements. Glacier Point! This Actress Connie Stetson portrays the inde- new production, fea- pendent Sarah Hawkins and tells of her EVENING PROGRAMS turing Lee Stetson as wagon train trek, and of her adventures with AND CTIVITIES John Muir, and Doug the gold-seeking 49ers in part one of the A Brennan as President series. Part two continues with more true MUSIC FOR ALL AGES stories of the gold rush and reveals Sarah’s Evening programs include talks, films, slide presentations, Theodore Roosevelt, storytelling, and music about Yosemite’s human and/or natural Come laugh, sing, dance, and listen to Gail illuminates the 1903 answer to heritage. Offered by National Park Service (NPS) rangers, or staff Dreifus and Denise Ludington’s Recycled encounter between Apple from Yosemite Concession Services (YCS), the Sierra Club, String Band as their upbeat, educational pro- these two extraordinary men as they trade Abbott’s Yosemite Institute (YI), and The Ansel Adams Gallery, these grams celebrate Yosemite and the opinions, stories, and adventures, and talk of marriage programs last one hour and are held outdoors (unless otherwise environment. Wild Ecology Tunes will take “doing some forest good.” proposal. noted), weather permitting. you on a musical adventure from Yosemite Parts one to the rain forest, while Yosemite By Song MORE MUIR and two can and Story weaves together many of Actor Lee Stetson’s vibrant portrayal of John be seen in S F I S Yosemite’s highlights, from waterfalls to Muir has enthralled Yosemite visitors for the any order. J U T OR K D black bears. past 16 years. See him in two other perfor- Each show mances this season. Conversation With a Kids love the challenge of a scavenger hunt! Stop by the Curry Each show is is 1 hour. one hour. Tramp is moving performance detailing Tickets are Village front desk or tour desk to take part in a children’s Curry Muir’s action surrounding his spirited Centennial Scavenger Hunt. Pick up a handout and upon Tickets are $6/adult, completion, return it for a commemorative button. $6/adult, defense of Hetch Hetchy Valley. The Spirit $5/senior Hey kids ages 7-12! Send your parents out for the evening $5/senior of John Muir details Muir’s wild side and is (62+), and and enjoy your own “Kid’s Night Out!” The fun includes dinner, (62+), and filled with exciting tales of his mountain $3/children 1 crafts, stories, and games from 6:00 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Saturday $3/children adventures. Each show is 1 ⁄2 hours. Tickets (12 and nights (ends May 20) at Yosemite Lodge. There is a charge for (12 and are $7/adults, $6/senior (62+), under). this program; sign up at any tour desk. Parents must pick up under). and $3/children (12 and under). their children at 7:45 p.m. Junior/Senior Ranger programs are described on page 6.

For the weeks of June 6th-19th, YCS = Yosemite Concession Services Programs listed below in color are especially see local bulletin boards for posted activities. NPS = National Park Service for children and families. YI=Yosemite Institute $ = Program offered for a fee MONDAY WEDNESDAY Programs in shaded boxes below are offered for 8:30 a.m. a fee ($). See Yosemite Theater above for prices. 10:00 a.m. 1 Camera Walk, 2 hours, sign-up/meet at Ahwahnee front desk (YCS) Ranger Walk—Yosemite as Art, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, front of Visitor Center 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. 1 1 Ranger Walk—Yosemite’s Guardians (except May 8), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours TUESDAY Old Yosemite Village History Walk (begins May 24), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Front of Visitor Center 10:00 a.m. Shuttle bus stop #11 (YCS) 1 10:30 a.m. Ranger Walk—Gravity in Control: Yosemite’s Geology, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 7:00 p.m. 1 Ranger Walk—Yosemite’s First People (except May 8), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Shuttle bus stop #7 Animals and Their Senses (May 10 & June 7 only), 1 hour Behind Visitor Center 4:30 p.m. Shuttle bus stop #12, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) 6:30 p.m. Alpenglow Sunset Photo Walk, 2 hours 8:00 p.m. Full Moon Snowshoe Walk (March 20 only), 2 hours Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (YCS) Yosemite Theater—The Tramp and the Roughrider (April 5, 12, 19, 26, 1 Badger Pass Lodge, sign-up required at Yosemite Lodge front desk 5:30 p.m. May 10 & June 14 only), 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center East Auditorium ($) No experience necessary ($3 donation for snowshoes) Spring Twilight Stroll (begins May 16), 1 hour Yosemite Theater—The Spirit of John Muir (May 17, 24, 31 & June 7 only) 1 7:00 p.m. Ahwahnee outdoor patio (YCS) 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center East Auditorium ($) Yosemite Theater—Wild Ecology Tunes (begins May 1; except May 29) 7:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m. 1 hour, Visitor Center West Auditorium ($) Yosemite Theater—Yosemite by Song and Story (April 18 only), 1 hour Old-fashioned Campfire & Sing-along with S’mores (begins May 24) Shows will be performed at Happy Isles campfire circle on June 5, 12 & 19 1 Visitor Center West Auditorium ($) 1 ⁄2 hours, near Curry Village, sign-up/information at any lodge tour desk Yosemite Theater—Yosemite by Song and Story (April 17 only), 1 hour (YCS) ($) Visitor Center West Auditorium ($) 8:00 p.m. Yosemite Theater—The Tramp and the Roughrider (April 4, 11, 18, 25, Evening Program, 1 hour 1 8:00 p.m. May 2, 9 & June 13 only), 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center East Auditorium ($) Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room(YCS) Fireside Storytelling (begins April 10; except March 20; ends May 29), 1 hour Yosemite Theater—Conversation with a Tramp (May 16, 23 & June 6 only) Yosemite Theater—Sarah Hawkins: Pickaxes and Petticoats, Part 2 Ahwahnee Great Lounge fireplace (YCS) 1 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center East Auditorium ($) (begins April 5), 1 hour, Visitor Center West Auditorium ($) 8:30 p.m. 8:30 p.m. Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS) Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS) Evening Program (begins May 16), 1 hour Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS/YI) Yosemite Theater—Sarah Hawkins Contemplates a Fourth Marriage, Part 1 (begins April 4; except May 30), 1 hour, Visitor Center West Auditorium ($) 10 ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES

YOSEMITE VALLEY

THURSDAY 8:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Evening Program (begins May 5), 1 hour Evening Program (May 6-June 3), 1 hour, Lower Pines Amphitheater (NPS) 10:00 a.m. LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) Evening Program (begins May 6), 1 hour Ranger Walk—What’s Growing in Yosemite Valley Evening Discovery Walk to Sentinel (Cook’s) Meadow (May 12 & LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) 1 (except March 30 & April 13), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #4 June 9 only), 2 hours, shuttle bus stop #11 (Sierra Club) Earthy Tunes (May 27 only), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) All About Bears (May 11 & June 8 only), 2 hours, shuttle bus stop #12 Earthy Tunes (May 26 only), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) Yosemite Theater—The Tramp and the Roughrider (April 1 only) LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) 1 Yosemite Theater—The Tramp and the Roughrider (March 31 only) 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center East Auditorium ($) 1 1:30 p.m. 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center East Auditorium ($) Yosemite Theater—Conversation with a Tramp (begins April 8; Dynamic Moments in Nature (May 11 & June 8 only), 2 hours 1 Yosemite Theater—Spirit of John Muir (begins April 7; except April 28 & May 5) except April 29 & May 6), 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center East Auditorium ($) Shuttle bus stop #16 (Sierra Club) 1 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center East Auditorium ($) 8:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m. Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge Cliff Room/Amphitheater (YCS) Yosemite Theater—Wild Ecology Tunes (begins April 27), 1 hour Starry Skies Over Yosemite Valley (begins May 19; except May 26), 1 hour Visitor Center West Auditorium ($) Old-fashioned Campfire & Sing-along with S’mores! (begins May 27) Meets near the Yosemite Lodge, sign up/details at any lodge tour desk 1 1 ⁄2 hours, near Curry Village, sign-up/information at any lodge tour desk 8:00 p.m. (YCS) ($) (YCS) ($) Yosemite Theater—Conversation with a Tramp (begins April 6; Evening Program, 1 hour 1 except April 27 & May 4), 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center East Auditorium ($) Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS) 8:30 p.m. Evening Program (begins May 19), 1 hour SUNDAY Evening Program, 1 hour Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS) Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS/NPS) 9:00 a.m. Yosemite Theater—Sarah Hawkins: Pickaxes and Petticoats, Part 2 1 Color Photo Walk/Class, 1 ⁄2 to 2 hours, sign-up/meet on Gallery porch Evening Program (begins May 18), 1 hour (begins April 7; except April 21), 1 hour, Visitor Center West Auditorium ($) Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS) Limited to 15, weather permitting (The Ansel Adams Gallery) Yosemite Theater—Sarah Hawkins Contemplates a Fourth Marriage, Part 1 10:00 a.m. 1 (begins April 6; except April 20), 1 hour, Visitor Center West Auditorium ($) ATURDAY Ranger Walk—Snowflakes to Waterfalls, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours S Shuttle bus stop #7 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Ranger Walk— Ahwahneechee Stories and Games, (except April 1) 1 Ranger Walk—Planning Yosemite’s Future (begins April 9), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours FRIDAY 1 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, behind Visitor Center Front of Visitor Center 9:00 a.m. Discovery Walk to Sentinel (Cook’s) Meadow (May 13 & June 10 only) 1 1:00 p.m. Color & Digital Photo Walk/Class, 1 ⁄2 to 2 hours 2 hours, shuttle bus stop #11 (Sierra Club) Ranger Walk—The Cavalryman’s Paradise: Military History in Yosemite Sign-up/meet on Gallery porch, limited to 15, weather permitting 1 (The Ansel Adams Gallery) 10:30 a.m. 1 ⁄2 hours, front of Visitor Center Fine Print Viewing at The Ansel Adams Gallery, 1 hour 10:00 a.m. Space limited, sign-up at Gallery 1:30 p.m. Ranger Walk—The Walls Came Tumbling Down: Yosemite’s Geology Hidden Treasures (May 14 & June 11 only), 2 hours 1 2 11:00 a.m. Shuttle bus stop #16 (Sierra Club) 1 ⁄ hours, shuttle bus stop #14 1 Ranger Walk—Planning Yosemite’s Future (begins April 8), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours The Stories Nature Tells (May 12 & June 9 only), 2 hours Front of Visitor Center 6:30 p.m. Shuttle bus stop #12, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) Full Moon Snowshoe Walk (March 19 only), 2 hours 1:00 p.m. Badger Pass Lodge, sign-up required at Yosemite Lodge front desk 1:00 p.m. Ranger Talk/Walk—Everything You Wanted to Know About Bears But No experience necessary ($3 donation snowshoes) 1 Ranger Talk/Walk—Bear Tales, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 1 Were Afraid to Ask Them (except April 1), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Curry Village Amphitheater Curry Village Amphitheater 8:00 p.m. Evening Program (begins May 7), 1 hour 1:30 p.m. 3:00 p.m. LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) Aquatic Field Trip (May 12 & June 9 only), 2 hours Black & White Photography Walk/Class, 2 hours Earthy Tunes (May 28 only), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) Shuttle bus stop #16 (Sierra Club) Sign-up/meet on Gallery porch, limited to 15, weather permitting 2:00 p.m. (The Ansel Adams Gallery) Animals and Their Senses (May 14 & June 11 only), 1 hour 1 Shuttle bus stop #12, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) Ranger Walk—Industries of the Ahwahneechee, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 6:00 p.m. Behind Visitor Center Kid’s Night Out (ends May 20), 1 hour 45 minutes 8:30 p.m. Curry Village, sign up/details at any lodge tour desk (YCS) ($) Evening Program (begins May 7), 1 hour Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS/NPS) 7:00 p.m. Film—Ansel Adams, Photographer, 1 hour Twilight Discovery Walk to Mirror Lake (May 13 & June 10 only), 2 hours Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (The Ansel Adams Gallery) Shuttle bus stop # 18 (Sierra Club) Yosemite Theater presents THE TRAMP AND THE ROUGHRIDER FREE ART CLASSES Free, informal outdoor classes in various art A mediums are available for adults through the Art Activity Center, located at the east end of New Yosemite Village next to the Village Store. Supplies are available for purchase at the Cen- Production ter which is open 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily (beginning April 17). Classes begin at 10:00 a.m. and continue until 2:00 p.m. Join John Muir and President Theodore Roosevelt at their April 17-23 Robert Dvorak, historic meeting at Glacier Watercolor/Drawing Point! This new production, April 24-30 Lynette Yetter, Air Dry Clay featuring Lee Stetson as John May 1-7 Marilyn Neal, Watercolor Muir, and Doug Brennan as President Theodore May 8-14 Donna Barnes-Roberts, Roosevelt, illuminates the Watercolor 1903 encounter May 15-21 Roger Folk, Watercolor between these two May 22-28 Jane Gyer, Watercolor extraordinary men as they trade May 29-June 4 Jim Burns, Watercolor opinions, stories June 5-11 Richard Keyes, Acrylic and adventures, June 12-18 Jan Schafir, Watercolor and talk of “doing some forest good.”

