Yosemite, CA 95389 CA Yosemite,

G-83 25¢ P.O. Box 577 Box P.O. of the Interior the of

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 same route,servingstopsinnumerical order. when intervalsmaybe20minutes. except duringearlymorningand late eveninghours Shuttle busesoperatedailyat10-minute intervals, June 20–September 4,7:00a.m.-10:00p.m. OSEMITE Yosemite ValleyDestinationAreas

V

L N

El Capitan o

R

r 8

P t Yosemite Lodge Yosemite Village

h

s

S i GUIDE d GUIDE

D THE IDE e

Schedules androutesmayvary. YOUR KEY TO VISITING THE PARK Parking Restroom Picnic Area Campground

D Hiking Trail Bicycle Path Shuttle BusStop Shuttle BusRoute Ahwahnee Shuttle HUTTLE

r i v e i

S

o Information

u S t h

CHEDULE s SUMMER i

d Rock Columbia

V e D JUNE 20 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2000 C r A i ALLEY v e scale to not Map Pine Yellow Walk-in (Sunnyside) The Ahwahnee VOLUME XXIX, NO. 2 F B

REE Beach Sentinel

M

All busesfollowthe e Four Mile Four N

: Trail to to Trail Glacier r

US Point Point

c Bridge Swinging e

d

R

i v e 5 r Lodge Yosemite

L A Walk Through Trail to Trail

Y Upper Yosemite

o Fall s e m

i 4 t e 6 Fall Yosemite Lower Creek A Falls Yosemite 1 4

6 5 3 Time 2 7 Visitor Center Yosemite Lodge Yosemite Lodge/Camp4 (Service ends8:00p.m.) Visitor Center Yosemite Village Yosemite Village/DayParking The Ahwahnee by Chapel 10

V Jeff 7 3 Parking Day Center Visitor Lahr 8 9 Lodge Memorial LeConte Dome Sentinel i 2 Village Yosemite 1 Camp Housekeeping 11 Clinic Medical Trail to Trail A Bowl Church Ahwahnee The C Look lacie Point Glacier G r P Poi nt Rd Village Curry 12 Inside! Trail from Trail Glacier Glacier Office Reservation Campground Point to Point 20 Vernal & & Vernal Nevada Falls 19 Pines Lower A

Arches Royal Valley Shuttle P 13 14 12 13 10 11 9 8 Bus Map ...... Back Panel 14 18

Upper PinesCampground Curry Village Bike &RaftRental LeConte MemorialLodge / Yosemite ChapelParking Sentinel Bridge/ Yosemite Village/DayParking Yosemite Village Park Map ...... 10 & 11 Pines Upper

Pines North • Planning Your Visit

17

Isles Happy at Center Nature M

e • Important Road r

c

e

15 d Stable

R Information

i ve

Trail to Trail r 16 Vernal & Vernal Nevada Falls Park Rules ...... 2

Seasonal Bears ...... 3

T

e

n a Camping ...... 4 y a Footbridge Fall Vernal C r e Backpacking & e k Valley Day Hikes...... 5 Ride into history with stage driver, Burrel Maier. Photo by Trudy Johnson Activities ...... 12 – 17

throughout thepark. centers andstores for purchaseatvisitor Trail mapsareavailable be usedforhiking. This mapshouldnot Facilities & Services . . . 18 & 19 xplorers. Trail Builders. Pioneers. Innkeepers. Artists. Trail to Trail Snow Creek Snow and Trail Muir John Just For Kids ...... 9 Conservationists. The story of these and other early 17 15 20 18 16 19 Yosemite News ...... 6 Yosemite settlers can be found by crossing the historic Mist

ie&RaftRental Bike Curry Village Pines Campgrounds (Service ends8:30p.m.) Stable (Service ends8:30p.m.) Mirror Lake (Service ends8:30p.m.) E Nature Notes...... 7 covered bridge in Wawona and taking a walk through time. Plan . . . Center It is a story of the creation of one of America’s first national Dome Half parks. It’s a story filled with hopes and dreams, struggles and conflict as our nation grappled with the concept of the Fall Vernal preservation of wilderness. Continued on page 1 YYOSEMITOSEMITEE GUIDEGUIDE YOUR KEY TO VISITING THE PARK

SUMMER JUNE 20 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2000 VOLUME XXIX, NO. 2 A Walk Through Time

Continued from front cover Tucked away in Wawona—one of Yosemite’s quieter corners—you’ll find the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, where each building represents a dif- ferent chapter in Yosemite’s history. Visitors are encouraged to enter the fascinating world of the Pioneer Yosemite History Center as if they too The establishment of the Yosemite Grant in 1864 laid the were pioneers. With the murmur of foundation for national parks. This story is memorialized at the ’s South Fork in the Pioneer Yosemite History Center in Wawona. the background, the clang of a black- smith’s anvil, and the whinny of spending the summer patrolling The History Center’s living history nearby horses, it’s easy to imagine life the park, building trails, and program runs throughout the summer on in an earlier era. stocking the lakes with fish. Wednesday through Sunday afternoons. STAGECOACH COLLECTION During this time you will find several of It’s fitting that the old wooden The Pioneer Yosemite History the buildings staffed by dedicated volun- bridge, originally built by , Center also houses a collection teers in costume who assume the roles of serves as the entrance to the History of restored and authentic stage- Yosemite pioneers. Center. Clark’s role as one of the origi- coaches, representing early The Pioneer Yosemite History Center nal conservationists and innkeepers travel to the Yosemite region. is located in Wawona, about 4 miles places him in one of the earliest chap- After a train-ride from San from the park’s South Entrance along the ters of Yosemite’s history. After Francisco to the terminus in the Wawona Road, and is just a short walk signed legislation in small foothill town of Raymond, from the Wawona Store parking lot. It is 1864 protecting Yosemite Valley and Yosemite was still a two-day ride always open and interpretive brochures the of Giant Sequoias by stage. The stage trip was a are available. by creating the Yosemite Grant, Clark bruising one, and one which was appointed the Guardian of the A horse soldier could go anywhere, so it was logical left passengers covered with a Jeff Lahr is a seasonal ranger in Grant. Clark’s bridge, however, didn’t to call upon the U.S. Cavalry to patrol national fine coat of dust. The stage dri- Wawona. During the school year, resemble the covered bridge we cross parks before the creation of the National Park vers were literally the “Kings of he teaches art and history at Paulding Service in 1916. today. After the Washburn family the Road,” commanding respect Middle School in Arroyo Grande, CA. bought Clark’s Station and converted from all their passengers as they it to the as seen today, HOMESTEADING CONFLICT navigated the rocky roads, the hair-pin they covered the rough-hewn bridge The Hodgdon cabin represents the role curves, and dealt with the occasional in 1879 in the tradition of their New of the homesteaders, a controversial bandits along the route. England origins. chapter of Yosemite’s history. Homestead- TO LEARN MORE... ers claimed a portion of the Yosemite area HISTORY COMES ALIVE WHO WAS A blacksmith heats up iron and demon- under the stipulations of the Home- Beginning June 28, come watch GEORGE ANDERSON? strates a nearly forgotten art. Two sisters steading Act of 1864. The Hodgdons the living history portrayals of Nestled away in the northwestern fetch water from the pump. A Wells Fargo owned a ranch in the Sierra foothills and Yosemite’s early pioneers, corner of the History Center is the simple clerk checks her watch, waiting for the claimed a section of land near Yosemite Wednesday through Sunday. cabin of George Anderson, built in the stage to arrive. Visitors who really wish to as summer pasture. The Hodgdons, along See page 14 for details. 1870s. Anderson, a Scottish sailor, gold- experience a journey back into Yosemite’s with other pioneer families, opposed seeker, and jack-of-all trades, represents past can climb aboard a horse-drawn Ask your stage driver, Burrel, John Muir’s efforts to create Yosemite the early pioneers and settlers of the area. wagon and see what our predecessors how long it takes to ride from National Park, believing that it would Although he was one of the first trail- endured in order to travel to the wonders San Francisco to Yosemite. Stage erode their rights as property owners. builders of Yosemite and the local of Yosemite. rides take place Thursday After building the only two-story cabin in blacksmith, he is most remembered as The inspiration for the Pioneer through Sunday. See page 14 the region, and creating a summer home, the first person to reach the summit of Yosemite History Center came when for details. . Although many had tried to the Hodgdons feared that the creation of the flood of 1955 nearly destroyed the Read Yosemite’s Historic Wawona, scale the summit before him, Anderson would undermine covered bridge. The by Shirley Sargent, available at laboriously drilled holes for spikes all the their homesteading efforts. decided to restore it and create the Pio- bookstores throughout the park. way to its peak. Following the entrepre- U.S. CAVALRY CABIN neer Yosemite History Center to celebrate neurial spirit that energized many of After Yosemite National Park was estab- the hundredth anniversary of the estab- Yosemite’s first settlers, Anderson soon lished in 1890, the U.S. Cavlary took up lishment of the Yosemite Grant (which in began charging for tours to the top. the role of “acting 1864 marked the beginning of the formal Superintendent,” concept of establishing national parks in becoming America). Yosemite’s first The History Center is an outstanding park rangers. (The example of a joint effort in preserving YOSEMITE National Park Ser- the heritage of the national parks. This vice would not be cooperative effort includes businesses, GUIDE created until 1916.) non-profit organizations, and individual A force of 120 volunteers. Craftsmen trained in the Published by the Yosemite Association, horse-soldiers preservation of historic structures use in cooperation with the National Park would leave their historic materials and methods to main- Service and the Yosemite post at the Presidio tain the buildings’ structural integrity Concession Services Corp. and historic authenticity. in San Francisco, Edited by Kristina Rylands Production by Skip Gaynard Designs In 1879, this cabin was built upon the Hodgdon homestead in Aspen NPS Coordinator, Martha Lee Valley. Like other buildings at the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, it Printed by Premier Offset Printing, Inc. was moved to its current site near the covered bridge. Photo by G. Born

1 PARKPARKPARK RULESRULESRULES

RECREATIONAL CLOSURE ON THE EL PORTAL ROAD It’s the Law Due to construction along the El Portal Road (Highway 140), 6.4 miles of the road and Merced River corridor There are federal laws and are closed to walking, climbing, hiking, swimming, fishing, bicycling, and regulations specific to kayaking. Vehicular access is limited national parks that protect to between 6:30 a.m. and 10:30 p.m., Yosemite, its wildlife, historic except during holiday periods. and prehistoric sites and Traffic is not allowed to stop, use structures, and natural turnouts, or turn around. beauty. Protect your park Passengers must remain in vehicles. by following these rules: No overnight parking is permitted Camping or sleeping in vehicles along the road. For more information, ask at the Arch is permitted only in designated This stone building, which now stands at the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, campsites and is prohibited along Rock Entrance Station, park visitor originally stood in Yosemite Valley’s “Old Village.” It was constructed as a black roadsides, in turnouts, or in centers, or call 209/372-0200. powder storage house but was also used as a jail and even a morgue. parking lots. ❖

Bicycles (including mountain RAFTING REGULATIONS DRIVE SAFELY bikes), in-line skates, and strollers Rafting reg- Wawona is open for rafting from 10:00 a.m. must remain on paved roads and In 1999, there were 381 motor ulations have to 6:00 p.m. daily between Swinging Bridge vehicle accidents in Yosemite designated paved bike paths. been imple- and Wawona Campground. National Park. Sixteen bears were They are not allowed on hiking mented to Each occupant of vessels or flotation devices hit by vehicles. Speeding kills trails or anywhere off-pavement. protect river on park rivers must have in their possession, wildlife and people. Slow down ❖ habitat and and readily available, an appropriately sized and follow these driving tips to provide for U.S. Coast Guard approved life vest. avoid accidents: visitor safety. In order to protect the river’s banks, rafters Motor vehicles must stay on The entire length of the Merced River within are encouraged to get out only on sand or Obey posted speed limits. Slow established roads open to public Yosemite Valley will be closed to all flota- gravel bars, and swimmers should use sandy down when road conditions war- travel. Vehicles are not permitted tion devices whenever the river gauge at beaches to enter and exit the water. Rafters rant. Be alert to rocks in the off-road. Sentinel Bridge reads 6.5 feet or higher. must be aware that fallen trees may exist in roadway, wildlife crossing, or Rafting on the Merced River in Yosemite the river. This natural debris can create haz- other unexpected situations. ❖ Valley is open to any type of non-motorized ardous conditions to river users, so extreme law requires that all caution should be used. Store your food properly, keeping vessel or other flotation device between vehicle occupants wear seat Stoneman Bridge and Sentinel Beach from These rafting regulations may be subject to belts, and children 4 years of age it away from bears and other 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. In addition, change. (or under 40 lbs.) be restrained Yosemite animals (see page 3 the South Fork of the Merced River in in an approved child safety seat. for details). Do not stop in the roadway! Find ❖ a safe turnout if you wish to take a photo, consult a map, or enjoy Pets frighten wildlife and disturb ISHING EGULATIONS F R park scenery or wildlife. hikers. They must be leashed at Special fishing regulations apply on the open until June 15 in all times and are not permitted Be courteous. Pull into turnouts Merced River in Yosemite Valley from Happy order to protect spawning to allow other vehicles to pass. on any park trails, with the Isles downstream through El Portal to the rainbow trout. All lakes exception of paved trails on the Foresta Road Bridge. In this stretch of the and reservoirs are open to Vehicles commonly overheat on floor of Yosemite Valley. river, it is catch-and-release only for native fishing year-round. uphill grades during hot summer ❖ rainbow trout. Only artificial lures or flies A valid California sport temperatures. Avoid overheating with barbless hooks may be used, and bait fishing license must be by using lower gears and turning off air conditioning. Do not remove any objects from fishing is prohibited. Brown trout limits are displayed by all per- the park, including pine cones, five fish per day and ten in possession. It is sons 16 years of age Brakes may overheat, catch fire, rocks, leaves, obsidian, historic the responsibility of the angler to identify and older who are or fail on downhill grades. Avoid fish species. fishing in Yosemite brake problems by using lower items, etc. If you find an object Trout season begins on the last Saturday National Park. Licenses must be plainly gears and stopping at turnouts to that may be prehistoric or in April and continues through November visible, attached to outer clothing at or above allow brakes to cool. historic, do not move it. Note its 15. The only exception is Frog Creek near the waistline. For more information about Don’t drink and drive. It’s a fatal location and inform a ranger. If Lake Eleanor, where fishing season does not licenses and fishing, inquire at visitor centers. combination. you must collect something, please pick up litter! Special regulations for the ❖ HELP KEEP El Portal Road (Highway 140): Obey lowered speed limits in The use of metal detectors in WILDLIFE WILD construction zone. Rough road the park is illegal. Please report Did you know that feeding or closely conditions exist. No stopping or possible violations to a park approaching any park wildlife is pro- turning around in construction zone. ranger. hibited by federal law? Your food ❖ is a threat to the survival of park animals. It can damage their Firearms and hunting are health, make them vulnerable prohibited in Yosemite National to death from cars, or lead to dan- gerous behavior. Treat your food as if it Park. Report possible hunting FOR MORE were poison to animals, because the result is NFORMATION violations to the park’s tip line, often the same. Even though animals may look tame—especially when I 209/372-0214, or to the Depart- searching for a hand-out—they are capable of inflicting serious injury, Food storage guidelines, see page 3. ment of Fish and Game’s tip line, and in extreme cases, causing death. Never attempt to touch or closely Camping and campfires, see page 4. 888/DFG-CALTIP, 24 hours a day. approach any park wildlife. Instead, view wildlife through binoculars ❖ or telephoto lenses. A good rule-of-thumb: if an animal is aware of Wilderness regulations, see page 5. your presence, you’re too close. Fire safety guidelines, see page 7. All public buildings are Bicycling rules, see page 11. designated as non-smoking.

