See Yosemite Today Yosemit e Guide for a complete calendar Your Key to Visiting the Park of what’s happening in the park. WINTER/SPRING 2002–2003 25¢ VOLUME XXXII, NO. 2

The Falls in Four Seasons . No single By Karen Sorensen feature has contributed more to the wide acclaim of . The beauty and power of this waterfall—the world’s fifth tallest—are unrivaled in the United States, and its allure spans the globe. No matter what the season, Yosemite Falls inspires all who view it. Continued on page 1 Look Inside! Valley Map . . . . .Back Panel The Changing Seasons . . .2 Camping ...... 3 Park Map Planning Your Visit . . .4 & 5 Backpacking & Valley Day Hikes ...... 6 Photo courtesy of Scot Miller © www.suntomoon.com This noble fall has far the richest, as well as the most powerful General Information . . . .7 voice of all the falls of the Valley. – YOSEMITE GUIDE Your Key to Visiting the Park

WINTER/SPRING 2002-2003 VOLUME XXXII, NO. 2 The Falls in Four Seasons

Continued from front cover Just like other components of nature, In winter, a completely different phe- Yosemite Falls is highly affected by the nomenon occurs at Yosemite Falls. “Every seasons. The waterfall is at its height in clear, frosty morning loud sounds are spring and early summer, when melting heard booming and reverberating from winter snow collected along the high side to side of the Valley,” wrote Yosemite’s country path of Yosemite Creek forms a famous naturalist, John Muir. “The strange torrent of water that plunges over the thunder is made by the fall of sections of cliffs into the Valley. The avalanche of ice formed of spray that is frozen on the water fills the rock basin with spray and face of the cliff along the sides of the consequent wind. Rainbows appear and Upper Yosemite Fall . . . This frozen spray disappear, and the thundering sound of gives rise to one of the most interesting the Falls reverberates in the Valley and winter features of the Valley—a cone of ice rattles windows at Yosemite Lodge. at the foot of the fall, four or five hundred By late summer, Yosemite Falls becomes feet high.” (See photo, back panel) a mere trickle, and often dries up entirely In official records, the maximum height by autumn when the nearby oaks, dog- of the cone is documented at 322 feet, woods and maple trees are awash in about as tall as a 25-story building. When vibrant color. temperatures warm in early spring, the water from the Upper Fall begins to drill a hole at the top of the cone, creating a volcano-like

structure, and by mid-April, most N.Photo by Baggot In autumn, Upper Yosemite Fall slows to a trickle–and often dries up completely. The Lost of the cone has melted. Arrow Spire is visible just above the golden big leaf maple. Another winter occurrence in and around Yosemite Falls is “frazil ice,” a substance that Throughout most of the year, the beau- Falls cannot be overestimated. From forms in waterfalls and creeks ty of Yosemite Falls is no less breathtaking. American Indians and pioneers, to scien- when water becomes super But the influence of this waterfall stretch- tists and artists, to millions of annual cooled. Turbulence cools the es well beyond its immediate impact on visitors, Yosemite Falls has inspired all water so that ice crystals form viewers. The grandeur of Yosemite Falls who make the pilgrimage to see this icon and group into spongy masses, played a primary role in motivating key of America. which sometimes overflow the individuals to call for the preservation of Karen Sorensen is the publications manag- creek bed. In Yosemite Creek, natural wonders, rather than exploitation er for The Yosemite Fund. Her article first frazil ice has frequently covered of them. It was this call that led President appeared in The Yosemite Fund’s periodic trails and damaged bridges, and Abraham Lincoln to set aside Yosemite magazine, Approach. has even flowed through build- Valley and the of Big ings that once bordered the Trees in 1864 for permanent protection creek. In 1997, frazil ice was and the enjoyment of the public. The above the railings of the Lower establishment of national parks was not IMPROVEMENTS IN Yosemite Fall bridge, almost com- far behind. PROGRESS pletely burying it! The beauty and influence of Yosemite Today, the National Park Service and The Yosemite Fund are current- OW DO GET TO OSEMITE ALLS ly working in partnership to H I Y F ? rehabilitate the degraded area at Lower Yosemite Fall can be reached by a short, easy trail. the base of Lower Yosemite Fall. Shuttle bus stop #6. The overarching goal of this project

NPS Photo is to provide Yosemite visitors with Yosemite Falls makes three distinct plunges before Upper Yosemite Fall and views of the cascades require a a deeper and more personal experi- reaching the Valley floor: the 1,430 foot Upper Fall, strenuous 7.2-mile round-trip hike. The trailhead is located ence of the outstanding natural, an intermediate 675 foot chain of cascades, and the behind , near shuttle bus stop # 7. cultural, and historic resources of 320 foot Lower Fall. the Yosemite Falls area. To learn more about these improvements, see the display at SUPERINTENDENT’S MESSAGE the project site or visit online www.nps.gov/yose/planning. This major effort requires an Welcome to Yosemite! Valley. It is up to each of us to protect what unprecedented amount of resources. A picture may be worth a thousand words, we can’t see as much as what we can in The public is encouraged to con- but just a glimpse of Yosemite Falls can ren- order to preserve this beautiful park. tribute donations. To help, contact der one speechless. About 150 years ago, the Naturally, I hope you take away from your The Yosemite Fund at 415/434-1782 world learned of Yosemite through a sketch Yosemite visit a sense of awe at the spectacu- or visit www.yosemitefund.org. by Thomas Ayers (see page 2). lar beauty of this place. Whether you hike to This image communicated the majesty of the top of Upper Yosemite Fall or feel the the west to countless Americans during the spray at the Lower Yosemite Fall bridge, I late 19th century. It was in the plunging invite you to make your own lasting connec- spray and the fall’s comets of water that the tions here. Yosemite is just one place where OSEMIT world took notice and a nation recognized we can marvel at our America and the her- Y E the need to preserve its natural treasures for itage that we keep in our national parks. GUIDE future generations. Published by the Sincerely, As you look up at Yosemite Falls, consider National Park Service NPS Editor and Coordinator that there are over 43 square miles of Kristina Rylands wilderness that must be protected in Production by Skip Gaynard Designs order to produce this amazing waterfall. David A. Mihalic Email comments on this issue to Kristina_Rylands@ nps.gov

