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 intervalsmaybe30minutes. except duringearlymorningand late eveninghours Shuttle busesoperatedailyat20-minute intervals, October 2–November 13,9:00a.m.-10:00 p.m. September 5–October1,7:00 a.m.-10:00p.m. Yosemite ValleyDestinationAreas OSEMITE

V

L N

El Capitan

o R r

8

P t Yosemite Lodge Yosemite Village

h

s

i GUIDE d GUIDE S

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

D Hiking Trail Bicycle Path Shuttle BusStop Shuttle BusRoute HUTTLE r i v e i

S

o Information

u

S t h s FALL CHEDULE i

d Rock Columbia e V SEPTEMBER 5 – NOVEMBER 13, 2000 D C r A iv Map not to scale to not Map ALLEY e Pine Yellow Walk-in (Sunnyside) Camp 4

The Ahwahnee Curry Village VOLUME XXIX, NO. 3 F B

Beach Sentinel

REE M Four Mile Four e N

All busesfollowthe Trail to to Trail

: Glacier r

Point Point

US

c Bridge Swinging e

d

R

i v e 5 r Lodge Yosemite L Back to School Trail to Trail

Y Upper Yosemite

o Fall s e m

i 4 t e 6 Fall Yosemite Lower Creek for Bears A Falls Yosemite 1 4 6 5 3 2 Yosemite Lodge Yosemite Lodge/Camp4 from October23thoughNovember 13) October 22;Serviceendsat5:00p.m. (Service ends8:00p.m.through Yosemite Falls Visitor Center Yosemite Village Yosemite Village/DayParking The Ahwahnee by Kate McCurdy Chapel 10 V 7 3 Parking Day Center Visitor 8 9 Lodge Memorial LeConte Dome Sentinel i

2 he last hint of alpine glow is fading off Half Dome as Yosemite’s Village Yosemite 1 T Camp Housekeeping

11 bear management team heads to work each evening. During the Clinic Medical Trail to Trail Sentinel Dome

A summer and fall months, bears will keep us busy on our night shift Bowl Church Ahwahnee The C lacie Point Glacier G r P until the sun again rises over the park. Working with black bears can Poi nt Rd Look Village Curry 12 at times be exciting, at other times serious. But it is never dull, and Trail from Trail Glacier Glacier Office Reservation Campground Point to Point 20 Vernal & & Vernal Nevada Falls 12 13 10 11 9 8 7 19 Inside! this season we have added a few new elements to our program. We’re Pines Lower A Arches Royal P 13 Curry Village Bike &RaftRental LeConte MemorialLodge Housekeeping Camp/ Yosemite ChapelParking Sentinel Bridge/ Yosemite Village/DayParking Yosemite Village Visitor Center

14 Valley Shuttle sending bears back to school in a mission to keep them not only 18 Bus Map ...... Back Panel Continued on page 1 Pines Upper alive, but wild.

Pines North Park Map ...... 8 & 9 17

Isles Happy at Center Nature M e

r

c • Planning Your Visit e 15 d Stable

R • Important Road i ve

Trail to Trail r 16 Vernal & Vernal Nevada Falls Information

Seasonal Park Rules ...... 2

T

e

n a Mirror Lake Bears ...... 3 y a Footbridge Fall Vernal C r e Camping ...... 4 e k Backpacking & Valley Day Hikes...... 5 throughout thepark. centers andstores for purchaseatvisitor Trail mapsareavailable be usedforhiking. This mapshouldnot 17 14 15 20 18 Serviceendsat 8:30p.m.; * 16 19 Activities ...... 10 – 12 Trail to Trail Snow Creek Snow Closes forseason October22 and Tuolumne Meadows John Muir Trail Muir John

ie&RaftRental Bike Curry Village Pines Campgrounds Stable* Mirror Lake* Happy Isles* Upper PinesCampground Facilities & Services . . . 14 & 15 Yosemite News ...... 6 Mist Trail Mist Nature Notes...... 7 Dome Half

Members of Yosemite’s bear management team ready for an evening’s work Fall Vernal (from left, Kate McCurdy, Joe Madison, Tori Seher). YYOSEMITOSEMITEE GUIDEGUIDE YOUR KEY TO VISITING THE PARK

FALL SEPTEMBER 5 – NOVEMBER 13, 2000 VOLUME XXIX, NO. 3 Back to School for Bears

Continued from front cover On this night, our first call takes us into ment, bear management, and trash food elsewhere, undoubt- a Yosemite Valley campground where a removal. These measures have helped to edly to areas where natural small yearling bear is tearing into a bag improve the bear situation dramatically. food sources are abundant of potato chips, oblivious to a growing By the end of 1999, the number of bear- and humans are not. crowd of onlookers. While the bear’s human incidents was reduced by over attention is on the ill-gotten snack from half from the year before. A LIFE-SAVING an unattended campsite, our rangers’ One concern remains. Even though LESSON technique to interrupt this destructive bears now rarely get unnatural foods Evidence that this effort behavior is startling to both bear and wit- from humans in Yosemite, a handful of would work was seen early nesses. them have been slow to abandon camp- on during our trials. A First the bear is hit with a rubber plug grounds, picnic areas, and parking lots as large bear, wearing both that is fired from a shotgun. The bear foraging grounds. These bears, which may a radio collar and ear tags, immediately drops the bag of chips and have been augmenting their diets with was seen by a wildlife turns toward the woods. Next a firecrack- human food for years, appear to be ranger peering into a car er or “green weenie” screamer is launched unwilling to return to wholly natural at 2:30 one morning in a from a starter pistol, causing the bear to diets. Curry Village parking lot. flee in earnest. The bear management He loaded a rubber slug team sprints after the bear, tracking it RE-EDUCATING BEARS and a firecracker round with help from the park’s bear dog until it Seeking solutions to this problem is into a shotgun and fired is well clear of the area. These efforts may what makes the job of a bear manager both at the bear from a seem extreme, but they are effective in interesting. In May we were given distance of twenty yards. teaching bears to avoid humans, and unprecedented authority to try some- The bear was one rangers provide a sign of hope for such bears. thing that, although common in other knew well. On any other national parks, has not been tried in night she would have con- BACK TO BASICS Yosemite. It’s called “bear hazing”, and tinued her pilgrimage to There was an era, prior to the installa- it’s the act of instilling a fear of humans find food in a car, broken tion of food storage lockers, when bears through the use of negative stimulus. Our out its window, and eaten obtained food from campsites and vehi- goal is simple: provide an intense incen- until satiated. But on this cles in campgrounds every night. Many tive for bears to leave developed areas night, she was so fright- of these bears became increasingly aggres- and instead return to the park’s abundant ened by the rubber bullet sive towards humans and had to be meadows, woodlands, and other prime and the firecracker round The author with her Karelian Bear Dog, “Logan”. Photo by Lesley Gourley destroyed. Fortunately, bears in Yosemite feeding habitats. that she leapt three feet have recently been granted much better The tools that we are employing to in the air and fled with protection. All overnight guests now have assist us in hazing are sometimes very incredible speed from the area. adequate access to bear-proof metal lock- basic. Many bears respond well to simply Since that night, our notorious bear ers for the safe storage of their food. The being yelled at and chased, or hit with an has not been seen in a developed area. park no longer has trash cans that bears acorn fired from a slingshot. Other times The signal from her radio collar now tells TO LEARN can get into. And rangers work around we use a Karelian Bear Dog (see page 7) us that she has returned to the west end MORE… the clock to prevent human-bear conflicts to aggressively chase and bark at bears. of Yosemite Valley, were she can forage through public education, law enforce- Depending on the bear and the circum- for natural food and avoid humans, Four afternoons per week stances, we also haze bears using their vehicles, and future frightening you can go on a bear walk rubber shotgun slugs, firecrack- encounters. We feel this learning experi- with a ranger. See pages ers, and other pyrotechnics to ence, although unpleasant for her at the 10 – 12 for schedule of elicit a flight response. time, provided a lesson to the bear that activities. very well could save her life. Read more about bears So, if a loud report wakes you from A+ SUCCESS and proper food storage your midnight slumber while you are We are encouraged by how on page 3; “Logan,” the staying in Yosemite, accept our apologies. well bears have responded. Even park’s Karelian Bear Dog, It is not our intent to disrupt vacations; the most challenging bears have is featured on page 7. it is to keep bears alive. Please take a shown behavior changes after a moment while you are awake to double- hazing experience. The main check your campsite to ensure that it is reason for this success is simple. clean and your bear box is securely shut. The bears we are working with Glance up at the stars, and marvel for a are not “addicted” to human moment at how beautiful the park is at foods; they have simply been this time of night. And go back to sleep capitalizing on an easy source knowing that you just heard the sound of calories in the park for a long of a bear’s life being lengthened. time. YOSEMITE Through the use of hazing, we have in many cases been Kate McCurdy is the park’s lead bear man- GUIDE able to restore the natural fear agement ranger and has worked with black Published by the Yosemite Association, of humans that has been lost bears in Yosemite for nine years. She and in cooperation with the National Park through years of food condition- her crew of technicians and interns spend Service and the Yosemite ing. We are elated that many of countless nights patrolling campsites and Concession Services Corp. these bears have abandoned educating visitors in order to protect developed areas in search of Yosemite’s bears. Edited by Bridget McGinniss Kerr Production by Skip Gaynard Designs An intelligent and adaptable animal, the black bear NPS Coordinator, Kristina Rylands (ursus americanus) has learned how to obtain food Printed by Premier Offset Printing, Inc. from human sources, such as garbage cans, cars, and campsites. Photo by Amber Bethe 1 PARKPARKPARK RULESRULESRULES

It’s the Law DRIVE SAFELY In 1999, there were 381 motor There are federal laws and vehicle accidents in Yosemite regulations specific to National Park. Sixteen bears were national parks that protect hit by vehicles. Speeding kills wildlife and people. Slow down Yosemite, its wildlife, historic and follow these driving tips to and prehistoric sites and avoid accidents: structures, and natural beauty. Protect your park Obey posted speed limits. Slow down when road conditions war- by following these rules: rant. Be alert to rocks in the roadway, wildlife crossing, or Camping or sleeping in vehicles other unexpected situations. is permitted only in designated campsites and is prohibited along California law requires that all vehicle occupants wear seat roadsides, in turnouts, or in belts, and children 4 years of age parking lots. (or under 40 lbs.) be restrained ❖ in an approved child safety seat.

Bicycles (including mountain Bears are unbelievably strong, especially when it comes to getting food locked Do not stop in the roadway! Find bikes), in-line skates, and strollers in a car. NPS Photo by Steve Thompson a safe turnout if you wish to take must remain on paved roads and a photo, consult a map, or enjoy park scenery or wildlife. designated paved bike paths. Be courteous. Pull into turnouts They are not allowed on hiking HELP KEEP trails or anywhere off-pavement. to allow other vehicles to pass. ILDLIFE ILD ❖ W W Stay on your side of the road, especially on tight curves. Be Did you know that feeding or closely approaching any aware of bicyclists and pedestri- Motor vehicles must stay on park wildlife is prohibited by federal law? Your food is a ans. established roads open to public threat to the survival of park animals. It can damage their travel. Vehicles are not permitted health, make them vulnerable to death from cars, When roads are steep and slip- off-road. or lead to dangerous behavior. Treat your food pery, shift down. Avoid excessive as if it were poison to animals, because the slowing on curves or your vehicle ❖ result is often the same. Even though animals may slide. may look tame—especially when searching for a Store your food properly, keeping Don’t drink and drive. It’s a fatal hand-out—they are capable of inflicting serious injury, combination. it away from bears and other and in extreme cases, causing death. Never attempt to Yosemite animals (see page 3 touch or closely approach any park wildlife. Instead, view wildlife Obey lowered speed limits in the for details). After dark, vehicles through binoculars or telephoto lenses. A good rule-of-thumb: if an El Portal Road construction zone. with food visible in them may be animal is aware of your presence, you’re too close. Rough road conditions exist. No towed. stopping or turning around in ❖ construction zone.