2 BEARSBEARS

BEARS ARE NOT TO BLAME: STORE FOOD PROPERLY Each year black bears are killed in CAMPGROUNDS Yosemite National Park as a direct result Federal regulations require of human carelessness and improper food that all food and related sup- storage. Some call it a “bear problem,” but plies be stored and secured at bears are not to blame. all times in the metal “bear Mountain Driven by their powerful sense of smell, boxes” in each campsite black bears are drawn to human food. Once (except when food is being they get it, they continue to seek it out— prepared and eaten). Each box from backpacks, picnic tables, ice chests, Lions measures 38"x48"x22". No food and even cars. As their natural fear of peo- storage is allowed in vehicles. ple fades, they may become aggressive. Keep bear boxes latched and When bears become too aggressive, they secured with their clips at all Mountain lions are a normal often have to be killed. In 1999, there were times. Bears enter campsites and very important part of the 768 incidents involving bears, resulting in during the day, even when over $224,000 in damage and five human park ecosystem, helping to keep people are present. injuries. Four bears had to be killed. The deer populations in check. Dispose of garbage frequently only way to stop this devastating cycle is to They are attracted to areas in animal-resistant dumpsters make sure that all food and trash are stored and cans. Don’t leave any with healthy deer populations, properly. Illustration by Lawrence Ormsby garbage in your campsite, which includes many areas of especially at night. the park. Although lion attacks NO FOOD IN CARS! ness areas. Backpackers staying in designat- LODGING are extremely rare, they are In 1999, over 318 cars were damaged ed backpacker camps adjacent to High possible, as is injury from any by bears in the park, and most of these Remove all food and food-related items Sierra Camps or in wild animal. We offer the incidents were caused by improper food from vehicles. Guests staying in hard- are required to use metal food storage lock- following recommendations storage. If your car will be parked in sided cabins must store such supplies ers provided or portable canisters. All Yosemite after dark, it must not contain indoors. garbage and food items must be stored in a for your safety: any food or related items. Guests staying in canvas tent-cabins must food locker, canister, or properly suspended store food and related items in lockers Bears have damaged cars for as little as a from a pole. The counterbalance technique Do not leave pets or pet food stick of gum or an empty soda can, so (ask at front desk for locker locations). (either from a cable or a tree branch) may outside and unattended, especially thoroughly search your car and remove Clean out trash, empty food containers, not be used where bear boxes exist. Bear all potential bear attractants. Bears can and scented articles from vehicles before resistant canisters are required at 9,600 feet at dawn and dusk. Pets can attract leaving them parked overnight. clearly smell any food in a car, even elevation and above. Plan ahead—All food, mountain lions into developed when it’s stored in the vehicle’s trunk! PICNIC AREAS garbage, and toiletries must be contained areas. Bears recognize ice chests, grocery bags, Stay close to your food and put it away as within canisters. (See article below for and other food-related containers. Such soon as you are finished eating. Bears may rental locations and canister details.) ❖ items, even when empty, have residual enter picnic areas, even when people are odors. Remove them from vehicles and present, so be prepared to scare them away. SAFETY Avoid hiking alone. Watch children store them securely. Also remove drinks, Never approach a bear, regardless of its closely and never let them run garbage, and scented articles such as soap, TRAILHEADS size. If you encounter a bear, act immedi- ahead or lag behind on the trail. sunscreen, and toothpaste from vehicles. It is highly recommended that no food or ately: throw small stones or sticks toward Don’t forget to check the glove compart- food-related supplies be left in vehicles the bear from a safe distance. Yell, clap Talk to children about lions, and ment! parked overnight at trailheads. There are hands, bang pots together. If there is more teach them what to do if they Clear your car’s interior of clutter. This food storage boxes for backpackers at all than one person, stand together to present meet one. will reduce the chances of a bear mistak- major trailheads in the park. Ask for loca- a more intimidating figure, but do not sur- ing an article for food, and increase the tions when acquiring a wilderness permit. round the bear. Use caution if you see cubs, ❖ chances that you will find any stray as a mother may act aggressively to defend french fries or other overlooked food. WILDERNESS them. Child car seats should be removed from The National Park Service strongly When done immediately, these actions What should you do vehicles since they often have residual encourages backpackers to carry and use have been successful in scaring bears away. if you meet a mountain lion? food smells. bear-resistant food storage canisters. These Never try to retrieve anything once a bear Remove all trash and place it in animal- portable containers are the most effective has it. Report all bear incidents to a park resistant trash cans or dumpsters. way for backpackers to store food in wilder- ranger (see hotline number below). Never approach one, especially if 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- frontations are still possible, even when all the guidelines are followed. SAVE -A-BEAR way to escape. HOTLINE ❖ To report trash problems, Don’t run. Stay calm. Hold your improper food storage, bear USE BEAR-RESISTANT FOOD CANISTERS sightings, and other bear-relat- ground, or back away slowly. Face ed problems, leave a message the lion and stand upright. Do all In an effort to decrease incidents between hours). Canisters can be picked up and for the Bear Management bears and people, and to keep bears wild, returned at any of the rental locations you can to appear larger. Raise your Team at 209/372-0200 (press 2, the National Park Service strongly encour- throughout the park. Increased availability then 4). Your call can be made arms. If you have small children ages backpackers to use bear-resistant food of canisters parkwide and reduced rental anonymously. with you, pick them up. canisters. These containers are the most fees are due to a cooperative agreement effective way for backpackers to store food between the Yosemite Association and ❖ in the wilderness. All other techniques are Yosemite Concession Services Corp. 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 it that you are not prey and may backpack, and is capable of holding 3 to 5 DONATE A CANISTER days supply of food for one person. be dangerous yourself. If attacked, Canisters may be rented for a flat fee of & SAVE A BEAR fight back! $3 per trip plus a refundable security Make a donation to the Yosemite Associa- ❖ deposit. They may also be purchased for tion’s “Save a Bear” campaign and help approximately $75. They are available at eliminate food-related human/bear conflicts in Generally, mountain lions the following locations: Year-round at the the wilderness. Donations will be used to pur- are calm, quiet, and elusive. Yosemite Valley Sports Shop, Mountain chase bear-resistant food storage canisters for Shop at Curry Village, Crane Flat Store, Sightings are rare, so if you use in the distribution program described in Wawona Store, and El Portal Market. spot one, consider yourself the adjacent article. The program makes canis- Seasonally at Yosemite Valley Wilderness ters easily available and encourages their 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 Store, Tuolumne Meadows Mountain- eering School, and Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center (see pages 18 and 19 for Photo by Mike Floyd 3 CAMPINGCAMPING

sites after you arrive in the park. Maximum Highway 120 East, Mono Lake Ranger CAMPING RESERVATIONS length for recreational vehicles in Valley Station (Inyo NF) 760/647-3044; Highway 41, campgrounds is 40 feet. Oakhurst Ranger Station (Sierra NF) 559/683- CAMPFIRE RULES Reservations are required for Yosemite Valley’s Camp 4 (Sunnyside) Walk-in Campground 4636. For private campgrounds and lodging auto campgrounds year-round and summer is open all year on a first-come, first-served basis; outside Yosemite, call the respective chamber To improve air quality in Yosemite through fall for Hodgdon Meadow, Crane Flat, these campsites are not wheelchair accessible. of commerce or visitor bureau listed on page Valley, campfires are permitted only Wawona, and half of Tuolumne Meadows. All Sites are rented on a per-person basis, and six 10. between 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. other campgrounds (except group and stock people will be placed in each campsite, regard- from May 1 through October 15. campgrounds) are first-come, first-served. less of the number of people in your party. GROUP CAMPGROUNDS Firewood collection is prohibited in Camping reservations will be available in Camp 4 (Sunnyside) often fills before 9:00 a.m. blocks of 1 month at a time, up to 5 months in Yosemite Valley. This includes “dead each day May through September. There are group campsites at Tuolumne Mead- and down” wood. advance, on the 15th of each month through There is a 30-day camping limit within the National Park Reservation System (NPRS). ows, Hodgdon Meadow, Wawona, and Bridalveil Outside the Valley, wood may not be Yosemite National Park in any calendar year; Creek Campgrounds. Reservations can be made Thus, for: however, May 1- September 15, camping limit gathered at elevations above 9,600 through NPRS; 13 to 30 people are allowed in feet or in sequoia groves. CAMPING FIRST DAY TO in Yosemite Valley is 7 days inclusive. each group campsite. Tent camping only. Pets ARRIVAL DATE MAKE RESERVATION are not permitted in group sites. Check-in/check- Cutting standing trees or attached All dates thru 12/14/00 7/15/00 OUTSIDE out time is noon. limbs, alive or dead, is prohibited, as is the use of chainsaws. 12/15/00 thru 1/14/01 8/15/00 YOSEMITE VALLEY SERVICES Please start campfires with news- 1/15/01 thru 2/14/01 9/15/00 Check-in/check-out time for campgrounds paper. Do not burn pine needles or 2/15/01 thru 3/14/01 10/15/00 outside the Valley is noon. Maximum length There are no hookups in Yosemite camp- cones, as they create unnecessary for recreational vehicles is 35 feet. grounds, but there are sanitary dump stations in smoke. 3/15/01 thru 4/14/01 11/15/00 There is a 30-day camping limit within Yosemite Valley (all year), and summer only in Campfires are permitted only in 4/15/01 thru 5/14/01 12/15/00, etc. Yosemite National Park in any calendar year; Wawona and Tuolumne Meadows. Shower and established fire rings. however, from May 1 to September 15, the laundry facilities are available year-round in From May through September, campsites are camping limit outside the Valley is limited to a Yosemite Valley; see page 19 for locations and See fire safety information on page 7. in heavy demand and prospective campers are total of 14 days, except for Wawona, which is hours of service. Bear-proof food storage lockers 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 the Valley are open only during the summer To Blame on page 3 for food storage guidelines. they are received no sooner than 2 weeks before Reservations may be made from 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 NLINE ESERVATIONS S Y only in designated campsites. O R : 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. reservations can be accessed through reserva- INTERNATIONAL CALLERS: 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. YOSEMITE VALLEY reserved. Unlike Yosemite, the national forests MAIL-IN RESERVATIONS: allow dispersed camping in some areas Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. NPRS Check-in/check-out time for Yosemite Valley (outside of designated campgrounds). Generators may be used sparingly between P.O. Box 1600 campgrounds is 10:00 a.m. Campsites are Campfire permits are required. For additional 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. Cumberland, MD 21502 assigned by NPRS at the time the reservation is information, contact the local USFS Up to two campsites may be reserved made. Campers may request a specific campsite district offices: Highway 120 West, Dishwater and sewage must be disposed of in at a time by mail or phone with Mastercard, number if it is available at the time the reserva- Groveland Ranger Station (Stanislaus NF) designated utility drains. Visa, Discover, personal check, or money tion is made. All campsite assignments are 209/962-7825; Highway 140, Mariposa Electrical extension cords may not be con- order. final—you may not switch or change camp- Ranger Station (Sierra NF) 209/966-3638; nected to campground restroom outlets.

) IL O L S L Y G Y I Y Y B N E (B R I E C R B B D L A R S S D N R R A I L P E G A A E A T T E E O R * R E S L R I E E N M V /S E A L T B O W T K N O S E C E I O N N S G E E A T O E A S L A S C IO R E E C W T G Y IE N A F F P A T IL T IT L R R R I B T IT IT A S M O S N E G A S M Y P A C P A I D E M N E E S T W H T I P K W N C I S V L E F IL S E S N E S M IM R E I S N P R U T T R O U O H L O O A V E A T L I IC IR E U A H A R W IS O CAMPGROUND E M Y # D R 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 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. 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 June-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 27’ 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 RVs over 24' 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

SUMMER IN THE WILDERNESS

Yosemite’s spectacular wilderness is a 4 miles from any popu- popular destination in summer. Common lated area and 1 mile sense and an understanding of wilderness from any road before Watch travel techniques are required to safely camping. enjoy these wilderness areas. Park regula- Check current weather tions are designed for your safety, and to conditions and forecasts ensure the survival of these wild lands and Your Step! prior to your trip. Be pre- their communities of life. pared for sudden changes In early summer, winter wilderness skills in weather; plan for may still be necessary for many extended wind, cold, rain, snow, wilderness trips. Wilderness travelers should sun, or an emergency In 1999, rangers in Yosemite check trail conditions before planning a bivouac. worked on 158 search and wilderness trip and pack accordingly. Maximum group size is rescue operations. Nine people died in the park due to HIGH WATER/STREAM CROSSINGS 15 people for trail travel Early in the season, water from melting and 8 people for off-trail accidents. snow and ice may cause high water levels travel. and swift currents. Do not underestimate Proper equipment is vital. Tripping and falling are common the power of rushing water—it can be Carry sufficient food and Swinging Bridge in Wawona Photo by Christine White-Loberg accidents on park walkways and deadly! When crossing an unbridged creek, water. overnight hikes from each trailhead, trails, especially in slippery look for a natural bridge of logs or rocks. Plan to pack out all trash. Be careful—they can be extremely slippery. each day. This system is designed to avoid conditions. If none is available, cross in a wide shallow Yosemite’s wilderness is a wildlife pre- overcrowding and to reduce impacts to ❖ spot that is not above rapids or falls. Un- serve—pets and weapons are prohibited. wilderness areas. At least 40% of each trail- Bicycles and strollers are not allowed on head quota is available on a first-come, buckle your waist strap, use a long stick for At night, artificial lighting is kept to a stability, and face upstream while crossing. any trail. first-served basis the day of, or one day Don’t tie yourself into “safety ropes” — Trail maps, hiking guides, and other literature prior to, the beginning of your trip. Permit minimum; always carry a flashlight. they can drown you. Water will be may be obtained at visitor/wilderness centers stations are located in Yosemite Valley at ❖ extremely cold, and extreme caution or ordered from the Yosemite Bookstore, P.O. the Wilderness Center, Wawona, Big Oak should be used to prevent conditions Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318, 209/379-2648 Flat, , and Tuolumne Mead- Rock climbing and scrambling which may lead to hypothermia. or fax 209/379-2486. ows. Call 209/372-0200 or go to the wilderness web site for open permit station are the leading causes of injury locations and hours. Permits are also avail- and death for unprepared and PLAN CAREFULLY WILDERNESS PERMITS able by advance reservation. inexperienced hikers. Routes are Use topographic maps and guidebooks to Free wilderness permits are required often more difficult than they plan your trip. Carry a “topo” map and year-round for all overnight trips into compass when on the trail and know Yosemite’s wilderness. They are not PROTECT WATER QUALITY, WILDLIFE, appear, and even a short fall can how to use them. required for day hikes. Yosemite uses a AND FRAGILE TERRAIN cause serious injury or death. Before Pack out all trash and use gas stoves Allow plenty of time for rest, food stor- trailhead quota system which limits the rather than wood fires. you scramble or climb on Yosemite’s age, and campsite selection. You must be number of people who may begin Store all food, garbage, and toiletries rocks or walls, provide yourself with properly (see page 3). proper equipment and training. Camp in an existing, well-used campsite ❖ WILDERNESS PERMIT RESERVATIONS at least 100 feet from water. Swift currents and wet, slippery Bring a container to carry water to your 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. camp from lakes or streams. swept over a . Never swim Call 209/372-0200 for the latest information. Currently, reservations are available Purify all drinking water—boil for 5 min- from 24 weeks to 2 days in advance of the trip start date, and can be made by writing utes, or use a Giardia-rated filter or an or wade in streams above to Wilderness Permits, P.O. Box 545, Yosemite, CA 95389, or by calling 209/372-0740. iodine-based purifier (see page 7). or in swiftly moving water. Include the following in your request: name, address, daytime phone, number of Dispose of human waste in a small hole ❖ people in the party, method of travel (i.e., ski, snowshoe, foot, horse), number of at least 100 feet from water and trail. stock (if applicable), start and end dates, entry and exit trailheads, and principal Pack out all toilet paper and personal Any unbridged stream crossing may destination. Include alternate dates and/or trailheads. hygiene products. be hazardous. If a bridge is not A $5 per person non-refundable processing fee is charged for all reservation Do all washing at least 100 feet from any nearby and you must cross, do so at water source or trail. requests. Payment by check or money order should be made to the Yosemite a wide, shallow spot that is not Association. Credit card payments are accepted with valid card number and above rapids or waterfalls. expiration date. For wilderness information, Reservation phone lines are often busy. We encourage you to make your request in ❖ writing. Mailed requests are processed simultaneously with phone requests. call 209/372-0200 or go to www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness 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 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 #16 (1.6 km) with placard

LOWER YOSEMITE FALL Yosemite Falls 1/2 mile round trip Easy 20 minutes round trip with assistance Shuttle Stop #4 (0.8 km)

UPPER YOSEMITE FALL TRAIL Camp 4 2 miles round trip Strenuous 2 to 3 hours round trip Check conditions at Visitor Center COLUMBIA ROCK Shuttle Stop #5 (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 1.4 miles round trip Moderate 1 to 2 hours round trip Check conditions at Visitor Center Shuttle Stop #15 (2.0 km) 400' (120 m) elevation gain Winter route available

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

TOP OF Same as above 7 miles round trip Strenuous 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 #4 6.5 miles half loop (10.4 km) 2.5 to 3.5 hours half loop Visitor Center 5 YOSEMITEYOSEMITE NEWSNEWS