NPS Photo Yosemite’s wonders extend far beyond the Superintendent

1 THETHE CHANGINGCHANGING SEASONSSEASONS

Special WINTER/SPRING TRIP PLANNING

When planning a trip to control area must carry chains, Protection Yosemite, keep in mind the chang- even if their use is not mandatory ing seasons. The timing of your at the time. Chains should be visit will determine the amount of obtained in advance; several towns for Special clothing to bring, the availability on highways leading into Yosemite of different campgrounds and rent them. Vehicles over 6,000 lbs. parking lots, and the need for tire are required to use link-type Places chains. Call road and weather chains; on sets of dual tires, only information (209/372-0200) before one tire needs chains. Once in the you leave home. Here are some park, tire chains are available at Visitors to Yosemite are the park’s general guidelines: retail outlets for purchase, but not for rent. most important guardians. With ROADS over 3.5 million people watching The Tioga Road (Highway 120 TEMPERATURE over its special plants, animals, East) and Road Weather in Yosemite can change historic, and archeological sites, beyond are rapidly during all seasons of the closed each year from late fall imagine how well protected these year. Since areas in the park range through spring. These roads gener- from 2,000 to 13,000 feet in eleva- park resources could be! ally close for the season with the tion, the lower foothills can be first major snowstorm after experiencing spring while the During your visit to Yosemite be November 1 and re-open by late higher elevations remain in the aware that there are people who May or early June, conditions per- grip of winter. either intentionally or unknow- mitting. The road to the Mariposa ingly harm park resources. Please Grove is also closed in winter. SNOW PLAY SAFETY Each year sleds, toboggans, contact a park official if you see WILL I NEED TIRE CHAINS? innertubes, saucers, and other slid- any of the following illegal acts: It is recommended that you ing devices cause more injuries, on Feeding wildlife carry tire chains in your vehicle the average, than any other winter Collecting plants (including rental and 4-wheel activity. Please slide safely. drive vehicles) between November Hunting animals Sledding is not allowed in the and April, as a sudden storm could Badger Pass area. However “snow Collecting reptiles and butterflies make them mandatory at any tubing” rental and a maintained Picking up archeological items time. Under state regulations, any trail are now available at the such as arrowheads vehicle entering a signed chain Badger Pass Lodge. Using metal detectors to locate Museum Yosemite Photo courtesy of This Thomas Ayers drawing of Yosemite Falls gave the world and collect historic objects its first glimpse of Yosemite in 1856. Driving vehicles into sensitive meadows Camping outside of designated campgrounds BEARS IN WINTER AND SPRING Possession of weapons Did you know that black bears do not In campgrounds and tent-cabin areas unsuccessful, throw small stones or sticks truly hibernate in winter in the same way you must store food and scented items in toward the bear from a safe distance; the If you see activities that could other hibernating mammals do? Rather, food storage lockers, day and night. intent is to scare the bear, not to injure it. harm people or park resources, they descend into a deep sleep, frequently In hotel rooms and hard-sided cabins, Use caution if you see cubs, as a mother jot down any descriptions or a awakening and occasionally wandering store items inside rooms (be sure to keep may act aggressively to defend them. Never vehicle license plate number and around. Because of this, it’s not only the windows closed if you leave). try to retrieve anything once a bear has it. important—but also required by federal In picnic areas and on the trail, be sure When done immediately, these actions contact the park dispatch office regulation—that you keep your food stored to stay with food and scented items at all have been successful in scaring bears away. at 209/379-1992. properly, even during winter. times. Report all bear incidents and sightings to Pets If you are backpacking, it is strongly rec- a park ranger. You can also call the Save-a- ommended that you use a bear canister Bear Hotline to report bear sightings and Some visitors choose to bring KEEP BEARS WILD AND YOUR (they are required in some areas). Inquire incidents, as well as trash and food storage pets along on their vacations. In PROPERTY SAFE Bears are attracted to many things you about food storage requirements when problems: 209/372-0322. Yosemite, pets have a few rules to might not think of as food. So, always store you get your wilderness permit. follow: any item with a scent, regardless of packag- NOTE: These regulations and precau- Pets are only allowed in devel- ing. This includes canned foods, sealed WHATTODOIFYOUSEEABEAR tions help decrease your chance of oped areas, on roads, and paved bottles, drinks, soaps, cosmetics, toiletries, Never approach a bear, regardless of its personal injury or property damage. trails. They are not allowed on perfumes, trash, ice chests (even when size. If you encounter a bear in a developed However, bear damage and confronta- empty), and unwashed items used for area of the park or on a hiking trail, act other trails or in wilderness areas. tions are still possible, even when you preparing or eating meals. Each campsite in immediately: yell or bang pots together. follow all the guidelines. Failure to Pets must be on a leash or the park has food storage lockers measur- If there is more than one person, stand comply with these regulations may otherwise physically restrained ing approximately 33”x 45”x 18.” together to present a more intimidating fig- result in a citation and/or impound- and should never be left unat- Never leave your food or scented items in ure, but do not surround the bear (allow ment of property. tended (dog kennel available at your vehicle after dark. the bear a way to run away). If this is stable, spring through fall; see page 7). For the courtesy of other visi- tors, human companions are DRIVE SAFELY responsible for cleaning up and KEEP YOSEMITE’S depositing pet feces in trash law requires that all vehicle occupants wear seat belts, WATER CLEAN receptacles. This protects pets and children under six years of age (or under 60 lbs.) be restrained in and wildlife from disease. an approved child safety seat. To protect yourself from disease, treat any In winter and early spring, road conditions can change surface water before drinking. Treatment suddenly. Wet asphalt may be slippery or icy, especially in methods include boiling for 5 minutes, use FOR MORE shady spots or on bridges. Keep speed down and allow of a Giardia-rated water filter, or iodine INFORMATION ABOUT... extra distance from the vehicle in front of you. based purifier. To prevent the spread of Giardia and other Water from melted roadside snow often freezes on road Food storage guidelines, see this page. water-borne disease organisms, use rest- surfaces, creating treacherous “black ice.” This can occur room facilities where available. In natural Camping and campfires, see page 3. even when the weather appears dry and fair. areas where facilities are not available, Bicycling rules, see page 5. Anticipate snowplows as they may be working just around wash dishes, bathe, camp, and bury human Yosemite Valley day hikes, see page 6. the next curve. Wait for a signal from the plow driver waste (6” deep) at least 100 feet away from before passing. any water source or trail. Wilderness regulations, see page 6. Don’t drink and drive. It’s a fatal combination.