Pets frighten wildlife and disturb FISHING REGULATIONS hikers. They must be leashed at WILL I NEED Special fishing regula- Trout season begins on the last Saturday all times and are not permitted tions apply on the in April and continues through November TIRE CHAINS? on any park trails, with the Merced River in 15. The only exception is Frog Creek near It is recommended that you exception of paved trails on the Yosemite Valley from Lake Eleanor, where fishing season does not carry tire chains in your vehicle floor of Yosemite Valley. Happy Isles down- open until June 15 in order to protect spawn- (including rental cars) between stream through El ing rainbow trout. All lakes and reservoirs are ❖ November and April, as a sudden Portal to the Foresta open to fishing year-round. storm could make them mandatory Do not remove any objects from Road Bridge. In this A valid California sport fishing license must at any time. Due to changing stretch of the river, it be displayed by all persons 16 years of age the park, including pine cones, weather conditions, any vehicle is catch-and- and older who are fishing in Yosemite rocks, leaves, obsidian, historic entering a chain control area must release only for National Park. Licenses must be plainly visi- items, etc. If you find an object carry chains under park regulations, native rainbow ble, attached to outer clothing, at or above that may be prehistoric or even if their use is not mandatory trout. Only artificial lures or flies with barbless the waistline. For more information about historic, do not move it. Note its at the time. Chains should be hooks may be used, and bait fishing is prohib- licenses and fishing, inquire at visitor centers. location and inform a ranger. If obtained in advance; several towns ited. Brown trout limits are five fish per day on highways leading into Yosemite you must collect something, and ten in possession. It is the responsibility rent them. Vehicles over 6,000 lbs. please pick up litter! of the angler to identify fish species. are required to use link-type chains, ❖ and on sets of dual tires, only one The use of metal detectors in tire needs chains. Once in the park, tire chains are available at retail out- the park is illegal. Please report TREE HAZARD ADVISORY lets for purchase, but not for rent. possible violations to a park ranger. Winter storms with strong winds or heavy ❖ wet snow always cause some tree failures, sometimes with property damage or tragic Firearms and hunting are injuries. Trees adjacent to developments such as residences, campgrounds, lodging, offices, prohibited in Yosemite National FOR MORE Park. Report possible hunting parking lots, and some roads are surveyed for defects that may make them likely to fail and violations to the park’s tip line, INFORMATION injure people or damage property. Yosemite 209/372-0214, or to the Depart- forestry crews prune or remove identified Food storage guidelines, see page 3. ment of Fish and Game’s tip line, high priority tree hazards. Camping and campfires, see page 4. 888/DFG-CALTIP, 24 hours a day. Some trees without any visible defects fail Wilderness regulations, see page 5. ❖ during storms. To avoid injury or damage to your property, be aware of your surroundings Fire safety guidelines, see page 7. All public buildings are and park in open areas when storms are Bicycling rules, see page 9. designated as non-smoking. blowing or forecast.

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 Illustration by Lawrence Ormsby 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. garbage in your campsite, especially ness areas. Backpackers staying in designat- which includes many areas of at night. ed backpacker camps adjacent to High the park. Although lion attacks NO FOOD IN CARS! Sierra Camps or in Little Yosemite Valley LODGING are extremely rare, they are In 1999, over 318 cars were damaged are required to use metal food storage lock- possible, as is injury from any by bears in the park, and most of these Remove all food and food-related items ers provided or portable canisters. All food, wild animal. We offer the incidents were caused by improper food from vehicles. Guests staying in hard- garbage, toiletries, and other scented items storage. If your car will be parked in sided cabins must store such supplies must be stored properly. The counterbal- following recommendations Yosemite after dark, it must not contain indoors. ance technique (either from a cable or a for your safety: any food or related items. Guests staying in canvas tent-cabins must tree branch) may not be used where bear store food and related items in lockers Bears have damaged cars for as little as a boxes exist. While legal, the counter bal- Do not leave pets or pet food stick of gum or an empty soda can, so (ask at front desk for locker locations). ance method is generally not an effective thoroughly search your car and remove Clean out trash, empty food containers, means of food storage. Bear resistant canis- outside and unattended, especially all potential bear attractants. Bears can and scented articles from vehicles before ters are required at 9,600 feet elevation and at dawn and dusk. Pets can attract leaving them parked overnight. clearly smell any food in a car, even above. Plan ahead—All food, garbage, and mountain lions into developed when it’s stored in the vehicle’s trunk! toiletries must be contained within canis- PICNIC AREAS areas. Bears recognize ice chests, grocery bags, Stay close to your food and put it away as ters. (See article below for rental locations and other food-related containers. Such soon as you are finished eating. Bears may 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 than one person, stand together to present food storage boxes for backpackers at all 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 up and returned at any of the rental for the Bear Management bears and people, and to keep bears wild, the locations throughout the park. Increased you can to appear larger. Raise your Team at 209/372-0200 (press 2, National Park Service strongly encourages availability of canisters parkwide and then 4). Your call can be made arms. If you have small children backpackers to use bear-resistant food canis- reduced rental fees are due to a cooperative anonymously. with you, pick them up. ters. These containers are the most effective agreement between the Yosemite Association way for backpackers to store food in the and Yosemite Concession Services Corp. ❖ wilderness. All other techniques are consid- ered delaying tactics only, as bears are largely If the lion behaves aggressively, able to undo most well-known food storage wave your arms, shout, and throw methods. Each plastic canister weighs about objects at it. The goal is to convince 3 pounds, fits in a full-sized backpack, and DONATE A CANISTER it that you are not prey and may is capable of holding a three to five days & SAVE A BEAR supply of food for one person. be dangerous yourself. If attacked, Canisters may be rented for a flat fee of $3 Make a donation to the Yosemite Associa- fight back! per trip plus a refundable security deposit. tion’s “Save a Bear” campaign and help ❖ They may also be purchased for approxi- eliminate food-related human/bear conflicts in the wilderness. Donations will be used to pur- mately $75. They are available at the Generally, mountain lions following locations: Year-round at the chase bear-resistant food storage canisters for are calm, quiet, and elusive. Yosemite Valley Sports Shop, Mountain use in the distribution program described in Shop at Curry Village, Crane Flat Store, and the adjacent article. The program makes canis- Sightings are rare, so if you Wawona Store. Seasonally at Yosemite Val- ters easily available and encourages their use. spot one, consider yourself Help save a bear by donating a bear can! ley Wilderness Center, Wawona Information privileged! Station, Big Oak Flat Permit/Information Sta- Call the Yosemite Association at 209/379- tion, Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station, 2646 for more information. Tuolumne Meadows Store, Tuolumne Meadows Sport Shop, and Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center (see pages 14 and 15 for hours). Canisters can be picked Photo by Mike Floyd

3 CAMPINGCAMPING

sites after you arrive in the park. Maximum Highway 120 East, Mono Lake Ranger Station CAMPING RESERVATIONS length for recreational vehicles in Valley (Inyo NF) 760/647-3044; Highway 41, Oakhurst campgrounds is 40 feet. Ranger Station (Sierra NF) 559/683-4636. For CAMPFIRE RULES Reservations are required for Yosemite Valley’s Camp 4 (Sunnyside) Walk-in Campground private campgrounds and lodging outside auto campgrounds year-round and summer is open all year on a first-come, first-served basis; Yosemite, call the respective chamber of To improve air quality in Yosemite through fall for Hodgdon Meadow, Crane Flat, these campsites are not wheelchair accessible. commerce or visitor bureau listed on page 8. Valley, campfires are permitted only Wawona, and half of Tuolumne Meadows. All Sites are rented on a per-person basis, and six 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 Camping reservations will be available in Firewood collection is prohibited in Camp 4 (Sunnyside) often fills before 9:00 a.m. Yosemite Valley. This includes “dead blocks of 1 month at a time, up to 5 months in There are group campsites at Tuolumne Mead- each day May through September. and down” wood. advance, on the 15th of each month through ows, Hodgdon Meadow, Wawona, and Bridalveil There is a 30-day camping limit within the National Park Reservation System (NPRS). Yosemite National Park in any calendar year; Creek Campgrounds. Reservations can be made Outside the Valley, wood may not be Thus, for: however, May 1- September 15, camping limit through NPRS; 13 to 30 people are allowed in gathered at elevations above 9,600 each group campsite. Tent camping only. Pets feet or in sequoia groves. CAMPING FIRST DAY TO in Yosemite Valley is 7 days inclusive. are not permitted in group sites. Check-in/check- ARRIVAL DATE MAKE RESERVATION Cutting standing trees or attached out time is noon. All dates thru 12/14/00 7/15/00 OUTSIDE 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 There are no hookups in Yosemite camp- 2/15/01 thru 3/14/01 10/15/00 outside the Valley is noon. Maximum length cones, as they create unnecessary for recreational vehicles is 35 feet. grounds, but there are sanitary dump stations in smoke. Yosemite Valley (all year), and summer only in 3/15/01 thru 4/14/01 11/15/00 There is a 30-day camping limit within Wawona and Tuolumne Meadows. Shower and Campfires are permitted only in 4/15/01 thru 5/14/01 12/15/00, etc. Yosemite National Park in any calendar year; 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 15 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, Camp waste water and sewage must be dis- at a time by mail or phone with Mastercard, number if it is available at the time the reserva- Groveland Ranger Station (Stanislaus NF) posed of in 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.

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

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

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

CRANE FLAT Open June-September Big Oak Flat Rd. near 6,191' 17 166 $15/s Reservations required the Tioga Road turnoff 1,886 m TAMARACK FLAT Open 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’ YOSEMITE CREEK Open July-early Sept. 7,659' 35 75 $6/s Tioga Road Five-mile access road not suit- 2,333 m (Highway 120 east) able for 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

AUTUMN IN THE WILDERNESS Fall is a pleasant time to backpack in Yosemite’s wilderness is a Yosemite. Summer crowds begin to dimin- wildlife preserve—pets ish, autumn colors the landscape, and and weapons are prohib- animals are busy preparing for winter. ited. Bicycles and Watch While hiking conditions are often favorable strollers are not allowed during September and October, sudden on any trail. storms are not uncommon and tempera- Trail maps, hiking guides, Your Step! tures can drop dramatically, even at lower and other literature may be elevations. Temperatures are frequently obtained at visitor centers or below freezing at night, and snow can fall ordered from the Yosemite as early as September. Keep in mind that Bookstore, P.O. Box 230, El In 1999, rangers in Yosemite weather changes rapidly in the Sierra, and a Portal, CA 95318, 209/379- worked on 158 search and beautiful clear morning can become a rainy 2648, fax 209/379-2486, rescue operations. Nine people (or snowy) afternoon. www.yosemitestore.com/. died in the park due to accidents. PLAN CAREFULLY WILDERNESS PERMITS Use topographic maps and guidebooks to Free wilderness permits Fall is an active time for bears in the wilderness. Save Yosemite’s bears — store your food properly. Tripping and falling are common plan your trip. Carry a “topo” map and are required year-round for compass when on the trail and know accidents on park walkways and all overnight trips into After November 4, wilderness permits will how to use them. Yosemite’s wilderness. They are not be available at the Valley Visitor Center. trails, especially in slippery Allow plenty of time for rest, food required for day hikes. Yosemite uses a conditions. CAMPSITE SELECTION storage, and campsite selection. You trailhead quota system which limits the Good campsite selection may be the ❖ must be 4 miles from any populated number of people who may begin most important decision you make in order area and 1 mile from any road before overnight hikes from each trailhead, each to leave no trace of your wilderness trip. At night, artificial lighting is kept to a camping. day. This system is designed to avoid Established campsites at least 100 feet from minimum; always carry a flashlight. Check current weather conditions and overcrowding and to reduce impacts to water are usually “hardened”—they have ❖ forecasts prior to your trip. Be prepared wilderness areas. At least 40% of each lost some of their vegetative cover—and careful continued use causes little for sudden changes in weather; plan trailhead quota is available on a first-come, Rock climbing and scrambling additional impact. Confining use to dirt for wind, cold, rain, snow, sun, or an first-served basis the day of, or one day are the leading causes of injury prior to, the beginning of your trip. areas in established campsites preserves the emergency bivouac. natural condition of the larger surrounding and death for unprepared and Permit stations are located at the area. Maximum group size is 15 people for trail Wilderness Center in Yosemite Valley, inexperienced hikers. Routes are travel and 8 people for off-trail travel. Wawona, Big Oak Flat, Hetch Hetchy, and often more difficult than they Proper equipment is vital. Carry sufficient Tuolumne Meadows. Call 209/372-0200 for PROTECT WATER QUALITY, WILDLIFE, appear, and even a short fall can food and water. permit station locations and hours. Permits AND FRAGILE TERRAIN cause serious injury or death. Before Pack out all trash and use gas stoves are also available by advance reservation. you scramble or climb on Yosemite’s Pack out all trash. rather than wood fires. rocks or walls, provide yourself with Store all food, garbage, and toiletries proper equipment and training. properly (see page 3). ❖ WILDERNESS PERMIT RESERVATIONS Bring a container to carry water to your camp from lakes or streams. Swift currents and wet, slippery Wilderness users who plan to enjoy Yosemite’s beautiful high country during the Purify all drinking water—boil for 5 rocks can cause you to fall and be peak season (May through September) are encouraged to make permit reservations. minutes or use a Giardia-rated filter or swept over a waterfall. Never swim Call 209/372-0200 for the latest information. Currently, reservations are available iodine-based purifier (see page 7). from 24 weeks to 2 days in advance of the trip start date, and can be made by writing or wade in streams above waterfalls to Wilderness Permits, P.O. Box 545, Yosemite, CA 95389, or by calling 209/372-0740. Dispose of human waste in a small hole or in swiftly moving water. Include the following in your request: name, address, daytime phone, number of at least 100 feet from water and trail. ❖ people in the party, method of travel (i.e., ski, snowshoe, foot, horse), number of Pack out all toilet paper and personal stock (if applicable), start and end dates, entry and exit trailheads, and principal hygiene products. Any unbridged stream crossing may destination. Include alternate dates and/or trailheads. Do all washing at least 100 feet from any be hazardous. If a bridge is not A $5 per person non-refundable processing fee is charged for all reservation water source or trail. nearby and you must cross, do so at 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 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 JOHN MUIR TRAIL

