25¢ YYOSEMITOSEMITEE GUIDEGUIDE YOUR KEY TO VISITING THE PARK

SPRING MARCH 13 – JUNE 18, 2001 VOLUME XXX, NO. 1

Hetch Hetchy’s Beauty and Solitude

by Padraic Durkin

Look Inside!

Valley Shuttle Bus Map ...... Back Panel Park Map Planning Your Visit. . . . . 8 & 9

Park Rules ...... 4 NPS Photo by John Krisko Bears ...... 5 “IS IT WORTH THE DRIVE?” Camping ...... 6 This question always brings a smile to the faces of rangers at the Backpacking & Entrance Station who know what’s awaiting visitors Valley Day Hikes ...... 7 down the road—sheer cliffs, lofty domes, two of Yosemite’s most Activities ...... 10 – 12 beautiful and least famous waterfalls, and large areas of little-used Facilities & Services. . . 14 & 15 wilderness. Yet, few visitors know about Hetch Hetchy. And those Yosemite News...... 2 who do assume that after the was dammed earlier Nature Notes ...... 3 in the 20th century, everything beautiful about the Hetch Hetchy region disappeared. Discover for yourself the beauty and solitude of Yosemite’s quietest corner. Continued on page 1 YYOSEMITOSEMITEE GUIDEGUIDE YOUR KEY TO VISITING THE PARK

SPRING MARCH 13 – JUNE 18, 2001 VOLUME XXX, NO. 1 Hetch Hetchy’s Beauty and Solitude

Continued from front cover

John Muir called Hetch Hetchy “...a TAKE IN THE SCENERY wonderfully exact counterpart of the Today, the Hetch Hetchy area is perfect Merced Yosemite...one of nature’s rarest for visitors who want to enjoy spectacular and most precious mountain temples.” scenery and outdoor recreation opportu- It’s not surprising that Hetch Hetchy’s nities without the crowds. Like Yosemite scenery resembles that of Valley, Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is ringed as both valleys were origi- with spectacular features, and most are nally eroded by major westward flowing easily seen from the walkway on top of rivers—with the carving the O’Shaughnessy Dam. Yosemite Valley and the Tuolumne River Waterfalls Tueeulala (pronounced carving Hetch Hetchy Valley. Between 2 TWEE-lala) and both drop million and 10,000 years ago, glaciers more than 1,000 feet from cliffs on the scoured the pliable granite valleys into north side of the reservoir. It’s easy to see their present form with domes, waterfalls, and photograph the two together. Late and sheer cliffs. spring is the best time to view them, since Tueeulala Falls dries up by early summer. “HATCHATCHIE” HISTORY Domes and Cliffs Look for Hetch Hetch Hetchy Valley’s glacier-carved Hetchy Dome on the north side of the features dominate the scene, but the val- reservoir and conical Kolana Rock on the ley’s name is derived from “Hatchatchie,” south side. Kolana Rock is particularly the Native American word for a species of noteworthy to park wildlife specialists as grass with edible seeds that once grew it is an active breeding area for endan-

TIPS FOR VISITING Photo courtesy of City of San Francisco, Public Utilities Commission there. The valley’s first inhabitants, the gered Peregrine Falcons. O’Shaughnessy Dam When 312-foot Tueeulala (left) and Wapama Falls (right) Ahwahneechee and Paiute tribes, came to are just two of Hetch Hetchy’s spectacular HETCH HETCHY Hetch Hetchy every year to gather acorns. high O’Shaughnessy Dam was dedicated waterfalls. The first white settlers to see the valley in 1923, it was the largest structure on the Bring your camera—Hetch arrived in the 1840s. However, it wasn’t west coast. In spring and summer, water Hetchy’s scenery is memo- may pour over the spillway, creating an rable, and postcards, books, until the turn of the century that anyone mountain kingsnakes. Fishing paid much heed to rarely-visited Hetch artificial waterfall. or souvenirs of the area are is permitted with a valid California fish- rare. Hetchy. ing license, but live bait is not allowed in ENJOY PLANT AND ANIMAL LIFE Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. Bring a picnic and a good Hetch Hetchy is as biologically wildflower book. Wildflowers of Yosemite by Lynn and Jim diverse as it is beautiful. Dense OPPORTUNITIES FOR SOLITUDE Wilson is an excellent source forests, arid scrub regions, and Trails originating from O’Shaughnessy for identifying flowers along wide outcroppings of granite can Dam and Hetch Hetchy Road take visitors the trail. Facilities at the reser- be found here. In spring and early into the heart of Yosemite’s backcountry. voir are limited to restrooms, summer, wildflowers are abundant Wilderness destinations in the area are a picnic area, and a pay tele- on the trail from O’Shaughnessy generally low in elevation, so these places phone. Dam to Wapama Falls and at are among the first open to backpackers Smith, Cottonwood, and Beehive in the spring. Better yet, these trails get Leave your swimsuits and Meadows. Look for such flowers as much less use than those in more well- boats behind. Swimming and shooting stars growing in moist known areas of Yosemite, providing boating are not allowed in Photo courtesy of Museum Yosemite meadows, waterfall buttercups in excellent opportunities for solitude. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, as it Kolana Rock (right) in Hetch Hetchy Valley, trickling canyon cascades, bright holds the drinking water for early 1900s. Day Hiking Take advantage of the easy California fuschia, and Sierra leisiga. and scenic trail from the dam through the millions of people. Also, enjoy a variety of trees granite tunnel and on to Tueeulala and along the Wapama Falls trail such as For more information and In 1867, the city of San Francisco began Wapama Falls. It’s about 5 miles round- directions to the Hetch California black oak, big leaf maple, trip (8.5 km) and could take up to 4 hours. searching for a dependable water source. Ponderosa pine, and incense-cedar. But Hetchy region, turn to So it was that the U.S. Geological Survey Another short trail leads from the Hetch Planning Your Visit on page be aware and avoid contact with the Hetchy Entrance to Lookout Point, which of 1899-1900 recommended Hetch plentiful poison oak; with or without 9. Also look up Hetch Hetchy Hetchy Valley as a potential reservoir site. provides a sweeping view of the north- on the wilderness web site at its three-lobed leaves it can cause an itchy west corner of the park. Beyond Wapama Early engineers saw the advantages of a rash. www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness. dam at Hetch Hetchy—at the head of the Falls, the trail to Rancheria Fall is an It’s not unusual to see wildlife from ambitious all-day hike of approximately valley, a relatively small dam would hold black bears and mule deer to squirrels and a large body of consistently clean water. 13 miles (21 km). In fact, supporters of the project thought Backpacking The Grand Canyon of a reservoir would enhance the valley’s sce- the Tuolumne, Laurel Lake, Lake Vernon, nic beauty. Others, most notably John Jack Main Canyon, Poopenaut Valley, Muir, did not share this view and were and Smith Peak are a few of the scenic destinations backpackers can choose from YOSEMITE greatly opposed to the dam project. Muir likened the transformation of Hetch in the Hetch Hetchy region. Lake Eleanor GUIDE Hetchy Valley into a reservoir to the and Kibbie Lake may also be reached from flooding of a cathedral. O’Shaughnessy Dam, but are more acces- Published by the Yosemite Association, Ultimately, the matter was decided in sible from Stanislaus National Forest. Get in cooperation with the National Park 1913 when Congress passed, and Presi- a wilderness permit and go! But don’t for- Service and the Yosemite dent Woodrow Wilson signed, the Raker get to bring a bear food storage canister, Concession Services Corp. as bears are extremely active in the Hetch Act, allowing construction of the NPS Editor and Coordinator O’Shaughnessy Dam (named for Michael Hetchy area. Kristina Rylands O’Shaughnessy, San Francisco’s city engi- Padraic Durkin spent several summers Production by Skip Gaynard Designs neer and chief of the Hetch Hetchy as a seasonal Printed by Premier Offset Printing, Inc. construction project). The dam was built Photo by Kristina Rylands interpreter in the Hetch Hetchy area. Email comments on this issue to between 1915 and 1923 and was raised 80 A variety of showy lupine is common along Yose_Guide@ nps.gov feet from 1935 to 1938. Hetch Hetchy trails. 1 YOSEMITEYOSEMITE NEWSNEWS

FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Dear Yosemite Friends: of in the rush of spring thaw, that Welcome to Yosemite.With each day that I it takes hundreds of square miles of the “unseen” spend in Yosemite, I am continually astounded by Yosemite to produce the water.That part of the On The its beauty, its wonders, and its rich diversity of park, too, must be protected – not just what you cultural and natural history.We can be grateful see in the Valley. I urge you to learn more about that over 100 years ago, early visitors to this Yosemite’s “untold stories” while you’re here and Web place recognized that it was worth protecting for how you can help us. future generations.Today, the preservation of our Yosemite is the place where the spark of the nation’s treasured resources for the enjoyment National Park Service first took flame. If this visit of future generations is at the heart of the is your first, welcome! If you’ve been here before, The official National Park Service mission. welcome back! web site (www.nps.gov/yose/) contains While you’re here, I hope you will take some time to enjoy the spectacular sights and sounds of Sincerely, the latest park information. spring in the Yosemite.Take time to learn about ❖ the park as suggested in this Yosemite Guide. Remember too, as you thrill to the thundering David A. Mihalic Camping reservations can be made online from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pacific time (reservations.nps.gov). EXPLORE THE ❖ ENJOY THE JOURNEY WITH YARTS! WORLD OF NATURE The Yosemite Association’s Yosemite If you prefer to enjoy the Yosemite area’s Big Oak Flat Entrance (begins weekends Are you interested in learning more Online (yosemite.org) features visitor magnificent scenery rather than watch the mid-May). about Yosemite’s birds, rocks, and trees at road, YARTS transit service to and from the information, a bookstore, a listing of From Mammoth Lakes and Lee Vining to your own pace? Borrow an Explorer Pack, park could be the option for you. The outdoor classes, membership news, Yosemite Valley on Highway 395 and 120 a convenient day pack filled with activities Yosemite Area Regional Transporation and guidebooks designed to help the whole the daily weather forecast, a live-cam- East via the June Lake Loop (begins week- System (YARTS) provides round-trip transit ends in June; daily service in July and family explore the world of nature. era view of and Yosemite service from communities within Mariposa, August). Four different packs are available at the Valley, and even a 3-D QuickTime Merced, and Mono Counties to Yosemite Nature Center at in Yosemite Fares for riding YARTS vary, but generally video of Yosemite Valley. National Park. Valley. Featuring Feathers will help you range between $7 and $15 round trip for an learn to identify many of Yosemite’s birds, ❖ Year-round: adult, including entrance to the park. YARTS Rocking in Yosemite teaches the geology of From Merced east along Highway 140 to also offers discounts for children and seniors. the park, The World of Trees aids in tree The Yosemite Fund web site Yosemite Valley (expanded summer service For spring schedule information, check the identification, and Small Wonders will help (www.yosemitefund.org) frequently has begins mid-May). YARTS web site at www.yosemite.com/yarts or you to discover the many tiny miracles project updates with photographs call toll free 877/98-YARTS (877/989-2787). around you. Packs are available for check- Summer only: For information on the Highway 120 East online. It currently features photos of out and are free. A $50 deposit (cash or From Coulterville along Highway 132 to service (Mammoth Lakes to Yosemite Valley) credit card) is required and will be refund- the restoration work at . Highway 120 West into the park via the please call 800/626-6684. ed when the pack is returned. Other features include “Wild Card,” “Waterfalls,” and “Tips For Travelers,” along with current donation informa- PARKS AS CLASSROOMS tion. Yosemite National Park is the ideal out- ❖ door classroom for exploring natural and cultural history. Yosemite’s Parks As The Yosemite Concession Services Classrooms program coordinates with site (www.yosemitepark.com) features the California State Frameworks for upper elementary grades and offers 200 pages of information on lodging, ranger-led field trips. Each program shopping, dining, and park activities lasts 1 to 2 hours. Park entrance fees with links to other Yosemite-related are waived for the visit. web sites. It also includes a live-cam- These programs emphasize the National Park Service message of protection era view of Half Dome, online and preservation of natural and cultural gift shop and lodging reservations. resources. Spring visits feature a bear infor- ❖ mation theme. Reservations can be made beginning February 1. Class size is limited The Ansel Adams Gallery site to 35 students, although it may be possible (www.anseladams.com) features to schedule 2 classes the same day. fine art photography, gifts, calendar For further information regarding of events, and photos of Yosemite and this and other National Park Service education programs, call at 209/372- Mono Lake. 0663, or visit the web site at ❖ www.nps.gov/yose/teach.htm.