2 CAMPINGCAMPING

ational vehicles in Valley campgrounds is 40 Wheelchair accessible CAMPING RESERVATIONS feet. sites are available at Camp 4 is a walk-in campground and is open Lower Pines Camp- Reservations are required year-round for all year on a first-come, first-served basis; these ground (sites #3, #5, and Yosemite Valley’s auto campgrounds and sum- campsites are not wheelchair accessible. Sites #14) and are equipped mer through fall for Hodgdon Meadow, Crane are rented on a per-person basis, and six people with a power receptacle Flat, Wawona, and half of . will be placed in each campsite, regardless of the for charging electric All other campgrounds (except group and stock number of people in your party. Camp 4 often wheelchairs. There are campgrounds) are first-come, first-served. fills before 9:00 a.m. each day May through two wheelchair accessi- Camping reservations are available up to five September. ble sites at Wawona months in advance, beginning on the 15th of Campground. each month. FOR ARRIVAL CAMPING IN AREAS RVs over 24 feet are not DATE TO CALL DATES THROUGH: recommended for Tama- SURROUNDING YOSEMITE rack Flat, Yosemite January 15 June 14 Creek, and Porcupine February 15 July 14 The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) operates a Flat campgrounds, and March 15 August 14 variety of campgrounds on a seasonal basis RVs are not permitted in walk-in and group April 15 September 14 near Yosemite. For additional information, contact the local USFS district offices: campsites. There are no May 15 October 14 Highway 120 West, Groveland Ranger Station hookups in Yosemite June 15 November 14 (Stanislaus NF) 209/962-7825; Highway 140, campgrounds, but there

July 15 December 14 Mariposa Ranger Station (Sierra NF) 209/966- are sanitary dump sta- ‘ August 15 January 14 3638; Highway 120 East, Mono Lake Ranger tions in Yosemite Valley NPS Photo (all year), and summer The Indians of Yosemite–the Ahwahneechee–called this Cho-lok, September 15 February 14 Station (Inyo NF) 760/647-3044; Highway 41, Oakhurst Ranger Station (Sierra NF) 559/683- only in Wawona and meaning “the Fall.” October 15 March 14 4636. For private campgrounds outside Tuolumne Meadows. November 15 April 14 Yosemite, call the respective chamber of com- December 15 May 14 merce or visitor bureau listed on page 4. REGULATIONS Proper food storage is required 24 hours a day. NATIONAL PARK From May through September, campsites are GROUP CAMPGROUNDS in heavy demand and prospective campers are A maximum of six people (including chil- RESERVATION SYSTEM encouraged to call NPRS as early as possible in There are group campsites at Tuolumne Mead- dren) and two vehicles are allowed per the period. Reservations may be made from ows, Hodgdon Meadow, Wawona, and Bridalveil campsite. Reservations can be made by phone, mail, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pacific time. Creek Campgrounds. Reservations can be made Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. or online. All requests are processed at the same through NPRS; 13 to 30 people are allowed in TOLL-FREE RESERVATIONS: time, from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pacific time, Generators may be used sparingly between each group campsite. Tent camping only. Pets 800/436-7275 beginning on the 15th of each month. Written 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. and generators are not permitted in group sites. ONLINE RESERVATIONS: requests should include desired location, type of Where permitted, pets must be on a leash equipment you will be camping in (i.e., tent, RV, reservations.nps.gov and may not be left unattended. You may reserve only one campsite at a time. etc.), as well as method of payment. Written SERVICES requests will be accepted 2 weeks prior to–but INTERNATIONAL CALLERS: will not be processed until–the 15th. CAMPFIRES 301/722-1257 All sites include picnic tables, firepits or grills, ■ In order to improve air quality in Yosemite tent space, parking, and a food storage locker Valley during peak visitation months, camp- TDD (TOLL-FREE): (33"dx 45"w x 18"h). See Bears in Winter and fires are only permitted May 1 through 888/530-9796 YOSEMITE VALLEY Spring on page 2 for food storage regulations. October 15 between 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. MAIL-IN RESERVATIONS: There are no restrictions in effect in There is a 30-day camping limit within Toilet facilities are available in campgrounds; NPRS Yosemite Valley during the remainder of the Yosemite National Park in a calendar year; how- however, Tamarack Flat, Yosemite Creek, and P.O. Box 1600 year. ever, May 1- September 15, the camping limit Porcupine Flat contain non-flushing vault Cumberland, MD 21502 in Yosemite is 14 days, and only 7 of those toilets only. ■ Firewood collection is prohibited in Up to two campsites may be reserved days can be in Yosemite Valley or Wawona. Shower and laundry facilities are available Yosemite Valley. This includes “dead and at a time by mail or phone with Mastercard, Campers may request a specific campsite num- year-round in Yosemite Valley; showers are down” wood. Visa, Discover, personal check, or money order. For more information, call the park ber if it is available at the time the reservation is also available at Tuolumne Meadows (summer ■ Please start campfires with newspaper. Do campgrounds office at 209/372-8502 or visit made. All campsite assignments are final—you only) during limited hours. See Yosemite Today not burn pine needles or cones, as they online (www.nps.gov/yose/trip/camping.htm). may not switch or change campsites after you for locations and hours of service. create unnecessary smoke. arrive in the park. Maximum length for recre-

C AMPGROUNDS IN Y OSEMITE N ATIONAL PARK

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

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

LOWER PINES 4,000'/1,200m 0 60 $18/s ●●●Open March-October sites #3, #5, #14 Reservations required CAMP 4 WALK-IN 4,000'/1,200m 0 35 $5/p ●●Open All Year/Walk-In First-come, first-served. Limited parking IN YOSEMITE VALLEY