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

TOP OF NEVADA FALL Same as above 7 miles round trip Strenuous 6 to 8 hours round trip Check conditions at Visitor Center (11.3 km) 1,900' (570 m) elevation gain Winter route available

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

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

VALLEY FLOOR LOOP Yosemite Falls 13 miles full loop (20.8 km) Moderate 5 to 7 hours full loop Get full description from Shuttle Stop #4 6.5 miles half loop (10.4 km) 2.5 to 3.5 hours half loop Visitor Center

5 YOSEMITEYOSEMITE NEWSNEWS On The

Web ENJOY THE JOURNEY WITH YARTS! If you prefer to enjoy the Yosemite area’s magnifi- For fall and winter schedule information, check The official Yosemite NPS home page cent scenery rather than watch the road, YARTS with YARTS web site at www.yosemite.com/yarts. (www.nps.gov/yose/) contains the latest transit service to and from the park could be the For schedule information or questions by phone option for you. The Yosemite Area Regional Transit call toll free 877/98-YARTS (877/989-2787). park information. System (YARTS) provides round-trip transit service For information for only the Highway 120 East ❖ from communities within service, please call 800/626-6684. Mariposa, Merced, and Mono Camping reservations can now Counties to Yosemite National be made online from 7:00 a.m. Park. to 7:00 p.m. Pacific time Year-round: (reservations.nps.gov). From Merced east along Highway 140 to Yosemite ❖ Valley (limited service only in fall and winter). Summer only: The Yosemite Association’s Yosemite From Coulterville along Highway 132 to Highway Online (www.yosemite.org) features 120 West into the park via the Big Oak Flat visitor information, a bookstore, a Entrance (through September 17) listing of outdoor classes, membership From Mammoth Lakes and Lee Vining to news, the daily weather forecast, a Yosemite Valley on Highway 395 and 120 East. live-camera view of Half Dome and From Wawona Yosemite Valley, and even a 3-D Fares for riding YARTS vary, but generally range QuickTime video of Yosemite Valley. between $7 and $20 round trip for an adult, includ- ing entrance to the park (except for the Wawona ❖ route). YARTS also offers discounts for children and seniors. The Yosemite Fund home page (www.yosemitefund.org) frequently has Illustration by Lawrence Ormsby project updates with photographs online. The site currently features photos of the restoration work at FALL HIKES AND CLASSES Glacier Point. Other features include There’s still room on a few great fall “Wild Card,” “Waterfalls,” and “Tips Just for Kids seminars in Tuolumne Meadows, For Travelers,” along with current Wawona, and Yosemite Valley. The fol- donation information. lowing is a list of some of these outdoor ❖ BECOME A JUNIOR OR SENIOR RANGER LITTLE CUBS WANTED! field courses offered by Yosemite Field You can become a Yosemite Junior or Are you between the ages of 3 and 6? Seminars, in association with the non- The Yosemite Concession Services Senior Ranger by purchasing a self-guided Yosemite has a program for YOU! Little profit Yosemite Association. booklet published by the Yosemite Associ- Cubs is a self-guided booklet that encour- home page (www.yosemitepark.com) Hawks in Flight, September 7-10, ation. This booklet is sold for $3.50 at the ages our young visitors and their families Tuolumne Meadows features 200 pages of information on Nature Center at Happy Isles, Yosemite to discover Yosemite’s wonders and to earn lodging, shopping, dining, and park Valley and Tuolumne Meadows Visitor a Little Cubs button. This booklet (pub- The Bear Facts, September 8-10, Yosemite Valley activities with links to other Centers, and Wawona and Big Oak Flat lished by the Yosemite Association) is sold Information Stations. In order to earn a for $3.00 in the Nature Center at Happy Yosemite-related web sites. It also Sketching Yosemite History, Junior/Senior Ranger patch, the booklet Isles, Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne September 16-17, Yosemite Valley includes a live-camera view of Half must be completed, a bag of trash collect- Meadows Visitor Centers, and Wawona Loosening Up with Watermedia, Dome, online gift shop, and lodging ed, and a guided program attended. and Big Oak Flat Information Stations. October 6-8, Yosemite Valley reservations. Writing Wawona’s Wonders, October ❖ 6-8 The Ansel Adams Gallery home page CLASSROOMS IN THE PARK Poetry Alive, October 13-15, (www.anseladams.com) features Yosemite Valley fine art photography, gifts, calendar Yosemite National Park is the ideal out- tection and preservation of natural and Understanding the Chemistry of door classroom for exploring natural and cultural resources. Fall visits feature a of events, and photos of Yosemite and Plants, October 20-22, Yosemite Valley cultural history. Yosemite’s Parks As Class- Miwok Indian theme. Yosemite Valley Fall Photography, Mono Lake. rooms program coordinates with the Class size is limited to 35 students. For October 26-29, Yosemite Valley ❖ California State Curriculum Frameworks further information regarding this and for elementary grades and offers ranger- other National Park Service education Let the Yosemite Association’s top- Yosemite Area Traveller Information led field trips for classes visiting the park. programs, contact the Education Office notch instructors lead you on a learning (www.yosemite.com), web site contains Each program lasts one to two hours. at 209/372-0642, or visit the web site at adventure. All programs include free the latest information on the Park entrance fees are waived for the edu- www.nps.gov/yose/teach.htm. For a fee campground space, while those in cational visit. These programs emphasize waiver application, call 209/379-1876. Yosemite region. Includes lodging Yosemite Valley and Wawona have the National Park Service message of pro- rooms set aside for students at an addi- information, travel advisories, and tional cost. road and weather conditions. For more information, call Penny ❖ or Lou at 209/379-2321, fax any requests to 209/379-2486, or e-mail: The Yosemite Institute’s home page [email protected]. FREE ART CLASSES See a live web camera view of Yosemite (www.yni.org) describes its residential, Valley and Tuolumne Meadows along Free, informal outdoor classes in various art mediums are available for adults in-park field-science program for ele- with the detailed descriptions of these through the Art Activity Center, located at the east end of Yosemite Village mentary, middle, and high school and other seminars at www.yosemite.org. next to the Village Store. Supplies are available for purchase at the Center students, and post-visit challenge which is open daily 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closes for the season October 11). units. Classes begin at 10:00 a.m. and continue until 2:00 p.m. Sept. 4 -10 Vivian Deland Watercolor Sept. 11-16 Anne Thiermann Pastel/Sketching What were over 400 African American soldiers Sept. 17-24 Ben Kudo Watercolor doing in Yosemite in 1899, 1903, Sept. 25-Oct. 1 Alex Gonzales Mixed Media/Sketching and 1904? Find out at Oct. 2-8 Janis Fogt Journal Sketching www.shadowsoldier.org.