The Yosemite Institute’s web site (www.yni.org/yi/) describes its residen- Weamer Photo by Howard The Tuolumne Wild and Scenic River carves through the Grand tial, in-park field-science program for Canyon of the Tuolumne before reaching Hetch Hetchy. elementary, middle, and high school students, and post-visit challenge TAKE A YOSEMITE LEARNING VACATION units. ❖ Join one of the 51 outdoor educational vacation seminars presented by the nonprofit Yosemite Association and experience the thrill of seeing the park with Yosemite.com provides the latest infor- an expert instructor. Programs are designed to be fun and informative, and mation on an 11,000-square-mile area include room reservations (at an extra cost) or free camping nearby. Seminar

length is from two to five days and each one is described in the new 2001 Illustration by Jane Gyer containing and surrounding Yosemite Field Seminars catalog, now available at all visitor centers. Yosemite. Includes lodging informa- Class topics include wildflowers, Yosemite’s incredible geologic formations, Native Americans, mam- tion, travel advisories, and road and mals and birds, natural history day hikes, backpack trips, drawing, painting, nature writing, and family weather conditions. outdoor programs. Class sizes are small in order to offer excellent interaction between students and instructors. Most involve some hiking from a saunter, to an intermediate level hike, up to a strenuous ten- to twelve-mile days at high elevations. Many participants return year after year. To receive a free seminar catalog call 209/379-2321 or write Yosemite Field Seminars, P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318 or visit any park visitor center. The catalog can also be viewed online at www.yosemite.org.

2 NATURENATURENATURE NOTESNOTESNOTES Fire Safety YOSEMITE SPRING ALMANAC Each year campfires, cigarettes, LATE APRIL Brilliantly-colored Western Tanagers Conditions may be favorable for sequoia arrive in park. and human carelessness cause seed germination if seeds fall on bare, Adult damselflies hatch and begin to eat unwanted fires in Yosemite. mineral soil. Nice time to hike down the mosquitoes. Large swarms of lady bird These fires can be prevented by trail to the Tuolumne Grove. beetles (“lady bugs”) emerge from following a few simple rules. Male mosquitoes hatch into adults (males hibernation.

Illustration Illustration by Lawrence Ormsby don’t bite). LATE MAY CAMPFIRES EARLY MAY Moist meadows are extremely fragile. Build small campfires using only Dogwood trees and western azalea bushes Please stay on established trails and bloom in moist areas. The drive into the elevated boardwalks. established campfire rings. Be aware Peregrine Falcon Valley along Southside Drive should be of conditions such as weather and spectacular! Yosemite waterfalls reach their thunder- ing peak. A lesser-known “ephemeral” items nearby that could accidentally Monarch butterflies return, some after a EARLY APRIL (a fall that lasts only as long as the snow- 1,000-mile migration from Mexico. catch fire. Never leave a fire unat- Red-Winged Blackbirds establish territo- melt) is Horsetail Fall along the east Female mosquitoes hatch. (Females bite!). ries in Cook’s Meadow. Listen for their buttress of ; its spray is swept tended. Put out campfires by stir- glissade-like song! Striped coral root, a delicate saprophytic up into the air where it disappears into ring with water a half hour before member of the orchid family, flowers in Treefrog eggs hatch in ponds in mead- sky. This is a remarkable place to see the you leave the site, and remember the forest. You can see these along the alpenglow of sunset. Don’t forget to ows. Tadpoles are visible. to carefully feel charred material Old Big Oak Flat Road heading down to bring a camera! to make certain the fire is out. MID-APRIL the Tuolumne Grove. EARLY JUNE Earliest wildflowers bloom in the Valley: MID-MAY See page 6 for campfire rules. Showier wildflowers bloom: Sierra onion, rock cress, slender phlox, miner’s Showy red snow plants push their way up lupine, Mariposa lily, penstemon, alum lettuce, baby-blue eyes, mountain through the decaying humus of the for- ❖ root, and lady slipper orchid. violet, gooseberry and redmaid. est floor. This is an unusual looking plant Reptiles begin spring activity. Gilbert and may take you by surprise. But please Golden Eagles may be sighted soaring PORTABLE skinks, western fence lizards and garter don’t touch—leave them for others to above Yosemite Valley cliffs. CAMPING STOVES snakes can be spotted in sunny locations. enjoy. Bracken fern is tall and abundant along Refuel stoves only when they are Butterflies—mourning cloaks, tortoise- Peregrine falcon eggs hatch if eggshells meadow edges and throughout forests. shells, and skippers—flit about meadow are thick enough to withstand incubation The roots were a favorite material of cold and in a well-ventilated area. foliage. period. Because of DDT concentrations in Yosemite Indians for basket manufacture. the birds, eggshell thinning commonly You can see some of these amazingly ❖ April 21...’s birthday (1838-1914) occurs. intricate baskets at the Yosemite Museum April 22...Earth Day Fertile stalks of horsetails sprout. They in the Valley. CHARCOAL BRIQUETTES are visible in the fen near Happy Isles and at Valley View. Because charcoal uses oxygen rapidly, you should never use it in confined spaces, such as tents or vehicles. SPRING RUNOFF—SPECTACULAR, BUT DANGEROUS After use, dunk charcoal briquettes in water until cold. Check them The water level of rivers and streams Hikers and backpackers: Any unbridged Melted snow-water is cold! Hypothermia carefully. Never empty hot or warm depends on snow-melt, and during warm stream crossing can be extremely haz- can be a serious result of continuous briquettes in trash dumpsters. weather can increase quickly in both depth ardous. Use common sense – it is better cold water contact; don’t venture into and speed. A placid stream early in the to cut your hike short to avoid an unsafe water until it warms up, later in the ❖ morning may be a raging torrent by late crossing than to continue and risk your summer. afternoon. High water is expected through- life. If you choose to attempt a crossing Rafting and boating are prohibited out spring runoff. using a natural bridge of rocks or logs, CIGARETTES during periods of high water (see article Don’t underestimate the danger and consider where you will land or be swept on page 4 for rafting regulations). Never smoke while walking or in power of moving water in all parts of to if you fall. Unbuckling your pack’s Yosemite. Here are some guidelines for safe waist strap will allow you to an area with flammable materials. recreation and hiking: your pack and avoid Crush butts completely being pulled under by it’s Stay back from stream and riverbanks before throwing them into weight if you fall in. Avoid and avoid “rock hopping.” Rocks near deep and/or swift water. a garbage can. Never drop the water’s edge can be dangerously slip- Never cross above rapids cigarettes on the ground pery. or falls. Do not tie yourself or throw them out of a car Supervise children closely when around into “safety ropes” as they window. ALL bodies of water. can drown you.

SAFE DRINKING WATER

Giardiasis is an intestinal disease caused by Giardia lamblia, a pro- tozoan. Associated symptoms include chronic diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, fatigue, and loss of weight. Treatment by a physi- FULL cian is necessary to kill the organism. MOONS Giardia lamblia is carried by humans as well as some domestic and wild animals, and may contaminate lakes and streams. Whenever pos- • April 8 sible, only tap water should be used for drinking. If using surface water • May 7 or melted snow, treat by boiling for 5 minutes or by using a Giardia- • June 6 rated water filter. If used properly, an iodine-based purifier is another alternative. A lunar rainbow The National Park Service is working with the U.S. Environmental may be visible at Protection Agency and the California Department of Health Services the base of Lower to develop a program to ensure that the drinking water in Yosemite Yosemite Fall. is protected. The program, one of the first in California, will be based on an assessment of potential threats to water sources.