WAWONA 4,000'/1,200m 27 93 $18/s ● ●●●Open All Year Wawona Road (Highway 41) Reservations required May-Sept. ($18); near Wawona; 2 sites First-come, first-served Oct.-April ($12)

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

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

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

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

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

●●

OUTSIDE YOSEMITE VALLEY YOSEMITE CREEK 7,659'/2,333m 35 40 $8/s Open July-early September Tioga Road Five-mile access road not suitable for RVs (Highway 120 East) over 24' or trailers. First-come, first-served

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

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

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

N TRANSPORTATION Gasolin Stanislaus in Yosem National To and From Yosemite OSEMITE ALLEY Forest Y V To THE YOSEMITE AREA REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION Yosemite Valley is world famous for its Manteca 120 SYSTEM (YARTS) offers park visitors an alterna- impressive waterfalls, cliffs, and unusual rock tive to driving their car into Yosemite by pro- formations. It is open year round and may What is the be reached via Highway 41 from Fresno, viding transit service throughout the region. 140 Highway 140 from Merced, Highway 120 This new voluntary bus service provides sched- Tun West from Manteca, and in late spring View uled round-trip transportation to Yosemite through late fall via the Tioga Road (Highway To To best way Merced 41 Fresno from the outlying communities. Expanded 120 East) from Lee Vining. Many activities summer service is offered mid-May to mid- and services are available in Yosemite Valley. Detailed information is available at the Valley to visit September. Daily service from Mammoth Lakes Visitor Center in Yosemite Village. See the runs in July and August. For schedule and more shuttle bus map and scheduled Valley activi- information visit the YARTS web site at ties in Yosemite Today. Yosem Yosemite? www.yarts.com or call toll free 877/98-YARTS (877/989-2787) or 209/388-9589. Lake Nation Eleanor 6 MARIPOSA GROVE O’Shaughnessy Park Your experience in Yosemite depends Within Yosemite Dam Free shuttle bus service is provided through- AND WAWONA iver Hetch e R on the time you have available and The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias mn out the eastern portion of Yosemite Valley ad Hetchy olu 1 o Tu 4 R Backpackers' is located 36 miles (1 ⁄ hours) south of y your interests. Many fine maps and year-round. In summer, free shuttle buses h Campground c t Yosemite Valley via the Wawona Road Hetch e (Wilderness tch H books are sold in visitor centers and run from Wawona to the Mariposa Grove, (Highway 41), 2 miles from the park’s South Hetchy He Permit Required) and from to Lake. Hikers’ Entrance Station. The road to the Mariposa Entrance park stores to help plan your visit. Grove is closed in winter. Activities include Camp White buses run daily to Glacier Point late spring To Mather Wolf

Publications such as Yosemite’s Official hiking, ranger-led walks, and tram tours of E

through autumn and between Tuolumne 120 v e the Grove (weather permitting) late spring r g re Park Handbook, published by the Meadows and Yosemite Valley late June Big e through fall. Trail brochures printed in n d R oa Oak o R through Labor Day. Call 209/372-1240 for English, French, Japanese, and Spanish are a a National Park Service, or The Yosemite d g Flat io hikers’ bus fee, schedule, and reservations, or available at the Grove trailhead. To reduce Entrance T Road Guide are available at visitor traffic congestion and avoid parking stop by any tour desk. Yosemite delays, ride the free shuttle bus (spring Hodgdon umn 120 ol e R Creek centers, gift shops, or by mail from Meadow u iv T er through fall) from Wawona to the Grove. S ork To o u th F the Yosemite Association Bookstore, Trailers are not allowed on the Mariposa Manteca Grove Road, and vehicles 23 feet and P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318, PARK LODGING Tuolumne longer are restricted from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 Grove Valle 209/379-2648, fax 209/379-2486, (AVAILABLE YEAR-ROUND) p.m. daily. 4 Tamarack Yosemite Visit Flat Falls Cent The Pioneer Yosemite History Center in Crane Big O Yosemite Merced Flat a

or www.yosemite.org. Wawona is a collection of historic buildings k F l Reservations for all overnight lodging in Grove a Valley t associated with people and events that Trailhead R 1 Remember that road and trail o o Hw Yosemite can be made by calling 559/252- a T y 120 shaped the national park idea in Yosemite. d Glacie Tioga Road Point conditions and available services 4848, by writing to Central Reservations, Interpretive signs and a brochure provide a closed late fall to late spring east Arch Tunnel Sen Yosemite Concession Services, 5410 East self-guiding tour of the Center year-round. of this point Bridalveil may change with the weather. For Rock View Fall Dom See Yosemite Today for activities and additional El Home, Fresno, CA 93727, or by visiting Portal Entrance current conditions and general www.yosemitepark.com. Lodging in Yosemite information about Wawona and the 3 er Rd Mariposa Grove. To iv Glaci int R er Po information, call 209/372-0200. Valley includes the following: Merced M d er ce 140 Chinquapin Badger Bridalveil Yosemite Pass Creek

OSEMITE ALLEY West Ski Y V W Area

S a winter

GLACIER POINT o u w N t only E h Fork o Yosemite Lodge n Merc NTRANCE EES Glacier Point, an overlook with a com- ed River a E F Year-Round R

o

manding view of Yosemite Valley, Half a

The Ahwahnee d Dome, and the , is located 30

miles (a 1-hour drive) from Yosemite Valley. ek THE PARK IS OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, e Year-Round r C The view from Glacier Point provides an a YEAR-ROUND. ln (cabins & (weekends only ua opportunity to see the Valley from its rim. hiln (fees subject to change) tent cabins) in winter) From Yosemite Valley, take the Wawona Road C Wawona Wawona TYPE PRICE NOTES (Highway 41) 14 miles to the Chinquapin Campground Housekeeping junction, then turn left onto the Glacier Spring–Fall 2 Vehicle $20 Valid for seven days. Camp Point Road. The road ends at Glacier Point. Pioneer The Glacier Point Road is generally open Sierra Yosemite National History South Mariposa Individual $10 In a bus, on foot, OUTSIDE from late spring through late fall. In winter, Forest Center Entrance Grove the road is plowed only as far as the Badger bicycle, motorcycle, OSEMITE ALLEY Y V Pass Ski Area, and then Glacier Point can be or horse. Valid for reached via skis or snowshoes only. See 41 To seven days. Year-Round Fresno (weekends only Yosemite Today for schedule of activities. Yosemite Pass $40 Valid for one year in February & in Yosemite. March 2003)