6 NATURENATURENATURE NOTESNOTESNOTES

Fire Safety FIRE MANAGEMENT IN YOSEMITE

This last August marked the ten-year Currently, there Each year campfires, cigarettes, anniversary of the Steamboat and A-Rock is a moratorium on and human carelessness cause fires. Blackened trees can be seen on the both types of burn- Wawona Road north of Chinquapin and on ing in Yosemite unwanted fires in Yosemite. the Big Oak Flat Road near Foresta. Fire National Park. To These fires can be prevented by managers in Yosemite realize that fire has continue with fire following a few simple rules. been an essential part of the ecosystem for hazard reduction in thousands of years and have used two tools Yosemite, crews are since the early 1970s to restore the benefits manually clearing CAMPFIRES of this natural process: wildland fire and pre- small trees and Build small campfires using only scribed fire. brush in Yosemite established campfire rings. Be aware Wildland fires that are caused by light- Valley, Mariposa ning may be allowed to burn under strictly Grove, and other of conditions such as weather and monitored conditions in certain park park areas to pre- items nearby that could accidentally wilderness areas. Since 1972, 532 lightning pare the areas for catch fire. Never leave a fire fires have been successfully managed by burning at a later unattended. Put out campfires Yosemite National Park’s fire staff. Where date. Alternative it is not prudent to allow fires to burn, the methods for dealing by stirring with water a half hour park has a policy of fire suppression com- with the debris, before you leave the site, and bined with a prescribed fire program. such as chipping, remember to carefully feel charred Prescribed fires are ignited under approved will be used as long material to make certain the fire conditions by qualified park fire staff to as the moratorium protect developed areas (like Yosemite Val- lasts. is out. See page 4 for campfire rules. ley and Wawona) and in other areas with Visitors may unnaturally high amounts of dead and obtain more ❖ down woody debris. Yosemite has safely information on conducted 188 prescribed burns since 1970. Yosemite’s Fire PORTABLE All human caused wildland fires are Management CAMPING STOVES immediately suppressed no matter where Program by visiting they occur within the park. the exhibits in the Refuel stoves only when they are All managed burns are normally signed Valley Visitor cold and in a well-ventilated area. from vantage points or along the roadways. Center. Location Please heed all warning signs posted in fire and status of any ❖ areas. Occasionally, trails that are within or wildland and pre- sugar pine, adjacent to fires need to be closed for safety scribed fires will be displayed in the Visitor Pinus lambertiana CHARCOAL BRIQUETTES reasons. Trail closings will be posted in the Center and on a status board inside the Illustration by Jane Gyer Yosemite Valley Wilderness Center and at Wilderness Center in Yosemite Village. Because charcoal uses oxygen appropriate trailheads. rapidly, you should never use it in confined spaces, such as tents or vehicles. After use, dunk charcoal YOSEMITE’S WORLD CHAMPION TREES briquettes in water until cold. Check them carefully. Never empty In addition to the Merced, Tuolumne, and Mariposa Groves of hot or warm briquettes in trash Giant Sequoias, Yosemite National Park has some other prodi- gious trees. Check them out in your travels through the park: dumpsters. The American Forestry Association (AFA) World Champion California red fir leans over the north shoulder of the Tioga ❖ Road 1.2 miles east of the White Wolf Junction. It is 9.68 feet in diameter, 172 feet tall, and has a 41-foot crown spread. Its age is CIGARETTES estimated to be between 300 and 600 years. A grant from the Never smoke while walking or in Yosemite Fund will allow the National Park Service to install a small interpretive sign, reduce hazardous forest fire fuel accumu- an area with flammable materials. lations in the vicinity, and build a low barrier around the base Crush butts completely before of the tree to avoid soil damage and erosion. throwing them into a garbage If you travel to Yosemite’s wilderness, the AFA World Cham- pion white fir stands near the northeast shore of Merced Lake. can. Never throw cigarettes out It is 7.32 feet in diameter, 217 feet tall, and has a 39-foot crown of a car window. spread. Its age is estimated to be between 300 and 600 years. A Yosemite Fund grant allowed SAFE DRINKING WATER the National Park Service to Photo by Lesley Gourley place a small sign at the Merced Giardiasis is an intestinal disease caused by Giardia lamblia, a pro- Lake High Sierra Camp and con- tozoan. Associated symptoms include chronic diarrhea, abdominal KARELIAN BEAR DOGS struct a stone causeway over the cramps, bloating, fatigue, and loss of weight. Treatment by a physi- exposed roots in the popular cian is necessary to kill the organism. Like many of the techniques that are now trail. Giardia lamblia is carried by humans as well as some domestic and being used to re-educate bears, the park’s Yosemite is also home to the wild animals, and may contaminate lakes and streams. Whenever pos- Karelian Bear Dog, “Logan”, has been a well- tallest pine tree ever reported— sible, only tap water should be used for drinking. If using surface water utilized addition to the Bear Management a sugar pine that towers above or melted snow, treat by boiling for 5 minutes or by using a Giardia- Team. Logan’s ancestors were Finnish and Hodgdon Meadow. It is 268 feet rated water filter. If used properly, an iodine-based purifier is another were known for their tenacity and fearless- tall, 9.23 feet in diameter, and alternative. ness around bears, as well as their gregarious has a 68-foot crown spread. The National Park Service is working with the U.S. Environmental nature with humans. True to his breed, he is The tree is believed to be Protection Agency and the California Department of Health Services fearless of bears, possesses an incredibly loud between 200 and 300 years old. to develop a program to ensure that the drinking water in Yosemite bark, and will tirelessly pursue them. The same Yosemite Fund grant is protected. The program, one of the first in California, will be based will allow the National Park on an assessment of potential threats to water sources. Service to document and reduce hazardous forest fire fuel accu- TICK-BORNE DISEASES mulations that threaten to incinerate the tree and its Be aware that ticks exist in the park, and neighbors. 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 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 9), 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 10-11. 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. Trail brochures, printed Association Bookstore, P.O. Box 230, voluntary operation provides scheduled in English, French, Japanese, and Spanish are round-trip transit service to Yosemite from available at the Grove trailhead. To reduce El Portal, CA 95318, 209/379-2648, outlying communities, including Merced, traffic congestion and avoid parking delays, ride the free shuttle bus (spring fax 209/379-2486, Mariposa, and Mammoth Lakes. Summer ser- through fall) from Wawona to the Grove. vice operates through September 17 and will www.yosemitestore.com. The Pioneer Yosemite History Center in resume in the summer of 2001. For schedule Wawona is a collection of historic buildings Remember that road and trail and service information, visit the YARTS web associated with people and events that site at www.yosemite.com/yarts or call toll free shaped the national park idea in Yosemite. conditions and available services may Interpretive signs and a brochure provide a 877/98-YARTS (877/989-2787). change with the weather. For self-guiding tour of the Center year-round. Within Yosemite See page 11 for activities and additional current conditions and general information about Wawona and the Free shuttle bus service is provided through- Mariposa Grove. information, call 209/372-0200. out the eastern portion of Yosemite Valley year-round. In summer, free shuttle buses run from Wawona to the GLACIER POINT Mariposa Grove, and from Tioga EN Glacier Point, an overlook with a Pass to Tenaya Lake. Hikers’ buses ENTRANCE FEES commanding view of Yosemite Valley, run daily to Glacier Point late Half Dome, and the High Sierra, is located spring through autumn and 30 miles (1 hour) from Yosemite Valley. THE PARK IS OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, between Tuolumne Meadows and The view from Glacier Point provides an YEAR-ROUND. Yosemite Valley late June through opportunity to see Yosemite Valley from its (fees subject to change) rim. From Yosemite Valley, take the Wawona Labor Day. Call 209/372-1240 for Road (Highway 41) 14 miles to the Chinquapin hikers’ bus fee, schedule, and reser- junction, then turn left onto the Glacier TYPE PRICE NOTES vations, or stop by any tour desk. Point Road. The road ends at Glacier Point. The Glacier Point Road is generally open Vehicle $20 Valid for 7 days. from late spring through late fall. In winter, the road is plowed only as far as the Badger Individual $10 In a bus, on foot, LODGING Pass Ski Area; Glacier Point can then be bicycle, motorcycle, reached via skis or snowshoes only. See page or horse. Valid for Reservations for all overnight lodg- 12 for activities. 7 days. ing in Yosemite can be made by calling 559/252-4848, by writing Yosemite Pass $40 Valid for 1 year in to Central Reservations, Yosemite Yosemite. Concession Services, 5410 East National Parks Pass $50 Valid for 1 year in Home, Fresno, CA 93727, or go to LODGING AND ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE THE PARK NEW all national park www.yosemitepark.com on the internet. areas. Lodging in Yosemite Valley includes Curry Village, Housekeeping Camp, Yosemite West Highway 120 Highway 140/49 Golden Eagle Pass $65 Valid for 1 year in Highway 120 Chamber of Commerce Mariposa County Visitor Center all federal fee areas. Lodge, and The Ahwahnee. Lodging out- side Yosemite Valley includes the P.O. Box 1263 (also info. for Fish Camp, Wawona, Yosemite West) Golden Age Pass $10 For U.S. citizens Wawona Hotel, and in summer, White Hotel Charlotte, Suite B P.O. Box 425 (Lifetime) or permanent Wolf Lodge and Tuolumne Meadows Groveland, CA 95321 5158 Highway 140 residents 62 and Lodge. Rates range from $45 per night 800/449-9120 or 209/962-0429 Mariposa, CA 95338 over. 800/208-2434 or 209/966-2456 for a basic tent cabin with nearby bath- Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau www.mariposa.yosemite.net/visitor Golden Access Pass Free For blind or room, to $265.50 per night for a room at P.O. Box 4020 (Lifetime) permanently The Ahwahnee (rates are subject to 542 Stockton Road East Highway 120 disabled U.S. change). Reservations are highly recom- Sonora, CA 95370 Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce citizens or mended and may be made up to 1 year permanent 800/446-1333 or 209/533-4420 and Mono Lake Visitor Center and 1 day in advance. residents. www.thegreatunfenced.com P.O. Box 130 Highway 395 and 3rd Street Highway 41 Lee Vining, CA 93541 Yosemite Sierra Visitor Bureau 760/647-6629 Eighty percent of your $20 entrance fee remains in 40637 Highway 41 www.leevining.com Yosemite. Thanks to the Recreational Fee Demon- Oakhurst, CA 93644 stration Program, approved by Congress in 1995, 559/683-4636 Yosemite Store and Visitor Center entrance fees have been temporarily raised to help www.sierranet.net/~ysvb 5027 Highway 140 fund projects that improve the park and your visit. Mariposa, CA 95338 Projects currently underway include: Highway 132/49 209/966-3888 • Repairing the deteriorated sewer line that services all of Yosemite Valley Coulterville Visitor Center www.yosemite.org • Refurbishing the multi-purpose auditorium in Yosemite Valley P.O. Box 333 The park is awaiting approval on many other maintenance, visitor services, 5007 Main Street California Welcome Center, Merced and natural and cultural restoration projects including: Coulterville, CA 95311 710 W. 16th Street • Replacing picnic tables, fire rings, and signs in campgrounds parkwide 209/878-3074 Merced, CA 95340 • Refurbishing roads, trails, and utilities throughout the park www.mariposa.yosemite.net/visitor 800/446-5353 or 209/384-2791 • Improving the shuttle bus service in Yosemite Valley [email protected] Yosemite anticipates earning $51 million by 2001 and completing approved projects by 2004.

8 YOURYOURYOUR VISITVISITVISIT MITE NATIONAL PARK

TOURS Get More For a relaxing and informative experience, take a sightseeing tour on a bus or open-air CRANE FLAT tram (weather permitting). These tours, nar- Info... Crane Flat is a pleasant forest and meadow rated by knowledgeable guides, operate daily area located 16 miles from Yosemite Valley at to most points of interest in the park, includ- the junction of the Big Oak Flat Road and the Tioga Road. To see giant sequoias, park at the ing Yosemite Valley (year-round), Tuolumne Tuolumne Grove parking area located on the Meadows (summer), Glacier Point, Wawona, Recorded General Park Tioga Road (Highway 120), and walk 1 mile and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias Information including: down to the Tuolumne Grove of Giant (spring through fall). Two-hour moonlight Road & Weather Conditions, Sequoias. In winter, snowshoes or cross- tours show Yosemite in a different light Trip Planning Information, etc. country skis may be needed. For activities 209/372-0200 and area information, see page 12. during summer months. In winter, tours Or take a 4-mile round-trip hike or ski into are conducted on heated and enclosed motor Western U.S. National Parks the Merced Grove of Giant Sequoias, located coaches; stops are made at the best-known 415/556-0560 3.5 miles north of Crane Flat or 4.5 miles scenic locations in Yosemite Valley. There is south of the Big Oak Flat entrance along the On The Web (see page 6) a fee for all sightseeing tours. For reservations Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120 West). The Yosemite National Park trailhead is marked by a post labeled B-10 and and more information, call 209/372-1240 or www.nps.gov/yose/ a road sign. stop by any hotel tour desk. Yosemite Concession Services RECREATION www.yosemitepark.com Camping Reservations Bicycling More than 12 miles of paved reservations.nps.gov bikeways wind through the eastern end of Yosemite Valley. Weather permitting, Yosemite Area Traveller Info. rental bikes, baby jogging strollers, and www.yosemite.com bicycle child trailers are available at Yosemite Association TIOGA ROAD Yosemite Lodge (all seasons) and Curry yosemite.org AND TUOLUMNE Village (summer). Check with rental agent Yosemite Institute for restrictions on rental bike use. www.yni.org MEADOWS Bike Rules Yosemite Fund The Tioga Road is generally open from late www.yosemitefund.org spring through late fall and offers a 39-mile For your safety and to protect Yosemite scenic drive through forests and past meadows, National Park, please follow these rules: The Ansel Adams Gallery lakes, and granite domes. The road’s elevation California law mandates bicyclists under www.anseladams.com ranges from 6,200 feet at Crane Flat to 9,900 18 years of age wear helmets. VIA/Gray Line feet at Tioga Pass. There are many scenic and recreational opportunities in these areas. Bikes are allowed only on paved bikeways www.via-adventures.com Check visitor centers and park bulletin boards and park roads (unless the road is closed to for updated information on available services bicycle use). ESERVATIONS and activities. From late fall through late All bikes are prohibited from pedestrian R spring, this area is only accessible by cross- country skis or snowshoes. See page 12 for and hiking trails and off roads. Lodging Reservations activities. Bicyclists must obey all posted traffic signs 559/252-4848 and travel with the flow of traffic when on TDD 559/255-8345 roadways used by automobiles. Campground Reservations Bicycles are not allowed in the construc- (callers from U.S. and Canada) tion zone on the El Portal Road. 800/436-7275 Horseback Riding Weather and trail TDD 888/530-9796 conditions permitting, 2-hour and half-day Campground Reservations rides depart from stables in Yosemite Valley, (International callers only) 301/722-1257 ETCH ETCHY Tuolumne Meadows, and Wawona (spring H H through fall). Call 209/372-8348 for infor- Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, a source of mation or see page 15. drinking water for the city of San Francisco, is also home to spectacular scenery and the Hiking & Backpacking starting point for many less-used wilderness trails. Towering cliffs and high waterfalls are Yosemite offers over 800 miles of VERAGE RECIPITATION easily seen from the walkway on top of hiking trails parkwide. For updated A P O’Shaughnessy Dam. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir trail information, visit the Wilder- AND TEMPERATURES is located 40 miles from Yosemite Valley via ness Center in Yosemite Valley or Highway 120 and Evergreen and Hetch IN YOSEMITE VALLEY call 209/372-0200. Wilderness per- Hetchy Roads. Vehicles over 25 feet are (4,000 FT/1,220 M)* prohibited on the road due to its narrowness. mits are required for overnight backcountry users. For wilderness MONTH PRECIPITATION MAXIMUM MINIMUM permit information and reservations, (inches/cm) (F°/C°) (F°/C°) call 209/372-0740. For some ideas January 6.2/15.7 49/9 26/-3 VISITOR CENTERS on hiking, as well as information February 6.1/15.5 55/13 28/-2 about backpacking, see page 5. March 5.2/13.2 59/15 31/-0 he four visitor centers in Yosemite National Park TUOLUMNE MEADOWS VISITOR CENTER Rock Climbing Classes April 3.0/7.6 65/18 35/2 e excellent resources for park information, Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through The Yosemite Mountaineering May 1.3/3.3 73/23 42/5 ilderness permits, and park-related publications October 9. Closed in winter. See page 12 for School and Guide Service offers June 0.7/1.8 82/28 48/9 nd handouts. more information. beginner through advanced classes July 0.4/1.0 90/32 54/12 YOSEMITE VALLEY VISITOR CENTER in Yosemite Valley spring, summer, August 0.3/0.8 90/32 53/11 September 0.9/2.3 87/30 47/8 Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through and fall, and in Tuolumne Mead- October 2.1/5.3 74/23 39/4 October 9; 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. October 10 ows in summer only. See page 15 or VISITOR ACTIVITIES November 5.5/14 58/14 31/-0 through November. See page 10 for more call 209/372-8344 for information. December 5.6/14.2 48/9 26/-3 information. PROGRAMS AND EXHIBITS Annual 37.3/94.7 BIG OAK FLAT INFORMATION STATION Naturalist-guided walks and programs as well as self- guided walks are available. Cultural history *For temperatures at 8,000 feet (2,440 m), subtract 10-20 degrees. Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for demonstrations of basket-weaving, beadwork, lunch) through October 9; Thursday to or traditional games are offered at the Indian Cultural Monday through November 1. See page 12 for Exhibit in Yosemite Valley. Other exhibits are in more information. Yosemite’s Deaf Services Program is offered full- the Valley Visitor Center, Yosemite Museum, Nature time from June through Labor Day. Nanette WAWONA INFORMATION STATION AT Center at Happy Isles (summer), LeConte Memorial Oswald, Yosemite’s Deaf Services Coordinator, HILL’S STUDIO Lodge (summer), Wilderness Center, and The Ansel interprets ranger-led activities and provides park Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed for Adams Gallery. Check park visitor centers and bul- information for deaf and hard-of-hearing visitors. lunch) through October 9. Closed in winter. letin boards for additional information, and see After Labor Day, a sign language interpreter may See page 11 for more information. activities listed on pages 10-12. be available upon request, particularly if arrangements are made in advance. For more IMPORTANT ROAD INFORMATION information about the Deaf Services Program, come to the Valley Visitor Center information Construction and restoration projects will be ongoing in several locations throughout the park. desk, or call 209/372-4726 (TDD) or 209/372- The 6.4 mile section ot the El Portal Road (Highway 140) between El Portal and the Big Oak Flat Road 0296 (voice/TDD). The TDD number for intersection was severely damaged by the January 1997 flood. This section of the road is closed to lodging reservations is 559/255-8345; for traffic from 10:30 p.m. to 6:30 a.m. every day until October 1, when reconstruction will be complete. camping reservations, call 888/530-9796. All overnight parking and recreational use in the construction area is prohibited until October 1. For current road information and access schedules, check at any ranger station or visitor center, or call 209/372-0200 (recorded information). For additional information on driving in Yosemite, see “Drive Safely” on page 2. 9 395 120 To & Lee Vining Mount Dana