On The HELP SUPPORT YOUR 379 NATIONAL PARK AREAS! Web In April, the National Park Service introduced the new National Parks Pass. This $50 pass allows unlimited entry for twelve full months to all National Park Service (NPS) sites which charge entrance fees. The Golden Eagle Pass, which The official Yosemite NPS home page provides admission to some Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Fish & Wildlife fee areas as well as NPS (www.nps.gov/yose/) contains the latest sites, has increased in price to $65 this year. The National park information. Parks Pass may be upgraded to a Golden Eagle Pass at any ❖ time during the year for an additional $15. Both passes admit the purchaser and any accompanying passengers in a single, Camping reservations can now private, non-commercial vehicle. Use of the passes may not be made online from 7:00 a.m. be transferred to another person. The sale of the National Parks Pass will contribute signifi- to 7:00 p.m. Pacific time cantly to the financial health of the 379 areas in the National (reservations.nps.gov). Park System. Seventy percent of the proceeds of the sale of ❖ this pass will benefit the park where the pass is sold. The remaining 30% of the proceeds will be credited to a special The Yosemite Association’s Yosemite fund that will benefit ALL parks, especially those that do not Online (yosemite.org) features visitor charge entrance fees. These proceeds may be spent only for high priority health and safety, visitor service and resource information, a bookstore, a listing of management projects in the parks. outdoor classes, membership news, The National Parks Pass is an attractive and durable card the daily weather forecast, a live- depicting a beautiful image of one of your National Park Service areas. Each year the pass will feature a different park. camera view of Half Dome and Included in the purchase price is a USA map featuring the Yosemite Valley, and even a 3-D entire National Park System and other benefits. They are QuickTime video of Yosemite Valley. available to any visitor at Yosemite entrance stations, other ❖ national parks, online at www.nationalparks.org or by calling The Yosemite Fund home page 365 DAYS Wednesday through Sunday afternoons you might find 888/GOPARKS. (www.yosemitefund.org) frequently has a “pioneer” demonstrating a nearly forgotten art, such 379 WAYS as blacksmithing, at the Pioneer Yosemite History project updates with photographs TO EXPERIENCE Center in Wawona. Photo by G. Born YOUR AMERICA online. The site currently features photos of the restoration work at Glacier Point. Other features include A YOSEMITE SEMINAR “Wild Card,” “Waterfalls,” and “Tips CLASSROOMS IN THE PARK EXPERIENCE For Travelers,” along with current donation information. Yosemite National Park is the ideal out- resources. Fall visits feature a Miwok Like any visitor, I came to Yosemite to ❖ door classroom for exploring natural and Indian theme. Reservations can be made see its famous landmarks, but I yearned for cultural history topics. Yosemite’s Parks As beginning July 1. Class size is limited to 35 a more in-depth look at this incredible The Yosemite Concession Services Classrooms program coordinates with the students. park. A friend told me that the Yosemite California State Curriculum Frameworks For further information regarding Association, an educational non-profit Page (www.yosemitepark.com) features for upper elementary grades and offers this and other National Park Service organization, offered a wide variety of out- 200 pages of information on lodging, ranger-led field trips for classes visiting the education programs, contact the door seminars for visitors. I signed up for shopping, dining, and park activities park. Each program lasts 1 to 2 hours. Park Education Office at 209/375-9505, an August class in Tuolumne Meadows entrance fees are waived for the education- or visit the web site at (8,600 feet elevation)—Mountain Wildflow- with links to other Yosemite-related al visit. www.nps.gov/yose/teach.htm. For a ers for the Relaxed Botanist. web sites. It also includes a live- These programs emphasize the National fee waiver application, call 209/379- Mike Ross, our seminar instructor, led us camera view of Half Dome, online Park Service message of protection and 1876. on a leisurely hike to find flowers and gift shop, and off-season lodging preservation of natural and cultural plants. I was impressed with his knowledge of the area, and I appreciated his sense of reservations. humor and gentle, friendly teaching style. ❖ By 5:00 p.m. we walked back to our camp- sites, cooked dinner together, and later The Ansel Adams Gallery site gathered for a sunset walk to (www.anseladams.com) features at the west end of Tuolumne Meadows. fine art photography, gifts, calendar What a fantastic day...and we still had four of events, and photos of Yosemite and more to go! Mono Lake. With each day I began to recognize fami- ❖ lies of plants and even blurted out a few scientific names. I highly recommend this YATI, Yosemite Area Traveller seminar—or any that Yosemite Association offers—to visitors wanting a fun outdoor Information (www.yosemite.com), hiking and learning experience. I’ll never web site contains the latest informa- forget this week and can hardly wait until tion on an 11,000-square-mile area next year’s catalog of classes is mailed so I can again schedule a learning vacation! containing and surrounding See the Yosemite Field Seminars Yosemite. Includes lodging informa- 2000 catalog of seminars at tion, travel advisories, and road and Living history volunteers bring pioneers to life! Photo by James Shull www.yosemite.org or call 209/379-2321 weather conditions. and YA will mail you a catalog. ❖ There are two-day and up to eight- YARTS OFFERS VISITORS MORE OPTIONS day programs for adults and families offered February through October. The Yosemite Institute’s home page Yosemite visitors can now take a break round-trip bus service to Yosemite National (www.yni.org) describes its residential, from driving by riding transit into the park! Park from outlying communities including in-park field-science program for ele- The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation Merced, Mariposa, and Mammoth Lakes. System (YARTS) began optional bus service Buses operate at hours most convenient to mentary, middle, and high school in May 2000. Full summer service runs park visitors and provide direct service to students, and post-visit challenge through September 17, 2000 and will the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and the units. resume during the summer of 2001. The Yosemite Valley shuttle bus system. YARTS new voluntary service provides scheduled provides riders with the highest quality ser- vice for the lowest possible cost. For schedule, route, and fare infor- mation visit the YARTS web site at www.yosemite.com/yarts or call toll free 877/98-YARTS (877/989-2787). 6 NATURENATURENATURE NOTESNOTESNOTES

Fire Safety WHY ARE THE TREES DEAD? Each year campfires, cigarettes, As you drive along Yosemite roads, you and human carelessness cause may wonder why there are large stands unwanted fires in Yosemite. of dead trees. Some areas were blackened These fires can be prevented by by lightning-caused fires that burned following a few simple rules. thousands of acres. Although natural succession progresses at a slow pace, shrubs and sprouts from fire-adapted CAMPFIRES species have spread throughout the Build small campfires using only burned areas, and small trees are begin- ning to overtop the brush, hinting at the established campfire rings. Be aware regenerated future forests growing there. of conditions such as weather and Other stands of trees show the effects items nearby that could accidentally of pine bark beetles. These insects live in the growing tissue between wood and catch fire. Never leave a fire bark, and the young eat their way around unattended. Put out campfires trees and limbs, often killing them. Pine by stirring with water a half hour engraver beetles have been busy above before you leave the site, and the east portal of the Wawona Tunnel, displaying their signature symptoms of remember to carefully feel charred dead limbs and tops. Bark beetles that kill material to make certain the fire A Yosemite fire management crew. Photo by Brian Grogan entire trees are always working too; their is out. See page 4 for campfire rules. evidence can be seen in individual or clumps of reddish or straw-colored pines. FIRE MANAGEMENT IN YOSEMITE ❖ Another busy insect is the lodgepole needleminer. This little gray moth lives Fire managers in Yosemite realize that occur within the park. ORTABLE inside of pine needles. It avoids becoming fire has been an essential part of the All managed burns are normally signed P a regular menu item for predators by only ecosystem for thousands of years and have from vantage points or along the road- CAMPING STOVES emerging every other year (odd-numbered used two tools since the early 1970s to ways. Please heed all warning signs posted Refuel stoves only when they are years), and so populations can really restore the benefits of this natural process: in fire areas. Occasionally, trails that are explode until it actually eats itself out wildland fire and prescribed fire. within or adjacent to fires need to be cold and in a well-ventilated area. of house and home. Aerial surveys last Wildland fires that are caused by light- closed for safety reasons. Trail closings summer revealed that over 44,000 acres ning may be allowed to burn under strictly will be posted in the Valley’s Wilderness ❖ of lodgepole pines around Lake monitored conditions in certain park Center and at appropriate trailheads. have been defoliated, and many of those wilderness areas. Since 1972, 532 lightning Currently, there is a moratorium on CHARCOAL BRIQUETTES trees will die. The Ghost Forest wayside fires have been successfully managed by both types of burning in the National Park exhibit near Tuolumne Meadows details Yosemite National Park’s fire staff. Where System. To continue with fire hazard Because charcoal uses oxygen their story. it is not prudent to allow fires to burn, the reduction in Yosemite, crews are manually rapidly, you should never use it in park has a policy of fire suppression com- clearing small trees and brush in Yosemite confined spaces, such as tents or bined with a prescribed fire Valley, Mariposa Grove, and other park vehicles. After use, dunk charcoal program. Prescribed fires are areas to prepare the areas for burning at a ignited under approved condi- later date. Alternative methods for dealing briquettes in water until cold. Young, old, and even dead tions by qualified park fire staff with the debris will be experimented with Check them carefully. Never empty trees are important in natural to protect developed areas (like this year as long as the moratorium lasts. areas like Yosemite National hot or warm briquettes in trash Yosemite Valley and Wawona) Visitors may obtain more information Park. While the National Park and in other areas with unnatu- on Yosemite’s Fire Management Program dumpsters. Service has an effective tree rally high amounts of dead and by visiting the exhibits in the Valley Visi- hazard control program, be aware that even down woody debris. Yosemite tor Center. If burning is permitted later ❖ green trees occasionally fail, injuring people has safely conducted 188 pre- this season, locations and status of the and damaging property. scribed burns since 1970. wildland and prescribed fires will be CIGARETTES All human caused wildland displayed in the Visitor Center and on a Never smoke while walking or in FROM THE RANGER’S LOG fires are immediately sup- status board inside the Wilderness Center BOOK AT THE MERCED pressed no matter where they in Yosemite Village. an area with flammable materials. LAKE RANGER STATION Crush butts completely before throwing them into a garbage By Brian Mattos, NPS Forester can. Never throw cigarettes out of a car window. I think that I shall never see A poem more lovely than a tree, Unless that tree leans hazardous O’er camps of those who visit us. SAFE DRINKING WATER For doctors, moms, and lawyers, too, Don‘t understand trees like we do. Giardiasis is an intestinal disease caused by Giardia lamblia, a pro- They must see logs spread all around, tozoan. Associated symptoms include chronic diarrhea, abdominal But put their tents twixt tree and ground. cramps, bloating, fatigue, and loss of weight. Treatment by a physi- And when winds blow or branches fall, cian is necessary to kill the organism. They worry not one bit at all: Giardia lamblia is carried by humans as well as some domestic and Just stay there in their flimsy tent, wild animals, and may contaminate lakes and streams. Whenever pos- Drowsing, snoring, quite content. sible, only tap water should be used for drinking. If using surface water Should we cut all defective trees? or melted snow, treat by boiling for 5 minutes or by using a Giardia- Heavens no, of course not, PLEASE! rated water filter. If used properly, an iodine-based purifier is another Just tell the campers, show them how alternative. Defective trees fall down, KA-POW! The National Park Service is working with the U.S. Environmental Then when they choose a place to hang out Protection Agency and the California Department of Health Services Trees are what they’re thinking about. to develop a program to ensure that the drinking water in Yosemite They’ll choose a place where trees are firm— is protected. The program, one of the first in California, will be based No mistletoe, no rot, no worm— on an assessment of potential threats to water sources. And gaze up from their starry lairs Worried ‘bout giardia, rain, and bears. TICK-BORNE DISEASES Within a few growing seasons of a fire, the forest floor is a lush mat of grasses, shrubs, Be aware that ticks exist in the park, and and flowers. Photo by Keith Walklet consult your doctor if you believe 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 HELPHELP YOURYOUR PARKPARK YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION THE YOSEMITE FUND JOIN THE YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION PROVIDING FOR YOSEMITE’S FUTURE

The Yosemite Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to the support How do bears get into locked cars? What’s the best way to store your cake—and eat of Yosemite National Park through a program of visitor services, publications, and it too? membership activities. For over 70 years, the association has provided important During your Yosemite visit this summer, you may have the opportunity to test financial support to the National Park Service, and has made possible the funding of your bear knowledge via a visitor survey. The survey is part of a three-year study many projects and purchases otherwise not affordable through normal government sponsored by The Yosemite Fund that examines the habitat use of Yosemite Valley appropriations. black bears and the effectiveness of public information about them. Both portions The Yosemite Association: are critical to continuing the recent dra- matic reduction in bear-related property Provides over $300,000 annually to the National Park Service for its use in visitor damage and ensuring the welfare of information, educational, and interpretive Yosemite’s bears. programs. The bear study is among the 50 projects supported this year by The Yosemite Fund, Publishes popular and award-winning books a non-profit organization that raises money on Yosemite and operates bookstores in the from Yosemite enthusiasts to protect and park. restore the park and enhance the visitor’s Provides member-volunteers to work on experience. Now in its 12th year, the Fund meadows, trails, and other much-needed park has provided over $13 million for more restoration projects. than 150 projects. Thanks to gifts from Organizes over 60 outdoor classes and field dedicated “Friends of Yosemite,” the Fund seminars on natural history, Native American has: lifeways, art, and photography. Installed 2,000 bear-proof food lockers Sponsors the Ostrander Ski Hut, Yosemite throughout Yosemite Theater, Art Activity Center, and other Rehabilitated Cook’s Meadow in the valuable programs. heart of Yosemite Valley Anyone who loves Yosemite and wishes to Rebuilt numerous sections of Yosemite’s become more closely involved and affiliated 800+ miles of trails with the park is encouraged to become a member of the Yosemite Association. Sign up Expanded and renovated many Yosemite for a membership through this Yosemite Guide museums and information centers and receive as a free gift The Complete Guidebook This year, The Yosemite Fund seeks to to Yosemite National Park. This book is sponsor many more projects including con- informative and useful, lively and humorous, Bear-proof food storage lockers supplied by the Yosemite Fund significantly reduce having earned the “Best National Park damage to visitor property. Photo by Steve Sanders tinued scientific research on Yosemite’s Guidebook” award from the National Park wildlife, production of a new visitor orien- Service. tation film, and educating school children about Yosemite and natural resource protection. As a member, you will: You can help by becoming a Friend of Yosemite through a donation to the Fund. Enjoy a 15% discount at Yosemite Association shops on all books, maps, and All donors of $25 or more receive: publications, as well as qualify for a discount on most field seminars. Yosemite Postcard Book, featuring 15 extraordinary full-color views of Yosemite Have an opportunity to volunteer in Yosemite. The Fund’s semi-annual newsletter, Approach, featuring updates on the park and Receive the quarterly journal, Yosemite, which features informative articles on both information about how your donation is helping Yosemite the natural and human history of the park. Acknowledgement at the Friends of Yosemite Honor Wall at the Valley Visitor Have a chance to attend special members’ events in the park. Center Have access to a members-only information line. Please fill out the coupon below and become a Friend of Yosemite today. Have the satisfaction of knowing that you are supporting significant projects in Yosemite National Park.

PLEASE ENROLL ME YES, I WANT TO JOIN THE AS A MEMBER OF THE FRIENDS OF YOSEMITE WHO YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION PROVIDE FOR YOSEMITE’S FUTURE!

❑ Individual $30 ❑ Sustaining $250 Enclosed is my tax-deductible gift: ❑ Joint/Family $35 ❑ Patron $500 ❑ $25 ❑ $100 ❑ $1,000 ❑ Supporting $50 ❑ Benefactor $1,000 ❑ $50 ❑ $500 ❑ $_____(Other) ❑ Contributing $100 ❑ International $40 (for members outside the U.S.) Name ❑ Yes, please send The Complete Guidebook to Yosemite National Park Address Name (please print) City State Zip Street Address Enclosed is my check or money order, or charge to my VISA/MasterCard/AmEx

City State Zip Card # Exp. date Daytime Phone Number Friends of Yosemite receive the full-color Yosemite Postcard Book ($25), beautiful Enclosed is my check or money order for $ or charge to Yosemite note cards ($50) or the photo book, Cycle of the Seasons ($100). Credit card # Expiration Date John Muir Heritage Society members, giving $1,000 or more, receive invitations to E-mail address events at Yosemite, a park entrance pass and other Society benefits.

YOSEMITE THE YOSEMITE FUND ASSOCIATION P.O. Box 637 P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318 Yosemite, CA 95389 209/379-2646 415/434-1782 www.yosemite.org www.yosemitefund.org

8 J UST FOR KIDS

For activities especially Yosemite’s Critters for children, look for programs listed in color on pages 12-17.

LITTLE CUBS WANTED!

Are you between the ages of 4 and 6? Yosemite has a program for YOU! Little Cubs is a self-guided booklet that encourages our young visitors and their families to discover Yosemite’s wonders and earn a Little Cubs button. This booklet is sold in the Nature Center at Happy Isles, Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Centers, and Wawona and Big Oak Flat Information Stations.

ESPECIALLY FOR CHILDREN

Two historic landmarks in Yosemite Valley—the Nature Center at Happy Isles and LeConte Memorial Lodge—can help families with children explore and understand Yosemite’s natural world. The Nature Center at Happy Isles, open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., offers state-of-the-art exhibits, hands-on activities, and a small bookstore (near shuttle bus stop #15). LeConte Memorial Lodge (shuttle bus stop #11), open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., features a children’s corner and offers children’s and family programs. Enjoy the morning or afternoon with a professional naturalist and a small group of families to explore the wonders of Yosemite’s natural world and cultural history. Working in partnership with Yosemite Concession Services (YCS), Yosemite Institute’s “Discover Yosemite” program offers a hands-on exploratory adventure for families with children ages 6-15. Registration and any animals live in Yosemite though sometimes it’s hard to find information can be obtained at the front desk of any YCS lodging. Children are Mthem. If you’re patient and pay attention, you’ll probably see some of $10 and parents are free. Each child must be accompanied by their parent or the animals whose names are hidden in the block above. They can be legal guardian. All sessions will depart from the Curry Village Amphitheater. found going up, down, across, or diagonally. Circle the words when you Check the activity schedules on pages 12-17 for information on specific find them. Answers on page 18. children’s program schedules and locations throughout the park. You’ll find GOPHER TREE FROG COYOTE children’s and family programs printed in color on these pages. GARTER SNAKE DEER MOSQUITO PIKA GROSBEAK MARMOT CHICKADEE MARTEN EAGLE TROUT FALCON PORCUPINE LADYBUG SQUIRREL GRASSHOPPER Master a Maze JAY DRAGONFLY Proper food storage and disposal of trash helps save bears. Help these kids find the right path to the bear-proof dumpster.

BECOME A JUNIOR RANGER

Join a ranger on an adventure to discover the many wonders of Yosemite and earn a badge. Junior Ranger (ages 7-13) programs are offered for children in Yosemite Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, Wawona, and Crane Flat. Guided Junior Ranger Programs are free. Adults must accompany participants. A two-hour Guided Junior Ranger Program is offered every day at 10:00 a.m., at different locations. YOSEMITE VALLEY Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 a.m. to noon Nature Center at Happy Isles TUOLUMNE MEADOWS Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to noon parking area (ages 7-10 only) WAWONA Thursday and Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to noon Wawona Campground Campfire Circle (July & August) CRANE FLAT Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to noon Crane Flat Campfire Circle (ends August 19) There is also a self-guided Junior Ranger program booklet. It is sold at the Nature Center at Happy Isles, Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Centers, and Wawona and Big Oak Flat Information Stations. In order to earn a Junior Ranger patch, children must complete the booklet, collect a bag of trash, and attend a guided program.

Master a Maze and Yosemite’s Critters are based on the Yosemite Fun Book by Michael Elsohn Ross, available at stores throughout the park.