11 ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES

CRANE FLAT/BIG OAK FLAT BIG OAK FLAT INFORMATION STATION

March 24 to April 30, open Thursday through Monday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch). Open daily beginning May 1. Station is located just inside the park at the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station (Highway 120 West), and offers park orientation material, trail information, wilderness permits, books, and maps. Phone 209/379-1899

YOSEMITE’S OTHER SEQUOIA GROVES

TUOLUMNE GROVE MERCED GROVE The Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias is near Crane Flat at the Yosemite’s quietest stand of sequoias is the Merced Grove, intersection of the Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 West) and the accessible only on foot. It’s a 2-mile hike into the grove from the Tioga Road. The former route of the Big Oak Flat Road leads Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 West). Located 3.5 miles north downhill from Crane Flat into the Tuolumne Grove of Big Trees, a of Crane Flat or 4.5 miles south of the Big Oak Flat entrance, the cluster of about 25 sequoias. Now closed to cars, this 2-mile (3.2 trailhead is marked by a post labeled B-10 and a road sign. Allow km) round-trip has an elevation change of 500 feet (150 meters). about 3 hours for the 4-mile round-trip hike to this small group The downhill walk is relatively easy, though it is moderately of sequoias (about 20 trees). strenuous on the uphill return. Once in the Tuolumne Grove, there is an easy half-mile, self-guiding nature trail.

MARIPOSA GROVE

The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias, located at the southernmost end of Yosemite, is the largest stand of giant sequoias in the park (about 500 trees).

TO GET TO THE GROVE WALKING

Cars are prohibited beyond the parking area in the Grove, but The trailhead for walking up through the Grove is located at the 1 several giant sequoias can be seen from there. Allow 1 ⁄4 hours far end of the parking area. Interpretive signs between the driving time to the Mariposa Grove from Yosemite Valley. trailhead and the Grizzly Giant provide a self-guiding tour. Information about handicapped accessibility is available at the Written translations are available at the trailhead (Spanish, tram boarding area. The access road to the Grove may close German, French, Japanese). intermittently due to limited parking and/or snow. Please use the free shuttle service between Wawona and the Mariposa Grove. Trailers and motor homes are prohibited on the ISTANCE LEVATION Mariposa Grove Road. D & E Destination Distance from Trailhead Elevation Gain TRAM SCHEDULE FOR THE Grizzly Giant 0.8 mile/1.3 km 400 feet/122 m Grove Museum 2.1 miles/3.5 km 800 feet/292 m MARIPOSA GROVE Fallen Tunnel Tree 2.5 miles/4.0 km 1,000 feet/305 m When the Mariposa Grove Road opens, trams run every day Wawona Point 3.0 miles/4.8 km 1,200 feet/438 m (weather permitting) in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias for a 1-hour tour through the lower and upper groves. (Road work scheduled for the Mariposa Grove may reduce or eliminate tram operations.) The first tram is at 9:00 a.m. and the last tram MARIPOSA GROVE MUSEUM is at 5:30 p.m., running every 20 minutes from the boarding area. $8/adults, $7.25/ seniors (62 or older), $4/children (4-12), Learn about the history of the Grove in this small, historic log $24 maximum for families (parents and their children under cabin. Opens for the season May 12, daily 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 16). Children under 4 ride free. (closed for lunch).