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 Mount Lyell 13,114 ft 3,997 m Ranger Station Food Service & Lodging Campground Peaks and Landmarks Gas Station Curry Village ARK 0 5 miles 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 Tunnel View

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 Badger Pass Ski Area

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 O’Shaughnessy Dam Sierra National Forest

Camp Mather en c E re r v erg e M Lake Eleanor Road improvements on Highway 140 inside the park will affect travel through October 1. See box on page 9. 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 VISITOR CENTER THE ANSEL ADAMS GALLERY SELF-GUIDING TRAILS Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through October 9; 8:30 a.m. Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through October 15; 9:00 There are four self-guiding trails in Yosemite Valley: two near to 5:00 p.m. beginning October 10. Located in Yosemite Village a.m. to 5:00 p.m. beginning October 16. Located in Yosemite the Visitor Center in the Yosemite Village area, one at the east just west of the main post office (shuttle bus stops #3 and #7). Village next to the Visitor Center. The Gallery offers works of end of the Valley near Mirror Lake, and one at Curry Village. Information, maps, books, exhibits, and a multilingual One Day Ansel Adams, contemporary photographers, and other fine The Miwok in Yosemite is a short loop trail that winds through in Yosemite program. artists. In addition, a wide selection of handicrafts, gifts, books, the Indian Village of Ahwahnee, a reconstructed Miwok- and photography supplies are offered. For more information, Paiute village. A booklet in available at the trailhead and in WILDERNESS CENTER call the Gallery at 209/372-4413 or visit their web site at the Visitor Center. Large-print materials are available in the Open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through November 4. Located www.anseladams.com. Visitor Center for the visually impaired. The trail begins in Yosemite Village between The Ansel Adams Gallery and the GALLERY EXHIBITS behind the Yosemite Museum. post office. One-stop resource for backpackers in need of Through October 5: Photography of Michael Frye in Changing Yosemite is a 1-mile trail that begins in front of the wilderness permits, maps, bear canisters, and guidebooks. conjunction with the release of his new book, Photographer’s Visitor Center, near shuttle bus stop #3. It winds through a Displays and information on pre-trip planning, minimum Guide to Yosemite nearby meadow and explores the changes that have led to impact camping techniques, and Yosemite wilderness. After October 6 to November 19: Photography of Keith Walklet the Yosemite we experience today. A booklet is available at November 4, wilderness permits will be available at the Valley and Annette Bottaro-Walklet the trailhead, and large-print materials are available for the Visitor Center. visually impaired at the Visitor Center. LECONTE MEMORIAL LODGE Mirror Lake Interpretive Trail is a short loop adjacent to Mirror YOSEMITE MUSEUM Lake, a seasonal lake on Tenaya Creek. Exhibits focus on the Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Located in Yosemite Village next to the Visitor Center. (closes for the season September 28). Located at shuttle stop rich natural history of the area, Native American use, and his- INDIAN CULTURAL EXHIBIT #11. LeConte Memorial Lodge, Yosemite’s first public visitor tory of this popular destination. To reach the start of the trail, Open daily 9:00 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. walk 1 mile from shuttle bus stop #16 to the disabled parking center, is operated by the Sierra Club and features a children’s Displays interpret the cultural history of Yosemite’s native corner, library, and a variety of environmental education and spaces near the lake. The self-guiding trail begins here. Miwok and Paiute people. Demonstrations of basketweaving, evening programs. For more information on programs, see Curry Centennial History Walk is an easy stroll commemorat- beadwork, and/or traditional games are presented. activities scheduled below, bulletin boards at LeConte ing the early days of Camp Curry. Pick up a map and guide at MUSEUM GALLERY Memorial, campgrounds, Visitor Center, and post office. the Curry Village front desk or tour desk. Check museum door or Visitor Center for current schedule. You may also call 209/372-4542. Historic paintings from the Yosemite Museum Collection. YOSEMITE CEMETERY MUSEUM STORE NATURE CENTER AT HAPPY ISLES This historic cemetery is located across the street and just west of Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Offering traditional Indian Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed for lunch). Closes for the Yosemite Museum. Galen Clark, the Guardian of Yosemite, is arts and crafts, and books on related subjects. the season September 30. This family-oriented nature center buried here along with other pioneer park visitors, Native Ameri- includes wildlife dioramas, tracking tips, interactive exhibits, cans, and people who played important roles in the development THE INDIAN VILLAGE OF AHWAHNEE and a bookstore. Nearby are short trails focusing on the area’s of what is now Yosemite National Park. A Guide to the Yosemite Located behind the Yosemite Museum and always open. four different environments: forest, river, talus, and fen. You Cemetery is available at the Visitor Center. Sometimes Indian Cultural Program staff are available for can also see substantial evidence of the huge 1996 rockfall from Indicates programs for visitors in wheelchairs, demonstrations or programs about Ahwahneechee skills and the Glacier Point cliff far above the Nature Center. The Center is with assistance. culture. Inquire in the Indian Cultural Exhibit for schedule. a short walk from shuttle bus stop #15.

EVENING PROGRAMS WALKS &TALKS AND ACTIVITIES Just for Kids Join a ranger for an easy walk to explore Yosemite’s natural and cultural history. Programs are usually offered mornings and Evening programs include talks, films, slide presentations, A variety of children’s programs are offered through the Sierra afternoons daily. Topics may include geology, forest ecology, storytelling, and music about Yosemite’s human and/or natural Club’s LeConte Memorial Lodge. See schedule below (kids’ wildlife, human history, and current park management issues. heritage. Offered by National Park Service rangers, or staff from programs in color) for times and meeting locations. Space may Yosemite Concession Services (YCS) offers walks on Yosemite Concession Services, Sierra Club, Yosemite Institute, be limited. Parents or guardians welcome. photography, the historic Ahwahnee, and fishing in Yosemite. and The Ansel Adams Gallery, these programs last one hour and Kids love the challenge of a scavenger hunt! Stop by the The Ansel Adams Gallery offers photography walks and classes are held outdoors (weather permitting), unless otherwise noted. Curry Village front desk or tour desk to take part in a childrens’ with a professional photographer; space limited, sign up at Through mid October, YCS will take you on an Autumn Curry Centennial Scavenger Hunt. Pick up a handout and upon Gallery. Twilight Stroll; dress warmly and bring a flashlight. Beginning in completion, return it for a commemorative button. late October, YCS invites you to sit by the fire in the Ahwahnee Through mid October, bring the entire family to an Old Great Lounge and enjoy an hour of Fireside Storytelling. Fashioned Campfire and Sing-along, brought to you by YCS. This program is offered for a fee; see schedule below.

JOHN MUIR NO BARRIERS MUSIC FOR IN YOSEMITE Mark Wellman, a former Yosemite Park ALL AGES Actor Lee Stetson’s por- Ranger and the first paraplegic to climb Half Come laugh, sing, trayal of John Muir has Dome and El Capitan, dance, and listen enthralled Yosemite visi- will introduce a film to Gail Dreifus tors for the past 17 years. he co-produced on and Denise Ludington’s Recycled String Band See him in three different extreme sports. After as their upbeat, educational programs celebrate performances. Conversation With a Tramp is a the film, he will be Yosemite and the environment. Wild Ecology vibrant depiction of Muir with action sur- available to answer Tunes will take you on a musical adventure ome help Yosemite Theater celebrate its seventeenth rounding his spirited defense of Hetch Hetchy questions and auto- from Yosemite to the rain forest, while season! The National Park Service recognizes Yosemite Valley. The Spirit of John Muir details Muir’s graph his book, Yosemite By Song and Story weaves together CTheater as the best interpretive program of its type in wild side, and John Muir Among the Animals Climbing Back. The many of Yosemite’s highlights, from waterfalls the National Park System. Tickets may be purchased in is an exciting collection of animal stories show lasts 1 hour. to black bears. On Wednesday nights the band advance at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, or if seating is including Stickeen, “the short-legged, bunch- Tickets are $6/adults, will be playing at the Happy Isles campfire 1 still available, at the time of performance. All shows are given bodied toy dog.” Each show is 1 ⁄2 hours. $5/seniors (62+), and circle...s’mores are included! Each show is one at the Visitor Center auditoriums and are wheelchair accessible. Tickets are $7/adults, $6/seniors (62+), and $3/children (12 and hour. Tickets are $6/adult, $5/senior (62+), See schedule below for days and times. $3/children (12 and under). under). and $3/children (12 and under).

YCS = Yosemite Concession AAG = Ansel Adams Gallery Services YI = Yosemite Institute Yosemite Theater programs are in shaded boxes below and are Programs listed below in color are especially NPS = National Park Service $ = Program offered for a fee offered for a fee. See prices above. for children and families.

3:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. MONDAY 1 1 Ranger Walk—Bear Facts (ends October 31), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours History Walk (September 20 only), 1 ⁄2 hours 8:30 a.m. Curry Village Amphitheater Shuttle bus stop #11 (Sierra Club) Camera Walk, 2 hours, sign up/meet at The Ahwahnee tour desk (YCS) 5:30 p.m. 3:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. Autumn Twilight Stroll (through October 10), 1 hour Ranger Walk—Changes in the Landscape (through October 25) 1 1 Ranger Walk—Yosemite’s Legacy (except October 16), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours The Ahwahnee outdoor patio (YCS) 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #10 Front of Visitor Center 7:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. 3:00 p.m. Yosemite Theater—No Barriers (September 19 & 26 only), 1 hour Autmn Twilight Stroll (through October 18), 1 hour Ranger Walk—Plants Big & Small (except October 16; through October 30) Visitor Center Auditorium $ The Ahwahnee outdoor patio (YCS) 1 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop “A” 7:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 5: 30 p.m. Evening Program (through October 10), 1 hour Animals and Their Senses (September 27 only), 1 hour Historic Ahwahnee Tour (begins October 16; except November 6), 1 hour Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS/YI) LeConte Memorial Lodge, shuttle bus stop #11 (Sierra Club) Sign up/meet at The Ahwahnee concierge desk (YCS) Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS) Yosemite Theatre—Old-fashioned Campfire & Sing-along with the 1 7:30 p.m. Fireside Storytelling (begins October 17; except November 7), 1 hour Recycled String Band (through October 18), 1 ⁄2 hours Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS) The Ahwahnee, Great Lounge fireplace (YCS) Sign up/information at any lodge tour, takes place near Curry Village $ Evening Program (ends October 9), 1 hour 7:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS/YI) Yosemite Theater—Conversation with a Tramp (September 5 & 12 only) Fireside Storytelling (begins October 25), 1 hour 1 The Ahwahnee, Great Lounge fireplace (YCS) 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center Auditorium $ Evening Program, 1 hour TUESDAY Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS) 8:30 a.m. WEDNESDAY Evening Program (ends October 11), 1 hour Camera Walk, 2 hours, sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge tour desk (YCS) 9:00 a.m. Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS/YI) 1 10:00 a.m. Ranger Walk—People of the Oak, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, behind Visitor Center 8:00 p.m. 1 Ranger Walk—When the Cavalry Rode in Yosemite, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 10:00 a.m. Yosemite Theater—The Spirit of John Muir (September 6 & 13 only) 1 Front of Visitor Center 1 2 Ranger Walk—Granite and Ice, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #4 1 ⁄ hours, Visitor Center Auditorium $