TICK-BORNE DISEASES

Be aware that ticks may exist in the park, and consult your doctor if you believe you’ve been bitten. If you are diagnosed with Lyme disease or relapsing Photo by Kristina Rylands Wapama Falls fever, and you believe you got it in Yosemite, have your doctor con- Log on and learn more about Hetch Hetchy: tact the Park Sanitarian at 209/379-1033. • www.sierraclub.org/chapters/ca/hetchhetchy/history.htm • www.wpiweb.com/watersys/sfpuc/home.htm

3 PARKPARK RULESRULES

It’s the Law DRIVE SAFELY There are federal laws and regulations that protect In 2000, there were 338 motor Yosemite, its wildlife, historic vehicle accidents in Yosemite and prehistoric sites and National Park. Twelve bears were hit by vehicles. Slow down and structures, natural beauty, follow these driving tips to avoid and park visitors. Protect accidents: your park by following Be watchful for rocks in the these rules: roadway, wildlife crossing, or other unexpected situations. Store your food properly, keeping Bicyclists and pedestrians it away from bears and other sometime share the roadway. Yosemite animals (see page 5 California law requires that all for details). vehicle occupants wear seat ❖ belts, and children 4 years of age (or under 40 lbs.) be Camping or sleeping in vehicles restrained in an approved child safety seat.

is permitted only in designated Weamer Photo by Howard campsites and is prohibited along At 3,700 feet in elevation, Hetch Hetchy is often in the throes of spring while other The sights are spectacular, but areas of the park remain deep in winter. do not stop in the roadway. roadsides, in turnouts, or in Find a safe turnout if you wish parking lots. to take a photo, consult a map, ❖ ISHING EGULATIONS or enjoy park scenery or F R wildlife. Bicycles (including mountain Special fishing regula- the angler to identify fish species. In early spring, road conditions bikes), in-line skates, scooters, tions apply on the Trout season begins on the last Saturday may change suddenly. Wet and strollers must remain on Merced River in in April and continues through November asphalt may be slippery or icy, paved roads and designated paved Yosemite Valley from 15. The only exception is Frog Creek near especially in shady spots or on Happy Isles down-stream Lake Eleanor, where fishing season opens bike paths. They are not allowed bridges. Keep speed down and to Pohono Bridge. In this June 15 in order to protect spawning rain- allow extra distance for the on hiking trails or anywhere stretch of the river, it is bow trout. All lakes and reservoirs are open vehicle in front of you. off-pavement (see bike rules catch-and-release only to fishing year-round. Water from melted roadside on page 9). for native rainbow trout. A valid California sport fishing license snow often freezes on road Only artificial lures or must be displayed by all persons 16 years ❖ surfaces, creating treacherous flies with barbless of age and older who are fishing in Yosemite “black ice.” This can occur even hooks may be National Park. Licenses must be plainly Motor vehicles must stay on when the weather appears dry used, and bait fish- visible, attached to outer clothing at or established roads open to public and fair. ing is prohibited. above the waistline. For more information travel, and are not permitted Brown trout limits are five fish per day and about licenses and fishing, inquire at visitor Anticipate snowplows as they off-road. ten in possession. It is the responsibility of centers. may be working just around the next curve. Wait for a ❖ signal from the plow driver Pets frighten wildlife and disturb before passing. hikers. They must be leashed at HELP KEEP WILDLIFE WILD Don’t drink and drive. It’s a fatal all times and are not permitted combination. Did you know that feeding or closely causing death. Never attempt to touch or on any park trails, with the approaching any park wildlife is prohib- closely approach any park wildlife. exception of paved trails on the ited by federal law? Your food is a threat Instead, view them through binoculars WILL I NEED floor of Yosemite Valley. to the survival of park animals. It can or telephoto lenses. If an animal is aware TIRE CHAINS? ❖ damage their health, make them vulnera- of your presence, ble to death from cars, or lead to you’re too close. It is recommended that you Firearms and hunting are dangerous behavior. Treat your food as if it carry tire chains in your vehicle prohibited in Yosemite National were poison to animals, because the result (including rental cars) between Park. Report possible hunting is often the same. Even though animals November and April, as a sudden violations to the park’s tip line, may look tame—especially when searching storm could make them mandato- 209/372-0214, or to the Depart- for a hand-out—they are capable of inflict- ry at any time. Due to changing ment of Fish and Game’s tip line, ing serious injury, and in extreme cases, weather conditions, any vehicle 888/DFG-CALTIP, 24 hours a day. entering a chain control area must carry chains under park regula- ❖ tions, even if their use is not mandatory at the time. Chains Do not remove any objects from RAFTING REGULATIONS should be obtained in advance; the park, including pine cones, several towns on highways leading rocks, leaves, obsidian, historic Rafting regulations have been implement- the river. This natural debris can create ed to protect river habitat and provide for hazardous conditions to river users, so into Yosemite rent them. Vehicles items, etc. If you find an object visitor safety. extreme caution should be used. over 6,000 lbs. are required to use that may be prehistoric or Rafting on the Merced River in Yosemite The entire length of the Merced River link-type chains, and on sets of historic, do not move it. Note its Valley is open to any type of non-motorized within Yosemite Valley will be closed to all dual tires, only one tire needs location and inform a ranger. If vessel or other flotation device between flotation devices during periods of high chains. Once in the park, tire chains are available at retail out- you must collect something, Stoneman Bridge and Sentinel Beach from water or whenever the river gauge at lets for purchase, but not for rent. please pick up litter! 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. In addition, Sentinel Bridge reads 6.5 feet or higher. ❖ the South Fork of the Merced River in These rafting regulations may be Wawona is open for rafting from 10:00 a.m. subject to change. The use of metal detectors in to 6:00 p.m. daily between Swinging Bridge and Wawona Campground. the park is illegal. Please report Each occupant of vessels or flotation devices FOR MORE possible violations to a park on park rivers must have in their possession, INFORMATION ABOUT... ranger. and readily available, an appropriately sized ❖ U.S. Coast Guard approved life vest. Fire safety guidelines, see page 3. In order to protect the river’s banks, rafters Food storage guidelines, see page 5. All public buildings are are encouraged to get out only on sand or Camping and campfires, see page 6. designated as non-smoking. gravel bars, and swimmers should use sandy Wilderness regulations, see page 7. beaches to enter and exit the water. Rafters Bicycling rules, see page 9. must be aware that fallen trees may exist in 4 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 that of human carelessness and improper food all food and related supplies be storage. Some call it a “bear problem,” stored and secured at all times but bears are not to blame. in the metal “bear boxes” in Mountain Driven by their powerful sense of smell, each campsite (except when black bears are drawn to human food. Once food is being prepared and eaten). they get it, they continue to seek it out— Each box measures 38"x48"x22". from backpacks, picnic tables, ice chests, Lions No food storage is allowed in and even cars. As their natural fear of vehicles. people 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 2000, there were times. Bears enter campsites and very important part of the 654 incidents involving bears, resulting in during the day, even when over $126,000 in damage. Five bears had park ecosystem, helping to keep people are present. Illustration by Lawrence Ormsby to be killed. The only way to stop this dev- deer populations in check. Dispose of garbage frequently in astating cycle is to make sure that all food They are attracted to areas animal-resistant dumpsters and and trash are stored properly. cans. Don’t leave any garbage in with healthy deer populations, way for backpackers to store food in which includes many areas of NO FOOD IN CARS! your campsite, especially at night. wilderness areas. Backpackers staying in the park. Although lion attacks In 2000, over 306 cars were damaged LODGING designated backpacker camps adjacent to are extremely rare, they are by bears in the park, and most of these Remove all food and food-related items High Sierra Camps or in Little Yosemite incidents were caused by improper food from vehicles. Guests staying in hard- Valley are required to use metal food stor- possible, as is injury from any storage. If your car will be parked in sided cabins must store such supplies age lockers provided or portable canisters. wild animal. We offer the Yosemite after dark, it must not contain indoors. All garbage and food items must be stored following recommendations any food or related items. Guests staying in canvas tent-cabins must in a food locker or canister. The counter- for your safety: Bears have damaged cars for as little as store food and related items in lockers balance technique (either from a cable or a stick of gum or an empty soda can, so (ask at front desk for locker locations). a tree branch) may not be used where thoroughly search your car and remove Clean out trash, empty food containers, bear boxes exist. Bear resistant canisters Do not leave pets or pet food all potential bear attractants. Bears can and scented articles from vehicles before are required at 9,600 feet elevation and outside and unattended, especially easily smell any food in a car, even when leaving them parked overnight. above. Plan ahead–All food, garbage, and at dawn and dusk. Pets can attract it’s stored in the vehicle’s trunk! toiletries must be contained within canis- mountain lions into developed Bears recognize ice chests, grocery bags, PICNIC AREAS ters. (See article below for rental locations and other food-related containers. Such Stay close to your food and put it away as and canister details.) areas. items, even when empty, have residual soon as you are finished eating. Bears may odors. Remove them from vehicles and enter picnic areas, even when people are SAFETY ❖ store them securely. Also remove drinks, present, so be prepared to scare them away. Never approach a bear, regardless of its Avoid hiking alone. Watch children garbage, and scented articles such as soap, size. If you encounter a bear, act immedi- sunscreen, and toothpaste from vehicles. TRAILHEADS ately: throw small stones or sticks toward closely and never let them run Don’t forget to check the glove compart- No food or food-related supplies should the bear from a safe distance. Yell, clap ahead or lag behind on the trail. ment! be left in vehicles parked overnight at trail- hands, bang pots together. If there is more Talk to children about lions, and Clear your car’s interior of clutter. This heads. There are food storage boxes for than one person, stand together to present will reduce the chances of a bear mistak- backpackers at all major trailheads in the a more intimidating figure, but do not sur- teach them what to do if they ing an article for food, and increase the park. Ask for locations when acquiring a round the bear. Use caution if you see cubs, meet one. chances that you will find any stray wilderness permit. as a mother may act aggressively to defend ❖ french fries or other overlooked food. them. Child car seats should be removed from WILDERNESS When done immediately, these actions vehicles since they often have residual The National Park Service strongly have been successful in scaring bears away. What should you do food smells. encourages backpackers to carry and use Never try to retrieve anything once a bear Remove all trash and place it in animal- bear-resistant food storage canisters. These has it. Report all bear incidents to a park if you meet a mountain lion? resistant trash cans or dumpsters. portable containers are the most effective ranger (see hotline number below). Never approach one, especially if it is feeding or with kittens. Most NOTE: These regulations and precautions help decrease the chance of personal mountain lions will try to avoid a injury or property damage. However, bear damage and confrontations are still confrontation. Always give them a possible, even when all the guidelines are followed. Failure to comply with these SAVE -A-BEAR regulations may result in a citation and/or impoundment of property. HOTLINE way to escape. ❖ To report trash problems, improper food storage, bear Don’t run. Stay calm. Hold your sightings, and other bear-relat- SE EAR RESISTANT OOD ANISTERS ground, or back away slowly. Face U B - F C ed problems, leave a message the lion and stand upright. Do all In an effort to decrease incidents between returned at any of the rental locations for the Bear Management bears and people, and to keep bears wild, throughout the park. Increased avail- Team at 209/372-0200 (press you can to appear larger. Raise your the National Park Service strongly encour- ability of canisters park-wide and reduced 2, then 4). Your call can be arms. If you have small children made anonymously. ages backpackers to use bear-resistant food rental fees are due to a cooperative agree- with you, pick them up. canisters. These containers are the only ment between the Yosemite Association effective way for backpackers to store food and Yosemite Concession Services Corp. ❖ in the wilderness. All other techniques are considered delaying tactics only, as bears If the lion behaves aggressively, are largely able to undo most well-known wave your arms, shout, and throw food storage methods. Each plastic canister objects at it. The goal is to convince weighs about 3 pounds, fits in a full-sized DONATE A CANISTER it that you are not prey and may backpack, and is capable of holding 5 to 7 days supply of food for one person. & SAVE A BEAR be dangerous yourself. If attacked, fight back! Canisters may be rented for a flat fee Make a donation to the Yosemite Associa- of $3 per trip plus a refundable security tion’s “Save a Bear” campaign and help ❖ deposit. They may also be purchased for eliminate food-related human/bear conflicts approximately $75. They are available at in the wilderness. Donations will be used to Generally, mountain lions the following locations: Year-round at the purchase bear-resistant food storage canis- are calm, quiet, and elusive. Yosemite Valley Sports Shop, Mountain ters for use in the distribution program Sightings are rare, so if you Shop at , Crane Flat Store, described in the adjacent article. The pro- and Wawona Store. Seasonally at Yosemite gram makes canisters easily available and spot one, consider yourself Valley Wilderness Center, Wawona Infor- encourages their use. privileged! mation Station, Big Oak Flat Permit/ Help save a bear by donating a bear Information Station, Hetch Hetchy can! Call the Yosemite Association at Entrance Station, 209/379-2646 for more information. Mountaineering School, and Tuolumne NPS Photo by Mike Floyd Meadows Store (see pages 14 and 15 for hours). Canisters can be picked up and