National Parks Pass $50 Valid for 1 year in Highway 120 East Tent cabins at: all national park INFORMATION OUTSIDE Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce areas. Tuolumne THE ARK and Mono Lake Visitor Center Meadows Lodge Summer–Early P P.O. Box 130 Golden Eagle $15 Covers entrance Fall Highway 395 and 3rd Street Hologram for fees at other federal White Wolf Highway 120 West Lee Vining, CA 93541 Highway 120 Chamber of Commerce National Parks Pass sites when purchased Lodge 760/647-6629 with the National P.O. Box 1263 www.leevining.com Parks Pass. Hotel Charlotte, Suite B Rates range from $54 per night for Groveland, CA 95321 California Welcome Center, Merced 800/449-9120 or 209/962-0429 Golden Age Pass $10 For U.S. citizens a basic tent cabin with nearby bath- 710 W. 16th Street (Lifetime) or permanent Merced, CA 95340 room, to $366 per night for a room residents 62 and Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau 800/446-5353 or 209/384-2791 over. at The Ahwahnee (rates are subject P.O. Box 4020 www.yosemite-gateway.org to change). Reservations are highly 542 Stockton Road Golden Access Pass Free For blind or recommended and may be made up Sonora, CA 95370 800/446-1333 or 209/533-4420 (Lifetime) permanently to one year and one day in advance. disabled U.S. www.thegreatunfenced.com PARK VISITOR CENTERS citizens or Highway 41 permanent Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau The four visitor centers in Yosemite National Par residents. 40637 Highway 41 are excellent resources for park information, wilde Oakhurst, CA 93644 ness permits, and park-related publications an 559/683-4636 handouts. See Yosemite Today for hours of operatio www.sierranet.net/~ysvb and more information. “WHAT HAPPENS TO MY ENTRANCE FEE DOLLARS?” Highway 132/49 YOSEMITE VALLEY VISITOR CENTER Coulterville Visitor Center Thanks to the Recreational Fee Demonstration Program, a temporary pro- P.O. Box 333 Open daily all year. gram approved by Congress in 1995, 80% of your $20 entrance fee remains 5007 Main Street BIG OAK FLAT INFORMATION STATION in Yosemite to help fund projects that improve the park and your visit. Coulterville, CA 95311 PROJECTS COMPLETED INCLUDE: 209/878-3074 Closed in winter; generally open spring mariposa.yosemite.net/visitor through fall. A significantly upgraded visitor orientation theater in Yosemite Valley Repaired sections of the sewer line that services Yosemite Valley Highway 140/49 WAWONA INFORMATION STATION AT Mariposa County Visitor Bureau HILL’S STUDIO Replacement of picnic tables, fire rings, and signs in out-of-Valley (also info. for Fish Camp, Wawona, Closed in winter; generally open spring campgrounds Yosemite West, and Buck Meadows) P.O. Box 967 through fall. CURRENT AND FUTURE PROJECTS INCLUDE: 5158 Highway 140 TUOLUMNE MEADOWS VISITOR CENTER Stabilizing historic backcountry cabins Mariposa, CA 95338 Closed in winter and spring; generally open Refurbishing roads, trails, and utilities throughout the park 800/208-2434 or 209/966-2456 www.homeofyosemite.com summer through fall. 4 YOURYOURYOUR VISITVISITVISIT MITE NATIONAL PARK