10 ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES

YOSEMITE VALLEY

THURSDAY FRIDAY 10:30 a.m. The Ansel Adams Gallery Fine Print Viewing, 1 hour 10:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. Space limited/sign up at Gallery 1 Ranger Walk—Edges and Open Places, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #5 Photo Walk & Class (color landscapes), 2 hours 3:00 p.m. Sign up/meet on Gallery porch, limited to 15, weather permitting (AAG) 1 All About Bears (September 28 only), 2 hours Ranger Walk—Bear Facts (ends October 28), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 1 Shuttle bus stop #11 (Sierra Club) Ranger Walk—Yosemite’s First People, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Curry Village Amphitheater Behind Visitor Center 1:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 1 History Walk (September 21 only), 1 ⁄2 hours 10:00 a.m. Yosemite Theater—No Barriers (September 23 & 30 only), 1 hour 1 Shuttle bus stop #11 (Sierra Club) Ranger Walk—Feathers, Fur, and Under the Log, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Visitor Center Auditorium $ Front of Visitor Center 1:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Dynamic Moments in Nature (September 28 only), 2 hours 3:00 p.m. Evening Program (ends October 14), 1 hour 1 Shuttle bus stop #15 (Sierra Club) Ranger Walk—Bear Facts (ends October 20), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS) Shuttle bus stop #17 2:00 p.m. Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS) How Do You Catch A Fish In Yosemite? (ends October 12; except November 9) 7:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 2 hours, meet at the Village Sport Shop, near shuttle bus stop #2 (YCS) Yosemite Theater—No Barriers (September 22 & 29 only), 1 hour Yosemite Theater—The Spirit of John Muir (September 9 & 16 only) Visitor Center Auditorium $ 1 3:00 p.m. 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center Auditorium $ 1 1 Old-fashioned Campfire & Sing-along (through October 20), 1 ⁄2hours Ranger Walk—Ranger’s Choice (ends October 26), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Evening Program (ends September 23), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge Sign up/information at any lodge tour, takes place near Curry Village $ (YCS) Shuttle bus stops #12 and #20 Shuttle bus stop #11 (Sierra Club) 5:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Historic Ahwahnee Tour (begins October 19), 1 hour Evening Program (ends October 13), 1 hour Sign up at The Ahwahnee front desk Lower Pines Campground Amphitheater (NPS) SUNDAY 7:00 p.m. Evening Program, 1 hour Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS/NPS) 9:00 a.m. Yosemite Theater—No Barriers (September 21 & 28 only), 1 hour 1 Ranger Walk—Yosemite’s First People, 1 ⁄2 to 2 hours Visitor Center Auditorium $ 8:00 p.m. Behind Visitor Center Yosemite Theater—Conversation with a Tramp (September 8 & 15 only) 7:30 p.m. 1 10:00 a.m. 2 1 ⁄ hours, Visitor Center Auditorium $ 1 Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS) Ranger Walk—Small Wonders, 1 ⁄2 to 2 hours Evening Program (ends October 12), 1 hour Evening Program (ends September 22), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge, Shuttle bus stop #10 Shuttle bus stop #11 (Sierra Club) Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS) 3:00 p.m. 1 8:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—Bear Facts (ends October 22), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Yosemite Theater—Muir Among the Animals (September 7 & 14 only) Shuttle bus stop #17 1 SATURDAY 1 ⁄2 hours, Visitor Center Auditorium $ 7:30 p.m. Starry Skies Over Yosemite Valley (ends October 12), 1 hour 9:00 a.m. 1 Evening Program (ends October 8), 1 hour Sign up/information at any lodge tour desk $ (YCS) Ranger Walk—Ahwahneechee Stories and Games, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS/YI) Behind Visitor Center Evening Program (September 14 only), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge Film—Ansel Adams: Photographer, 1 hour Shuttle bus stop #11 (Sierra Club) Photo Walk & Class (color & digital), 2 hours Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (AAG) Sign up/meet on Gallery porch, limited to 15, weather permitting (AAG) 8:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. 1 Evening Program (ends September 24), 1 hour Ranger Walk—Nature’s Power, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #15 LeConte Memorial Lodge Shuttle bus stop #11 (Sierra Club) (meets at stop #13 beginning October 28) WAWONA

WAWONA INFORMATION STATION EVENING PROGRAMS THURSDAY AT HILL’S STUDIO Share in a park tradition by joining a ranger around the camp- 8:30 p.m. fire on Friday and Saturday nights (through October 6 and 7) for Evening Program, 1 hour, Wawona Hotel Sunroom (above Golf Shop) (YCS) (formerly the Wawona Information Station) an hour of stories, legends, and fun. Meet at the amphitheater in the “B” loop of the Wawona Campground at 7:30 p.m. Open daily 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed for lunch) through Discover Wawona’s human and natural heritage in a 1-hour FRIDAY October 9. Bear canister rental, books, maps, art exhibits, and presentation offered by Yosemite Concession Services (YCS) demonstrations. Located on the grounds of the Wawona Hotel, 7:30 p.m. interpreters at the Wawona Hotel. Hill’s Studio was the gallery and art studio of famous 19th Tom Bopp, pianist/singer at the Wawona Hotel since 1983, Campfire (ends October 6), 1 hour, Wawona Campground Amphitheater (NPS) century landscape painter Thomas Hill. Walk from the hotel or performs Tuesday through Saturday nights from 5:30 p.m. to park at the Wawona Store/Pioneer Yosemite History Center 8:30 p.m. in the hotel lounge, often including songs and stories parking area and follow the path up the hill. from Yosemite’s past. Tom also features presentations with SATURDAY slides, historic Yosemite music, or Wawona history on some 10:00 a.m. Thursday and Saturday nights. (Schedule subject to change.) Colorful Wawona Nature Walk (September 16 through October 7 only) PIONEER YOSEMITE 2 hours, Hill’s Studio and Information Station (NPS) HISTORY CENTER 7:30 p.m. Campfire (ends October 7), 1 hour, Wawona Campground Amphitheater (NPS) Walk across the covered bridge and visit historic buildings out of 8:30 p.m. Yosemite’s past. A visit to the Pioneer Yosemite History Center Tom Bopp: Vintage Songs of Yosemite or History of Wawona will explain how Yosemite was the inspiration for national parks 1 hour, Wawona Hotel Lounge (YCS) across America and throughout the world. The Center is always open, and explanatory signs and brochures are available. PIONEER YOSEMITE HISTORY CENTER BOOKSTORE Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch) through October 1. Offers books, maps, and information. 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 (nearly 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 the MARIPOSA GROVE Yosemite Valley. Cars are prohibited beyond the parking area in far end of the parking area. Interpretive signs between the trail- the Grove, but several giant sequoias can be seen from there. head and the California Tree provide a self-guiding tour. Trams run daily in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias for Information about access for the disabled is available at the Written translations are available at the trailhead (Spanish, a 1-hour tour through the Lower and Upper Groves. Trams stop tram boarding area. Trailers are prohibited on the Mariposa German, French, Japanese). when Mariposa Road closes due to snow. The first tram is at Grove Road; motor homes are prohibited when the Mariposa 9:00 a.m. and the last tram is at 5:30 p.m., running every 15 to Grove/Wawona shuttle bus is operating. 20 minutes from the boarding area. $8.50/adult, $7.75/seniors Please use the free shuttle service between Wawona ISTANCE LEVATION (62 or older), $4.50/children (5-12), $25 maximum for a family and the Mariposa Grove (see below). D & E (parents and their children under 16). 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 WALKS & TALKS WAWONA SHUTTLE BUS Grove Museum 2.1 miles/3.5 km 800 feet/292 m Every day at 10:00 a.m. (through October 9), join a ranger for Due to narrow roads and very limited parking, visitors Fallen Tunnel Tree 2.5 miles/4.0 km 1,000 feet/305 m an easy 90-minute walk through the lower portion of the Mari- are strongly encouraged to use this free bus service to Wawona Point 3.0 miles/4.8 km 1,200 feet/438 m posa Grove to explore the forest and learn the secrets of the help alleviate congestion and lengthy parking delays. tree’s survival. Meet at the Lower Grove trailhead. Shuttles operated daily through October 1 and weekends only At 2:00 p.m. on Fridays (through October 13), join a Yosemite 1 through October 22. They stop at the Wawona Store, South Concession Services photographer for a 1 ⁄2 to 2 hour photo walk Entrance, and Mariposa Grove beginning at 9:00 a.m. The last MARIPOSA GROVE MUSEUM through the Mariposa Grove. Meet at the gift shop. shuttle leaves Wawona at 4:30 p.m.; last shuttle leaves the There are times when the parking lot at the Mariposa Grove is Grove at 6:30 p.m. Visitors may park at the Wawona Store to Open 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch) through October full and closed to private vehicles. Allow plenty of time to take board the shuttle bus. 9. Offers giant sequoia displays, books, maps, and information the free Mariposa Grove/Wawona Shuttle Bus. No programs will about the area. be given if the Mariposa Grove Road is closed due to snow.

11 ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES

TUOLUMNE MEADOWS

TUOLUMNE MEADOWS RANGER WALKS & TALKS Indicates programs suitable for visitors in wheelchairs, with assistance VISITOR CENTER Through September 25, join a ranger to learn about a variety of subjects, such as geology, American Indian Culture, and park Open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily through October 9. Park history. These walks are fairly easy, unless otherwise noted. Special orientation, trail information, books, maps, and displays. programs, in addition to those listed below, may be offered when Phone 209/372-0263 staffing allows; check for fliers at the campground, Tuolumne Meadows Lodge, and Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center. EVENING ACTIVITIES PARSONS MEMORIAL LODGE Come to a campfire program and take part in a tradition! Most evenings through September 25, join a ranger around a camp- AND SODA SPRINGS fire at the Tuolumne Meadows Campground for singing, storytelling, and answers to some of your questions about Discover the natural and human history of Tuolumne Meadows Yosemite. Program topics vary and are posted at the camp- and hike to the place where John Muir and Robert Underwood ground, Tuolumne Meadows Lodge, and Tuolumne Meadows Johnson conceived the idea of establishing Yosemite National Visitor Center. Park. This area is an easy 1-mile walk from Lembert Dome park- Explore the stars with a ranger on Saturday evenings. Experi- ing area or from the Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center. ence the magic and magnitude of the clear mountain sky. Bring Come see the new exhibit—Place, People, Possibility—at Par- a pad to sit on and dress warmly. Programs will be canceled if sons Memorial Lodge. Staffed by park volunteers, the Lodge is the sky is overcast. usually open 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (through September 25).

2:00 p.m. Programs are offered only through September 25. Ranger Walk—Hawks and Other Migrants, 2 hours Pothole Dome road marker T-29 Illustration by Margaret Pettis MONDAY 7:00 p.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground 2:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—Animals, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area SATURDAY 7:00 p.m. THURSDAY 2:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—Bears, 2 hours, Tuolumne Campground entrance Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground 2:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—Indians, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area 7:00 p.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground TUESDAY 7:00 p.m. Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground 8:30 p.m. 2:00 p.m. Star Program, 1 hour, Tuolumne Campground entrance Ranger Walk Along the River, 3-4 hours Bring a pad to sit on and dress warmly! Bring lunch, water, and raingear FRIDAY Program will be canceled if the sky is 50% or more cloud-covered Dog Lake parking area along Tuolumne Lodge Road 11:00 a.m. 7:00 p.m. Lunch Walk to Tuolumne Cascades, 3-4 hours Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground Bring lunch, water, and raingear, Pothole Dome road marker T-29 SUNDAY 2:00 p.m. 2:00 p.m. WEDNESDAY Ranger Walk—History, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area Ranger Walk—Indians, 2 hours, Lembert Dome parking area 10:00 a.m. 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Ranger Walk—Geology, 2 hours, Pothole Dome road marker T-29 Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground Campfire, 1 hour, Dana Circle, Tuolumne Meadows Campground

CRANE FLAT/BIG OAK FLAT BIG OAK FLAT INFORMATION STATION

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

YOSEMITE’S OTHER SEQUOIA GROVES

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

FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY 1:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 1:00 p.m. 1 1 1 Ranger Walk (ends October 6), 2 ⁄2 hours, Tuolumne Grove parking area Ranger Walk (ends October 7), 2 ⁄2 hours, Tuolumne Grove parking area Ranger Walk (ends October 8), 2 ⁄2 hours, Tuolumne Grove parking area 7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Campfire (ends October 6), 1 hour, Crane Flat Campfire Circle Campfire (ends October 7), 1 hour, Crane Flat Campfire Circle

GLACIER POINT

RANGER WALKS MONDAY SATURDAY Join a ranger for a walk to discover Yosemite’s unique, tucked- 2:00 p.m. 6:15 p.m. Ranger Walk to Taft Point (except September 11; ends October 9), 2 hours Sunset Talk (September 23 to October 7; except September 9) away places. Experience spectacular views from Taft Point and Sentinel Dome, or hike to a seldom-seen waterfall. Taft Point/Sentinel Dome parking area on Glacier Point Road Glacier Point railing 6:15 p.m. 8:00 p.m. Sunset Talk (September 25 to October 9), Glacier Point railing Stars Over Yosemite (except September 9 & 16; ends October 7), 1 hour EVENING PROGRAMS 6:45 p.m. Glacier Point Railing Sunset Talk (September 18 only), Glacier Point railing Meet a ranger to enjoy the lengthening shadows in Yosemite Valley and the alpenglow on the Sierra high country, or come SUNDAY for the sunset and stay for the moonrise. On some evenings, a TUESDAY 2:00 p.m. stars program will be co-hosted by rangers and volunteers from Ranger Walk to Sentinel Dome (except September 10; ends October 8) astronomical societies. Bring warm clothing. 10:00 a.m. 2 hours, Taft Point/Sentinel Dome parking area on Glacier Point Road Ranger Walk to Illilouette Fall (except September 12; ends October 10) 4 hours, Glacier Point Gift Shop 6:15 p.m. 6:15 p.m. Sunset Talk (September 24 to October 8), Glacier Point railing Sunset Talk (September 26 to October 10), Glacier Point railing 6:45 p.m. 6:45 p.m. Sunset Talk (September 17 only), Glacier Point railing Sunset Talk (September 19 only), Glacier Point railing