5 CAMPINGCAMPING

sites after you arrive in the park. Maximum 3638; Highway 120 East, Mono Lake Ranger CAMPING RESERVATIONS length for recreational vehicles in Valley Station (Inyo NF) 760/647-3044; Highway 41, campgrounds is 40 feet. Oakhurst Ranger Station (Sierra NF) 559/683- CAMPFIRE RULES Reservations are required year-round for (Sunnyside) Campground is a walk- 4636. For private campgrounds and lodging out- Yosemite Valley’s auto campgrounds and sum- in campground and is open all year on a side Yosemite, call the respective chamber of ■ In order to improve air quality in mer through fall for Hodgdon Meadow, Crane first-come, first-served basis; these campsites commerce or visitor bureau listed on page 8. Yosemite Valley May 1 through October Flat, Wawona, and half of Tuolumne Meadows. are not wheelchair accessible. Sites are rented on 15, campfires are permitted only All other campgrounds (except group and stock a per-person basis, and six people will be placed GROUP CAMPGROUNDS between 5:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. campgrounds) are first-come, first-served. in each campsite, regardless of the number of Camping reservations will be available in ■ Firewood collection is prohibited in people in your party. Camp 4 (Sunnyside) often There are group campsites at Tuolumne Mead- Yosemite Valley. This includes “dead blocks of one month at a time, up to five months fills before 9:00 a.m. each day May through in advance, on the 15th of each month through ows, Hodgdon Meadow, Wawona, and Bridalveil and down” wood. September. Creek Campgrounds. Reservations can be made the National Park Reservation System (NPRS). ■ Outside the Valley, wood may not be There is a 30-day camping limit within through NPRS; 13 to 30 people are allowed in Thus, for: gathered at elevations above 9,600 Yosemite National Park in any calendar year; each group campsite. Tent camping only. Pets are feet or in sequoia groves. CAMPING FIRST DAY TO however, May 1- September 15, camping limit not permitted in group sites. Check-in/check-out ARRIVAL DATE MAKE RESERVATION in Yosemite Valley is 7 days inclusive. time is noon. ■ Cutting standing trees or attached All dates thru 8/14/01 3/15/01 limbs, alive or dead, is prohibited, as OUTSIDE is the use of chainsaws. 8/15/01 thru 9/14/01 4/15/01 SERVICES YOSEMITE VALLEY ■ Please start campfires with news- 9/15/01 thru 10/14/01 5/15/01 There are no hookups in Yosemite camp- paper. Do not burn pine needles or 10/15/01 thru 11/14/01 6/15/01 Check-in/check-out time for campgrounds grounds, but there are sanitary dump stations in cones, as they create unnecessary outside the Valley is noon. Maximum length Yosemite Valley (all year), and summer only in smoke. 11/15/01 thru 12/14/01 7/15/01 for recreational vehicles is 35 feet. Wawona and Tuolumne Meadows. Shower and ■ Campfires are permitted only in There is a 30-day camping limit within laundry facilities are available year-round in 12/15/01 thru 1/14/02 8/15/01 etc. established fire rings. Yosemite National Park in any calendar year; Yosemite Valley; see page 15 for locations and From May through September, campsites are however, from May 1 to September 15, the hours of service. Bear-proof food storage lockers ■ See fire safety information on page 3. in heavy demand and prospective campers are camping limit outside the Valley is limited to a are available in all Yosemite campgrounds (they encouraged to call NPRS as early as possible in total of 14 days, except for Wawona, which is measure 45”w x 18”h x 34”d). See Bears Are Not the period. limited to seven days. Wawona and Hodgdon To Blame on page 3 for food storage guidelines. Written requests should be made to NPRS so Reservations may be made from Meadow are open all year. Other campgrounds they are received no sooner than two weeks 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pacific time. outside the Valley are open only during the before the 15th of the month that the desired RULES AND REGULATIONS summer months. See grid below for details. TOLL-FREE RESERVATIONS: camping arrival date goes on sale. Written 800/436-7275 requests will not be processed until the 15th of Camping/sleeping in vehicles is permitted the month (at the same time telephone requests CAMPING IN AREAS only in designated campsites. ONLINE RESERVATIONS: are being taken). Include desired location, type SURROUNDING YOSEMITE Maximum of six people (including children) reservations.nps.gov of equipment you will be camping in (i.e., tent, and two vehicles per campsite. You may reserve only one campsite at a time. RV, etc.), as well as method of payment. Online The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) operates a INTERNATIONAL CALLERS: reservations can be accessed through reserva- Pets are permitted only in specific camp- variety of campgrounds on a seasonal basis grounds (check grid below). Pets must be on 301/722-1257 tions.nps.gov from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Pacific near Yosemite in the Inyo, Sierra, and time. a leash at all times, are not allowed on any TDD (TOLL-FREE): Stanislaus National Forests. Many of these hiking trails, and may not be left unattended. 888/530-9796 campgrounds are operated on a first-come, YOSEMITE VALLEY first-served basis; however, some may be Quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. MAIL-IN RESERVATIONS: reserved. Unlike Yosemite, the national forests Generators may be used sparingly between NPRS Check-in/check-out time for Yosemite Valley allow dispersed camping in some areas (out- 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. P.O. Box 1600 campgrounds is 10:00 a.m. Campsites are side of designated campgrounds). Campfire Cumberland, MD 21502 Camp wastewater and sewage must be dis- assigned by NPRS at the time the reservation is permits are required. For additional informa- Up to two campsites may be reserved posed of in designated utility drains. made. Campers may request a specific campsite tion, contact the local USFS district offices: at a time by mail or phone with Mastercard, number if it is available at the time the reser- Highway 120 West, Groveland Ranger Station Electrical extension cords may not be con- Visa, Discover, personal check, or money vation is made. All campsite assignments are (Stanislaus NF) 209/962-7825; Highway 140, nected to campground restroom outlets. order. final—you may not switch or change camp- Mariposa Ranger Station (Sierra NF) 209/966-

) IL L S O L Y G Y E I Y Y B IN E C (B R B B R A D L A R S S G D N R R I L P E T E E A A E R A T E S L R IO E E N M E R A L W V /S * C I T B O T N N S K N O S E E E E A S O A G C O R E E E C A T W O L L T S Y IE N A I F T P A T I T IT L G R R I T IT I F A S M O S N E R G B S M S P A C P A I D E M E A E Y T W H T I P K W N C IN S V L E F L S E S N E S M IM R E I S I N P R U C T R O U O H L O O A V E A T L IT I IR E U A H A R W IS O CAMPGROUND E M Y # D R T T S F P P F P D P S L G S F H NOTES** IN YOSEMITE VALLEY

●●● ● ●●● ●●●●●●●Open April-September NORTH PINES 4,000' 0 81 $18/s 1,220 m Reservations required Open All Year UPPER PINES 4,000' 0 238 $18/s ●●● ● ●●●●●●●●●●● 1,220 m Reservations required Open March-October LOWER PINES 4,000' 0 60 $18/s ●●● ● ●●● ●●●●●●● 1,220 m Reservations required Open All Year/Walk-In ●● ● ●● ●●●●●●● CAMP 4 WALK-IN 4,000' 0 35 $5/p First-come, first-served (Sunnyside) 1,220 m Limited parking

OUTSIDE YOSEMITE VALLEY WAWONA Open All Year ●●● ● ●●●●● ●●●● Wawona Road 4,000' 27 93 $18/s Reservations required (Highway 41) 1,220 m May-Sept. ($18); First-come, near Wawona first-served Oct.-April ($12) BRIDALVEIL CREEK 7,200' 25110 $12/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' 25105 $18/s Reservations required 1,484 m (Hwy. 120 west near May-Sept. ($18); First-come, Big Oak Flat Entrance) first-served Oct.-April ($12)

CRANE FLAT ●●● ● ●●● ● ● Open June-September Big Oak Flat Rd. near 6,191' 17 166 $18/s Reservations required the Tioga Road turnoff 1,886 m TAMARACK FLAT Open June-early Sept. 6,315' 23 52 $8/s ●●●●●● Tioga Road Three-mile access road not 1,924 m (Highway 120 east) suitable for large RVs or trail- ers. First-come, first-served

WHITE WOLF 8,000' 31 74 $12/s ●●● ● ●●● ●● ● Open July-early Sept. Tioga Road 2,437 m First-come, first-served (Highway 120 east) Not suitable for RVs over 27’ Open July-early Sept. 7,659' 35 75 $8/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 $8/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 $18/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 6 HIKINGHIKING && BACKPACKINGBACKPACKING