9 PLANNINGPLANNINGPLANNING

AREAS TO VISIT IN YO

What is the TRANSPORTATION To and From Yosemite YOSEMITE VALLEY best way VIA The Yosemite Connection / Gray Line Yosemite Valley is world famous for its 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 to visit and may be reached via Highway 41 from FRESNO — Fresno, Highway 140 from Merced (see Service between Fresno/Yosemite Inter- “Important Road Information” on page 11), Yosemite? national Airport and Fresno hotels to Highway 120 from Manteca, and in late Yosemite Valley, seasonally. Wheelchair-lift spring through late fall via the Tioga Road (Highway 120) from Lee Vining. Many equipped with advance notice. Schedule, activities and services are available in prices, and reservations available by calling Yosemite Valley. Detailed information on There is no “best way” to visit the VIA or by visiting their web site. Yosemite Valley is available at the Yosemite park. Your experience in Yosemite Valley Visitor Center in Yosemite Village. MERCED — See map on the back panel, and for scheduled depends on the time you have Service from Merced Amtrak Station and Valley activities, see pages 12-14. Transpo Center to Yosemite Valley Visitor available and your interests. Many Center and Yosemite Lodge. Deluxe coaches fine maps and books are sold in visitor provide several round-trips daily between MARIPOSA GROVE Merced and Yosemite. Wheelchair-lift centers and park stores to help plan equipped with advance notice. Schedules AND WAWONA your visit. Publications such as available at Yosemite Lodge tour desk, The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias 1 Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, or by calling is located 36 miles (1 ⁄4 hours) south of Yosemite’s Official Park Handbook, Yosemite Valley via the Wawona Road VIA or visiting their web site. Tickets can be published by the National Park (Highway 41), 2 miles from the park’s South purchased from drivers. Entrance Station. The road to the Mariposa Service, or The Yosemite Visitor’s Kit are The Yosemite Area Regional Trans- Grove is not plowed in winter and is subject portation System (YARTS) gives park to closure for extended periods. Activities available at visitor centers, gift shops, visitors a break from driving by providing include hiking, ranger-led walks, and tram tours of the Grove (weather permitting) late or by mail from the Yosemite transit service into Yosemite. This new spring through fall. (Road work scheduled for Association Bookstore, P.O. Box 230, voluntary operation provides scheduled round- the Mariposa Grove may reduce or eliminate trip transit service to Yosemite from outlying tram operations.) Trail brochures, printed in El Portal, CA 95318, 209/379-2648, communities, including Merced, Mariposa, English, French, Japanese, and Spanish are available at the Grove trailhead. To reduce fax 209/379-2486, yosemite.org. and Mammoth Lakes. Buses run at hours con- traffic congestion and avoid parking venient to park visitors and offer seamless Remember that road and trail delays, ride the free shuttle bus (spring service with the existing shuttle bus system through fall) from Wawona to the Grove. conditions and available services may within the park. Summer service operates The Pioneer Yosemite History Center in through September 17 and will resume in the Wawona is a collection of historic buildings change with the weather. For associated with people and events that summer of 2001. For schedule and service current conditions and general shaped the national park idea in Yosemite. information, visit the YARTS web site at Interpretive signs and a brochure provide a information, call 209/372-0200. www.yosemite.com/yarts or call toll free self-guiding tour of the Center year-round. 877/98-YARTS (877/989-2787). See page 14 and 15 for activities and additional information about Wawona and Within Yosemite the Mariposa Grove. Free shuttle bus service is provided EN throughout the eastern portion of ENTRANCE FEES Yosemite Valley year-round. In GLACIER POINT summer, free shuttle buses run from Glacier Point, an overlook with a Wawona to the Mariposa Grove, commanding view of Yosemite Valley, THE PARK IS OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, and from to Tenaya Half Dome, and the High Sierra, is located YEAR-ROUND. Lake. Hikers’ buses run daily to 30 miles (1 hour) from Yosemite Valley. (fees subject to change) The view from Glacier Point provides an Glacier Point late spring through opportunity to see Yosemite Valley from its autumn and between Tuolumne rim. From Yosemite Valley, take the Wawona TYPE PRICE NOTES Meadows and Yosemite Valley late Road (Highway 41) 14 miles to the Chinquapin June through Labor Day. Call junction, then turn left onto the Glacier Point Road. The road ends at Glacier Point. Vehicle $20 Valid for 7 days. 209/372-1240 for hikers’ bus fee, The Glacier Point Road is generally open Individual $10 In a bus, on foot, schedule, and reservations, or stop from late spring through late fall. In winter, bicycle, motorcycle, by any tour desk. the road is plowed only as far as the Badger or horse. Valid for Pass Ski Area; Glacier Point can be reached 7 days. via skis or snowshoes only. See page 16 for activities. Yosemite Pass $40 Valid for 1 year in LODGING Yosemite. Reservations for all overnight lodg- National Parks Pass $50 Valid for 1 year in ing in Yosemite can be made by calling LODGING AND ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE THE PARK NEW (see page 6) all national park 559/252-4848 or by writing to Central areas. Reservations, Yosemite Concession Ser- YATI (Yosemite Area Traveller Information) Highway 132/49 vices, 5410 East Home, Fresno, CA 93727. Golden Eagle Pass $65 Valid for 1 year in 369 W. 18th Street Coulterville Visitor Center all federal fee areas. Lodging in Yosemite Valley includes Curry Merced, CA 95340 P.O. Box 333 Village, Housekeeping Camp, Yosemite www.yosemite.com 5007 Main Street Golden Age Pass $10 For U.S. citizens Lodge, and The Ahwahnee. Lodging out- Coulterville, CA 95311 (Lifetime) or permanent side Yosemite Valley includes the West Highway 120 209/878-3074 residents 62 and Wawona Hotel, and in summer, White Highway 120 Chamber of Commerce over. Wolf Lodge and Tuolumne Meadows P.O. Box 1263 Highway 140/49 Hotel Charlotte, Suite B Mariposa Visitor Center Golden Access Pass Free For blind or Lodge. Rates range from $45 per night (Lifetime) permanently for a basic tent cabin with nearby bath- Groveland, CA 95321 (also info. for Fish Camp, Wawona, Yosemite West) 800/449-9120 or 209/962-0429 disabled U.S. room, to $265.50 per night for a room at P.O. Box 425 5158 Highway 140 citizens or The Ahwahnee (rates are subject to permanent Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau Mariposa, CA 95338 change). Reservations are highly recom- residents. P.O. Box 4020 800/208-2434 or 209/966-2456 mended and may be made up to 1 year 55 West Stockton Street mariposa.yosemite.net/visitor and 1 day in advance. Sonora, CA 95370 800/446-1333 or 209/533-4420 East Highway 120 UserFee www.thegreatunfenced.com Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce Eighty percent of your $20 entrance fee remains in and Mono Lake Visitor Center Highway 41 Yosemite. Thanks to the Recreation Fee Demonstration P.O. Box 130 improves this park Yosemite Sierra Visitor Bureau Program, approved by Congress in 1995, entrance fees Highway 395 and 3rd Street 40637 Highway 41 have been temporarily raised to help fund projects that improve the park and your Lee Vining, CA 93541 Oakhurst, CA 93644 visit. Projects currently underway include: 760/647-6629 559/683-4636 • Repairing the deteriorated sewer line that services all of Yosemite Valley www.leevining.com www.sierranet.net/~ysvb • Refurbishing the multi-purpose auditorium in Yosemite Valley The park is awaiting approval on many other maintenance, visitor services, and natural and cultural restoration projects including: • Replacing picnic tables, fire rings, and signs in campgrounds parkwide • Refurbishing roads, trails, and utilities throughout the park • Improving the shuttle bus service in Yosemite Valley Yosemite anticipates earning $51 million by 2001 and completing approved projects by 2004. 10 YOURYOURYOUR VISITVISITVISIT

MITE NATIONAL PARK

Tuolumne Meadows (summer), Glacier Point, Wawona, and the Mariposa Grove Who To of Giant Sequoias (spring through fall). CRANE FLAT Two-hour moonlight tours show Yosemite Call... Crane Flat is a pleasant forest and meadow in a different light during summer months. area located 16 miles from Yosemite Valley at In winter, tours are conducted on heated NFORMATION the junction of the Big Oak Flat Road and the and enclosed motor coaches; stops are made I Tioga Road. To see giant sequoias, park at the at the best-known scenic locations in Tuolumne Grove parking area located on the Recorded General Park Yosemite Valley. There is a fee for all sight- Tioga Road (Highway 120), and walk 1 mile Information including: down to the Tuolumne Grove of Giant seeing tours. For reservations and more Road & Weather Conditions, Sequoias. In winter, snowshoes or cross- information, call 209/372-1240 or stop by country skis may be needed. For activities Trip Planning Information, etc. and area information, see page 16. any hotel tour desk. 209/372-0200 Or take a 4-mile round-trip hike or ski into Western U.S. National Parks the Merced Grove of Giant Sequoias, located RECREATION 415/556-0560 3.5 miles north of Crane Flat or 4.5 miles south of the Big Oak Flat entrance along the Bicycling More than 12 miles of paved On The Web (see page 6) Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 West). The bikeways wind through the eastern end of trailhead is marked by a post labeled B-10 and NPS Home Page a road sign. Yosemite Valley. Weather permitting, www.nps.gov/yose/ rental bikes, baby jogging strollers, and Yosemite Concession Services bicycle child trailers are available at www.yosemitepark.com Yosemite Lodge (all seasons) and Curry Camping Reservations Village (summer). Check with rental agent reservations.nps.gov for restrictions on rental bike use. Yosemite Area Traveller Info. Bike Rules www.yosemite.com For your safety and to protect Yosemite Yosemite Association TIOGA ROAD National Park, please follow these yosemite.org AND TUOLUMNE rules: Yosemite Institute MEADOWS California law mandates bicyclists under www.yni.org 18 years of age wear helmets. The Tioga Road is generally open from late Yosemite Fund spring through late fall and offers a 39-mile Bikes are allowed only on paved bikeways www.yosemitefund.org scenic drive through forests and past meadows, and park roads (unless the road is closed The Ansel Adams Gallery lakes, and domes. The road’s elevation to bicycle use). www.anseladams.com ranges from 6,200 feet at Crane Flat to 9,900 All bikes are prohibited from pedestrian feet at Tioga Pass. There are many scenic and VIA/Gray Line and hiking trails and off roads. recreational opportunities in these areas. www.via-adventures.com Check visitor centers and park bulletin boards Bicyclists must obey all posted traffic signs for updated information on available services and travel with the flow of traffic when on and activities. From late fall through late roadways used by automobiles. RESERVATIONS spring, this area is only accessible by cross- Bicycles are not allowed in the construc- country skis or snowshoes. See page 17 for activities. tion zone on the El Portal Road. Lodging Reservations 559/252-4848 Horseback Riding Weather and trail TDD 559/255-8345 conditions permitting, 2-hour and half- Campground Reservations day rides depart from stables in Yosemite (callers from U.S. and Canada) Valley, Tuolumne Meadows, and Wawona 800/436-7275 (spring through fall). Call 209/372-8348 for TDD 888/530-9796 information or see page 19. Campground Reservations (International callers only) HETCH HETCHY Hiking & Backpacking 301/722-1257 Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, a source of Yosemite offers over 800 miles drinking water for the city of San Francisco, of hiking trails parkwide. For is also home to spectacular scenery and the updated trail information, visit AVERAGE PRECIPITATION starting point for many less-used wilderness the Wilderness Center in AND EMPERATURES trails. Towering cliffs and high waterfalls are T easily seen from the walkway on top of Yosemite Valley or call 209/372- IN YOSEMITE VALLEY O’Shaughnessy Dam. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir 0200. Wilderness permits are FT M is located 40 miles from Yosemite Valley via required for overnight back- (4,000 /1,220 )* Highway 120 and Evergreen and Hetch country users. For wilderness Hetchy Roads. Vehicles over 25 feet are MONTH PRECIPITATION MAXIMUM MINIMUM prohibited on the road due to its narrowness. permit information and reserva- (inches/cm) (F°/C°) (F°/C°) tions, call 209/372-0740. For January 6.2/15.7 49/9 26/-3 some ideas on hiking, as well as February 6.1/15.5 55/13 28/-2 information about backpacking, March 5.2/13.2 59/15 31/-0 VISITOR CENTERS VISITOR ACTIVITIES see page 5. April 3.0/7.6 65/18 35/2 May 1.3/3.3 73/23 42/5 The four visitor centers in Yosemite National Park Rock Climbing Classes June 0.7/1.8 82/28 48/9 PROGRAMS AND EXHIBITS The Yosemite Mountaineering are excellent resources for park information, Naturalist-guided walks and programs as well as self- July 0.4/1.0 90/32 54/12 School and Guide Service offers wilderness permits, and park-related publications guided walks are available. Cultural history August 0.3/0.8 90/32 53/11 beginner through advanced class- and handouts. demonstrations of basket-weaving, beadwork, September 0.9/2.3 87/30 47/8 es in Yosemite Valley spring October 2.1/5.3 74/23 39/4 YOSEMITE VALLEY VISITOR CENTER or traditional games are offered at the Indian Cultural through fall, and in Tuolumne Exhibit in Yosemite Valley. Other exhibits are in November 5.5/14 58/14 31/-0 Open daily 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. See page 12 Meadows in summer. See page 19 the Valley Visitor Center, Yosemite Museum, Nature December 5.6/14.2 48/9 26/-3 for more information. or call 209/372-8344 for informa- Center at Happy Isles (summer), LeConte Memorial Annual 37.3/94.7 BIG OAK FLAT INFORMATION STATION tion. Lodge (summer), Wilderness Center, and The Ansel *For temperatures at 8,000 feet (2,440 m), subtract 10-20 degrees. Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. See page 16 Adams Gallery. Check park visitor centers and bul- for more information. letin boards for additional information, and see WAWONA INFORMATION STATION activities listed on pages 12-17. Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for IMPORTANT ROAD INFORMATION lunch). See page 14 for more information. TOURS For a relaxing and informative experience, take a TUOLUMNE MEADOWS VISITOR CENTER Construction and restoration projects will be ongoing in several sightseeing tour on a bus or open-air tram (weather locations throughout the park. Specifically, you can expect roadwork Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. See page 17 permitting). These tours, narrated by knowledge- along the 6.4-mile section of the El Portal Road (Highway 140) for more information. able guides, operate daily to most points of interest between El Portal and the Big Oak Flat Road intersection. This road in the park, including Yosemite Valley (year-round), was severely damaged by flooding in January 1997. Rough road conditions and restricted evening access will be encountered. Services for deaf visitors will be available during the summer months, For current road information and access schedules, June through August. For further information or to request an interpreter check at any ranger station or visitor center, or call for specific dates during the late spring and summer, call Deaf Services 209/372-0200 (recorded information). For additional informa- Coordinator, Nanette Oswald at 209/372-4726 (TDD) between 9:00 a.m. tion on driving in Yosemite, see “Drive Safely” on page 2. and 5:00 p.m. daily, or write to: Deaf Services Program, Valley Interpreta- tion, P.O. Box 577, Yosemite, CA 95389. The TDD number for lodging reservations is 559/255-8345. The TDD number for campground reserva- tions 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. 11 395 120 To & Lee Vining

13,053 ft 3,979 m k

Tioga Pass Entrance r

o

F

a

Inyo National Forest n

a k D or ll F Lye 5 km The Ahwahnee Hwy 120 closed late fall- late spring west of this point 13,114 ft 3,997 m Ranger Station Food Service & Lodging Campground Peaks and Landmarks Gas Station Curry Village ARK 05 miles 05 Yosemite Village/ Visitor Center Lembert Dome P Day Parking 5 Merced Lake Tuolumne Meadows Yosemite Valley Yosemite Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center Yosemite Falls

Yosemite Lodge

d Sierra National Forest a

o

R r

a e

v g

ATIONAL i o

i

R

T

d

Tenaya Lake e

c r e

El Capitan N M Olmsted Point May Lake

Bridalveil Fall

Clouds Rest r

e

v

i

k R k e

e

e r d

e e

r C

c

C r

Facilities along Tioga Road available summer only te e

a t

y e M a u Vernal Fall & Nevada Fall

k

n lo Valley View e r

Half Dome i

ll Mount Hoffmann T

10,850 ft 3,307 m I o

F

h t

North Dome

u

o Glacier Point Road closed late fall- late spring east of this point S Porcupine Flat OSEMITE 3

Sentinel Dome

r k

e

Valley Visitor Center e

e

Y r Glacier Point

v C i

a R

n l

e

Gasoline not available in Yosemite Valley a

n

Mariposa Grove u

m

n

l u

i

l Falls

h

o Yosemite Creek Bridalveil Creek

To Fresno To Fresno

C 2

u T 1 Yosemite National Park Yosemite

41 d

41

R t

White Wolf n

120 i

o Bridalveil Fall P winter only

r 140

e i

ISIT IN c

a

d l

oad Wawona South Entrance

a W R El Capitan

o a

G aw on R

a 0

V

g 2

o

To Merced i To Manteca 1 T

y Tunnel View

w

Yosemite Valley

H

o T Pioneer Yosemite History Center

r

e Tamarack Flat iv d Wawona Campground R oa e R Chinquapin

6 n t Fla Arch Rock Entrance

m

Yosemite West

u

l

o

u T k a

k O r Hetch Hetchy Backpackers' Campground (Wilderness Permit Required) g

i r o

B e

F

v i

REAS TO

R

h

d 4 t a d

u

o e

R o c

y El Portal r h c t e H S Stanislaus National Forest e A

M

h rk

c

t o

F e

H r

e

v

i th Crane Flat R u

d Tuolumne Grove o

a d S

Hodgdon Meadow Ro e Sierra National Forest O’Shaughnessy Dam

Camp Mather en c E re r v erg e M Lake Eleanor Road improvements on Highway 140 inside the park will affect travel. See box on page 11. Tioga Road closed late fall- late spring east of this point N 140 Hetch Hetchy Entrance Big Oak Flat Entrance To 120 To Manteca Merced Grove Trailhead 120 To Merced PLANNING YOUR VISIT PLANNING YOUR VISIT PLANNING YOUR VISIT ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES

YOSEMITE VALLEY

VALLEY VISITOR CENTER NATURE CENTER AT HAPPY ISLES WILDERNESS CENTER Open daily 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Located in Yosemite Village Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. This family-oriented nature Open daily 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Located in Yosemite Village just west of the main post office (shuttle bus stops #3 and #7). center includes natural history exhibits, interactive displays, between The Ansel Adams Gallery and the post office. One-stop Information, maps, books, exhibits, and a multilingual One Day and a bookstore geared to nature-exploring families. Nearby are resource for backpackers in need of wilderness permits, maps, in Yosemite program. short trails focusing on the area’s four different environments; and guidebooks. Displays and information on pre-trip plan- ning, minimum impact camping techniques, and Yosemite OSEMITE TS GRACE AND GRANDEUR forest, river, talus, and fen. You can also see substantial evidence Y : I wilderness. This inspiring audiovisual program provides a good introduc- of the huge 1996 rockfall from the Glacier Point cliff far above the Nature Center. The Center is a short walk from shuttle bus tion to Yosemite’s splendor. It is shown regularly in the Visitor Center’s West Auditorium; show times are posted stop #15. SELF-GUIDING TRAILS on auditorium doors (ends July 9). There are four self-guiding trails in Yosemite Valley: two near DRAFT YOSEMITE VALLEY PLAN YOSEMITE MUSEUM the Visitor Center in the Yosemite Village area, one at the east “Yosemite’s Future” Open House—An open house for the Located in Yosemite Village next to the Valley Visitor Center. end of the Valley near Mirror Lake, and one commemorating Yosemite Valley Plan will be held every Wednesday through the history of Curry Village. NDIAN ULTURAL EXHIBIT Sunday from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. through early July in the I C The Miwok in Yosemite is a short loop trail that winds through Valley Visitor Center Auditorium. Join a Yosemite National Open daily 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. the Indian Village of Ahwahnee, a reconstructed Miwok- Park staff member to view exhibits and text about the Draft Displays interpret the cultural history of Yosemite’s native Paiute village. A booklet is available at the trailhead and in the Yosemite Valley Plan. Materials will be on hand for you to Miwok and Paiute people from 1850 to the present. Demon- Visitor Center. Large print materials are available in the Visi- review; you are also invited to submit written comments on strations of basket-weaving, beadwork, and/or traditional tor Center for the visually impaired. The trail begins behind the plan during the official public comment period through games are presented. the Yosemite Museum. early July. MUSEUM GALLERY Changing Yosemite is a 1-mile trail that begins in front of the Open daily 10:00 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Visitor Center, near shuttle bus stop #3. It winds through a Historic paintings from the Yosemite Museum collection. ANSEL ADAMS GALLERY nearby meadow and explores the changes that have led to the HE USEUM SHOP Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Located in Yosemite Village T M Yosemite we experience today. A booklet is available at the Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Offering traditional American trailhead, and large print materials are available for the visually next to the Visitor Center. The Gallery offers works of Ansel Adams and contemporary photographers. For more informa- Indian arts and crafts and books on related subjects. impaired at the Visitor Center. tion, call the Gallery at 209/372-4413 or visit their web site at Mirror Lake Interpretive Trail is a short loop adjacent to Mirror www.anseladams.com. HE NDIAN ILLAGE OF HWAHNEE Lake, a seasonal lake on Tenaya Creek. Exhibits focus on the T I V A rich natural history of the area, Native American use, and his- GALLERY EXHIBITS Located behind the Yosemite Museum and always open. Join Indian Cultural Program staff for demonstrations or programs tory of this popular destination. To reach the start of the trail, July 6-August 15: Photography of Barbara Brundage walk 1 mile from shuttle bus stop #16 to the disabled parking about Ahwahneechee skills and culture. Programs are usually August 16-September 30: Images by Michael Frye to coincide offered from 9:00 a.m. to noon and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. spaces near the lake. The self-guiding trail begins here. with the release of his new book from the Yosemite Associa- inside the Indian Cultural Exhibit or outside in the Indian The Legacy of Curry Village is an easy stroll commemorating tion, The Photographer’s Guide to Yosemite. Village of Ahwahnee. Inquire in the Indian Cultural Exhibit the early days of Camp Curry. Pick up a map and guide at the for daily schedule. Curry Village front desk or tour desk. SPECIAL EVENTS June 20-July 5: Premier of the new film “Yosemite, Ascending Rhythm, They Climb in Beauty” by Sterling Johnson. Flat LECONTE MEMORIAL LODGE YOSEMITE CEMETERY panel display with theater sound system will be installed Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This historic cemetery is located across the street and just west for viewing in the Gallery. Special Yosemite climbing exhibit Located at shuttle stop #11. The LeConte Memorial Lodge, of the Yosemite Museum. People buried here include Native coincides with premier. Yosemite’s first public visitor center, is operated by the Sierra Americans, casual park visitors, and people who played impor- Club and features a children’s corner, library, and a variety tant roles in the development of what is now Yosemite National of environmental education and evening programs. For more Park. A Guide to the Yosemite Cemetery is available at the Valley Visitor Center. This symbol indicates programs and facilities suitable information on programs, see activities scheduled below, for visitors in wheelchairs, with assistance. bulletin boards at the LeConte Memorial, campgrounds, Valley Visitor Center, and post office. You may also call 209/372-4542.

WALKS AND TALKS EVENING PROGRAMS J UST F OR KIDS Join a ranger or naturalist for an easy walk to explore Yosemite’s AND ACTIVITIES A variety of children’s programs are offered through the National natural and cultural history. Programs are usually offered Park Service, LeConte Memorial Lodge, Kodak, and Yosemite mornings and afternoons daily. Topics may include geology, Evening programs include talks, films, slide presentations, Institute (in cooperation with YCS). See schedule below (kids’ forest ecology, wildlife, human history, and current park storytelling, and music about Yosemite’s human and/or natural programs in color) for times and meeting locations. Space may management issues. heritage. Offered by National Park Service rangers, or staff from be limited. Parents or guardians welcome. A special “Yosemite Buffalo Soldiers” walk, presented by Yosemite Concession Services, , and Kodak. These Kids love the challenge of a scavenger hunt! Stop by the Curry ranger , may also be available; check at the programs last one hour and are usually held outdoors (weather Village front desk or tour desk to take part in a children’s Curry Valley Visitor Center for specific schedule information. permitting) unless otherwise noted. Centennial Scavenger Hunt. Pick up a handout, and upon The Twilight Walk, led by an NPS ranger, explores the magical completion, return it for a commemorative button. time of dusk in Yosemite Valley. Dress warmly and bring a Enjoy the morning or afternoon with a professional naturalist flashlight. and a small group of families to explore the wonders of CAMERA PROGRAMS Yosemite’s natural world and cultural history. Working in partnership with YCS, Yosemite Institute’s “Discover Yosemite” Join professional photographers from Kodak or The Ansel program includes hiking and cave excursions for kids 11-15 years Adams Gallery as they help you discover Yosemite through the old, and exploratory adventures for children 4-10. Registration camera’s eye. Various photo walks occur daily and range from and information can be obtained at any tour desk or the Valley capturing the dramatic light of sunrise or sunset, to offering tips Visitor Center. Children are $10 and parents are free. Each child on how to take great pictures in Yosemite. Some walks have must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. All limited space and require advance sign-up; check listings below. sessions will depart from the Curry Village Amphitheater.

ome help Yosemite Theatre celebrate its seventeenth waterfalls to black bears. On Wednesday nights the band will be season! The National Park Service recognizes Yosemite playing at the Happy Isles campfire circle...s’mores are included! CTheatre as the best interpretive program of its type in the Each show is one hour. Tickets are $6/adult, $5/senior (62+), National Park System. Tickets may be purchased at the Valley and $3/children (12 and under). Visitor Center, the Yosemite Lodge tour desk, or if seating is still available, at the time of performance. Unless indicated below, all PIONEER WOMAN VISITS YOSEMITE shows are given at the Visitor Center auditoriums and are wheel- other performances this season. Conversation With a Tramp is a Sarah Hawkins invites you to share her experiences as a pioneer chair accessible. See schedule below for dates and times. moving performance detailing Muir’s action surrounding his woman in her two performances, Sarah Hawkins Contemplates a spirited defense of Hetch Hetchy Valley. The Spirit of John Muir Fourth Marriage, Part One and JOHN MUIR IN YOSEMITE details Muir’s wild side and is filled with exciting tales of his Sarah Hawkins—Pickaxes and 1 NEW! The Tramp and The Roughrider mountain adventures. Each show is 1 ⁄2 hours. Tickets are Petticoats, Part Two. Actress Join John Muir and President Theodore Roosevelt at their his- $7/adults, $6/senior, and $3/children (12 and under). Connie Stetson portrays the inde- toric meeting at Glacier Point! This new production, featuring pendent Sarah Hawkins and tells Lee Stetson as John Muir, and Doug MUSIC FOR ALL AGES of her wagon train trek, and of her Brennan as President Theodore Roo- Come laugh, sing, dance, and lis- adventures with the gold-seeking sevelt, illuminates the 1903 encounter ten to Gail Dreifus and Denise 49ers in part one of the series. between these two extraordinary men as Ludington’s Recycled String Band Part two continues with more true they trade opinions, stories and adven- as their upbeat, educational pro- stories of the gold rush and reveals tures, and talk of “doing some forest grams celebrate Yosemite and the Sarah’s answer to Apple Abbott’s good.” environment. Wild Ecology Tunes marriage proposal. Parts one and will take you on a musical adven- two can be seen in any order. MORE MUIR ture from Yosemite to the rain Each show is 1 hour. Tickets are Actor Lee Stetson’s vibrant portrayal of forest, while Yosemite By Song $6/adult, $5/senior (62+), and John Muir has enthralled Yosemite visi- and Story weaves together many $3/children (12 and under). tors for the past 17 years. See him in two of Yosemite’s highlights, from

Yosemite Theater programs are in shaded boxes below and are YCS = Yosemite Concession YI = Yosemite Institute Programs listed below in color are especially Services offered for a fee. See prices above. NPS = National Park Service YA = Yosemite Association for children and families. AAG = Ansel Adams Gallery $ = Program offered for a fee 1:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. MONDAY 1 Ranger Walk/Talk—The Bear Facts, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Twilight Stroll (June & July), 1 hour, Ahwahnee outdoor patio (YCS) 9:00 a.m. Curry Village Amphitheater 1 8:30 p.m. Photo Walk & Class (basic skills), 1 ⁄2 to 2 hours 2:00 p.m. Evening Program, 1 hour, Lower Pines Amphitheater (NPS) Sign up/meet on Gallery porch, space limited to 15 1 Ranger Walk—Yosemite’s Legacy, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, front of Visitor Center Weather permitting (AAG) Family Evening Program, 1 hour, Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS) 10:00 a.m. 6:45 p.m. Starry Skies Over Yosemite Valley (August & September), 1 hour 1 Twilight Stroll (August & September), 1 hour, Ahwahnee outdoor patio (YCS) Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk, meet near Yosemite Lodge $ (YCS) Ranger Walk—Survival Arts of the Ahwahneechee, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Behind Visitor Center 7:00 p.m. 9:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—Junior Rangers, 2 hours, see “Just for Kids” page 9 Yosemite Theatre—Yosemite by Song and Story (except July 3, 17, Starry Skies Over Yosemite Valley (June and July), 1 hour, August 14 & 21) 1 hour, Visitor Center Auditorium $ Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk, meet near Yosemite Lodge $ (YCS) 12 ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES

YOSEMITE VALLEY

TUESDAY (NO NPS RANGER PROGRAMS AUGUST 8) WEDNESDAY (NO NPS RANGER PROGRAMS JULY 19) 9:00 a.m. Digital Imaging Demonstration, 1 hour, sign up/takes place at Gallery 6:30 a.m. 6:30 a.m. Limited to 10 (AAG) Sunrise Photo Walk (June & July), 2 hours Sunrise Photo Walk (June & July), 2 hours 10:00 a.m. Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (Kodak/YCS) Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (Kodak/YCS) 1 Ranger Walk—Edges and Open Places, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #6 1 7:00 a.m. 7:00 a.m. Yosemite Photo Tips Walk, ⁄2 hour Sunrise Photo Walk (August), 2 hours Sunrise Photo Walk (August), 2 hours Front porch Nature Center at Happy Isles (Kodak/YCS) Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (Kodak/YCS) Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (Kodak/YCS) All About Bears (June 22, July 6, 13, August 3 & 24 only), 2 hours 9:00 a.m. 10:00 am Shuttle bus stop #11, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) 1 How Do You Catch a Fish in Yosemite? 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Ranger Walk—Junior Rangers, 2 hours, see “Just for Kids” page 9 Meet in front of the Village Sport Shop, near shuttle bus stop #2 (YCS) 10:30 a.m. Children’s Photo Walk, 1 hour, Ahwahnee Concierge desk 1 Yosemite Photo Tips Walk, ⁄2 hour 10:00 a.m. Ages 6-12 and accompanied by legal guardian (Kodak/YCS) Front porch Nature Center at Happy Isles (Kodak/YCS) 1 Ranger Walk/Talk—Yosemite Wildlife, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Discover Yosemite Family Program, 3 hours 1:00 p.m. Front of Visitor Center Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk $ (YCS/YI) 1 Ranger Talk—The Bear Facts, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 1 Yosemite Photo Tips Walk, ⁄2 hour 1:00 p.m. Curry Village Amphitheater Front porch Nature Center at Happy Isles (Kodak/YCS) 1 Ranger Walk/Talk—The Bear Facts, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #17 1:30 p.m. 10:30 a.m. Dynamic Moments in Nature (June 22, July 6, 13, August 3 & 24 only) 1 2:00 p.m. Yosemite Photo Tips Walk, ⁄2 hour Discover Yosemite Family Program, 4 hours 2 hours, shuttle bus stop #15 (Sierra Club) Front porch Nature Center at Happy Isles (Kodak/YCS) Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk $ (YCS/YI) 2:00 p.m. 1 1 1:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—Merced Meanders, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stops #12 & 20 Ranger Walk—Yosemite’s Living Landscape (geology), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 1 Ranger Walk/Talk—The Bear Facts, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 5:30 p.m. Shuttle bus stop #15 Curry Village Amphitheater 1 1 Mewu Eh—Indian Roundhouse Program (begins June 28), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Old Yosemite Village History Walk, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 2:00 p.m. Behind Visitor Center Shuttle bus stop #10 (YCS) Discover Yosemite Family Program, 3 hours Discover Yosemite Family Program, 3 hours Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk $ (YCS/YI) 6:45 p.m. Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk $ (YCS/YI) 1 Twilight Stroll (August & September), 1 hour, Ahwahnee outdoor patio (YCS) Ranger Walk—Small Wonders, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #15 7:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 1 6:30 p.m. Twilight Ranger Walk (August 17 & 24 only), 1 ⁄2 hours 1 Twilight Stroll (June & July), 1 hour, Ahwahnee outdoor patio (YCS) Twilight Ranger Walk (August 15 & 22 only), 1 ⁄2 hours Shuttle bus stop #17 Yosemite Theatre—Old-fashioned Campfire & Sing-along with the Recycled Shuttle bus stop #13 1 String Band! (except August 16 & 23),1⁄2 hours, tickets/information at any lodge 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. tour desk or Valley Visitor Center, takes place near Curry Village $ (YCS/YA) Yosemite Theatre—Wild Ecology Tunes (June 22, 29 & July 6 only), 1 hour Yosemite Theatre—Wild Ecology Tunes (except August 15 & 22), 1 hour Visitor Center Auditorium $ Visitor Center Auditorium $ 8:00 p.m. Yosemite Theatre—John Muir: The Tramp & the Roughrider 7:30 p.m. 1 1 7:30 p.m. (except June 21, July 5, & August 23), 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center Auditorium $ Twilight Ranger Walk (ends August 10), 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #17 1 Twilight Ranger Walk (ends August 8), 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #13 1 Animals and Their Senses (July 5, August 2 & 23 only), 1 hour Old-fashioned Campfire & Sing-along with S’mores! 1 ⁄2 hours Old-fashioned Campfire & Sing-along with S’mores! Shuttle bus stop #11, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) Tickets/information at any lodge tour desk or Valley Visitor Center 1 1 ⁄2 hours, tickets/information at any lodge tour desk or Valley Visitor Center Takes place near Curry Village $ (YCS/YI) Takes place near Curry Village $ (YCS/YI) 8:30 p.m. Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater (YCS/AAG) 8:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Evening Program, 1 hour, Lower Pines Amphitheater (NPS) Evening Program (June 22 only), 1 hour Yosemite Theatre—John Muir: Conversation With a Tramp LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) 1 (except June 20, July 4 & August 22), 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center Auditorium $ Evening Program—Yosemite, Picturing its Treasures, 1 hour 1 Curry Village Amphitheater (Kodak/YCS) Yosemite Theatre—Spirit of John Muir (except July 6), 1 ⁄2 hours 8:30 p.m. Visitor Center Auditorium $ Film—Ansel Adams, Photographer, 1 hour Evening Program—Picturing Yosemite’s Treasures, 1 hour, Yosemite 8:30 p.m. Lodge Amphitheater (Kodak/YCS) Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater (AAG) Family Evening Program, 1 hour, Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS) Evening Program, 1 hour, Curry Village Amphitheater (NPS) Yosemite Theatre—Sarah Hawkins: Pickaxes and Petticoats, Part 2 (ends June 28) 1 hour, Visitor Center Auditorium $ Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater (NPS) Yosemite Theatre—Sarah Hawkins Contemplates a Fourth Marriage, Part 1 Yosemite Theatre—Sarah Hawkins Contemplates a Fourth Marriage, Part 1 (ends June 27), 1 hour, Visitor Center Auditorium $ (ends June 29), 1 hour, Visitor Center Auditorium $ THURSDAY 6:30 a.m. RIDAY Sunrise Photo Walk (June & July), 2 hours F Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (Kodak/YCS) 6:30 a.m. 7:00 a.m. Sunrise Photo Walk (June & July), 2 hours Sunrise Photo Walk (August), 2 hours Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (Kodak/YCS) Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (Kodak/YCS) 7:00 a.m. Sunrise Photo Walk (August), 2 hours Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (Kodak/YCS) Yosemite Theatre 10:00 a.m. Firefall, the “Stentor,” Dancehalls of Curry Village—A Walk Back in Time 1 presents (except September 1), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS) 1 Ranger Walk/Talk—Ahwahneechee Stories and Games, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Behind the Visitor Center Ranger Walk—Junior Rangers, 2 hours, see “Just For Kids” page 9 THE TRAMP The Stories Nature Tells (June 23, July 7, 14, August 4, 25 & September 1 only) 2 hours, shuttle bus stop #11, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) AND THE 1:00 p.m. 1 Ranger Walk/Talk—The Bear Facts, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours ROUGHRIDER Curry Village Amphitheater 1:30 p.m. Aquatic Field Trip (June 23, July 7, 14, August 4, 25 & September 1 only) A 2 hours, shuttle bus stop #15 (Sierra Club) 2:00 p.m. New Discover Yosemite Family Program, 4 hours Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk $ (YCS/YI) 1 Production Ranger Walk—Plants Big & Small, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop “A” 7:30 p.m. 1 Old-fashioned Campfire & Sing-along with S’mores! 1 ⁄2 hours Tickets/information at any lodge tour desk or Valley Visitor Center Join John Muir and President Takes place near Curry Village $ (YCS/YI) Theodore Roosevelt at their 8:00 p.m. historic meeting at Glacier Evening Program, 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) Point! This new production, Earthy Tunes (July 21 only), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) featuring Lee Stetson as John Evening Adventure: Wonders of the Night (June 23, July 7, 14, August 4, 25 Muir and Doug Brennan as & September 1 only), 2 hours, shuttle bus stop #10 (Sierra Club) Yosemite Theatre—John Muir: The Tramp & the Roughrider President Theodore 1 (except June 23, 30 & July 7), 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center Auditorium $ Roosevelt, illuminates the 1 Yosemite Theatre—Spirit of John Muir (June 23 & 30 only), 1 ⁄2 hours 1903 encounter Visitor Center Auditorium $ between these two 8:30 p.m. extraordinary men Evening Program, 1 hour, Lower Pines Amphitheater (NPS) as they trade Evening Program, 1 hour, Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS) Evening Program—Picturing Yosemite’s Treasures, 1 hour opinions, stories and adventures, Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater (Kodak/YCS) Yosemite Theatre—Sarah Hawkins: Pickaxes and Petticoats, Part 2 and talk of (ends June 30), 1 hour, Visitor Center Auditorium $ “doing some forest good.”