FREE MARIPOSA GROVE/WAWONA SHUTTLE BUS

RANGER WALKS Beginning weekends only on April 22, the free shuttle bus stops at the Wawona Store, South Entrance, and Mariposa Grove from Join a ranger every day at 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. (weather permitting). Daily service is 2:00 p.m. to Amble with the scheduled to begin May 6. Due to narrow roads and very limited Ancients (April 25-June 5). This walk 1 parking, visitors are strongly encouraged to use this free bus lasts 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours and meets at the service to help alleviate congestion and lengthy parking delays. Lower Grove trailhead. (Note: Walks Visitors may park at the Wawona Store to board the shuttle bus. will occur only when the Mariposa Grove Road is open.) Giant Sequoia Etching by Jane Gyer Sequoiadendron giganteum

WAWONA

FRIDAY WAWONA INFORMATION STATION 2:00 p.m. 1 Opens for the season May 12. Open daily 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (closed for lunch). Offers Mariposa Grove Photo Walk (begins May 26), 2 ⁄2 hours, sign up at the Wawona Hotel (YCS) information about park activities, wilderness permits, trail information, books, and maps. From Highway 41 in Wawona, take the Chilnualna Falls Road to the first right hand turn past the stables. Phone 209/375-9501

EVENING PROGRAM

Wawona Hotel entertainer, Tom Bopp, presents programs featuring music and stories detailing Wawona’s colorful history. Drop by the hotel lounge on Tuesday through Saturday nights from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. to see what Tom has cooked up for the evening! Programs with slides, historic Yosemite music or Wawona history are presented on some Thursday and Saturday nights at 8:30 p.m. Schedule subject to change; please inquire at the hotel front desk. (YCS)

PIONEER YOSEMITE HISTORY CENTER

Take this 30-minute self-guiding tour and learn about the people, events, and issues of Yosemite’s early years. From April 24 through May 25, Monday through Thursday, come see school groups participating in an environmental living program, bringing the past to life. You are welcome to ask questions of these costumed participants. Watch the stagecoach, walk across a covered bridge, and visit historic buildings out of Yosemite’s past. The Center is always open, and explanatory signs and brochures are available. Beginning May 26, the Pioneer Yosemite History Center Bookstore will be open daily The Pioneer Yosemite History Center in Wawona brings the past to life! 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch). 12 HELPHELP YOURYOUR PARKPARK

YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION THE YOSEMITE FUND

JOIN THE YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION HELPING TO RESTORE HABITAT

The Yosemite Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the support The Yosemite Fund is a non-profit organization that raises money to help protect of Yosemite National Park through a program of visitor services, publications, and and restore Yosemite and enhance the visitor experience. Evidence of the Fund’s work membership activities. For over 70 years, the Association can be seen throughout the park, specifically Glacier has provided important financial support to the National Point, Mirror Lake, and Happy Isles. But some Fund Park Service, and has made possible the funding of many projects are less obvious because they focus entirely projects and purchases otherwise not affordable through on restoring Yosemite’s natural scenery. normal government appropriations. New visitors to Cook’s Meadow, near Yosemite The Yosemite Association: Lodge, will enjoy the beautiful stretch of open grass leading to the riverbank. Even regular visitors might Provides over $300,000 annually to the National Park not notice much change. But in fact in the last two Service for its use in visitor information, educational, years, the Fund has supported a significant habitat and interpretive programs. restoration project here. While meadows make up Publishes popular and award-winning books on only 4% of Yosemite in area, they contain 40% of its Yosemite and operates bookstores in the park. species and provide over 50% of its animal habitat. Small changes to restore Cook’s Meadow to a more Provides member-volunteers to work on meadows, natural state provide big results in enhancing trails, and other much-needed park restoration Yosemite’s richness of plant, animal, and bird life. projects. With help from The Yosemite Fund, National Park Organizes over 60 outdoor classes and field seminars Service restoration specialists and volunteer work on natural history, Native Americans, art, and crews from Chevron set about removing asphalt and photography. filling in man-made ditches and an old roadbed that cut across the meadow. These changes will allow the Sponsors the Ostrander Ski Hut, Yosemite Theater, Art natural water flow across the meadow that is so Activity Center, and other valuable programs. important for the health of meadow plant Anyone who loves Yosemite and wishes to become communities and the creatures that feed upon those more closely involved and affiliated with the park is plants. Volunteers also helped remove invasive plants encouraged to become a member of the Yosemite such as blackberry vines and salvaged native meadow Association. Sign up for a membership through this grasses for subsequent replanting. Yosemite Guide and receive as a free gift The Complete The project will continue with asphalt paths being Guidebook to Yosemite National Park. This book is removed in favor of boardwalks that do not interrupt informative and useful, lively and humorous, having water flow. This will cause less disturbance to habitat, earned the “Best National Park Guidebook” award from while allowing visitors to experience the meadow the National Park Service. and its superb views of Yosemite Valley. As a member, you will: Chevron volunteers help with habitat restoration for Join the Friends of Yosemite, with a gift to help Cook’s Meadow. Photo by Bob Hansen protect and restore Yosemite National Park, and Enjoy a 15% discount at Yosemite Association shops you’ll receive: on all books, maps, and publications, as well as qualify for a discount on most field seminars. Yosemite Postcard Book, featuring fifteen extraordinary full-color views of Yosemite Have an opportunity to volunteer in Yosemite. The Fund’s newsletter Approach, featuring updates on the park and the latest information on Fund projects in progress or completed Receive the quarterly journal, Yosemite, which features informative articles on both the natural and human history of the park. Listing of your name on the Friends of Yosemite Honor Wall at the Valley Visitor Center Have a chance to attend special members’ events in the park. Fill out the coupon below and help preserve Yosemite for generations to come. Have access to a members-only information line. Have the satisfaction of knowing that you are supporting significant projects in Yosemite National Park.