SPRING IN THE WILDERNESS

Spring wilderness users will find lower Don’t go out alone unless you are very each trailhead quota is available on a first- elevations a little soggy with a new crop of experienced. come, first-served basis the day of, or one day Watch wildflowers waiting for the warmth of the Check current weather and forecasts prior prior to, the beginning of your trip. Permit sta- sun. Some trails will be open and clear, but to your trip. Be prepared for sudden tions are located in Yosemite Valley, Wawona, hikers should remember that most of extreme changes in weather. Big Oak Flat, Hetch Hetchy, and Tuolumne Your Step! Yosemite’s trails rise rapidly from spring Meadows. Call 209/372-0200 or go to the thaw to deep snow cover into mid-July, and Carry sufficient food and water, and be wilderness web site for open permit station unexpected snowstorms can bring snow to prepared for an emergency bivouac even locations and hours. Permits are also avail- lower elevations throughout the spring. when day hiking. able by advance reservation. In 2000, rangers in Yosemite PLAN CAREFULLY Stay warm and dry. Know the symptoms PROTECT YOSEMITE’S WILDERNESS worked on 147 search and Use maps and guidebooks to plan your and treatment methods for hypothermia. Use gas stoves rather than wood fires. rescue operations. trip. Carry a “topo” map and compass, and Carry emergency fire starting materials. know how to use them. Yosemite’s wilderness is a wildlife preserve— Store food, garbage and toiletries properly (see page 5). Tripping and falling are common Choose a route that allows plenty of time Pets, weapons, bicycles, strollers, and moter accidents on park walkways and for rest, food storage, and campsite selec- vehicles are prohibited in wilderness areas. Camp in an existing, well-used campsite at tion. least 100 feet from water, 4 miles from any trails, especially in slippery condi- WILDERNESS PERMITS populated area and 1 mile from any road. tions. Maximum group size is 15 people for on- Free wilderness permits are required year- trail and 8 people for off-trail travel. Bring a container to carry water to your ❖ round for all overnight trips into Yosemite’s camp from lakes or streams. Leave an accurate itinerary with friends or wilderness. They are not required for day hikes. Purify all drinking water (see page 3). At night, artificial lighting is kept to a family. Carry a signal mirror and whistle. To avoid overcrowding and reduce impacts minimum; always carry a flashlight. to wilderness areas, Yosemite Bury human waste (6” deep) and do all limits the number of people washing at least 100 feet from water and ❖ who may begin overnight trail. Rock climbing and scrambling hikes from each trailhead Pack out all trash and toilet paper/sanitary are the leading causes of injury each day. At least 40% of products. and death for unprepared and inex- perienced hikers. Routes are often WILDERNESS PERMIT RESERVATIONS more difficult than they appear, and even a short fall can cause serious Wilderness users who plan to enjoy Yosemite’s beautiful high injury or death. Before you scramble country during the peak season (May through September) are encouraged to make permit reservations. or climb on Yosemite’s rocks or Call 209/372-0200 for the latest information. Currently, reser- walls, provide yourself with proper vations are available from 24 weeks to 2 days in advance of the trip equipment and training. start date, and can be made by writing to Wilderness Permits, P.O. ❖ Box 545, Yosemite, CA 95389, via the web (see address at right) or by calling 209/372-0740. Swift currents and wet, slippery Include the following in your request: name, address, daytime rocks can cause you to fall and be phone, number of people in the party, method of travel (i.e., ski, swept over a waterfall. Never swim snowshoe, foot, horse), number of stock (if applicable), start and or wade in streams above waterfalls end dates, entry and exit trailheads, and principal destination. or in swiftly moving water. Include alternate dates and/or trailheads. A $5 per person non-refundable processing fee is charged for ❖ all reservation requests. Payment by check or money order should be made to the Yosemite Association. Credit card pay- Any unbridged stream crossing may ments are accepted with valid card number and expiration date. be hazardous. If a bridge is not near- by and you must cross, do so at a wide, shallow spot that is not above rapids or waterfalls. For wilderness information, ❖ call 209/372-0200 or go to Supervise children closely when www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness around all bodies of water. NPS Photo by James Shull Some of Hetch Hetchy’s major trails allow hikers to pass within the bracing spray of a waterfall. YOSEMITE VALLEY DAY HIKES IFFICULTY PPROXIMATE DESTINATION / TRAIL STARTING POINT DISTANCE D / A NOTES ELEVATION GAIN HIKING TIME

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

MIRROR LAKE 1 mile to lake Easy 1/2 hour to lake Vehicle access available Shuttle Stop #18 (1.6 km) with placard

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

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

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

MIST TRAIL OR

VERNAL FALL FOOTBRIDGE Happy Isles/Shuttle Stop #17 1.4 miles round trip Moderate 1 to 2 hours round trip Check conditions at Visitor Center (2.0 km) 400' (120 m) elevation gain Winter route available

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

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

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

GLACIER POINT Southside Drive 4.8 miles one way Very strenuous 3 to 4 hours one way Check conditions at Visitor FOUR MILE TRAIL (7.6 km) 3,200' (960 m) elevation gain Center 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 #6 6.5 miles half loop (10.4 km) 2.5 to 3.5 hours half loop Visitor Center

7 PLANNINGPLANNINGPLANNING AREAS TO VISIT IN YO

What is the TRANSPORTATION To and From Yosemite YOSEMITE VALLEY THE YOSEMITE AREA REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION Yosemite Valley is world famous for its best way SYSTEM (YARTS) offers park visitors an alterna- impressive waterfalls, cliffs, and unusual rock tive to driving their car into Yosemite by pro- formations. It is open year round and may viding transit service throughout the region. be reached via Highway 41 from Fresno, to visit This new voluntary bus service provides sched- Highway 140 from Merced, Highway 120 uled round-trip transit service to Yosemite from from Manteca, and in late spring through late fall via the Tioga Road (Highway 120 the outlying communities. Expanded summer Yosemite? East) from Lee Vining. Many activities and service begins mid-May. New daily service from services are available in Yosemite Valley. Mammoth Lakes begins in July. For schedule Detailed information is available at the and service information visit the YARTS web Valley Visitor Center in Yosemite Village. See the shuttle bus map on the back panel, Your experience in Yosemite depends site at www.yosemite.com/yarts or call toll free 877/98-YARTS (877/989-2787). and for scheduled Valley activities, see pages on the time you have available and 10 and 11. your interests. Many fine maps and VIA, the Yosemite–Amtrak Connection/Gray books are sold in visitor centers and Line, offers service from Merced Amtrak park stores to help plan your visit. Station and Transpo Center to Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and Yosemite Lodge. Publications such as Yosemite’s Official Deluxe coaches provide several round-trips AND WAWONA Park Handbook, published by the daily between Merced and Yosemite. The Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias 1 National Park Service, or The Yosemite Wheelchair-lift equipped with advance is located 36 miles (1 ⁄4 hours) south of Road Guide are available at visitor notice. Schedules available at Yosemite Yosemite Valley via the Wawona Road (High- Lodge tour desk, Yosemite Valley Visitor way 41), 2 miles from the park’s South centers, gift shops, or by mail from Entrance Station. The road to the Mariposa Center, or by calling VIA or visiting their web the Yosemite Association Bookstore, Grove is closed in winter. Activities include site. Tickets can be purchased from drivers. hiking, ranger-led walks, and tram tours of P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318, 209/384-1315 or in CA 800/369-PARK, or the Grove (weather permitting) late spring 209/379-2648, fax 209/379-2486, visit www.via-adventures.com. through fall. Trail brochures printed in Eng- lish, French, Japanese, and Spanish are or www.yosemite.org. available at the Grove trailhead. To reduce Remember that road and trail Within Yosemite traffic congestion and avoid parking conditions and available services Free shuttle bus service is provided through- delays, ride the free shuttle bus (spring out the eastern portion of Yosemite Valley through fall) from Wawona to the Grove. may change with the weather. For year-round. In summer, free shuttle buses The Pioneer Yosemite History Center in current conditions and general run from Wawona to the Mariposa Grove, Wawona is a collection of historic buildings associated with people and events that information, call 209/372-0200. and from to Lake. Hikers’ shaped the national park idea in Yosemite. buses run daily to Glacier Point Interpretive signs and a brochure provide a late spring through autumn and self-guiding tour of the Center year-round. between Tuolumne Meadows See page 12 for activities and additional EN and Yosemite Valley late June information about Wawona and the ENTRANCE FEES through Labor Day. Call 209/372- Mariposa Grove. 1240 for hikers’ bus fee, schedule, THE PARK IS OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY, and reservations, or stop by any YEAR-ROUND. tour desk. GLACIER POINT (fees subject to change) Glacier Point, an overlook with a com- ODGING manding view of Yosemite Valley, TYPE PRICE NOTES L Half Dome, and the Sierra Nevada, is located 30 miles (a 1-hour drive) from Yosemite Reservations for all overnight lodg- Vehicle $20 Valid for seven days. Valley. The view from Glacier Point provides ing in Yosemite can be made by an opportunity to see the Valley from its Individual $10 In a bus, on foot, calling 559/252-4848 or by writing rim. From Yosemite Valley, take the Wawona bicycle, motorcycle, to Central Reservations, Yosemite Road (Highway 41) 14 miles to the or horse. Valid for Concession Services, 5410 East Chinquapin junction, then turn left onto the Glacier Point Road. The road ends at Glacier seven days. Home, Fresno, CA 93727 or visit Point. The Glacier Point Road is generally www.yosemitepark.com. Lodging in Yosemite Pass $40 Valid for one year open from late spring through late fall. In Yosemite Valley includes Curry Vil- in Yosemite. winter, the road is plowed only as far as the lage, , , and then Glacier Point National Parks Pass $50 Valid for 1 year in Yosemite Lodge, and The Ahwah- can be reached via skis or snowshoes only. all national park nee. Lodging outside Yosemite areas. Valley includes the , and in summer, White Wolf Lodge Golden Age Pass $10 For U.S. citizens (Lifetime) or permanent and Tuolumne Meadows Lodge. INFORMATION OUTSIDE THE PARK residents 62 and Rates range from $36 per night for over. a basic tent cabin with nearby bath- room, to $246.50 per night for a West Highway 120 Highway 140/49 Golden Access Pass Free For blind or room at The Ahwahnee (rates are Highway 120 Chamber of Commerce Mariposa County Visitor Bureau P.O. Box 1263 (also info. for Fish Camp, Wawona, (Lifetime) permanently subject to change). Reservations are disabled U.S. Hotel Charlotte, Suite B Yosemite West, and Buck Meadows) highly recommended and may be citizens or Groveland, CA 95321 P.O. Box 967 permanent made up to one year and one day in 800/449-9120 or 209/962-0429 5158 Highway 140 residents. advance. Mariposa, CA 95338 Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau 800/208-2434 or 209/966-2456 P.O. Box 4020 www.homeofyosemite.com 542 Stockton Road Sonora, CA 95370 East Highway 120 “WHAT HAPPENS TO MY ENTRANCE FEE DOLLARS?” 800/446-1333 or 209/533-4420 Lee Vining Chamber of Commerce www.thegreatunfenced.com and Mono Lake Visitor Center Thanks to the Recreational Fee Demonstration Program, a temporary pro- P.O. Box 130 gram approved by Congress in 1995, 80% of your $20 entrance fee remains in Highway 41 Highway 395 and 3rd Street Yosemite to help fund projects that improve the park and your visit. Yosemite Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau Lee Vining, CA 93541 anticipates earning $63 million by 2002 and completing projects by 2005. 40637 Highway 41 760/647-6629 PROJECTS CURRENTLY UNDERWAY INCLUDE: Oakhurst, CA 93644 www.leevining.com 559/683-4636 Repairing the deteriorated sewer line that services all of Yosemite Valley Yosemite Store and Visitor Center (6.4 miles completed, September 2000) www.sierranet.net/~ysvb 5027 Highway 140 Refurbishing the multi-purpose auditorium at the Valley Visitor Center Highway 132/49 Mariposa, CA 95338 (to be completed spring 2001) Coulterville Visitor Center 209/966-3888 FUTURE PROJECTS INCLUDE: P.O. Box 333 www.yosemite.org 5007 Main Street Replacing picnic tables, fire rings, and Coulterville, CA 95311 California Welcome Center, Merced signs in campgrounds 209/878-3074 710 W. 16th Street Refurbishing roads, trails, and utilities mariposa.yosemite.net/visitor Merced, CA 95340 throughout the park 800/446-5353 or 209/384-2791 www.yosemite-gateway.org Improving the shuttle bus service in Yosemite Valley