13 YOSEMITEYOSEMITE VALLEYVALLEY && WAWONAWAWONA

SATURDAY 8:30 p.m. Evening Program, 1 hour, Lower Pines Amphitheater (NPS) 6:30 a.m. Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater (YCS) REE RT LASSES Sunrise Photo Walk (June & July), 2 hours F A C Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (Kodak/YCS) Evening Program, 1 hour, Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS) Starry Skies Over Yosemite Valley (August & September), 1 hour Free, informal outdoor classes in various art 7:00 a.m. Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk, meet near Yosemite Lodge $ (YCS) Sunrise Photo Walk (August), 2 hours mediums are available for adults through the Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (Kodak/YCS) 9:00 p.m. Starry Skies Over Yosemite Valley (June and July), 1 hour Art Activity Center, located at the east end of 9:00 a.m. Yosemite Village next to the Village Store. 1 Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk, meet near Yosemite Lodge $ (YCS) Photo Walk & Class (black & white), 1 ⁄2 to 2 hours Sign up/meet on Gallery porch, limited to 15, weather permitting (AAG) Supplies are available for purchase at the Center which is open 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. UNDAY 1 S daily. Classes begin at 10:00 a.m. and Ranger Walk/Talk—Granite & Ice (geology), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Shuttle bus stop #4 9:00 a.m. continue until 2:00 p.m. 1 Photo Walk & Class (color & digital), 1 ⁄2 to 2 hours Secrets of the Meadow (June 24, July 8, 15, August 5, 26 & September 2 only) June 19-25 Mary Spivey 2 hours, shuttle bus stop #10 (Sierra Club) Sign up/meet on Gallery porch, limited to 15, weather permitting (AAG) Watercolor Discover Yosemite Family Program, 3 hours 10:00 a.m. 1 Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk $ (YCS/YI) Ranger Walk—Living Meadows, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #10 June 26-July 2 Tom Fong Children’s Photo Walk, 1 hour, Ahwahnee Concierge desk 1:00 p.m. Watercolor 1 Ages 6-12 and accompanied by a legal guardian (Kodak/YCS) Ranger Walk/Talk—The Bear Facts, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #17 July 3-9 Don Fay 10:30 a.m. 1:30 p.m. Watercolor Ansel Adams Gallery Fine Print Viewing, 1 hour Hidden Treasures (June 25, July 9, 16, August 6, 27 & September 3 only) July 10-16 Jim Murray Space limited/sign up at Gallery 2 hours, shuttle bus stop #15 (Sierra Club) Sketching/Drawing 1:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. July 17-23 Francis Wei 1 1 Ranger Walk/Talk—The Bear Facts, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Ranger Walk—Ranger’s Choice, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours hours, front of Visitor Center Chinese Painting Curry Village Amphitheater 6:45 p.m. July 24-30 Ruben Guzman 1:30 p.m. Twilight Stroll (August & September), 1 hour, Ahwahnee outdoor patio (YCS) 1 Mexican Paper Sculpture Ranger Walk—Yosemite’s First People, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 7:30 p.m. Behind Visitor Center Twilight Stroll (June & July), 1 hour, Ahwahnee outdoor patio (YCS) July 31-August 6 Bill McQuary Mixed Media/Painting 2:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Discover Yosemite Family Program, 3 hours Evening Program, 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) August 7-13 Carolyn Fitz Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk $ (YCS/YI) Black Ink/Watercolor 1 Earthy Tunes (July 23 only), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge Ranger Walk—The Age of Muir, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #10 Essence of Night (June 25 & September 3 only), 2 hours August 14-20 Marciano Martinez 4:00 p.m. Shuttle bus stop #10 (Sierra Club) Watercolor 1 Late Afternoon Photo Walk, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours August 21-27 Pam Pederson Sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (Kodak/YCS) Animals and their Senses (July 9 & 16 only), 1 hour Shuttle bus stop #11, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) Pen/Ink/Watercolor 7:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m. August 28-Sept. 3 Anne Longman Twilight Adventure: A Walk Back in Time (June 24, July 8, 15, August 5, 26 & September 2 only), 2 hours, shuttle bus stop #17 (Sierra Club) Evening Program, 1 hour, Lower Pines Amphitheater (NPS) Pen/Pencil on Watercolor Evening Program, 1 hour, Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS) Paper 8:00 p.m. Evening Program, 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater (YCS/AAG) September 4-10 Vivian Deland Earthy Tunes (July 22 only), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge (Sierra Club) Watercolor Yosemite Theatre—John Muir: Conversation with a Tramp (except July 8) 1 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center Auditorium $ WAWONA

WAWONA INFORMATION STATION HILL’S STUDIO

Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch). Offers Visit the art studio and gallery of famous 19th century information about park activities, wilderness permits, trails, landscape painter, Thomas Hill. Hill’s Studio, on the grounds of books, and maps. From Highway 41 in Wawona, take the the Wawona Hotel, is open Saturday evenings, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 Road to the first right-hand turn past the p.m. (July & August). Walk from the hotel or park at the stable. Phone 209/375-9501 Wawona Store/Pioneer Yosemite History Center parking area and follow the path up the hill. WILDFLOWERS PIONEER YOSEMITE HISTORY CENTER IN WAWONA EVENING PROGRAMS See horse-drawn wagons, walk across a covered bridge, and visit Discover the beautiful historic buildings out of Yosemite’s past. A visit to the Pioneer Come to a campfire! Share in a park tradition by joining a world of wildflowers that Yosemite History Center will explain how Yosemite was the ranger for an hour of stories, legends, and fun. Program topics bloom in Wawona. A inspiration for national parks across America and throughout vary each night and are posted in the Wawona Campground. morning nature walk, the world. The Center is always open, and explanatory signs Meet at the amphitheater in the “B” loop of the Wawona Wawona’s Wildflowers, will and brochures are available. Campground at 8:00 p.m. (except July 19 and August 8). be offered each week until Discover Wawona’s human and natural heritage in a 1-hour mid-July. Look for fliers at YOSEMITE’S HISTORY COMES TO LIFE presentation offered by Yosemite Concession Services (YCS) staff the Wawona Information Station, Five days a week (starting June 28) join volunteers who portray at the Wawona Hotel. Wawona Campground, or accom- historic figures from Yosemite’s past and bring the birth and Tom Bopp, pianist/singer at the Wawona Hotel since 1983, modations. Call 209/375-9501 for growth of America’s first national park to life. Wednesday performs Tuesday through Saturday nights from 5:30 p.m. to more information. (except July 19) from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Thursday 9:30 p.m. in the lobby, often including songs and stories from through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. Yosemite’s past. Programs with slides, historic Yosemite music, to 5:00 p.m. or Wawona history are presented on Tuesday, Wednesday, and TAKE A STAGE RIDE Thursday nights at 8:30 p.m. Schedule subject to change; please Take a stage ride and experience the adventure of horse-drawn inquire at hotel front desk. stage travel in Yosemite. These 10-minute rides are offered beginning June 28 on Wednesdays (except July 19) from 2:00 S I S This symbol indicates programs and facilities suitable p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 J U T FOR D for visitors in wheelchairs, with assistance. a.m. to noon and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The stage departs from K the Wells Fargo Office in the Pioneer Yosemite History Center. Join a Junior Ranger Program to have fun exploring the secrets $3/adult; $2/child (ages 3-12). of nature. Kids ages 8-12 can meet a ranger at the Wawona PIONEER YOSEMITE HISTORY CENTER BOOKSTORE Campground Campfire Circle in July and August on Sunday and Programs printed below in color Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch). Offers books, Thursday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for this 2-hour adventure. are especially for children and their families. maps, and information.

MONDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 8:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. 8:00 p.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Wawona Campground Campfire Circle Mariposa Big Trees Photo Walk (begins June 29), 2 hours Campfire, 1 hour, Wawona Campground Campfire Circle Sign up at the Wawona Hotel, meet at the Mariposa Grove Gift Shop (YCS) 9:30 a.m. TUESDAY Junior Rangers (July and August), 2 hours SATURDAY 8:00 p.m. Wawona Campground Campfire Circle 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Campfire (except August 8), 1 hour, Wawona Campground Campfire Circle 8:00 p.m. Hill’s Studio (July and August) Campfire, 1 hour, Wawona Campground Campfire Circle 8:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Vintage Songs of Yosemite or History of Wawona with Tom Bopp, 1 hour 8:30 p.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Wawona Campground Campfire Circle Wawona Hotel Lounge (YCS) Vintage Songs of Yosemite or History of Wawona with Tom Bopp, 1 hour Wawona Hotel Lounge (YCS) SUNDAY WEDNESDAY 9:30 a.m. 8:00 p.m. Junior Rangers (July and August), 2 hours Campfire (except July 19) , 1 hour, Wawona Campground Campfire Circle Wawona Campground Campfire Circle 8:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Wawona: Spirit of Yosemite, 1 hour Campfire, 1 hour, Wawona Campground Campfire Circle Wawona Hotel Sunroom (above the golf shop) (YCS) 14 SEQUOIASEQUOIA GROVESGROVES

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 TRAM SCHEDULE FOR THE

1 Allow 1 ⁄4 hours driving time to the Mariposa Grove from The trailhead for walking up through the Grove is located at MARIPOSA GROVE Yosemite Valley. Cars are prohibited beyond the parking area the far end of the parking area. Interpretive signs between the in the Grove, but several giant sequoias can be seen from there. trailhead and the California Tree provide a self-guiding tour. Trams run every day in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Information about access for the disabled is available at the Written translations are available at the trailhead (Spanish, for a 1-hour tour through the lower and upper groves. The first tram boarding area. The access road to the Grove may close German, French, Japanese). tram is at 9:00 a.m. and the last tram is at 5:30 p.m., running intermittently due to limited parking and/or snow. Trailers and every 15 to 20 minutes from the boarding area. $8.50/adults, motor homes are prohibited on the Mariposa Grove Road. $7.75/seniors (62 or older), $4.50/children (5-12), $25 Please use the free shuttle service between Wawona ISTANCE LEVATION maximum for a family (parents and their children under 16). and the Mariposa Grove (see below). D & E Children under 5 ride free.

DESTINATION DISTANCE FROM TRAILHEAD ELEVATION GAIN FREE MARIPOSA GROVE/ Grizzly Giant 0.8 mile/1.3 km 400 feet/122 m RANGER WALKS Grove Museum 2.1 miles/3.5 km 800 feet/292 m WAWONA SHUTTLE BUS Four times daily, ranger programs are offered in the Mariposa Fallen Tunnel Tree 2.5 miles/4.0 km 1,000 feet/305 m Grove. Join a ranger for an easy 90-minute walk through the The shuttle bus stops at the Wawona Store, South Entrance, lower portion of the Mariposa Grove to explore the forest and and Mariposa Grove. Shuttles operate daily during the summer Wawona Point 3.0 miles/4.8 km 1,200 feet/438 m learn the secrets of the trees’ survival. Each afternoon, rangers beginning at 9:00 a.m. Last shuttle leaves Wawona at 4:30 p.m.; also conduct a Tram Ride & Ranger Walk. Meet the ranger for a last shuttle leaves the Grove at 6:00 p.m. Visitors may park at 3-hour program at the tram boarding area to ride into the heart the Wawona Store to board the shuttle bus. of the upper Mariposa Grove, then walk back to the starting 1 Trailers and motor homes are prohibited on the Mariposa point (2 ⁄2 miles). Arrive at least 10 minutes early for tram Grove Road from South Entrance to the Mariposa Grove. Due MARIPOSA GROVE MUSEUM seating. See tram information for schedule and cost. to narrow roads and very limited parking, visitors are There are times when the parking lot at the Mariposa Grove is strongly encouraged to use this free bus service to help Open 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch). Offers giant full and closed to private vehicles. Allow plenty of time to take alleviate congestion and lengthy parking delays. sequoia displays, books, maps, and information. the free Mariposa Grove/Wawona Shuttle Bus.

MONDAY 10:00 a.m. 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 12:30 p.m. 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 1:30 p.m. Tram Ride & Ranger Walk, 3 hours, tram boarding area 2:30 p.m. 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead

TUESDAY (NO PROGRAMS AUGUST 8) 10:00 a.m. 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 12:30 p.m. 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 1:30 p.m. Tram Ride & Ranger Walk, 3 hours, tram boarding area 2:30 p.m. 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead

WEDNESDAY (NO PROGRAMS JULY 19) Mariposa Grove Museum Photo courtesy of Christine White-Loberg 10:00 a.m. 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 12:30 p.m. 1 1:30 p.m. Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead FRIDAY Tram Ride & Ranger Walk, 3 hours, tram boarding area 1:30 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 1 2:30 p.m. Tram Ride & Ranger Walk, 3 hours, tram boarding area Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 2:30 p.m. 12:30 p.m. 1 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 1:30 p.m. SUNDAY Tram Ride & Ranger Walk, 3 hours, tram boarding area HURSDAY 10:00 a.m. T 1 2:30 p.m. Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 1 10:00 a.m. Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 1 12:30 p.m. 2 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄ hours, Lower Grove trailhead 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 12:30 p.m. 1 1:30 p.m. Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead SATURDAY Tram Ride & Ranger Walk, 3 hours, tram boarding area 1:30 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 1 2:30 p.m. Tram Ride & Ranger Walk, 3 hours, tram boarding area Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead 2:30 p.m. 12:30 p.m. 1 1 Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead Ranger Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, Lower Grove trailhead

OTHER SEQUOIA GROVES

YOSEMITE’S SECRET SEQUOIAS

TUOLUMNE GROVE MERCED GROVE The Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias is Yosemite’s quietest stand of sequoias is the ANGER near Crane Flat at the intersection of the Big Merced Grove, accessible only on foot. It’s a R Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 West) and the 2-mile hike into the grove from the Big Oak WALK Tioga Road (Highway 120 East). The former Flat Road (Highway 120 West). Located 3.5 route of the Big Oak Flat Road leads downhill miles north of Crane Flat or 4.5 miles south Join a ranger for a 1 from Crane Flat into the Tuolumne Grove, a of the big Oak Flat entrance, the trailhead is 2 ⁄2-hour walk to cluster of about 25 sequoias. Now closed to marked by a post labeled B-10 and a road the Tuolumne Grove of Giant cars, this 2-mile (3.2 km) round-trip walk has sign. Allow about 3 hours for the 4-mile Sequoias. Walks depart daily an elevation change of 500 feet (150 meters) round-trip hike to this small group of at 1:30 p.m. (beginning July; and will take approximately 2 hours. The sequoias (about 20 trees). except July 19 & August 8 ) at downhill walk is relatively easy, though it is the Tuolumne Grove parking moderately strenuous on the uphill return. area. Photo courtesy of Once in the Tuolumne Grove, there is an easy Christine White-Loberg half-mile, self-guiding nature trail. 15 GLACIERGLACIER POINTPOINT && TIOGATIOGA ROADROAD