Yosemite Village/ Yosemite Ice Skating The Curry Village Ice ailable Falls Visitor Center ley Yosemite Skating Rink is open from mid-November Lodge The Ahwahnee through early March, conditions permit- CRANE FLAT El Curry ting. Rental skates are available. For more Capitan Village Crane Flat is a pleasant forest and mead- information, call 209/372-8341. Valley Day Get More ow area located 16 miles from Yosemite View Parking Valley at the junction of the Big Oak Flat Bicycling More than 12 miles of paved Bridalveil Road and the Tioga Road. To see giant bikeways wind through the eastern end of Fall Info... sequoias, park at the Tuolumne Grove park- Yosemite Valley. Weather permitting, rental Yosemite Valley ing area located on the Tioga Road (Highway (Elevation 4,000 feet/1,220 meters) bikes, baby jogging strollers, and bicycle 120 East), and walk one mile down to the child trailers are available at Yosemite Lodge ■ Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. In win- Recorded General Park Information including: ter, snowshoes or cross-country skis may be (spring through late fall, weather permit- Road & Weather Conditions, needed. For activities and area information, ting) and Curry Village (summer through Trip Planning Information, etc. see Yosemite Today. late fall). Check with rental agent for restric- e 209/372-0200 Hwy 120 Take a 4-mile round-trip hike or ski into the tions on rental bike use. closed late fall to ■ Western U.S. National Parks late spring west To 395 Merced Grove of Giant Sequoias, located 3.5 of this point & 415/556-0560 Lee miles north of Crane Flat or 4.5 miles south of Bike Rules — For your safety and to Vining the Big Oak Flat entrance along the Big Oak protect Yosemite National Park, ■ On the Web 120 Flat Road (Highway 120 West). The trailhead is please follow these rules: Yosemite National Park marked by a post labeled B-10 and a road sign. California law mandates bicyclists under Tioga www.nps.gov/yose Tuolumne Pass 18 years of age wear helmets. Entrance Yosemite Concession Services Meadows Bikes are allowed only on paved bikeways www.yosemitepark.com Lembert and park roads (unless the road is closed Dome Fork Facilities along na Mount Camping Reservations Tioga Road 5 Da Dana TIOGA ROAD to bicycle use). available 13,053 ft reservations.nps.gov summer only 3,979 m AND TUOLUMNE Bikes are not allowed off-road or on pedes- d Regional Information ount a o Tuolumne trian and hiking trails. offmann R www.yosemite.com May a L g Meadows 850 ft y EADOWS o M i 307 m Lake T Visitor e Bicyclists must obey all posted traffic signs ll Center F o Yosemite Area Regional r The Tioga Road is generally open from late k and travel with the flow of traffic when on ne Tenaya Transportation System (YARTS) Lake May or early June through late October or roads used by automobiles. early November and offers a 39-mile scenic www.yarts.com Olmsted Point drive through forests and past meadows, lakes, Trail Rides Weather and trail conditions Yosemite Association and granite domes. The road’s elevation ranges yosemite.org h permitting, 2-hour, half-day, and full-day k e Clouds e re from 6,200 feet at Crane Flat to 9,900 feet at C Rest Yosemite Fund ya rides depart from stables in Yosemite Valley, a Mount the Tioga Pass Entrance Station. There are www.yosemitefund.org Lyell Tuolumne Meadows, and Wawona, spring alf iver 13,114 ft many scenic and recreational opportunities d R 3,997 m ome e through fall. Call 209/372-8348 for infor- Yosemite Institute rc e Merced in these areas. Check visitor centers and park M www.yni.org/yi Lake bulletin boards for updated information on mation. & available services and activities. From late fall The Ansel Adams Gallery through late spring, this area is only accessible Hiking & Backpacking Yosemite offers www.anseladams.com by cross-country skis or snowshoes. For activi- over 800 miles of hiking trails parkwide. For o uett e C ree k ties, see Yosemite Today. updated trail information, visit the Wilderness Inyo RESERVATIONS National Center in Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne ad Forest e fall to Meadows (spring through fall); in winter, ■ Lodging Reservations east nt check at the Valley Visitor Center, or call 559/252-4848 209/372-0200. Wilderness permits are TDD 559/255-8345 Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, a source of required for overnight wilderness users. For ■ drinking water and hydroelectric power for Campground Reservations the City of San Francisco, is also home to wilderness permit information and (callers from U.S. and Canada) spectacular scenery and the starting point reservations, call 209/372-0740 or go to 800/436-7275 Ranger Station for many less-used wilderness trails. Towering www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness. For some ideas TDD 888/530-9796 Food Service & Lodging cliffs and high waterfalls are easily seen from on Valley day hiking, as well as information ■ Campground Reservations Campground the walkway on top of O’Shaughnessy Dam. about wilderness travel, see page 6. (International callers only) iver erced R k M Peaks and Landmarks Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is located 40 miles 301/722-1257 from Yosemite Valley via Highway 120 and The Gas Station Rock Climbing Classes Evergreen and Hetch Hetchy Roads. Vehicles Sierra Yosemite Mountaineering School AVERAGE PRECIPITATION National 05 km 5 miles over 25 feet are prohibited on the road due Forest and Guide Service offers begin- AND EMPERATURES to its narrowness. The Hetch Hetchy Road ner through advanced classes in T may be open limited hours; call 209/372- Yosemite Valley spring through IN YOSEMITE VALLEY 0200 for information. fall, and in Tuolumne Meadows in (4,000 FT/1,220 M)* late spring through summer. Call MONTH PRECIPITATION MAXIMUM MINIMUM 209/372-8344 for information. (inches/cm) (F°/C°) (F°/C°) Yosemite Valley. There is a fee for VISITOR ACTIVITIES all sightseeing tours. For reserva- January 6.2/15.7 49/9 26/-3 www.nps.gov/yose/trip/activities tions and more information, February 6.1/15.5 55/13 28/-2 March 5.2/13.2 59/15 31/-0.5 call 209/372-1240 or stop by April 3.0/7.6 65/18 35/2 rograms and Exhibits Naturalist-guided walks any hotel tour desk. Information May 1.3/3.3 73/23 42/5.5 nd programs as well as self-guided walks are available. is also available online at June 0.7/1.8 82/28 48/9 ultural history demonstrations of basket-weaving, www.yosemiteparktours.com. eadwork, or traditional games are offered at the July 0.4/1.0 90/32 54/12 August 0.3/0.8 90/32 53/11.5 ndian Cultural Exhibit in Yosemite Valley. Other Skiing and Snowshoeing September 0.9/2.3 87/30.5 47/8 xhibits are in the Valley Visitor Center, Yosemite In winter, Yosemite offers down- October 2.1/5.3 74/23 39/4 Museum, Nature Center at (summer), hill skiing and snowboarding at November 5.5/14 58/14 31/-0.5 eConte Memorial Lodge (summer), Wilderness Cen- Badger Pass in addition to three December 5.6/14.2 48/9 26/-3 r, The Ansel Adams Gallery, Parsons Lodge in main areas for cross-country ski- Annual 37.3/94.7 uolumne Meadows (summer), and Glacier Point ing and snowshoeing: Badger *For temperatures at 8,000 feet (2,440 m), subtract 10-20 degrees. ummer). Check park visitor centers and bulletin Pass, Crane Flat, and the Mariposa oards for additional information, and see activities Grove. These areas all have sted in Yosemite Today. marked winter trails. Badger Pass offers approximately 10 miles (16 ours For a relaxing and informative experience, km) of groomed track at no ke a sightseeing tour on a bus or open-air tram charge. Maps of marked ski and weather permitting). These tours, narrated by snowshoe trails are available at nformed guides, operate daily to most points of park visitor centers or through the nterest in the park, including Yosemite Valley (year Yosemite Association (209/379- ound), Tuolumne Meadows (summer), Glacier 2648 or www.yosemite.org). For oint, Wawona, and the Mariposa Grove of Giant cross-country and downhill ski equoias (spring through fall). Two-hour moon- school information and snow ght tours show Yosemite Valley in a different conditions, call 209/372-1000. For ght during summer months (on nights around a Ostrander Ski Hut reservations Museum Yosemite Courtesy of Upper Yosemite Fall by artist Chris Jorgensen, ull moon). In winter, tours are conducted on call 209/372-0740 on or after who painted in Yosemite from 1899–1916. In eated and enclosed motor coaches; stops are December 2, Monday through the foreground are chuckas, or granaries used made at the best-known scenic locations in Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by the Ahwahneechee to store acorns.