8 PLANNINGPLANNINGPLANNING YOURYOURYOUR VISITVISITVISIT AREAS TO VISIT IN YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK

N Yosemite Village/ Yosemite Gasoline not available Falls Visitor Center Stanislaus in Yosemite Valley Yosemite Lodge The National Ahwahnee Forest To El Curry Manteca 120 Capitan Village Valley Day View Parking 140 Bridalveil Tunnel Fall View To To Yosemite Valley Merced 41 Fresno (Elevation 4,000 feet/1,220 meters)

Yosemite Hwy 120 closed late fall to National late spring west To 395 Lake of this point & Eleanor 6 Lee Vining O’Shaughnessy Park Dam 120

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Mather available 13,053 ft E summer only 3,979 m

120 v e r d g Mount a re o Tuolumne Big e R n d Hoffmann May a L R a g Meadows Oak o 10,850 ft y o R io a a 3,307 m Lake T Visitor e Flat d g ll io Center F T o r Entrance k Porcupine Tenaya Yosemite Flat Lake Hodgdon umn 120 ol e R Creek Meadow u iv T er S ork Olmsted To o u th F Manteca Point

North Tuolumne k e Clouds Grove Valley Dome re C Rest Tamarack ya 4 Yosemite Visitor en a Mount Flat Falls Center T Crane Big Lyell O Yosemite er Merced Flat a Half iv 13,114 ft k F d R 3,997 m l Dome e Grove a Valley c r t e Merced Trailhead R 1 M o Hw Lake a To y 120 El Capitan d Glacier Tioga Road Point Vernal closed late fall to Fall & late spring east Tunnel of this point Arch Bridalveil Sentinel Nevada Rock View Fall Dome Fall El Entrance Portal Il lilo uett e C 3 ree er Rd k To iv Glacie oint Merced R r P Me d Inyo r ce National 140 Glacier Chinquapin Badger Bridalveil Point Road Forest Yosemite Pass closed late fall to Creek late spring east

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ek e r C a Ranger Station ln ua hiln WawonaC Food Service & Lodging Wawona Campground Campground iver uth Fo erced R 2 So rk M Peaks and Landmarks Pioneer Sierra Yosemite Gas Station National History South Mariposa Center Grove Sierra Forest Entrance National 05 km 5 miles Forest

41 To Fresno YOURYOURYOUR VISITVISITVISIT MITE NATIONAL PARK

RECREATION Bicycling More than 12 miles of paved bikeways wind through the eastern end of CRANE FLAT Yosemite Valley. Weather permitting, rental Crane Flat is a pleasant forest and mead- bikes, baby jogging strollers, and bicycle ow area located 16 miles from Yosemite child trailers are available at Yosemite Lodge Get More Valley at the junction of the Big Oak Flat (all seasons) and Curry Village (summer). Road and the Tioga Road. To see giant Check with rental agent for restrictions on sequoias, park at the Tuolumne Grove park- Info... rental bike use. ing area located on the Tioga Road (Highway 120 East), and walk one mile down to the Bike Rules Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias. In win- ■ Recorded General Park ter, snowshoes or cross-country skis may be For your safety and to protect Yosemite Information including: needed. For activities and area information, National Park, please follow these rules: Road & Weather Conditions, see page 12. California law mandates bicyclists under 18 Trip Planning Information, etc. Or take a 4-mile round-trip hike or ski into years of age wear helmets. 209/372-0200 the Merced Grove of Giant Sequoias, located Bikes are allowed only on paved bikeways ■ Western U.S. National Parks 3.5 miles north of Crane Flat or 4.5 miles south and park roads (unless the road is closed to 415/556-0560 of the Big Oak Flat entrance along the Big Oak bicycle use). ■ On the Web (see page 2) Flat Road (Highway 120 West). The trailhead is Bikes are not allowed off roads or on pedes- marked by a post labeled B-10 and a road sign. Yosemite National Park trian and hiking trails. www.nps.gov/yose/ Bicyclists must obey all posted traffic signs Yosemite Concession Services and travel with the flow of traffic when on www.yosemitepark.com roadways used by automobiles. Camping Reservations reservations.nps.gov TIOGA ROAD Horseback Riding Weather and trail conditions permitting, 2-hour and half-day Regional Information AND TUOLUMNE www.yosemite.com rides depart from stables in Yosemite Valley, MEADOWS Tuolumne Meadows, and Wawona spring Yosemite Association The Tioga Road is generally open from late through fall. Closed in winter. Call 209/372- yosemite.org spring through late fall and offers a 39-mile 8348 for information. Yosemite Institute scenic drive through forests and past mead- www.yni.org/yi ows, lakes, and granite domes. The road’s ele- Hiking & Backpacking Yosemite Yosemite Fund vation ranges from 6,200 feet at Crane Flat to offers over 800 miles of hiking trails park- www.yosemitefund.org 9,900 feet at the Tioga Pass Entrance Station. There are many scenic and recreational oppor- wide. For updated trail information, The Ansel Adams Gallery tunities in these areas. Check visitor centers visit the Wilderness Center in Yosemite www.anseladams.com and park bulletin boards for updated informa- Valley (spring through fall); in winter, VIA/Gray Line tion on available services and activities. From check at the Valley Visitor Center, or www.via-adventures.com late fall through late spring, this area is only call 209/372-0200. Wilderness permits accessible by cross-country skis or snowshoes. are required for overnight wilderness ESERVATIONS users. For wilderness permit information R and reservations, call 209/372-0740 or go ■ Lodging Reservations to www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness. For some 559/252-4848 ideas on hiking, as well as information about TDD 559/255-8345 HETCH HETCHY backpacking, see page 7. ■ Campground Reservations Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, a source of (callers from U.S. and Canada) drinking water for the city of San Francisco, Rock Climbing Classes The Yosemite 800/436-7275 is also home to spectacular scenery and the Mountaineering School and Guide Service TDD 888/530-9796 starting point for many less-used wilderness offers beginner through advanced classes ■ Campground Reservations trails. Towering cliffs and high waterfalls are in Yosemite Valley spring through fall, and (International callers only) easily seen from the walkway on top of in Tuolumne Meadows in summer. Call 301/722-1257 O’Shaughnessy Dam. Hetch Hetchy Reservoir 209/372-8344 for information. is located 40 miles from Yosemite Valley via Highway 120 and Evergreen and Hetch AVERAGE PRECIPITATION Hetchy Roads. Vehicles over 25 feet are pro- AND TEMPERATURES hibited on the road due to its narrowness. See cover article for more information on the IN YOSEMITE VALLEY Hetch Hetchy area. (4,000 FT/1,220 M)*

MONTH PRECIPITATION MAXIMUM MINIMUM (inches/cm) (F°/C°) (F°/C°) VISITOR CENTERS VISITOR ACTIVITIES January 6.2/15.7 49/9 26/-3 February 6.1/15.5 55/13 28/-2 March 5.2/13.2 59/15 31/-0.5 he four visitor centers in Yosemite National Park PROGRAMS AND EXHIBITS April 3.0/7.6 65/18 35/2 e excellent resources for park information, wilder- Naturalist-guided walks and programs as well as self- ess permits, and park-related publications and May 1.3/3.3 73/23 42/5.5 guided walks are available. Cultural history andouts. June 0.7/1.8 82/28 48/9 demonstrations of basket-weaving, beadwork, July 0.4/1.0 90/32 54/12 YOSEMITE VALLEY VISITOR CENTER or traditional games are offered at the Indian Cultural August 0.3/0.8 90/32 53/11.5 Open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through May Exhibit in Yosemite Valley. Other exhibits are in the September 0.9/2.3 87/30.5 47/8 31; 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. beginning June 1. Valley Visitor Center, Yosemite Museum, Nature October 2.1/5.3 74/23 39/4 See page 10 for more information. Center at Happy Isles (summer), LeConte Memorial November 5.5/14 58/14 31/-0.5 BIG OAK FLAT INFORMATION STATION Lodge (summer), Wilderness Center, and The Ansel December 5.6/14.2 48/9 26/-3 Adams Gallery. Check park visitor centers and bul- March 23 to April 14, open Thursday through Annual 37.3/94.7 letin boards for additional information, and see Monday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for *For temperatures at 8,000 feet (2,440 m), subtract 10-20 degrees. lunch); open daily beginning April 15. See page activities listed on pages 10-12. 12 for more information. TOURS WAWONA INFORMATION STATION For a relaxing and informative experience, take a Open for the season May 12, daily 8:30 a.m. to sightseeing tour on a bus or open-air tram (weather Nanette Oswald, Yosemite’s Deaf Services Coordinator, interprets 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch). See page 12 for permitting). These tours, narrated by informed ranger-led activities and provides park information for deaf and more information. guides, operate daily to most points of interest in the hard-of-hearing visitors June through August. In spring, a sign TUOLUMNE MEADOWS VISITOR CENTER park, including Yosemite Valley (year-round), language interpreter may be available upon request, particularly After the Tioga Road opens for the season Tuolumne Meadows (summer), Glacier Point, if arrangements are made in advance. For more information in late May or early June, open daily 9:00 Wawona, and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias about the Deaf Services Program, come to the Valley Visitor a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (spring through fall). Two-hour moonlight tours Center information desk, or call 209/372-4726 (TDD) or show Yosemite in a different light during summer 209/372-0296 (voice/TDD). The TDD number for lodging months. In winter, tours are conducted on heated reservations is 559/255-8345; for camping reservations, and enclosed motor coaches; stops are made at the call 888/530-9796. best-known scenic locations in Yosemite Valley. There is a fee for all sightseeing tours. For reserva- tions and more information, call 209/372-1240 or stop by any hotel tour desk.