GLACIER POINT

RANGER WALKS MONDAY FRIDAY Join a ranger for a walk to discover Yosemite’s unique, tucked- 2:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. 1 away places. See a pioneer cabin near a beautiful meadow, Ranger Walk, 2 hours Ranger Walk, 2 ⁄2 hours explore the red fir forest in the Canadian life zone, or hike to a /Sentinel Dome parking area on Glacier Point Road Phone booth at Bridalveil Creek Campground seldom-seen waterfall. 7:45 p.m. 7:15 p.m. 1 Full Moon Rising (August 14 only), Glacier Point railing Sunset Talk (begins August 11), ⁄2 hour, Glacier Point railing 8:00 p.m. 7:45 p.m. 1 EVENING PROGRAMS Campfire, 1 hour, Bridalveil Creek Campground, C Loop Sunset Talk (ends August 4), ⁄2 hour, Glacier Point Railing 8:30 p.m. Meet a ranger to enjoy the lengthening shadows in Yosemite Stars Over Yosemite (begins June 30), 1 to 2 hours Valley and the alpenglow on the Sierra high country, or come TUESDAY Glacier Point Amphitheater, subject to cancellation if overcast for the sunset and stay for the moonrise. On some evenings, a On July 14 and August 11, there will be a campfire program instead of star program will be co-hosted by rangers and volunteers from 9:30 a.m. astronomy astronomical societies. Bring warm clothing. Ranger Walk, 2-1/2 hours Traditional campfires are offered at Bridalveil Creek Phone booth at Bridalveil Creek Campground Campground. Meet at the campground amphitheater in “C” 7:15 p.m. 1 SATURDAY loop, across from site #79 (if campground is closed, Sunset Talks Sunset Talk (begins August 8), ⁄2 hour, Glacier Point railing will be given). 7:45 p.m. 2:00 p.m. On Thursday evenings, photographers will not want to miss 1 Ranger Walk, 2 hours Sunset Talk (ends August 1), ⁄2 hour, Glacier Point Railing the Alpenglow Photo Walk, lead by representatives from Kodak Taft Point/Sentinel Dome parking area on Glacier Point Road (in association with Yosemite Concession Services) 7:15 p.m. 1 WEDNESDAY Sunset Talk (begins August 12), ⁄2 hour, Glacier Point railing 7:45 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 1 Sunset Talk (ends August 5), ⁄2 hour, Glacier Point Railing Ranger Walk, 3 hours Front of the Glacier Point Gift Shop 8:15 p.m. Full Moon Rising (July 15 only), Glacier Point railing 7:15 p.m. 1 Sunset Talk (begins August 9), ⁄2 hour, Glacier Point railing 8:30 p.m. Stars Over Yosemite (begins July 1), 1 to 2 hours 7:45 p.m. Glacier Point Amphitheater, subject to cancellation if overcast 1 Sunset Talk (ends August 2), ⁄2 hour, Glacier Point Railing On July 15 and August 12, there will be a campfire program instead of astronomy THURSDAY 2:00 p.m. SUNDAY Ranger Walk, 2 hours 2:00 p.m. Taft Point/Sentinel Dome parking area on Glacier Point Road Ranger Walk, 2 hours 6:45 p.m. Taft Point/Sentinel Dome parking area on Glacier Point Road 1 Alpenglow Photo Walk (August), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 7:15 p.m. Glacier Point Amphitheater (Kodak/YCS) 1 Sunset Talk (begins August 13), ⁄2 hour, Glacier Point railing 7:15 p.m. 1 7:45 p.m. Alpenglow Photo Walk (June & July), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 1 Sunset Talk (ends August 6), ⁄2 hour, Glacier Point Railing Glacier Point Amphitheater (Kodak/YCS) 8:00 p.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Bridalveil Creek Campground, C Loop This symbol indicates programs and facilities suitable for visitors in wheelchairs, with assistance.

Half Dome from Glacier Point NPS Photo

CRANE FLAT/BIG OAK FLAT/WHITE WOLF BIG OAK FLAT CAMPFIRE PROGRAMS RANGER WALKS

INFORMATION STATION Share in a park tradition of stories, legends, and fun at Crane Join a ranger to discover Yosemite’s special places. Short walks Flat and White Wolf. Campfire programs are rustic in style and are offered to giant sequoia groves, meadows, and forests. Open 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. Wilderness permits available recapture the tradition of storytelling and audience Longer walks will explore Yosemite’s seldom-visited areas, 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Station is located just inside the park at participation. Program topics vary and are posted at the including lakes and natural arches. Wear sturdy shoes and the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station (Highway 120 West), and campgrounds and White Wolf Lodge. bring water, lunch, and rain gear. offers park orientation material, trail information, books, and Once a week join a ranger on an Earth Walk. Kids and their maps. Phone 209/379-1899 families are invited to experience Yosemite’s wonders through all their senses.

Programs printed below in color are especially for children and their families.

MONDAY THURSDAY SATURDAY Check local listing for time 8:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. Ranger Walk, 2 hours, White Wolf Lodge Campfire, 1 hour, Crane Flat Campfire Circle Ranger Walk to Yosemite’s Only Natural Arch, 4-6 hours 8:00 p.m. Campfire, 1 hour, White Wolf Campfire Circle Porcupine Creek trailhead, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and lunch Campfire, 1 hour, Crane Flat Campfire Circle 10:00 a.m. Campfire, 1 hour, White Wolf Campfire Circle Ranger Walk-–Junior Rangers (July 1–August 19), 2 hours FRIDAY See “Just for Kids” page 9, Crane Flat Campfire Circle 9:30 a.m. 8:00 p.m. 1 Campfire, 1 hour, Crane Flat Campfire Circle TUESDAY Ranger Earth Walk, 1 ⁄2 hours, White Wolf Lodge Campfire, 1 hour, White Wolf Campfire Circle 8:00 p.m. Mt. Hoffmann Lunch Hike, 4-6 hours Campfire (except August 8), 1 hour, Crane Flat Campfire Circle May Lake parking lot, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and lunch 8:00 p.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Crane Flat Campfire Circle SUNDAY WEDNESDAY Campfire, 1 hour, White Wolf Campfire Circle 9:30 a.m. Lunch Hike with a Ranger, 4-6 hours 9:00 a.m. (check local listing for destination) Big Oak Flat Information Station, Ranger Walk (begins June 28; except July 19), 4-6 hours wear sturdy shoes, bring water and lunch White Wolf Lodge, wear sturdy shoes, bring water and lunch 8:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Crane Flat Campfire Circle Campfire (except July 19), 1 hour, Crane Flat Campfire Circle Campfire, 1 hour, White Wolf Campfire Circle

16 TUOLUMNETUOLUMNE MEADOWSMEADOWS

TUOLUMNE MEADOWS VISITOR CENTER

Open 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily. Park orientation, trail information, books, maps, and displays. Phone 209/372-0263

PARSONS MEMORIAL LODGE SPECIAL EVENTS AT AND SODA SPRINGS Come to historic Parsons Memorial Lodge in July and August for a series of free programs—guest speakers, Discover the natural and human history of Tuolumne Meadows slide presentations, music, and poetry. All programs, unless otherwise noted, begin at 2:00 p.m. and last and hike to the place where John Muir and Robert Underwood approximately 1 hour. Allow 30 minutes walking time to Parsons Memorial Lodge from either Lembert Dome Johnson conceived the idea of establishing Yosemite National parking area or the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center. Park. This area is an easy 1-mile walk from Lembert Dome Saturday, July 15 NEW PROGRAM: “Bears” Success, with Kate McCurdy, Wildlife Biologist parking area or from the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center. Come see the new exhibit – Place, People, Possibility – at Parsons Sunday, July 16 The Underwater Forest at , with Phil Caterino, Research Diver Memorial Lodge. Staffed by park volunteers, the Lodge is usually Monday, July 17, 7:00 p.m. The Spirit of John Muir and Hetch Hetchy Valley, Performance by actor Lee open from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Stetson Saturday, July 22 Yosemite Poets, Kristina Rylands and Mike Cole Sunday, July 23 What’s Going On with Yosemite Toads? with Dr. Walt Sadinski, Ecologist FREE TUOLUMNE/OLMSTED POINT/ Saturday, July 29 The Natural History of the Belding Ground Squirrel, with Nicole Checker, TIOGA PASS SHUTTLE BUS Research Biologist Sunday, July 30 Yosemite’s Front Yard: The Great Central Valley, Reading and conversation Service will begin June 23 and continue through with author Gerald Haslam September 10. Due to limited trailhead parking, use of the free shuttle buses is strongly advised. Saturday, August 5 Mining History of Yosemite’s Eastern Frontier, with writer Susan Guhm Shuttles travel between Tuolumne Lodge and Olmsted Point Sunday, August 6 Is Mono Lake Saved? Slide presentation by the Mono Lake Committee with stops along the Tioga Road, including Tuolumne Campground and the Visitor Center. The shuttle also makes two Saturday, August 12 Indian Life in the Mountains, with Bob Fry, Ranger Naturalist morning (9:00 a.m. and noon) and two afternoon (3:00 p.m. Sunday, August 13 Ansel Adams: The Man, The Artist, with Yosemite photographer Jeff Nixon and 5:00 p.m.) runs to Tioga Pass. August 19 and 20 Fourth Annual Tuolumne Meadows Poetry Festival with Nanao Sakaki, Service begins at Tuolumne Lodge at 7:00 a.m. Shuttle buses Joseph Stroud, and Patti Trimble with guitarist Bill Horvitz arrive at approximately 30-minute intervals between 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. The last shuttle bus leaves Olmsted Point at 6:30 p.m. Schedules are subject to change. Please check route maps at the Visitor Center or shuttle bus stops for details.

RANGER WALKS AND TALKS EVENING ACTIVITIES J UST FOR KIDS Join a ranger to explore the Tuolumne area and learn about Come to a campfire and take part in a tradition! Join a ranger geology, birds, flowers, Indians, history, and more. These walks for campfire singing, storytelling, and answers to some of your range from 1 to 8 hours and all but the long walks are fairly Programs for children include Junior Rangers two days a week, a questions about Yosemite. Program topics vary and are posted at easy. kids’ campfire program, and a family lunch walk. Junior Rangers the campground, Tuolumne Meadows Lodge, and Tuolumne Several times a week, longer hikes are offered to lakes, domes, is a 2-hour program in which children (ages 7-10) join a ranger Meadows Visitor Center. or passes. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, lunch, and rain to explore Yosemite’s high country. A special campfire for children is scheduled Wednesdays at gear. the Conness Circle in the “C” loop of the campground. On Thursdays and Saturdays, end your perfect day with a Join the Star Party on Saturday evenings. Bring a pad to sit on Music Walk. These easy, early evening strolls will inspire and and dress warmly. Programs will be canceled if the sky is delight. overcast. When there is a full moon, Moonlight Walks replace the Star Party. Sign up at the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center for a Night Prowl on Monday nights and experience the world without light.

Programs printed below in color Programs will be limited until the Tuolumne Meadows Indicates programs suitable for visitors in wheelchairs, are especially for children and their families. Campground opens for the season. If the campground with assistance. is open, programs will begin June 20. Check with visitor centers or local fliers for additional programs.

MONDAY 7:00 p.m. SATURDAY Kids’ Campfire, 1 hour, Conness Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground 9:00 a.m. 8:00 p.m. 9:15 a.m. Ranger Walk to the top of Lembert Dome, 3 hours (moderate) Ranger Walk (one-way) to Tuolumne via Gaylor Lakes (ends August 26) Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground Lembert Dome parking area 6-7 hours (moderate) Tioga Pass shuttle bus stop 2:00 p.m. (take 9:00 a.m. bus from Tuolumne Lodge) Ranger Walk Along the River, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area THURSDAY 10:00 a.m. 8:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—Flowers and Seeds, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area 10:00 a.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground Junior Rangers (ages 7-10), 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area 1:30 p.m. 1 9:15 p.m. Ranger Walk—Bears, 1 ⁄2 hours, Tuolumne Campground entrance 1 10:00 a.m. (parking limited; take shuttle) Night Prowl (ends August 21), 1 ⁄4 hours, limited to 35 Ranger Walk—Meadows, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area Sign up at Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center 6:30 p.m. 1 2:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—A Place for Music, 1 ⁄4 hours, Lembert Dome parking area Ranger Walk—Lakes, 2 hours, Pothole Dome road marker T-29 8:00 p.m. TUESDAY (NO PROGRAMS AUGUST 8) 6:30 p.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground 1 Ranger Walk—Music for Parks, 1 ⁄4 hours, Lembert Dome parking area 10:00 a.m. 9:30 p.m. Junior Rangers (ages 7-10), 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area 8:00 p.m. Star Party (except July 15 & August 12), 1 hour 10:00 a.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground Bring a pad to sit on and dress warmly! Tuolumne Campground entrance 1 Ranger Walk to Puppy Dome, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area Moonlight Walk (July 15 & August 12 only), 1 ⁄4 hour Tuolumne Campground entrance 2:00 p.m. FRIDAY Ranger Walk—Indians, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area 9:15 a.m. 8:00 p.m. Ranger Walk to Mono Pass, 6-8 hours (moderate/10 miles) SUNDAY Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground Mono Pass trailhead, road marker T-37 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. Ranger Walk—History, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area WEDNESDAY (NO PROGRAMS JULY 19) Ranger Walk—Animals, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area 12:15 p.m. 2:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—Lunch at Tioga Pass (July 2-August 20) 7:30 a.m. Ranger Walk—Useful and Edible Plants, 2 hours 3 hours, bring lunch and water, Tioga Pass shuttle bus stop Ranger Walk—Birds, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area Lembert Dome parking area (take noon bus from Tuolumne Lodge) 9:00 a.m. 8:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—On the Way to Glen Aulin: Cascades and Domes Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground Ranger Walk—Geology, 2 hours, Pothole Dome road marker T-29 6 hours (moderate/6-8 miles) Lembert Dome parking area 8:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground Ranger Walk—Family Discovery Hike, 3 hours Bring lunch and water, Tuolumne Lodge front porch 1:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—John Muir and Geology, 2 hours Pothole Dome road marker T-29

17 FACILITIESFACILITIES && SERVICESSERVICES

JUNE 20 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2000 ALL SERVICES AND HOURS OF OPERATION ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

POOL REFRESHMENT STAND Yosemite Lodge EMERGENCY 911 weather permitting BEVERAGE SERVICES Hot dogs, soda, ice cream $ GIFT/GROCERY Fire – Police – Medical YOSEMITE LODGE MOUNTAIN ROOM 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Newly remodeled Emergency: Dial 911, Noon to 5:00 p.m. BAR & LOUNGE facility offers a wide selection of Yosemite 24 hours a day 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. weekdays apparel, books, souvenirs, and convenience (from hotel room 9-911) The Ahwahnee Noon to 10:00 p.m. weekends items An elegant dining experience in one of America’s premier dining rooms CURRY VILLAGE TERRACE NATURE SHOP MEDICAL 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Unique sculptures, Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. $-$$ distinctive apparel, music, and videos AHWAHNEE BAR Yosemite Medical Clinic Sunday Brunch – 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. $$$ Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. $$ Noon to 11:00 p.m. The Ahwahnee Emergency care: 24 hours daily Dinner – 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. $$$$ Drop-in and Urgent Care: Dinner reservations suggested, WAWONA HOTEL LOBBY LOUNGE GIFT SHOP Service to lobby lounge and verandas Daily 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. call 209/372-1489 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Features signature 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Ahwahnee apparel, china, jewelry, and Scheduled appointments: Native American crafts Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. AHWAHNEE BAR Classic cocktails, specialty drinks, light Saturday 9:00 a.m. to Noon ROCERIES snacks G SWEET SHOP Located on Ahwahnee Drive in Yosemite 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Magazines, Noon to10:00 p.m. $-$$$ YOSEMITE LODGE GIFT/GROCERY newspapers, candies, cookies, and sundry Valley, the clinic provides routine and 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. emergency medical care for park employees, items residents, and visitors. Experienced nursing Curry Village VILLAGE STORE staff, emergency physicians, nurse Over 100 years of family-oriented dining 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Full service grocery experience Curry Village practitioner, and support staff on duty. store Services include a limited pharmacy, lab, Meals served daily in one or more of the MOUNTAIN SHOP 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Full climbing gear x-ray, and physical therapy. 209/372-4637 following locations: DEGNAN’S DELICATESSEN outfitter, hiking apparel, bear canister rental 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Paramedic/Ambulance Service: COFFEE AND ICE CREAM CORNER 24 hours daily Freshly ground coffees, espressos, lattes, GIFT/GROCERY HOUSEKEEPING CAMP cappuccinos, fruit, baked goods, dessert, soft 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Snacks, souvenirs, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Dental Services drinks, boxed lunches, and ice cream $ film, and apparel Adjacent to Medical Clinic. For hours, call 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. CURRY VILLAGE STORE 209/372-4200. If no answer, call 209/372-4637. Camping supplies and prepackaged snacks Tuolumne Meadows PAVILION 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. All you can eat buffet $-$$ GROCERY STORE ACCOMMODATIONS WAWONA STORE 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuolumne-specific Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Camping and fishing supplies, including apparel, last-minute food supplies for For advanced reservations or Dinner – 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. fishing licenses and bear canister rental backpacking and high country picnics information (rooms or activities), 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. 209/372-8435 call 559/252-4848 HAMBURGER STAND Burgers, chicken, fish sandwiches, chicken MOUNTAINEERING SCHOOL AND (www.yosemitepark.com) CRANE FLAT strips, salad, side orders, and soft drinks $ Convenience store, bear canister rental SPORT SHOP For availability on day of arrival, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Full climbing gear 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. check at any front desk. 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. outfitter, maps, bear canister rental, dehydrated food, and backpacking supplies PIZZA & BAR TUOLUMNE MEADOWS STORE ESTAURANTS 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. R Enjoy pizza, salad, and full service bar under TUOLUMNE MEADOWS BOOKSTORE the stars $-$$ 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Located in the These hours of operation are approximate. EL PORTAL MARKET Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center For current dining hours, Noon to 9:30 p.m. 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Bear canister rental, call 209/372-1000, extension 8. $3 per day Happy Isles Wawona Food Service Price Key: WAWONA HOTEL GOLF SHOP $ = entrees under $7 SNACK STAND GIFTS, BOOKS & APPAREL 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Signature Wawona $$ = $7-$14 entrees Rewarding refreshments after a long hike. apparel, snacks, and golf supplies $$$ = $15-$20 entrees Soft drinks, ice cream, snacks, bottled water $ Yosemite Village $$$$ = more than $20 entrees 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. THE ANSEL ADAMS GALLERY WAWONA STORE 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Books, original 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Local crafts and Yosemite Village souvenirs Breakfast – 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Tuolumne Meadows photographs, cards, Native American crafts, Lunch/Dinner – 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. GRILL photography supplies, camera rentals, and more. 209/372-4413 www.anseladams.com PIONEER YOSEMITE HISTORY CENTER A quick breakfast, lunch, or dinner before or BOOKSTORE Meals served daily in one or more of the after exploring $ following locations: YOSEMITE BOOKSTORE 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch) 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Open daily 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Located at Books, maps, and information DEGNAN’S the Valley Visitor Center. Books, maps, DEGNAN’S DELICATESSEN TUOLUMNE MEADOWS LODGE posters, and information Mariposa Grove Sandwiches, snacks, soup and salad $ DINING ROOM Rustic, family-style dining adjacent to the OSEMITE USEUM OOK HOP GIFT SHOP DEGNAN’S FAST FOOD & ICE CREAM $ Y M B S 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Books, traditional 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Cards, bottled water, THE VILLAGE GRILL snacks, and memorabilia Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. $-$$ Indian arts and crafts 209/372-0295 Burgers, sandwiches, fries, chicken strips, Dinner – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $$-$$$ soft-serve ice cream, and beverages $ VILLAGE STORE MUSEUM SHOP Meals are served family style and 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Features signature 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch) PASTA PLUS dinner reservations are advised, Fresh pasta, salads, and dessert $$ Yosemite apparel, books, glassware, and call 209/372-8413 postcards Glacier Point IFT HOP Yosemite Lodge HABITAT YOSEMITE G S White Wolf Lodge 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Breakfast – 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. A cozy dining room with outdoor seating 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in Degnan’s Apparel, books, souvenirs, and binocular Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. building. Interpretive gifts and souvenirs Breakfast – 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. $-$$ rental Light snacks – 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. inspired by nature Dinner – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $$-$$$ Dinner – 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Dinner reservations advised, SPORT SHOP Meals served daily in one or more of the call 209/372-8416 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Camping and fishing following locations: supplies, bear canister rental, California fishing licenses CAFETERIA Wawona Hotel Old world charm with a relaxing atmosphere Complete breakfasts, entrees, sandwiches, ART ACTIVITY CENTER and desserts $ Breakfast – 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. $-$$ 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located south of Solution to Yosemite’s Critters Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. $-$$ Village Store. Free art classes daily. Books, from page 9. COFFEE CORNER Dinner – 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. $$-$$$ art supplies, and fine local art Freshly ground coffees, espressos, lattes, Dinner reservations advised for 10 or cappuccinos, fruit, baked goods, desserts, more, 209/375-1425 WILDERNESS CENTER soft drinks, and boxed lunches $ Open 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Guidebooks, Saturday BBQ on Lawn – 5:00 p.m. to maps, wilderness permits, bear canister 7:30 p.m. $-$$ GARDEN TERRACE SALAD BUFFET rental, and trip-planning displays All you can eat, self-serve salad bar featuring Sunday Breakfast Buffet – 7:30 a.m. to soups, pasta, dessert, and at dinner, carved- 1:30 p.m. $-$$ to-order meats $-$$ Sunday Brunch – 10:30 a.m. to Nature Center 1:30 p.m. $$$ at Happy Isles THE MOUNTAIN ROOM 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch) Spectacular views of Yosemite Falls featuring Family-oriented bookstore pasta, steak, fresh fish, and other specialities Glacier Point $$-$$$$ SNACK STAND Comfortable facility serves snacks to ease MOUNTAIN ROOM BAR & LOUNGE hunger after a hike or drive to the Point. Light snack service available $ Spectacular sunset views. $ 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. weekdays 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Noon to 10:00 p.m. weekends