5 ONON THETHE TRAILTRAIL

EXPERIENCE THE WILDERNESS IN THE WINTER & SPRING ... SAFELY

A trip to Yosemite’s wilderness during the of your group. Be flexible; change your Be cautious traveling along or crossing winter or spring can be extremely reward- plans as conditions warrant. Avoid travel- streams and rivers. Be aware of fluctuating ing. But there are challenges and risks to ing alone. water levels resulting in collapsing snow Protect experiencing these areas of the park when bridges and weak ice. Check the weather before you come and the forces of nature are at their most then be prepared for sudden and unex- Scout out river crossing locations. Never extreme. Sudden changes in weather, low pected changes. cross right above waterfalls or rapids. Yosemite’s temperatures, high winds, and dangerous Consider what you will do if you fall. travel conditions can occur without warn- Leave a detailed itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. Include your Release your waist strap so you can shed ing. With proper planning and good your pack quickly. Wilderness judgment, the risks can be minimized, planned start and end dates and locations allowing you to see remote portions of the as well as any known hazards. Be clear as to When hiking up the Valley walls, stay on park in ways that few people do. at what point a search should be initiated. existing trails. Avoid scrambling off trail Carry emergency equipment: First aid kit, along the steep faces. Falls are common PLANNING AND SAFETY on the slippery rocks and there is an Pack out all trash and toilet fire starter, water, extra food, a signal mir- If you plan to visit the Yosemite Wilder- ror and whistle, emergency shelter, and increased hazard of being hit by falling paper/sanitary products. ness, you should be competent in winter warm clothing. rock and ice. ❖ wilderness travel including use of skis or If it looks scary or dangerous it probably is. snowshoes, route finding, map and com- Traveling in low temperatures and at higher altitudes can drain energy quickly. Yosemite is a natural preserve. pass, and winter survival skills. Also, follow WILDERNESS PERMITS Being cold, wet, and tired can result in these general precautions: Free wilderness permits are required year- Pets, weapons, bicycles, strollers, hypothermia, a potentially fatal condi- round for all overnight trips into Yosemite’s and motor vehicles are never Be honest about your abilities. Make plans tion. wilderness. They are not required for day allowed on Yosemite’s wilderness that accommodate the weakest member hikes. Permits are available on a first-come, trails. first-served basis the day of, or one day prior ❖ to, the beginning of your trip. In winter, per- mits are issued at Badger Pass and the Hetch Use gas stoves for cooking rather Hetchy Entrance Stations, or by self registra- than wood fires. tion at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, Big Oak Flat Entrance Station, Tuolumne ❖ Meadows Ranger Station, and the Wawona Information Station at Hill’s Studio. Camp in an existing campsite or For wilderness trip planning information on a durable surface, such as and trail conditions, stop by the Valley snow or decomposed granite at Visitor Center, call 209/372-0200 for least 100 feet from water and recorded information, or visit online at trail. You must be 4 miles from www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness. To make reser- developed areas of the park and vations for summer wilderness permits, call 209/372-0740 no sooner than 24 weeks at least 1 mile from any open road before your planned date of departure. before camping. ❖ For wilderness information, call 209/372-0200 or go to To minimize trampling of vegeta- NPS Photo www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness Yosemite Creek before it plunges over the brink of Upper Yosemite Fall. tion, bring a container to carry water to your camp from lakes or streams. SELF-GUIDING TRAILS IN YOSEMITE VALLEY ❖ The Miwok in Yosemite is a short loop that winds through the Interpretive Trail is a short loop adjacent to Mir- Indian Village of Ahwahnee, a reconstructed Miwok-Paiute ror Lake, a seasonal lake on Tenaya Creek. Exhibits focus on Maximum group size is 15 people village. A booklet is available at the trailhead and in the Visi- the rich natural history of the area, American Indian use, and for trail travel and 8 people for tor Center. The trail begins behind the Yosemite Museum. history of this popular destination. To reach the start of the off-trail travel. trail, walk 1 mile from shuttle stop #17 to the disabled park- A Changing Yosemite is a 1-mile trail that begins in front of ing spaces near the lake. The self-guiding trail begins here. ❖ the Visitor Center, near shuttle stop #5. It winds through Cook's Meadow and explores the changes that have led to The Legacy of Curry Village is an easy stroll commemorating See page 2 for food storage regula- the Yosemite we experience today. the early days of Camp Curry. Pick up a map and guide at the tions and for water quality Curry Village front desk or tour desk. information. YOSEMITE VALLEY DAY HIKES IFFICULTY PPROXIMATE DESTINATION / TRAIL STARTING POINT DISTANCE D / A NOTES ELEVATION GAIN HIKING TIME

BRIDALVEIL FALL 1/2 mile round trip Easy 20 minutes round trip Paved trail; last 50' may be steep for Parking Area (0.8 km) visitors with mobility impairments

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

LOWER YOSEMITE FALL Lower Yosemite Fall 1/2 mile round trip Easy 20 minutes round trip Paved trail; last 50' are Shuttle Stop #6 (0.8 km) significantly sloped

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

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

MIST TRAIL OR

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

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

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

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

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

See Yosemite Today for facilities information and hours of operation.