PLEASE ENROLL ME I WANT TO AS A MEMBER OF THE BECOME A FRIEND YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION OF YOSEMITE Enclosed is my tax-deductible gift of: ❑ Individual $30 ❑ Sustaining $250 ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Joint/Family $35 ❑ Patron $500 $25 $50 $100 $1,000* Other ❑ ❑ Supporting $50 Benefactor $1,000 Name ❑ Contributing $100 ❑ Dual Benefactor $1,500 Address ❑ International (for members outside the U.S.) $40 City ❑ Yes, please send The Complete Guidebook to Yosemite National Park State Zip

Name (please print) Charge to my Visa/Mastercard/American Express Street Address Card # Expiration Date City State Zip * A gift in this amount enrolls you as a participant in the John Muir Heritage Society, donors who are invited to special events at Yosemite Daytime Phone Number National Park. Enclosed is my check or money order for $ or charge to Credit card # Expiration Date YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318 P.O. BOX 637, Yosemite, CA 95389 209/379-2646 415/434-1782 www.yosemite.org www.yosemitefund.org 13 FACILITIESFACILITIES && SERVICESSERVICES

MARCH 14 – JUNE 19, 2000 ALL SERVICES AND HOURS OF OPERATION ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

AHWAHNEE BAR EMERGENCY 911 Light dining Noon to10:00 p.m. $-$$ Fire – Police – Medical TOUR YOSEMITE Emergency: Dial 911, Curry Village ALLEY BY IKE 24 hours a day Family oriented dining experiences await V B (from hotel room 9-911) you in this National Historic District Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. There are more than 12 miles of Lunch – 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. surfaced bike paths separating bicycle MEDICAL Dinner – 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. traffic from automobiles, making Meals served daily in one or more of the locations below bicycling convenient and fun. Rental Yosemite Medical Clinic bicycles are available by the hour or Emergency care: 24 hours daily COFFEE CORNER the day at Yosemite Lodge or Curry Village bike stands, conditions Freshly ground coffees, espressos, lattes, Drop-in and Urgent Care: permitting (see “Bike Rentals” on page 15 for hours of operation). Daily 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. cappuccinos, fruit, baked goods, boxed lunches $ Scheduled appointments: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PAVILION Saturday 9:00 a.m. to Noon (opens April 14) Breakfast: yogurt, cereal, fruit, baked goods, NATURE SHOP Located on Ahwahnee Drive in Yosemite and hot entrees ROCERIES Valley, the clinic provides routine and G 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unique sculptures of Dinner: soup, salad, pasta, hot entrees, the natural world, distinctive apparel, music, emergency medical care for park employees, stir-fry, taco bar, dessert $-$$ residents, and visitors. Experienced nursing VILLAGE STORE and videos 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. until May 25; staff, emergency physicians, nurse HAMBURGER STAND practitioner, and support staff on duty. 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. beginning May 26 (opens May 13) Full service grocery store The Ahwahnee Services include a limited pharmacy, lab, Flame-broiled burgers and chicken, fish x-ray, and physical therapy. 209/372-4637 GIFT SHOP sandwiches, chicken nuggets, soft drinks $ DEGNAN’S DELICATESSEN 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Features signature Paramedic/Ambulance Service: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Ahwahnee apparel, china, jewelry, and 24 hours daily PIZZA & BAR Native American crafts Enjoy pizza, salad, and full service bar under HOUSEKEEPING CAMP Dental Services the stars $-$$ (opens April 14) SWEET SHOP Adjacent to Medical Clinic. For hours, call ICE CREAM 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. until May 26; 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Magazines, 209/372-4200. If no answer, call 209/372-4637. (opens April 14) 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. beginning May 27 newspapers, distinctive candies, cookies, Cool off with a refreshing treat (located and sundry items CURRY VILLAGE STORE ACCOMMODATIONS inside Pavilion at the Coffee Corner) $ 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Curry Village For advanced reservations or Happy Isles WAWONA STORE MOUNTAIN SHOP information (rooms or activities), 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. call 559/252-4848 SNACK STAND 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through May 25; (www.yosemitepark.com) (opens May 20) 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. starting May 26 Rewarding refreshments after a long hike. CRANE FLAT A full range of hiking gear, tents, shoes, Soda, ice cream, bottled water $ 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. bear canisters, sunglasses, apparel, and RESTAURANTS climbing supplies 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. TUOLUMNE MEADOWS STORE These hours of operation are approximate. (opens with Tioga Road) GIFT/GROCERY For current dining hours, Tuolumne Meadows 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Snacks, souvenirs, call 209/372-1000, extension 8. film, and limited groceries GRILL EL PORTAL MARKET Food Service Price Key: (opens June 10, weather permitting) 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. A quick breakfast, lunch, and dinner before Tuolumne Meadows $ = entrees under $7 or after exploring $ $$ = $7-$14 entrees GROCERY STORE $$$ = $15-$20 entrees 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. GIFTS, BOOKS & APPAREL (opens with Tioga Road) $$$$ = more than $20 entrees 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tuolumne-specific TUOLUMNE MEADOWS LODGE Yosemite Village apparel, last-minute food supplies for Yosemite Village DINING ROOM backpacking and high country picnics (opens at dinner June 16, weather permitting) THE ANSEL ADAMS GALLERY Breakfast – 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Rustic, family-style dining adjacent to the Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; MOUNTAIN SCHOOL SPORT SHOP Lunch/Dinner – 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuolumne River 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. beginning May 1. (opens with Tioga Road) (dinner open until 7:00 p.m. after April 21) Books, original photographs, cards, Native 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Maps, bear canisters, Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. $-$$ Meals served daily in one or more of the American crafts, photography supplies, dehydrated food, and backpacking supplies locations below: Dinner – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $$-$$$ camera rentals, and more. 209/372-4413 Meals are served family style and www.anseladams.com TUOLUMNE MEADOWS BOOKSTORE DEGNAN’S dinner reservations advised, (opens with Tioga Road) OSEMITE OOKSTORE DEGNAN’S DELICATESSEN call 209/372-8413 Y B 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in the Sandwiches, snacks, soup and salad $ Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located at Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center the Valley Visitor Center. Books, maps, DEGNAN’S FAST FOOD & ICE CREAM $ White Wolf Lodge posters, and information (opens at dinner June 23, weather permitting) Wawona THE VILLAGE GRILL A cozy dining room and porch with simple, YOSEMITE MUSEUM BOOK SHOP (opens May 19) WAWONA HOTEL GOLF SHOP tasty fare (opens March 30) (opens March 31, weather permitting) Hamburgers, chicken nuggets, frosties, Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Signature Wawona and soft drinks $ Breakfast – 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. $-$$ May 26; 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. after May 27 apparel, snacks, and golf supplies Dinner – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $$-$$$ Books, traditional Indian arts and crafts Dinner reservations advised, 209/372-0295 PIONEER GIFT SHOP Yosemite Lodge call 209/372-8416 Breakfast – 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. VILLAGE STORE (opens March 21) Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. until May 25; closes 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. An ample collection Dinner – 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Wawona Hotel 10:00 p.m. beginning May 26. of arts and crafts Meals served daily in one or more of the (opens daily March 21) Features signature Yosemite apparel, books, Victorian architecture and warm sunset glassware, and postcards PIONEER YOSEMITE HISTORY CENTER locations below: views BOOKSTORE HABITAT YOSEMITE (opens May 26) CAFETERIA & COFFEE CORNER Breakfast – 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. $-$$ (weekends only April 22 to May 26) 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch) (may be closed for remodeling) Sunday Brunch – 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in Degnan’s Books, maps, and information Hot entrees, sandwiches, coffee, $-$$ building. Gifts and souvenirs inspired by and desserts $ Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. $-$$ nature GROCERY STORE 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. GARDEN TERRACE SALAD BUFFET Dinner – 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. $$-$$$ Dinner reservations advised for 10 or SPORT SHOP Essential supplies, ice cream, snacks, books, All you can eat, self-serve salad bar featuring cards, and bear canister rental more, 209/375-1425 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Fishing rods, tackle soups, pasta, and at dinner, optional carved- and gear, camping supplies to-order meats $-$$ Saturday BBQ on Lawn – 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (begins in June) $-$$ ART ACTIVITY CENTER Crane Flat HE OUNTAIN OOM T M R (opens April 17) GROCERY STORE Spectacular views of Yosemite Falls with Glacier Point 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in Yosemite 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Camping supplies, pasta, steak, prime rib, fresh fish, and Village, south of Village Store. Free art classes snacks, and bear canisters other specialities $$-$$$$ SNACK STAND daily. Books, art supplies, and fine local art (opens with Glacier Point Road, conditions OUNTAIN OOM AR OUNGE M R B & L permitting) WILDERNESS CENTER Mariposa Grove Light snack service available $ Comfortable facility serves snacks to ease Open 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. beginning April 7 GIFT SHOP Noon to 10:00 p.m. weekends; hunger after a hike or drive to the Point. Guidebooks, maps, wilderness permits, bear (opens with Mariposa Grove Road) 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. weekdays Spectacular sunset views. $ canisters, and trip-planning displays 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Cards, bottled water, snacks, and memorabilia from the big trees POOL REFRESHMENT STAND 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (opens Memorial Day weekend, Nature Center MUSEUM SHOP weather permitting) $ at Happy Isles (opens May 12) 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. BEVERAGE SERVICES (opens May 12) 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch) 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed for lunch) The Ahwahnee YOSEMITE LODGE MT. ROOM BAR & LOUNGE Family-oriented bookstore An elegant dining experience in one of Noon to 10:00 p.m. weekends; Glacier Point America’s premier dining rooms 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. weekdays Yosemite Lodge FOOD, BEVERAGES, GIFTS (opens with Glacier Point Road) Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. $-$$ CURRY VILLAGE PIZZA & BAR GIFT/APPAREL SHOP 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday Brunch – 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. $$$ 4:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Newly remodeled Star charts, apparel, books, and souvenirs Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. $$-$$$ facility offers a wide selection of the Dinner – 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. $$$$ WAWONA HOTEL Yosemite apparel, books, souvenirs, and 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Dinner reservations suggested, convenience items call 209/372-1489 AHWAHNEE BAR Noon to 10:00 p.m. 14 FACILITIESFACILITIES && SERVICESSERVICES