12 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 Behind Yosemite’s spectacular natural scenery lies another, far less obvious attrac- of Yosemite National Park through a program of visitor services, publications, and tion—the park’s excellent collection of museums and educational centers. Preserving membership activities. For over 70 years, the association has provided important the wealth of natural and human history found at these sites and making it more financial support to the National Park Service, and has made possible the funding of accessible for visitors is an important goal of The Yosemite Fund, which has provided many projects and purchases otherwise not affordable through normal government over $1 million to Yosemite Visitor Information center. appropriations. This fall, the Fund is completing a major restoration project at the Nature Center The Yosemite Association: at Happy Isles, which was severely damaged by a 1996 rockfall and 1997 flood. The Center, popular with families, is now wheelchair Provides over $300,000 annually to the National Park Service for its use in visitor accessible and features new wayside exhibits, a information, educational, and interpretive native species garden, a rockfall viewing area, programs. and many hands-on exhibits about Yosemite’s unique natural environment. The Fund has also Publishes popular and award-winning books sponsored improvements at many other hidden on Yosemite and operates bookstores in the educational gems, including the Mariposa Grove park. Museum; the Yosemite Museum, Indian Village, Provides member-volunteers to work on and Wilderness Center in Yosemite Valley; and meadows, trails, and other much-needed park Parsons Lodge in Tuolumne Meadows. restoration projects. Cultural and historical preservation is just one Organizes over 60 outdoor classes and field of many areas supported by The Yosemite Fund, seminars on natural history, Native American a non-profit organization that raises money lifeways, art, and photography. from Yosemite enthusiasts to protect and restore the park and enhance the visitor’s experience. Sponsors the Ostrander Ski Hut, Yosemite Now in its 12th year, the Fund has provided Theater, Art Activity Center, and other valuable programs. nearly $12 million for more than 150 projects. Thanks to gifts from dedicated “Friends of Anyone who loves Yosemite and wishes to Yosemite,” the Fund has helped: become more closely involved and affiliated with the park is encouraged to become a Install 2,000 bear-proof food lockers member of the Yosemite Association. Sign up throughout Yosemite for a membership through this Yosemite Guide Rehabilitate Cook’s Meadow in the heart of and receive as a free gift The Complete Guidebook Yosemite Valley to Yosemite National Park. This book is Rebuild numerous sections of Yosemite’s 800+ informative and useful, lively and humorous, Restoration and remodeling of the Nature Center at Happy Isles — a popular miles of trails and earned the “Best National Park Guidebook” destination for families — was made possible by grants from The Yosemite Fund. award from the National Park Service. Photo by Karen Sorensen This year, the Fund is sponsoring many more As a member, you will: projects including continued scientific research on Yosemite’s wildlife, educating school children about Yosemite and natural Enjoy a 15% discount at Yosemite Association shops on all books, maps, and resource protection, and the production of a new visitor orientation film. publications, as well as qualify for a discount on most field seminars. You can help by becoming a Friend of Yosemite through a donation to the Fund. Have an opportunity to volunteer in Yosemite. All donors of $25 or more receive: Receive the quarterly journal, Yosemite, which features informative articles on both The 15-page full-color Yosemite Postcard Book, or other gift described below the natural and human history of the park. The Fund’s semi-annual newsletter, Approach, featuring updates on the park and Have a chance to attend special members’ events in the park. information about how your donation is helping Yosemite Have access to a members-only information line. Acknowledgement at the Friends of Yosemite Honor Wall at the Valley Visitor Have the satisfaction of knowing that you are supporting significant projects in Center Yosemite National Park. Please fill out the coupon below and become a Friend of Yosemite today.

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

13 FACILITIESFACILITIES && SERVICESSERVICES

SEPTEMBER 5 – NOVEMBER 13, 2000 ALL SERVICES AND HOURS OF OPERATION ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

MOUNTAIN ROOM BAR & LOUNGE MERGENCY EVERAGE ERVICES Nature Center E 911 Light snack service available $ B S at Happy Isles Fire – Police – Medical 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. weekdays YOSEMITE LODGE MOUNTAIN ROOM (closes for season September 30) Emergency: Dial 911, Noon to 10:00 p.m. weekends BAR & LOUNGE 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (closed for lunch) 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. weekdays Family-oriented bookstore and interpretive 24 hours a day exhibits (from hotel room 9-911) The Ahwahnee Noon to 10:00 p.m. weekends An elegant dining experience in one of America’s premier dining rooms CURRY VILLAGE TERRACE Yosemite Lodge MEDICAL 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. $-$$ GIFT/GROCERY Sunday Brunch – 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. $$$ AHWAHNEE BAR 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Newly remodeled Yosemite Medical Clinic Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. $$ Noon to 11:00 p.m. through mid-October, facility offers a wide selection of Yosemite Emergency care: 24 hours daily Dinner – 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. $$$$ then 4:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. apparel, books, souvenirs, and convenience Drop-in and Urgent Care: Dinner reservations suggested, items WAWONA HOTEL LOBBY LOUNGE Daily 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. call 209/372-1489 Service to lobby lounge and verandas NATURE SHOP Scheduled appointments: 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Unique sculptures, Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. AHWAHNEE BAR Classic cocktails, specialty drinks, light distinctive apparel, music, and videos Saturday 9:00 a.m. to Noon snacks GROCERIES Located on Ahwahnee Drive in Yosemite Noon to 10:00 p.m. $-$$$ The Ahwahnee Valley, the clinic provides routine and YOSEMITE LODGE GIFT/GROCERY GIFT SHOP emergency medical care for park employees, 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. residents, and visitors. Experienced nursing Curry Village 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Features signature Over 100 years of family-oriented dining Ahwahnee apparel, china, jewelry, and staff, emergency physicians, nurse VILLAGE STORE experiences Native American crafts practitioner, and support staff on duty. Full service grocery store Services include a limited pharmacy, lab, Meals served daily in one or more of the 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. through September SWEET SHOP x-ray, and physical therapy. 209/372-4637 following locations: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. October and November 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Magazines, Paramedic/Ambulance Service: COFFEE AND ICE CREAM CORNER newspapers, candies, cookies, and sundry 24 hours daily Freshly ground coffees, espressos, lattes, DEGNAN’S DELICATESSEN items cappuccinos, fruit, baked goods, dessert, soft 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. drinks, boxed lunches, and ice cream $ Dental Services HOUSEKEEPING CAMP Curry Village Adjacent to Medical Clinic. For hours, call 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, MOUNTAIN SHOP 209/372-4200. If no answer, call 209/372-4637. 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. through October 15 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through September 30 PAVILION 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from October 1 (closes November 5) CURRY VILLAGE STORE Climbing gear outfitter, hiking apparel, bear ACCOMMODATIONS All you can eat buffet $-$$ Camping supplies and prepackaged snacks canister rental 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. For advanced reservations or Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. information (rooms or activities), Lunch – 12:00 noon to 5:30 p.m. GIFT/GROCERY WAWONA STORE 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Snacks, souvenirs, call 559/252-4848 (until mid October) Camping and fishing supplies, including film, and apparel (www.yosemitepark.com) Dinner – 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. fishing licenses and bear canister rental For availability on day of arrival, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. HAMBURGER STAND check at any front desk. Tuolumne Meadows (open weekends only through mid-September) CRANE FLAT GROCERY STORE Burgers, chicken, fish sandwiches, chicken Convenience store, bear canister rental (closes September 24) ESTAURANTS strips, salad, side orders, and soft drinks $ 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. R 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Apparel, last-minute food supplies for backpacking and high These hours of operation are approximate. PIZZA TUOLUMNE MEADOWS STORE For current dining hours, Enjoy pizza, salad, and beverages under the (closes September 26) country picnics call 209/372-1000, extension 8. stars $-$$ 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 209/372-8435 MOUNTAINEERING SCHOOL AND Food Service Price Key: EL PORTAL MARKET Happy Isles SPORT SHOP $ = entrees under $7 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. SNACK STAND (closes September 24) $$ = $7-$14 entrees 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Climbing gear $$$ = $15-$20 entrees (closes late October) Rewarding refreshments after a long hike. IFTS OOKS PPAREL outfitter, maps, bear canister rental, $$$$ = more than $20 entrees G , B & A dehydrated food, and backpacking supplies Soft drinks, ice cream, snacks, bottled water $ Yosemite Village 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Yosemite Village TUOLUMNE MEADOWS BOOKSTORE Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in the THE ANSEL ADAMS GALLERY Lunch/Dinner – 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center (through September 30) Tuolumne Meadows 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through October 15; 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. after October 16 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (beginning October 1) GRILL Books, original photographs, cards, Native (closes September 17) Wawona Meals served daily in one or more of the American crafts, photography supplies, A quick breakfast, lunch, or dinner before or WAWONA HOTEL GOLF SHOP following locations: camera rentals, and more. 209/372-4413 after exploring $ (closes late October) www.anseladams.com 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Signature Wawona DEGNAN’S 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. apparel, snacks, and golf supplies DEGNAN’S DELICATESSEN YOSEMITE BOOKSTORE Sandwiches, snacks, soup and salad $ TUOLUMNE MEADOWS LODGE 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through October 9; WAWONA STORE DINING ROOM 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from October 10 DEGNAN’S FAST FOOD & ICE CREAM $ 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Local crafts and (closes after breakfast September 17) Located at the Valley Visitor Center. Books, souvenirs THE VILLAGE GRILL Rustic, family-style dining adjacent to the maps, posters, and information. (closes last week of October) Tuolumne River www.yosemitestore.com PIONEER YOSEMITE HISTORY CENTER Burgers, sandwiches, fries, chicken strips, BOOKSTORE soft-serve ice cream, and beverages $ Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. $-$$ YOSEMITE MUSEUM SHOP (closes October 10) Dinner – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $$-$$$ 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through October 8; PASTA PLUS 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch) Meals are served family style and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. from October 9 (open Friday and Saturday until October 1) Books, maps, and information dinner reservations are suggested, Books, traditional Indian arts and crafts Fresh pasta, salads, and dessert $$ www.yosemitestore.com call 209/372-8413 209/372-0295 Yosemite Lodge White Wolf Lodge VILLAGE STORE Mariposa Grove Breakfast – 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Features signature (closes after breakfast September 10) GIFT SHOP Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. A cozy dining room with outdoor seating Yosemite apparel, books, glassware, and (closes end of October, weather permitting) Light snacks – 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. signature postcards Breakfast – 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. $-$$ 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Cards, bottled water, Dinner – 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. snacks, and memorabilia Dinner – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $$-$$$ HABITAT YOSEMITE Meals served daily in one or more of the Dinner reservations advised, (closes October 17) MUSEUM SHOP following locations: call 209/372-8416 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in Degnan’s 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch) building. Interpretive gifts and souvenirs www.yosemitestore.com CAFETERIA inspired by nature (closed for dinner Sunday through Thursday) Wawona Hotel Complete breakfasts, hot entrees, Old world charm with a relaxing atmosphere SPORT SHOP Glacier Point sandwiches, and desserts $ Breakfast – 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. $-$$ 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Camping and fishing GIFT SHOP Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. $-$$ supplies, bear canister rental, California (closes late October, weather permitting) COFFEE CORNER Dinner – 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. $$-$$$ fishing licenses 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Freshly ground coffees, espressos, lattes, Dinner reservations advised for 8 or Apparel, books, souvenirs, and binocular cappuccinos, fruit, baked goods, desserts, ART ACTIVITY CENTER more, 209/375-1425 rental soft drinks, and boxed lunches $ (closes October 10) Sunday Breakfast Buffet – 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located south of GARDEN TERRACE SALAD BUFFET 10:00 a.m. $-$$ Village Store. Free art classes daily. Books, (closed for lunch mid-September) Sunday Brunch – 10:30 a.m. to art supplies, and fine local art All you can eat, self-serve salad bar featuring 1:30 p.m. $$$ soups, pasta, dessert, and at dinner, carved- WILDERNESS CENTER to-order meats $-$$ Glacier Point (closes November 4) Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Guidebooks, THE MOUNTAIN ROOM SNACK STAND maps, wilderness permits, bear canister Spectacular views of Yosemite Falls featuring (closes late October) rental, and trip-planning displays. pasta, steak, fresh fish, and other specialities Comfortable facility serves snacks to ease www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness/ $$-$$$$ hunger after a hike or drive to the Point. Spectacular sunset views. $ 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 14 FACILITIESFACILITIES && SERVICESSERVICES