18 FACILITIESFACILITIES && SERVICESSERVICES

JUNE 20 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2000 ALL SERVICES AND HOURS OF OPERATION ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

RECREATION GAS STATIONS MISCELLANEOUS RELIGIOUS SERVICES

Conditions permitting CRANE FLAT 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Diesel available. Babysitting Church of Christ YOSEMITE LODGE TOUR DESK Pay at the pump 24 hours with credit or Limited babysitting available for registered Inquiries, directions, other services, contact (after-hours ticket sales available at Ron Skelton. 209/379-2307 debit card. guests in YCS accommodations equipped front desk) with private bath and telephone. Children 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 209/372-1240 EL PORTAL CHAPEL TUOLUMNE MEADOWS must be 3 years of age and out of diapers. Worship Service: Sunday 9:00 a.m. 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Propane available. Requests must be made prior to arrival. SIGHTSEEING TOURS Pay at the pump 24 hours with credit or 2 hour minimum. 24 hour cancellation Two-hour open-air tram (weather debit card. policy. Availability not guaranteed. permitting) or bus tours, or all-day and half- Yosemite Community Church (Protestant Nondenominational) day bus tours depart daily from lodging WAWONA facilities in Yosemite Valley. Inquire at Kennel Pastor Brian Empie 209/372-4831 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Diesel & propane Located at the Yosemite Valley stable. Dogs tour/transportation desks at the Ahwahnee, Rev. John K. Paris available for weddings available. Pay at the pump 24 hours with must be gentle, over 10 pounds, and proof Yosemite Lodge, Curry Village, Village Kiosk. and counseling. Call number above. credit or debit card. of shots or license required. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 209/372-8348 MOUNTAINEERING SCHOOL (year-round) Yosemite Mountaineering School offers Auto Service, Towing, Worship Service lessons and guided climbing at all levels, and Repair (AAA) Employment Opportunities Sunday 9:15 a.m., Thursday 7:00 p.m. overnight backpacking, and guided day hikes Would you like to be part of Yosemite’s Sunday 11:00 a.m. to spectacular areas of Yosemite and the VILLAGE GARAGE future? Employment opportunities exist at Children’s Church high country. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Towing 24 hours. Yosemite National Park with the National Emergency gasoline & propane available Sunday 9:15 a.m. CURRY VILLAGE Park Service, Volunteers in Parks, and (located in the Mountain Shop) 209/372-8320 Yosemite Concessions Services. Other Worship Service 8:30 a.m. to Noon, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday 9:00 a.m. at Lower Pines YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK Campground Amphitheater* Classes meet at 8:30 a.m. POST OFFICES 209/372-8344 For vacancy information on the web: www.usajobs.opm.gov TUOLUMNE MEADOWS TUOLUMNE MEADOWS Main Post Office Employment hotline: (when campground opens) (located next to gas station) (Yosemite Village) 209/372-0200-6-1-1 Worship Service 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (for permanent positions) Sunday 9:00 a.m. Dana Campfire Circle* 209/372-8435 Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday 10:00 a.m. to Noon 209/372-0200-6-1-2 (for seasonal positions) WAWONA BEAR CANISTER RENTAL To contact the Yosemite National Park Worship Service Available for $3 per trip at the Wilderness Yosemite Lodge Post Office Human Resource Office, call 209/379-1805 Sunday 9:00 a.m. in Wawona Campground Center, Yosemite Valley Sports Shop, Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or write: Yosemite National Park, Human Amphitheater* Curry Village Mountain Shop, Big Oak Flat Resource Office, P.O. Box 700, El Portal, Bible Studies Information Station, Crane Flat Store, CA 95318 Call for location Wawona Store, Wawona Information Curry Village Post Office Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Thursday 7:00 a.m. (Prayer Group) Station, Tuolumne Meadows Mountain VOLUNTEERS IN PARKS Shop, Tuolumne Meadows Store, Hetch Individuals and groups interested in *Affiliated with “A Christian Ministry in the Hetchy Entrance Station, and the El Portal Wawona Post Office community service projects in Yosemite can National Parks” Market. Canisters may be rented or returned Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. call the Volunteer Program Manager at at any rental location in the park. Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 209/379-1850. Free camping is provided and entrance fees are waived during your work Church of Jesus Christ of BIKE RENTALS project. Latter Day Saints Daily, weather permitting, with hourly and Tuolumne Meadows Doug Warcup 209/722-7623 daily rates. Baby-joggers, wheelchairs, and Post Office YOSEMITE CONCESSION SERVICES Jerry Calister 209/723-4736 six-speed bikes with trailers. Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Contact Yosemite Concession Services Yosemite Valley Sacrament Service Saturday 9:00 a.m. to Noon Corporation at the General Offices in YOSEMITE LODGE 1:00 p.m. daily from Memorial Day through Yosemite Village or call 209/372-1236. 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Labor Day at Yosemite Chapel 209/372-1208 El Portal Post Office Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., CURRY VILLAGE NVIRONMENTAL DUCATION 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. E E Roman Catholic 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Rev. Dennis Alvernaz, Resident Pastor 209/372-8319 Yosemite Association 209/372-4729 SWIMMING POOLS SERVICES FOR DISABLED Outdoor seminars, some for college credit. Mass in Yosemite Valley (until July 9): YOSEMITE LODGE P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318 Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 10:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. An accessibility brochure is available at park 209/379-2321 yosemite.org Visitor Center West Auditorium entrance stations and visitor centers. CURRY VILLAGE Mass in Yosemite Valley (beginning July 10): 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wheelchair rental available at Yosemite Yosemite Institute Saturday 7:30 p.m., Yosemite Chapel Medical Clinic, 209/372-4637, and bike Non-profit environmental education Sunday 10:00 a.m., Visitor Center East RAFTING stands, 209/372-1208 or 209/372-8319. organization. Week-long, field-based Auditorium Rafting may be available June to August, sessions for school groups, teachers, and Mass in Wawona weather and river conditions permitting. other groups. P.O. Box 487, Yosemite, CA Saturday 4:30 p.m., Old School House Raft rental available at Curry Village Raft LOST AND FOUND 95389. 209/379-9511 www.yni.org Stand (shuttle bus stops #12 & 20). 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 209/3721-8341 To inquire about items lost or found at one NPS Education Branch Seventh-Day Adventist of Yosemite’s restaurants, hotels, lounges, Ranger-guided programs, resource Pastor Frank McMurry 209/532-0229 WAWONA GOLF COURSE & TENNIS shuttle buses, or tour services, call Yosemite information, teacher workshops. Wawona Sabbath School: Saturday 10:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Concession Services at 209/372-4357, or Ranger Station, P.O. Box 2027, Wawona, CA write YCS Lost & Found, P.O. Box 578, 95389 209/375-9505. For entrance waivers Worship Service: Saturday 11:00 a.m. Yosemite National Park, CA 95389. STABLES for educational groups, call 209/379-1876 Yosemite Valley (Memorial Day through Labor For items lost or found in other areas of the www.nps.gov/yose/teach.htm Day) at Lower Pines Campground park, call the National Park Service at Amphitheater (near shuttle bus stop #18) Two-hour and four-hour rides depart daily. 209/379-1001, or write to NPS Warehouse, All-day rides, private rides, and pack trips 5083 Foresta Road, B-759, El Portal, SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS into Yosemite’s spectacular wilderness may CA 95318. Yosemite Christian Ministries* also be arranged. Private horse boarding is Al-Anon Pastor Steve Hughes 209/379-2428 available. Call for reservations. For information on weddings, call number YOSEMITE VALLEY: Wednesday 7:00 p.m., above. YOSEMITE VALLEY RECYCLING YCS General Office Building (Employee 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Training Center) Yosemite Village Worship Service 209/372-8348 Village Store Recycling Sunday 7:00 p.m., Yosemite Chapel TUOLUMNE MEADOWS Center Alcoholics Anonymous Worship Walk 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. YOSEMITE VALLEY: Sunday, Tuesday, and Sunday 9:00 a.m., Happy Isles, starts at 209/372-8427 Bottles and cans may also be returned to Thursday 7:30 p.m., YCS General Office shuttle bus #15 WAWONA place of purchase or park gas stations. Building (Employee Training Center), Solid Rock/Climbers for Christ 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Yosemite Village 209/375-6502 Call Pastor for location, times, and additional information. ATM Narcotics Anonymous SHOWERS & LAUNDROMAT YOSEMITE VALLEY: Saturday 7:30 p.m., El Portal Community Church* Yosemite Village YCS General Office Building (Employee Pastor Russ Marsh 209/379-2255 SHOWERS South of Village Store (Bank of America) Training Center), Yosemite Village Assoc. Pastor Steve Hughes 209/379-2428 CURRY VILLAGE Inside Village Store (Heritage Oaks Bank) Worship Service: Saturday 7:30 p.m., El Portal 24 hours Lions Club Chapel (first and third weekends) HOUSEKEEPING CAMP Yosemite Lodge Meets first and third Thursdays of each Sunday 10:30 a.m., El Portal Chapel 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Inside main registration area month at Noon, The Ahwahnee. (second, fourth, fifth weekends) Call 209/372-4475 for information. LAUNDROMAT For information on Bible studies, children’s Curry Village and youth activities, call number above. HOUSEKEEPING CAMP Inside gift shop 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Rotary International Meets Thursdays at Noon for lunch, * Associated with the California Southern Wawona The Ahwahnee. Visiting Rotarian families Baptist Convention Inside Wawona Store and guests welcome. For reservation or information, call 209/372-1016. Wawona Christian Fellowship Tuolumne Meadows Pastor David Adamcik 209/966-3039 Inside Tuolumne Grocery Store WAWONA COMMUNITY CENTER El Portal Worship Service: Sunday 9:00 a.m. On Hwy. 140 at Yosemite View Lodge Women’s Bible Study: Wednesday 1:00 p.m. 19 Yosemite, CA 95389 CA Yosemite,

G-83 25¢ P.O. Box 577 Box P.O. of the Interior the of

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 same route,servingstopsinnumerical order. when intervalsmaybe20minutes. except duringearlymorningand late eveninghours Shuttle busesoperatedailyat10-minute intervals, June 20–September 4,7:00a.m.-10:00p.m. OSEMITE Yosemite ValleyDestinationAreas

V

L N

El Capitan o

R

r 8

P t Yosemite Lodge Yosemite Village

h

s

S i GUIDE d GUIDE

D THE IDE e

Schedules androutesmayvary. YOUR KEY TO VISITING THE PARK Parking Restroom Picnic Area Campground

D Hiking Trail Bicycle Path Shuttle BusStop Shuttle BusRoute Ahwahnee Shuttle HUTTLE

r i v e i

S

o Information

u S t h

CHEDULE s SUMMER i

d Rock Columbia

V e D JUNE 20 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2000 C r A i ALLEY v e scale to not Map Pine Yellow Walk-in (Sunnyside) Camp 4 The Ahwahnee Curry Village VOLUME XXIX, NO. 2 F B

REE Beach Sentinel

M

All busesfollowthe e Four Mile Four N

: Trail to to Trail Glacier r

US Point Point

c Bridge Swinging e

d

R

i v e 5 r Lodge Yosemite

L A Walk Through Trail to Trail

Y Upper Yosemite

o Fall s e m

i 4 t e 6 Fall Yosemite Lower Creek A Falls Yosemite 1 4

6 5 3 Time 2 7 Visitor Center Yosemite Lodge Yosemite Lodge/Camp4 (Service ends8:00p.m.) Yosemite Falls Visitor Center Yosemite Village Yosemite Village/DayParking The Ahwahnee by Chapel 10

V Jeff 7 3 Parking Day Center Visitor Lahr 8 9 Lodge Memorial LeConte Dome Sentinel i 2 Village Yosemite 1 Camp Housekeeping 11 Clinic Medical Trail to Trail Sentinel Dome A Bowl Church Ahwahnee The C Look lacie Point Glacier G r P Poi nt Rd Village Curry 12 Inside! Trail from Trail Glacier Glacier Office Reservation Campground Point to Point 20 Vernal & & Vernal Nevada Falls 19 Pines Lower A

Arches Royal Valley Shuttle P 13 14 12 13 10 11 9 8 Bus Map ...... Back Panel 14 18

Upper PinesCampground Curry Village Bike &RaftRental LeConte MemorialLodge Housekeeping Camp/ Yosemite ChapelParking Sentinel Bridge/ Yosemite Village/DayParking Yosemite Village Park Map ...... 10 & 11 Pines Upper

Pines North • Planning Your Visit

17

Isles Happy at Center Nature M

e • Important Road r

c

e

15 d Stable

R Information

i ve

Trail to Trail r 16 Vernal & Vernal Nevada Falls Park Rules ...... 2

Seasonal Bears ...... 3

T

e

n a Mirror Lake Camping ...... 4 y a Footbridge Fall Vernal C r e Backpacking & e k Valley Day Hikes...... 5 Ride into history with stage driver, Burrel Maier. Photo by Trudy Johnson Activities ...... 12 – 17

throughout thepark. centers andstores for purchaseatvisitor Trail mapsareavailable be usedforhiking. This mapshouldnot Facilities & Services . . . 18 & 19 xplorers. Trail Builders. Pioneers. Innkeepers. Artists. Trail to Trail Snow Creek Snow and Tuolumne Meadows John Muir Trail Muir John Just For Kids ...... 9 Conservationists. The story of these and other early 17 15 20 18 16 19 Yosemite News ...... 6 Yosemite settlers can be found by crossing the historic Mist Trail Mist

ie&RaftRental Bike Curry Village Pines Campgrounds (Service ends8:30p.m.) Stable (Service ends8:30p.m.) Mirror Lake (Service ends8:30p.m.) Happy Isles E Nature Notes...... 7 covered bridge in Wawona and taking a walk through time. Yosemite Valley Plan . . . Center It is a story of the creation of one of America’s first national Dome Half parks. It’s a story filled with hopes and dreams, struggles and conflict as our nation grappled with the concept of the Fall Vernal preservation of wilderness. Continued on page 1