MARCH 14 – JUNE 19, 2000 ALL SERVICES AND HOURS OF OPERATION ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

WAWONA YOSEMITE VALLEY CHAPEL (year-round) RECREATION 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Diesel & propane MISCELLANEOUS Worship Service Conditions permitting available. Gas available 24 hours with credit Sunday 9:15 a.m., Thursday 7:00 p.m. or debit card. Babysitting Sunday 11:00 a.m. (begins May 28) YOSEMITE LODGE TOUR DESK Limited babysitting available for registered Children’s Church 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 209/372-1240 Auto Service, Towing, guests in YCS accommodations. Call front Sunday 9:15 a.m. desk or concierge for additional information. SIGHTSEEING TOURS and Repair (AAA) Other Worship Service Two-hour open-air tram (weather Sunday 9:00 a.m. at Lower Pines VILLAGE GARAGE permitting) or, bus tours depart daily from Kennel 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Towing 24 hours. Campground Amphitheater* (begins May 28) lodging facilities in Yosemite Valley. Inquire (opens early spring, weather permitting) Emergency gasoline & propane available Special Holiday Services at tour/ information desks Located at the stables in Yosemite Valley. 209/372-8320 Proof of shots or license required. April 20, 7:00 p.m. Maundy Thursday BINOCULAR RENTAL 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Communion Service at Chapel Available for $3 per day ($2 at Glacier Point) POST OFFICES 209/372-8348 April 21, 12:15-1:00 p.m. Good Friday with a deposit at Yosemite Valley retail Service at Chapel outlets, Glacier Point Gift Shop, and Volunteers in Parks transportation kiosks. Main Post Office April 23, 7:30 a.m. Easter Sunrise Service at Individuals and groups interested in Lower Pines Campground Amphitheater (Yosemite Village) community service projects in Yosemite can MOUNTAINEERING SCHOOL Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. call the Volunteer Program Manager at April 23, 9:15 & 11:00 a.m. Easter Services at Yosemite Mountaineering School offers Saturday 10:00 a.m. to Noon 209/379-1850. Free camping is provided and Chapel lessons and guided climbing at all levels, entrance fees are waived during your work May 2, 9:15 & 11:00 a.m. Marriage Renewal overnight backpacking, skiing adventures, project. and guided day hikes to spectacular areas of Yosemite Lodge Post Office Services at Chapel Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Yosemite. Employment Opportunities Bible Studies CURRY VILLAGE Contact Yosemite Concession Services Call for location (April 10 through mid-summer) Curry Village Post Office Corporation at the General Offices in Thursday 7:00 a.m. (Prayer Group) (opens May 31) 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Yosemite Village or call 209/372-1236. 209/372-8344 Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. *Affiliated with “A Christian Ministry in the National Parks” TUOLUMNE MEADOWS (opens mid-summer conditions permitting) Wawona Post Office ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Church of Jesus Christ of 209/372-8435 Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Yosemite Association Latter Day Saints Outdoor seminars, some for college credit. Doug Warcup 209/722-7623 BIKE RENTALS Tuolumne Meadows P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318 Jerry Calister 209/723-4736 Daily, weather permitting, with hourly and 209/379-2321 yosemite.org daily rates. Baby-joggers, wheelchairs, and Post Office Yosemite Valley Sacrament Service (opens after Tioga Road; check locally for hours) six-speed bikes with trailers for towing small Yosemite Institute 1:00 p.m. daily from Memorial Day through children are available. Labor Day at Yosemite Chapel El Portal Post Office Non-profit environmental education YOSEMITE LODGE organization. Week-long, field-based Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; sessions for school groups, teachers, and Roman Catholic 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. beginning April 29 other groups. P.O. Box 487, Yosemite, CA Rev. Dennis Alvernaz, Resident Pastor 209/372-1208 95389. 209/379-9511 www.yni.org 209/372-4729 CURRY VILLAGE (opens late spring, SERVICES FOR DISABLED Mass in Yosemite Valley (until May 26) conditions permitting) NPS Education Branch Saturday 5:30 p.m., Sunday 10:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; An accessibility brochure is available at park Ranger-guided programs, resource Visitor Center West Auditorium information, teacher workshops. Wawona 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. beginning April 29 entrance stations and visitor centers. Mass in Yosemite Valley (after May 26) Ranger Station, P.O. Box 2027, Wawona, CA 209/372-8319 Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 8:00 & 10:00 Wheelchair rental available at Yosemite 95389 209/375-9505. For entrance waivers a.m., Visitor Center West Auditorium SWIMMING POOLS Medical Clinic, 209/372-4637, and bike for educational groups, call 209/379-1876 Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 4:00 p.m., (opens Memorial Day weekend) stands, 209/372-1208. www.nps.gov/yose/teach.htm Yosemite Chapel YOSEMITE LODGE 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. OST AND OUND Mass in Wawona (after May 26) L F SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS Saturday 4:30 p.m., Old School House CURRY VILLAGE 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. To inquire about items lost or found at