LOST AND FOUND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION

To inquire about items lost or found at one of Yosemite’s restaurants, hotels, lounges, YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION shuttle buses, or tour services, call Yosemite Concession Services at 209/372-4357, Nonprofit organization offers fun, educational outdoor courses in photography, writing, or write YCS Lost & Found, P.O. Box 578, Yosemite National Park, CA 95389. You can also arts, natural history, hiking, and backpacking. P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318. 209/379- inquire online at www.yosemitepark.com/html/lostandfound.htm 2321 www.yosemite.org/seminars For items lost or found in other areas of the park, call the National Park Service at YOSEMITE INSTITUTE 209/379-1001, or write to NPS Warehouse, 5083 Foresta Road, B-759, El Portal, CA 95318. Nonprofit environmental education organization. Week-long, field-based sessions for You can also inquire by email to [email protected] school groups, teachers, and other groups. P.O. Box 487, Yosemite, CA 95389. 209/379-9511 www.yni.org/yi MISCELLANEOUS NPS EDUCATION BRANCH Wawona Ranger Station, P.O. Box 2027, Wawona, CA 95389. 209/375-9505. For entrance Bear Canister Rental waivers for educational groups, call 209/372-0206 www.nps.gov/yose/learn Available year-round for $5 per trip at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, Yosemite Valley Sport Shop, Curry Village Mountain Shop, Crane Flat Store, and Wawona Store; available seasonally at the Yosemite Valley Wilderness Center, Big Oak Flat Information Station, Wawona Information Station, Tuolumne Meadows Mountaineering School and Sport Shop, Tuolumne Meadows Store, and the Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station. See Yosemite Today for ACCESSIBILITY INFORMATION hours of operation. Canisters can be rented or returned at any rental location in the park. An accessibility brochure is available at park entrance Babysitting Limited babysitting available for registered guests at Yosemite Lodge and The Ahwahnee. stations and visitor centers. Information will also be Call front desk or concierge for additional information. available online by mid-December at www.nps.gov/yose. Fishing Wheelchair rental is available at the Yosemite Medical Fishing season along the is from the last Saturday in April through November 15. Special regulations apply within Yosemite National Park. Visit the park’s web site at Clinic, 209/372-4637, and the Yosemite Lodge bike rental www.nps.gov/yose/trip/fishing.htm or ask at any visitor center. State regulations can be found stand, 209/372-1208. See Yosemite Today for hours of online at www.dfg.ca.gov operation. Kennel (Spring through fall, weather permitting) The Golden Access Passport waives entrance fees for Located at the stable in Yosemite Valley. Dogs must be gentle, over 10 pounds, with proof blind or permanently disabled U.S. citizens or permanent of shots and license required. 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 209/372-8348 residents. Inquire at entrance stations or visitor centers Employment Opportunities in the park. Would you like to be part of Yosemite’s future? Employment opportunities exist at Yosemite National Park with the National Park Service, Volunteers in Parks, and Yosemite Concession Services Corporation. A temporary access placard is available at park visi- tor centers. Displayed on the windshield, it allows YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK For online vacancy information: www.nps.gov/yose/jobs driving on paved roads normally closed to vehicle Employment hotline: 209/372-0200-5-1-1 (for permanent positions) traffic. 209/372-0200-5-1-2 (for seasonal or temporary positions) To contact the Yosemite National Park Human Resource Office, call 209/379-1805 or write: Yosemite National Park, Human Resource Office, P.O. Box 700, El Portal, CA 95318 Designated parking spaces are marked throughout P the park with the international access symbol. VOLUNTEERS IN PARKS Individuals and groups interested in community service projects in Yosemite can call the Those closest to the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center Volunteer Program Manager at 209/379-1850. Free camping is provided and entrance fees are waived during your work project. www.nps.gov/yose/support/volunteer.htm are located on Village Drive, between the Yosemite Pioneer Cemetery and the Yosemite Museum. YOSEMITE CONCESSION SERVICES Contact Yosemite Concession Services Corporation at the General Offices in Yosemite Village or call 209/372-1236. www.yosemitepark.com/jobs.html Assisted listening devices and closed captioning are available for the film, Spirit of Yosemite, shown daily in The Yosemite Valley Visitor Center’s West Auditorium Theater. Assisted listening devices may HELP YOUR PARK also be available for some National Park Service interpretive programs. Check at the Valley Visitor Center. YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION THE YOSEMITE FUND TDD phones are available for visitor use at P.O. Box 230 P.O. Box 637 the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and for El Portal, CA 95318 Yosemite, CA 95389 guests at Curry Village, Yosemite Lodge, and The 209/379-2646 415/434-1782 www.yosemite.org www.yosemitefund.org Ahwahnee. TDD pay phones are also available outside the Curry Village registration area, inside Anyone who loves Yosemite and The Yosemite Fund is a nonprofit the Yosemite Lodge lobby, and at The Ahwahnee wishes to become more closely in- organization dedicated to protecting in the mezzanine area. volved with the park is encouraged to and preserving Yosemite—one of the become a member of the Yosemite most cherished parks in the world. Association. The Yosemite Association Thanks to gifts from dedicated is a nonprofit organization dedicated “Friends of Yosemite,” the Fund has to the support of Yosemite National distributed over $19 million for more Park through a program of visitor serv- than 150 projects that would other- Nanette Oswald, Yosemite’s Deaf ices, publications, and membership wise not be possible. The Yosemite Services Coordinator, interprets activities. Since 1923, the Association Fund has helped rehabilitate mead- ranger-led activities and provides has provided important financial sup- ows, rebuild trails, and has installed park information for deaf and port to the National Park Service, and over 2,000 bear-proof food storage hard-of-hearing visitors in spring has made possible the funding of lockers throughout the park. through fall. For more informa- many projects and purchases otherwise You can help by becoming a Friend tion about the Deaf Services not affordable through normal govern- of Yosemite through a donation to Program, come to the Valley ment appropriations. the Fund. All donors of $25 or more Visitor Center information desk, Memberships of $30 or more entitle receive a discount on Yosemite or call 209/372-4726 (TDD) or you to receive a free “thank you” gift accommodations, access to a special 209/372-0642 (voice). The TDD along with other benefits, including park accommodation reservations number for lodging reservations discounts on Yosemite Association and hotline, the Fund’s full-color biannu- is 559/255-8345; for camping The Ansel Adams Gallery merchandise, al magazine, and acknowledgement reservations, call 888/530-9796. lodging discounts, a quarterly journal, at the Friends of Yosemite Honor Wall and much more. To join, inquire at at the Valley Visitor Center. park visitor centers or contact the Yosemite Association (see above). NPS Photo

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Guide oei e Yosemit

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National Park Service U.S. Department See P.O. Box 577 of the Interior Yosemite, CA 95389 G-83