SEPTEMBER 5 – NOVEMBER 13, 2000 ALL SERVICES AND HOURS OF OPERATION ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE

RECREATION SHOWERS & LAUNDROMAT ATM SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS Conditions permitting SHOWERS Yosemite Village Al-Anon YOSEMITE LODGE TOUR DESK CURRY VILLAGE South of Village Store (Bank of America) YOSEMITE VALLEY: Wednesday 7:00 p.m., (after-hours ticket sales available at 24 hours YCS General Office Building (Employee Inside Village Store (Heritage Oaks Bank) front desk) HOUSEKEEPING CAMP Training Center) Yosemite Village 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through October 28 (closes October 15) 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. from October 29 7:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Yosemite Lodge 209/372-1240 Inside main registration area Alcoholics Anonymous LAUNDROMAT YOSEMITE VALLEY: Sunday, Tuesday, and SIGHTSEEING TOURS HOUSEKEEPING CAMP Curry Village Thursday 7:30 p.m., YCS General Office Two-hour open-air tram (weather 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Inside gift shop Building (Employee Training Center), permitting) or bus tours, or all-day and half- Yosemite Village day bus tours depart daily from lodging Wawona facilities in Yosemite Valley. Inquire at GAS STATIONS Inside Wawona Store Narcotics Anonymous tour/transportation desks. YOSEMITE VALLEY: Saturday 7:30 p.m., CRANE FLAT YCS General Office Building (Employee MOUNTAINEERING SCHOOL 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Diesel available. El Portal On Hwy. 140 at Yosemite View Lodge Training Center), Yosemite Village Yosemite Mountaineering School offers Pay at the pump 24 hours with credit or lessons and guided climbing at all levels, debit card. Lions Club overnight backpacking, and guided private MISCELLANEOUS and group day hikes to spectacular areas of TUOLUMNE MEADOWS Meets first and third Thursdays of each Yosemite and the high country. (closes September 24) month at Noon, The Ahwahnee. 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Propane available. Babysitting Call 209/372-4475 for information. CURRY VILLAGE Pay at the pump 24 hours with credit or Limited babysitting available for registered (closes late November) debit card. guests in YCS accommodations equipped (located in the Mountain Shop) Rotary International with private bath and telephone. Children Meets Thursdays at Noon for lunch, 8:30 a.m. to Noon, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. WAWONA must be 3 years of age and out of diapers. Classes meet at 8:30 a.m. 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Diesel & propane The Ahwahnee. Visiting Rotarian families Requests must be made prior to arrival. and guests welcome. For reservation or 209/372-8344 available. Pay at the pump 24 hours with 2 hour minimum. 24 hour cancellation credit or debit card. information, call 209/372-1016. TUOLUMNE MEADOWS policy. Availability not guaranteed. (closes September 24) (located next to gas station) Auto Service, Towing, Kennel RELIGIOUS SERVICES 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Repair (AAA) (weather permitting, open through October 28) 209/372-8435 Located at the Yosemite Valley stable. Dogs Church of Christ VILLAGE GARAGE BEAR CANISTER RENTAL must be gentle, over 10 pounds, with proof Inquiries, directions, other services, contact 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Towing 24 hours. Ron Skelton. 209/379-2307 Available for $3 per trip at the Wilderness Emergency gasoline & propane available of shots and license required. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 209/372-8348 Center, Yosemite Valley Sports Shop, 209/372-8320 EL PORTAL CHAPEL Curry Village Mountain Shop, Big Oak Flat Worship Service: Sunday 9:00 a.m. Information Station, Crane Flat Store, Employment Opportunities Wawona Store, Wawona Information POST OFFICES Would you like to be part of Yosemite’s Station, Tuolumne Meadows Sport Shop, future? Employment opportunities exist at Yosemite Community Church Tuolumne Meadows Store, and Hetch Main Post Office Yosemite National Park with the National (Protestant Nondenominational) Hetchy Entrance Station. Canisters may be (Yosemite Village) Park Service, Volunteers in Parks, and Pastor Brian Empie 209/372-4831 rented or returned at any rental location in Yosemite Concession Services Corporation. the park. Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Rev. John K. Paris available for weddings Saturday 10:00 a.m. to Noon and counseling. Call number above. YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK BIKE RENTALS For vacancy information on the web: YOSEMITE VALLEY CHAPEL (year-round) Daily, weather permitting, with hourly and Yosemite Lodge Post Office www.usajobs.opm.gov daily rates. Baby-joggers, wheelchairs, and Worship Service Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Employment hotline: Sunday 9:15 a.m., Thursday 7:00 p.m. six-speed bikes with trailers. 209/372-0200-6-1-1 YOSEMITE LODGE (for permanent positions) Children’s Church Wawona Post Office Sunday 9:15 a.m. 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 209/372-0200-6-1-2 209/372-1208 Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (for seasonal positions) Bible Studies To contact the Yosemite National Park CURRY VILLAGE Call for location and times (through October) Human Resource Office, call 209/379-1805 Tuolumne Meadows or write: Yosemite National Park, Human 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Roman Catholic 209/372-8319 Post Office Resource Office, P.O. Box 700, El Portal, (closes September 22) CA 95318 Rev. Dennis Alvernaz, Resident Pastor 209/372-4729 SWIMMING POOLS Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., (closes end of September) Saturday 9:00 a.m. to Noon VOLUNTEERS IN PARKS Mass in Yosemite Valley YOSEMITE LODGE Individuals and groups interested in Sunday 10:00 a.m., Visitor Center East 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. community service projects in Yosemite can Auditorium (until Visitor Center West El Portal Post Office call the Volunteer Program Manager at Auditorium remodel is complete) CURRY VILLAGE Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 209/379-1850. Free camping is provided and 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. entrance fees are waived during your work Special Mass: Holy Days 5:30 p.m., Yosemite Chapel project. WAWONA GOLF COURSE & TENNIS (closes with the first snow) SERVICES FOR DISABLED YOSEMITE CONCESSION SERVICES 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Crossway Church* Contact Yosemite Concession Services (Protestant) An accessibility brochure is available at park Corporation at the General Offices in entrance stations and visitor centers. Yosemite Village or call 209/372-1236. Pastor Steve Hughes 209/379-2428 STABLES For information on weddings, Bible Studies, Wheelchair rental available at Yosemite and other activities, call number above. Two-hour and four-hour rides depart daily. Medical Clinic, 209/372-4637, and bike NVIRONMENTAL DUCATION All-day rides, private rides, and pack trips stands, 209/372-1208 or 209/372-8319. E E Worship Service into Yosemite’s spectacular wilderness may Sunday 7:00 p.m., Yosemite Chapel also be arranged. Private horse boarding is Yosemite Association OST AND OUND * Affiliated with the North American available. Call for reservations. L F Outdoor seminars, some for college credit. Mission Board P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318 YOSEMITE VALLEY To inquire about items lost or found at one 209/379-2321 yosemite.org (closes October 29) of Yosemite’s restaurants, hotels, lounges, El Portal Community Church* Pastor Russ Marsh 209/379-2255 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. shuttle buses, or tour services, call Yosemite Yosemite Institute 209/372-8348 Concession Services at 209/372-4357, or Assoc. Pastor Steve Hughes 209/379-2428 Non-profit environmental education UOLUMNE EADOWS write YCS Lost & Found, P.O. Box 578, T M organization. Week-long, field-based Worship Service: Saturday 7:30 p.m., El Portal Yosemite National Park, CA 95389. (closes September 17) sessions for school groups, teachers, and Chapel (first and third weekends) 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For items lost or found in other areas of the other groups. P.O. Box 487, Yosemite, CA Sunday 10:30 a.m., El Portal Chapel 209/372-8427 park, call the National Park Service at 95389. 209/379-9511 www.yni.org (second, fourth, fifth weekends) WAWONA 209/379-1001, or write to NPS Warehouse, For information on Bible studies, children’s (closes September 17) 5083 Foresta Road, B-759, El Portal, NPS Education Branch and youth activities, call number above. 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CA 95318. Ranger-guided programs, resource 209/375-6502 * Associated with the California Southern information, teacher workshops. Wawona Baptist Convention Ranger Station, P.O. Box 2027, Wawona, CA RECYCLING 95389 209/375-9505. For entrance waivers for educational groups, call 209/379-1876 Wawona Christian Fellowship Village Store www.nps.gov/yose/teach.htm Pastor David Adamcik 209/966-3039 Recycling Center Noon to 5:00 p.m. Tues., Thurs., Sat., Sun. WAWONA COMMUNITY CENTER through November Worship Service: Sunday 9:00 a.m. Bottles and cans may also be returned to Women’s Bible Study: Wednesday 1:00 p.m. place of purchase or park gas stations.

15 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 intervalsmaybe30minutes. except duringearlymorningand late eveninghours Shuttle busesoperatedailyat20-minute intervals, October 2–November 13,9:00a.m.-10:00 p.m. September 5–October1,7:00 a.m.-10:00p.m. Yosemite ValleyDestinationAreas OSEMITE

V

L N

El Capitan

o R r

8

P t Yosemite Lodge Yosemite Village

h

s

i GUIDE d GUIDE S

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

D Hiking Trail Bicycle Path Shuttle BusStop Shuttle BusRoute HUTTLE r i v e i

S

o Information

u

S t h s FALL CHEDULE i

d Rock Columbia e V SEPTEMBER 5 – NOVEMBER 13, 2000 D C r A iv Map not to scale to not Map ALLEY e Pine Yellow Walk-in (Sunnyside) Camp 4

The Ahwahnee Curry Village VOLUME XXIX, NO. 3 F B

Beach Sentinel

REE M Four Mile Four e N

All busesfollowthe Trail to to Trail

: Glacier r

Point Point

US

c Bridge Swinging e

d

R

i v e 5 r Lodge Yosemite L Back to School Trail to Trail

Y Upper Yosemite

o Fall s e m

i 4 t e 6 Fall Yosemite Lower Creek for Bears A Falls Yosemite 1 4 6 5 3 2 Yosemite Lodge Yosemite Lodge/Camp4 from October23thoughNovember 13) October 22;Serviceendsat5:00p.m. (Service ends8:00p.m.through Yosemite Falls Visitor Center Yosemite Village Yosemite Village/DayParking The Ahwahnee by Kate McCurdy Chapel 10 V 7 3 Parking Day Center Visitor 8 9 Lodge Memorial LeConte Dome Sentinel i

2 he last hint of alpine glow is fading off Half Dome as Yosemite’s Village Yosemite 1 T Camp Housekeeping

11 bear management team heads to work each evening. During the Clinic Medical Trail to Trail Sentinel Dome

A summer and fall months, bears will keep us busy on our night shift Bowl Church Ahwahnee The C lacie Point Glacier G r P until the sun again rises over the park. Working with black bears can Poi nt Rd Look Village Curry 12 at times be exciting, at other times serious. But it is never dull, and Trail from Trail Glacier Glacier Office Reservation Campground Point to Point 20 Vernal & & Vernal Nevada Falls 12 13 10 11 9 8 7 19 Inside! this season we have added a few new elements to our program. We’re Pines Lower A Arches Royal P 13 Curry Village Bike &RaftRental LeConte MemorialLodge Housekeeping Camp/ Yosemite ChapelParking Sentinel Bridge/ Yosemite Village/DayParking Yosemite Village Visitor Center

14 Valley Shuttle sending bears back to school in a mission to keep them not only 18 Bus Map ...... Back Panel Continued on page 1 Pines Upper alive, but wild.

Pines North Park Map ...... 8 & 9 17

Isles Happy at Center Nature M e

r

c • Planning Your Visit e 15 d Stable

R • Important Road i ve

Trail to Trail r 16 Vernal & Vernal Nevada Falls Information

Seasonal Park Rules ...... 2

T

e

n a Mirror Lake Bears ...... 3 y a Footbridge Fall Vernal C r e Camping ...... 4 e k Backpacking & Valley Day Hikes...... 5 throughout thepark. centers andstores for purchaseatvisitor Trail mapsareavailable be usedforhiking. This mapshouldnot 17 14 15 20 18 Serviceendsat 8:30p.m.; * 16 19 Activities ...... 10 – 12 Trail to Trail Snow Creek Snow Closes forseason October22 and Tuolumne Meadows John Muir Trail Muir John

ie&RaftRental Bike Curry Village Pines Campgrounds Stable* Mirror Lake* Happy Isles* Upper PinesCampground Facilities & Services . . . 14 & 15 Yosemite News ...... 6 Mist Trail Mist Nature Notes...... 7 Dome Half

Members of Yosemite’s bear management team ready for an evening’s work Fall Vernal (from left, Kate McCurdy, Joe Madison, Tori Seher).