one Special Events in Yosemite Valley of Yosemite’s restaurants, hotels, lounges, Alanon Mass: Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter RAFTING shuttle buses, or tour services, call Yosemite YOSEMITE VALLEY: Wednesday 7:00 p.m., Vigil, 7:30 p.m., Visitor Center West Rafting may be available, weather and river Concession Services at 209/372-4357, or YCS General Office Building (Employee Auditorium conditions permitting. Raft rental available write YCS Lost & Found, P.O. Box 578, Training Center) Yosemite Village at Curry Village Raft Stand, located at the ice Yosemite National Park, CA 95389. Seventh-Day Adventist rink (shuttle bus stop #13). For items lost or found in other areas of the Alcoholics Anonymous Pastor Frank McMurry 209/532-0229 park, call the National Park Service at YOSEMITE VALLEY: Sunday, Tuesday, and 209/379-1001, or write to NPS Warehouse, Thursday 7:30 p.m., YCS General Office Yosemite Valley (Memorial Day through Labor STABLES 5083 Foresta Road, B-759, El Portal, Building (Employee Training Center), Day) at Lower Pines Campground CA 95318. Yosemite Village Amphitheater (near shuttle bus stop #19) Two-hour, half-day, and all-day rides depart daily. Private pack trips into Yosemite’s Sabbath School: Saturday 10:00 a.m. spectacular backcountry may also be RECYCLING Narcotics Anonymous Worship Service: Saturday 11:00 a.m. arranged. Book rides at tour desks or stables. YOSEMITE VALLEY: Saturday 7:30 p.m., YCS General Office Building (Employee YOSEMITE VALLEY Village Store Recycling Training Center), Yosemite Village Yosemite Christian Ministries* (opens April 21, conditions permitting) Pastor Steve Hughes 209/379-2428 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Center Open Thursday & Saturday Noon to 4:00 For information on weddings, call number 209/372-8348 Lions Club above. p.m. through April 17; Tuesday, Thursday, Meets first and third Thursday of each TUOLUMNE MEADOWS Saturday, and Sunday beginning April 18 (opens June 16, conditions permitting) month at Noon, The Ahwahnee. Worship Service (begins May 30) 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Bottles and cans may also be returned to Call 209/372-4475 for information. Sunday 7:00 p.m., Yosemite Chapel 209/372-8427 place of purchase or park gas stations. Worship Walk (begins May 30) WAWONA Rotary International Sunday 9:00 a.m., Happy Isles, starts at (opens April 21, conditions permitting) Meets Wednesdays for dinner, 5:45 p.m. The shuttle bus #16 ATM Ahwahnee. Visiting Rotarian families and 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Solid Rock/Climbers for Christ guests welcome. For reservation or 209/375-6502 Call Pastor for location, times, and Yosemite Village information, call 209/372-1016. BANK OF AMERICA ATM additional information. SHOWERS & LAUNDROMAT (south of Village Store) ELIGIOUS ERVICES El Portal Community Church* HERITAGE OAKS BANK ATM R S SHOWERS Pastor Russ Marsh 209/379-2255 (inside Village Store) Assoc. Pastor Steve Hughes 209/379-2428 CURRY VILLAGE Church of Christ 24 hours Inquiries, directions, other services, contact Worship Service: Saturday 7:30 p.m., El Portal HOUSEKEEPING CAMP (opens April 30) Yosemite Lodge Ron Skelton. 209/379-2307 Chapel (first and third weekends) HERITAGE OAKS BANK ATM 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday 10:30 a.m., El Portal Chapel (inside main registration area) EL PORTAL CHAPEL (second, fourth, fifth weekends) LAUNDROMAT Worship Service: Sunday 9:00 a.m. HOUSEKEEPING CAMP Curry Village For information on Bible studies, children’s and youth activities, call number above. 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. HERITAGE OAKS BANK ATM Yosemite Community Church (inside gift shop) (Protestant Nondenominational) * Associated with the California Southern GAS STATIONS Baptist Convention El Portal Pastor Brian Empie 209/372-4831 Rev. John K. Paris available for weddings and CRANE FLAT COUNTY BANK ATM counseling. Call number above. Wawona Christian Fellowship 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Diesel available. Gas (on Hwy. 140 at Yosemite View Lodge) Pastor David Adamcik 209/966-3039 available 24 hours with credit or debit card. TUOLUMNE MEADOWS WAWONA COMMUNITY CENTER (opens with Tioga Road) Worship Service: Sunday 9:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Propane available. Women’s Bible Study: Wednesday 1:00 p.m. Gas available 24 hours with credit or debit card.

15 Yosemite, CA 95389 CA Yosemite,

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OSEMITE March 31–June 19,7:00a.m.-10:00p.m. N El Capitan

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Snow Creek Snow After miles of flat walking up the floor of Lyell Canyon, and Tuolumne Meadows John Muir Trail Muir John Yosemite Valley Plan . . . Center climbing the headwall seems cruel punishment. We’ve 17 19 18 16 got extra heavy packs for our four days of work in the

Mist Trail Mist T alpine zone. The air thins as the trail steepens, the creek rushes Pines Campgrounds service ends8:30p.m.) (Service resumesApril1; Stables service ends8:30p.m.) (Service resumesApril1; Mirror Lake service ends8:30p.m.) (Service resumesApril1; Happy Isles down toward Tuolumne Meadows, our tired legs need a night’s rest. When we drag into camp and fire up the stoves,

Dome Half we’re satisfied that we’ve already earned our time in Yosemite’s beautiful high country. Thus begin the challenges of seeking to learn more about the Lyell Glacier. Fall Vernal Continued on page 1