9 ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES

YOSEMITE VALLEY

VALLEY VISITOR CENTER SELF-GUIDING TRAILS INDIAN VILLAGE OF AHWAHNEE Open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through May 31; 8:00 a.m. to There are four self-guiding trails in Yosemite Valley: two near Located behind the Yosemite Museum and open during day- 6:00 p.m. beginning June 1. Located in Yosemite Village just the Visitor Center in the Yosemite Village area, one at the east light hours. There is sometimes the opportunity to join Indian west of the main post office (shuttle bus stops #5 and #9). end of the Valley near Mirror Lake, and one in Curry Village. Cultural Program staff for demonstrations or programs about Information, maps, wilderness permits (until April), books, Ahwahneechee skills and culture.  exhibits, and a multilingual One Day in Yosemite program.  The Miwok in Yosemite is a short loop trail that winds through the Indian Village of Ahwahnee, a reconstructed Miwok- Paiute village. A booklet is available at the trailhead and in WILDERNESS CENTER YOSEMITE MUSEUM the Visitor Center. Large print materials are available in the Beginning April 13, open Friday, Saturday, Sunday 8:00 a.m. to Located in Yosemite Village next to the Visitor Center.  Visitor Center for the visually impaired. The trail begins 5:00 p.m.; opens daily beginning May 18. Wilderness users  INDIAN CULTURAL EXHIBIT behind the Yosemite Museum. should self-register for permits on the porch of the Wilderness Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch). Displays Center when closed. Located in Yosemite Village between The Changing Yosemite is a 1-mile trail that begins in front of the Ansel Adams Gallery and the post office. One-stop resource for interpret the cultural history of Yosemite’s native Miwok and Visitor Center, near shuttle bus stop #9. It winds through a Paiute people from 1850 to the present. Demonstrations of backpackers in need of wilderness permits, maps, bear canisters, nearby meadow and explores the changes that have led to and guidebooks. Displays provide information on pre-trip plan- basket-weaving, beadwork, and/or traditional games are pre- the Yosemite we experience today. A booklet is available at sented. Check the Visitor Center for a schedule of Indian ning, minimum impact camping techniques, and wilderness the trailhead, and large print materials are available for the preservation issues.  Cultural Demonstrations if the museum building is closed. visually impaired at the Visitor Center.  Mirror Lake Interpretive Trail is a short loop adjacent to Mirror NATURE CENTER AT HAPPY ISLES THE ANSEL ADAMS GALLERY Lake, a seasonal lake on Tenaya Creek. Exhibits focus on the Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through April 8; 9:00 a.m. to Open daily (beginning May 18) 10:00 a.m. to noon and 12:30 rich natural history of the area, Native American use, and p.m. to 4:00 p.m. This family-oriented nature center includes 6:00 p.m. beginning April 9. Located in Yosemite Village next history of this popular destination. To reach the start of the to the Visitor Center. The Gallery offers the work of Ansel wildlife dioramas, tracking tips, interactive exhibits, and four trail, walk 1 mile from shuttle bus stop #18 to the disabled different environments: forest, river, talus, and fen. You can Adams, contemporary photographers, and other fine artists. parking spaces near the lake. The self-guiding trail begins In addition, a wide selection of handcrafts, books, gifts, and  also see substantial evidence of the huge 1996 rockfall from the here. Glacier Point cliff far above the Nature Center. The Center is a photography supplies are offered. For more information,  call the Gallery at 209/372-4413 or visit their web site at Legacy of Curry Village is an easy stroll commemorating the short walk from shuttle bus stop #17. www.anseladams.com.  early days of Camp Curry. Pick up a map and guide at the Curry Village front desk or tour desk. SPECIAL EXHIBITS YOSEMITE CEMETERY Through April 17: Spring Florachromes by photographer This historic cemetery is located across the street and just west Carol Henry and introduction of her work in the new Best LECONTE MEMORIAL LODGE of the Yosemite Museum. is buried here, along Studio Collection, fine photographic prints. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. with other pioneer park visitors, Native Americans, and people who played important roles in the development of what is now April 18 to June 3: The photographs of master photographic (beginning May 2). Located at shuttle stop #13. The LeConte Memorial Lodge, Yosemite’s first public visitor center, is operat- Yosemite National Park. A Guide to the Yosemite Cemetery is avail- printer, Charles Cramer. This exhibit will introduce a new able at the Valley Visitor Center. collection of dye transfer prints, photographs that are exact- ed by the Sierra Club and features a children’s corner, library, ingly handcrafted in the darkroom. and a variety of environmental education and evening pro- grams. For more information on programs, see activities sched- June 4 to July 16: Summer Group Show featuring a collec- uled below, bulletin boards at the LeConte Memorial, camp- This symbol indicates programs and facilities suitable tion of beautiful photographs of Yosemite Valley and the grounds, Valley Visitor Center, and post office. You may also for visitors in wheelchairs, with assistance. high country from various contemporary photographers. call 209/372-4542.

Just for Kids WALKS AND TALKS EVENING PROGRAMS Kids love the challenge of a scavenger hunt! Stop by the Curry Join a ranger or naturalist for an easy walk to explore Yosemite’s Village front desk or tour desk to take part in a children’s Curry AND ACTIVITIES natural and cultural history. Programs are often offered twice Scavenger Hunt. Pick up a handout and upon completion, daily. Topics may include geology, ecology, wildlife, waterfalls, return it for a commemorative button. Evening programs include talks, films, slide presentations, human history, and current park management issues. Additional Hey kids ages 7-12! Send your parents out for the evening storytelling, and music about Yosemite’s human and/or natural ranger walks may be offered when staffing allows. Check fliers and enjoy your own “Kid’s Night Out!” The fun includes din- heritage. Offered by National Park Service rangers, or staff from at lodging desks and the Visitor Center for additional programs ner, crafts, stories, and games from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Yosemite Concession Services, the Sierra Club, Yosemite Insti- and detailed descriptions. tute, and The Ansel Adams Gallery, these programs last one Saturday nights (through April 14) at Curry Village or Yosemite Professional photographers from Yosemite Concession hour and are held outdoors (unless otherwise noted), weather Lodge. Sign up at any tour desk. $12.50/child and $10 for each Services and The Ansel Adams Gallery lead camera walks and permitting. additional child; cost includes dinner and supplies. Parents photo classes. Check below for details and advance sign up must pick up their children at 8:00 p.m. requirements. Become a Junior Ranger…This program is described on page 11.

AAG = Ansel Adams Gallery For the weeks of June 3-18, see local bulletin boards NPS = National Park Service Programs listed below in color are especially for posted activities. YCS = Yosemite Concession Services for children and families. YI = Yosemite Institute $ = Program offered for a fee MONDAY TUESDAY 8:30 a.m. 7:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m. Camera Walk, 2 hours, sign up/meet at Ahwahnee front desk (YCS) Old-fashioned Campfire and Sing-along with the Recycled String Band Camera Walk, 2 hours, sign up/meet at Yosemite Lodge front desk (YCS) 1 10:00 a.m. (Begins June 4), 1 ⁄2 hours, location is near Curry Village 10:00 a.m. 1 Tickets/information at any lodge tour desk ($) (YCS) Ranger Walk—Untold Stories, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Ranger Walk—It’s All About Habitat (except April 10 & May 8) 1 Front of Visitor Center  8:00 p.m. 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, shuttle bus stop #12 Fireside Storytelling (ends April 2), 1 hour 1:00 p.m.  2:30 p.m. 1 Ahwahnee Great Lounge fireplace (YCS) Ranger Walk—Bears: Yogi and other Boo Boos, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Ranger Walk—Yosemite’s First People (except April 10 & May 8) 1 Curry Village Amphitheater  8:30 p.m. 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, behind Visitor Center  Evening Program, 1 hour 4:30 p.m. Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS)  4:30 p.m. Historic Ahwahnee Tour (begins April 9; except June 11 & 18), 1 hour Historic Ahwahnee Tour (through April 3), 1 hour Sign up at the Ahwahnee concierge desk (YCS)  Evening Program (begins May 14), 1 hour Sign up at the Ahwahnee concierge desk (YCS)  Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS/YI)  5:30 p.m. Spring Twilight Stroll (begins April 10), 1 hour Ahwahnee outdoor (YCS) 8:30 p.m. Evening Program, 1 hour FREE ART CLASSES Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (NPS/YCS)  Evening Program (begins May 15), 1 hour  Free, informal outdoor classes in various art mediums are available for Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS/YI) adults through the Art Activity Center, located at the east end of EDNESDAY Yosemite Village next to the Village Store. Supplies are available W for purchase at the Center, which is open 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. daily. Classes begin at 10:00 a.m. and continue until 2:00 p.m. Photo Walk, 2 hours, sign up in advance Meet on Ansel Adams Gallery porch, limited to 15, weather permitting (AAG) April 16 – 22 Jim Kingwell Watercolor 10:00 a.m. 1 Ranger Walk—Yosemite’s Legacy, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, front of Visitor Center  April 23 – 29 Sunee Jines Watercolor 1:00 p.m. 1 April 30 – May 6 Robert Chapla Acrylic History Walk (June 6 only), 1 ⁄2 hours, LeConte Memorial Lodge Shuttle bus stop #13 (Sierra Club) May 7 – 13 Linda Patterson Watercolor 2:00 p.m. 1 May 14 –20 Sonja Hamilton Watercolor How do you catch a fish in Yosemite? (begins April 18), 1 ⁄2 hours Front of the Village Sport Shop, near shuttle bus stop #2 (YCS) May 21 – 27 Jane Gyer Watercolor 7:30 p.m. Old-fashioned Campfire & Sing-along with S’mores May 28 – June 3 Roger Folk Watercolor 1 (Begins May 23; except June 13), 1 ⁄2 hours, location is near Curry Village June 4 – 10 Richard Keyes Acrylic Sign up/information at any lodge tour desk (YCS) ($) 8:30 p.m. June 11 – 17 Penny Otwell Water Media Evening Program, 1 hour Artist Chris Jorgensen maintained a studio  June 18 – 24 Tom Fong Watercolor in Yosemite Valley between 1899-1918. Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS) Evening Program (begins May 16), 1 hour Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS/YI)  Illustration Illustration by Lawrence Ormsby 10 ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES

YOSEMITE VALLEY

THURSDAY 8:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. Evening Program (begins May 4), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge Old-fashioned Campfire & Sing-along with the Recycled String Band 1 10:00 a.m. Shuttle bus stop #13 (Sierra Club) (Begins May 19; except May 26), 1 ⁄2 hours, location is near Curry Village 1 Ranger Walk—River of Mercy (except April 19), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Earthy Tunes (May 25 only), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge Sign up/information at any lodge tour desk ($) (YCS) Shuttle bus stop #5 Shuttle bus stop #13 (Sierra Club) Yosemite Theater Presents: The Spirit of John Muir (April 7 & 14 only), 1:00 p.m. 8:30 p.m. Actor Lee Stetson portrays the passionate Yosemite advocate in a 1-hour 1 performance. Tickets and location information available at the Yosemite History Walk (June 7 only), 1 ⁄2 hours, LeConte Memorial Lodge Starry Skies Over Yosemite Valley (June 1 & 8 only), 1 hour Lodge tour desk. ($) (YCS)  Shuttle bus stop #13 (Sierra Club) Meets near Yosemite Lodge, sign up/details at any lodge tour desk (YCS) ($) 4:30 p.m. Evening Program, 1 hour 8:00 p.m. Historic Ahwahnee Tour (ends April 5), 1 hour Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS)  Evening Program (April 28-June 9), 1 hour Sign up at the Ahwahnee concierge desk (YCS)  Lower Pines Amphitheater (NPS)  Evening Program (begins May 18), 1 hour 5:30 p.m. Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS)  Evening Program (begins May 5), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge Spring Twilight Stroll (begins April 12), 1 hour Shuttle bus stop #13 (Sierra Club) Ahwahnee outdoor patio (YCS) Earthy Tunes (May 26 only), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge Shuttle bus stop #13 (Sierra Club) 8:30 p.m. SATURDAY Evening Program, 1 hour 8:30 p.m. Yosemite Lodge Amphitheater/Cliff Room (YCS)  9:00 a.m. Evening Program, 1 hour, Yosemite Lodge/Cliff Room (YCS)  Photo Walk, 2 hours, sign up in advance, meet on Ansel Adams Gallery porch Evening Program (begins May 17), 1 hour Limited to 15, weather permitting (AAG) Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS/YI)  10:00 a.m. 1 SUNDAY Ranger Walk—Spring in Yosemite (except April 21), 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Shuttle bus stop #15 10:00 a.m. 1 FRIDAY Ranger Walk—Snowflakes to Waterfalls, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 1:00 p.m. Shuttle bus stop #6  9:00 a.m. Ranger Walk/Talk—Everything You Wanted to Know About Bears But 1 Photo Walk, 2 hours, sign up in advance Were Afraid to Ask Them, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours, Curry Village Amphitheater  1:00 p.m. 1 Meet on Ansel Adams Gallery porch, limited to 15, weather permitting (AAG) Ranger Walk/Talk—Scats and Tracks: Yosemite’s Wildlife, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 2:00 p.m.  1 Curry Village Amphitheater 10:00 a.m. Ranger Walk—Ahwahneechee Stories and Games, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours 1 Ranger Walk/Talk—Yosemite Inspirations, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Behind Visitor Center  6:30 p.m. South Tunnel View parking lot (off the Wawona Road/Hwy 41) Full Moon Snowshoe Walk (April 8 only), 2 hours 3:00 p.m. Badger Pass Lodge, tickets available at Yosemite Lodge tour desk 2:30 p.m. Fine Print Viewing at The Ansel Adams Gallery, 1 hour 1 No experience necessary ($) (YCS) Ranger Walk—Industries of the Ahwahneechee, 1 to 1 ⁄2 hours Limited to 5 participants, sign up in advance at Gallery  Behind Visitor Center  8:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. Evening Program (begins May 6), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge 6:30 p.m. Kid’s Night Out (ends April 14), 2 hours, Curry or Yosemite Village Shuttle bus stop #13 (Sierra Club) Full Moon Snowshoe Walk (April 6 only), 2 hours Sign up/details at any lodge tour desk ($) (YCS) Badger Pass Lodge, tickets available at Yosemite Lodge tour desk Earthy Tunes (May 27 only), 1 hour, LeConte Memorial Lodge No experience necessary ($) (YCS) 6:30 p.m. Shuttle bus stop #13 (Sierra Club) Full Moon Snowshoe Walk (April 7 only), 2 hours 7:30 p.m. Badger Pass Lodge, tickets available at Yosemite Lodge tour desk 8:30 p.m. Yosemite Theater Presents: The Spirit of John Muir (April 6 & 13 only), No experience necessary ($) (YCS) Evening Program (begins May 13), 1 hour Actor Lee Stetson portrays the passionate Yosemite advocate in a 1-hour Curry Village Amphitheater (YCS/YI)  performance. Tickets and location information available at the Yosemite  Film—Ansel Adams, Photographer, 1 hour Lodge tour desk. ($) (YCS) Yosemite Lodge Cliff Room/Amphitheater (AAG) 

Just for Kids

BECOME A JUNIOR RANGER LITTLE CUBS WANTED! Become a Kids ages 8-10: You can Are you between the ages of 3 become a Yosemite Junior and 6? Yosemite has a program Ranger by purchasing a self- for YOU! Little Cubs is a self- PART guided booklet published guided booklet that encourages by the Yosemite Association. our young visitors and their This booklet is sold for $3.50 families to discover Yosemite’s of the at the Nature Center at Happy wonders and to earn a Little Isles, Yosemite Valley and Cubs button. This booklet Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Cen- (published by the Yosemite FUTURE ters, and Wawona and Big Oak Association) is sold for $3 in Flat Information Stations. In the Nature Center at Happy order to earn a Junior Ranger Isles, Yosemite Valley and osemite National Park’s vastness is a patch, the booklet must be com- Tuolumne Meadows Visitor testament to its diverse employment pleted, a bag of trash collected, Centers, and Wawona and Big Y and volunteer opportunities. To con- and a guided program attended. Oak Flat Information Stations. tinue the National Park Service’s goals of preserving park resources and serving visitors, Yosemite needs employees and volunteers from all walks of life, from all ethnic back- grounds, with the knowledge, skills, and NPS Photo by C. Marie Mackie abilities to turn those goals into reality. To protect park resources and to serve the pub- and future generations. Young and old alike give of Pussy Paws lic, Yosemite employs a permanent and a seasonal their time and expertise to assist our paid staff in (pink) Shooting workforce of over 700 individuals every year. The achieving our national mission. Grows in Stars variety of paid positions available may surprise For specific employment information, or to find (pink) bare, sandy Thrives patches you: biologists, criminal investigators, human out what positions are currently available and how in moist resource managers, accountants, electricians, his- to apply, contact the Human Resources Office meadows torians, and even traditional park rangers. Whatever in person or phone 209/379-1805. You may the job, a rewarding experience with Yosemite also access either the Yosemite National Park National Park and the National Park Service is web site at www.nps.gov/yose or USAJobs at Indian guaranteed. www.usajobs.opm.gov for a listing of employment Paintbrush Yosemite National Park also has active Volunteers opportunities as they occur. (red) Selection for employment will be made without Hummingbirds in Parks, Youth Conservation Corps, and Student love its tasty Conservation Association programs. Participants of regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, Lupine nectar (blue) these splendid programs come from every state political affiliation, marital status, physical handicap, Grows and nearly every country in the world to help pre- age, membership or non-membership in an just about serve and protect America’s natural and employee organization, personal favoritism, everywhere cultural heritage for the enjoyment of this or other non-merit factors.

There are hundreds of different kinds of wildflowers in Yosemite. Some The National Park Service is an Equal Opportunity Employer look like rockets. Some have faces or paws. How many can you find? Keep a list on this paper or in a journal. Please don’t pick them–leave flowers for others to enjoy. 11 ACTIVITIESACTIVITIES

CRANE FLAT/BIG OAK FLAT BIG OAK FLAT INFORMATION STATION

March 23 to April 14, open Thursday through Monday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch). Open daily beginning April 15. Station is located just inside the park at the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station (Highway 120 West), and offers park orientation material, trail information, wilderness permits, books, and maps. Phone 209/379-1899 

YOSEMITE’S OTHER SEQUOIA GROVES

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

MARIPOSA GROVE

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

TO GET TO THE GROVE WALKING

Cars are prohibited beyond the parking area in the Grove, but The trailhead for walking up through the Grove is located at 1 several giant sequoias can be seen from there. Allow 1 ⁄4 hours the far end of the parking area. Interpretive signs between the driving time to the Mariposa Grove from Yosemite Valley. trailhead and the Grizzly Giant provide a self-guiding tour. Information about handicapped accessibility is available at the Written translations are available at the trailhead (Spanish, tram boarding area. The access road to the Grove may close German, French, Japanese). intermittently due to limited parking and/or snow. Please use the free shuttle service between Wawona and the Mariposa Grove. Trailers and motor homes are prohibited on the ISTANCE LEVATION Mariposa Grove Road. D & E Destination Distance from Trailhead Elevation Gain TRAM SCHEDULE FOR THE Grizzly Giant 0.8 mile/1.3 km 400 feet/122 m Grove Museum 2.1 miles/3.5 km 800 feet/292 m MARIPOSA GROVE Fallen Tunnel Tree 2.5 miles/4.0 km 1,000 feet/305 m When the Mariposa Grove Road opens, trams run every day Wawona Point 3.0 miles/4.8 km 1,200 feet/438 m (weather permitting) in the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias for a 1-hour tour through the lower and upper groves. The first tram is at 9:00 a.m. and the last tram is at 5:30 p.m., running every 15 to 20 minutes from the boarding area. $8.50/adults, MARIPOSA GROVE MUSEUM $7.75/ seniors (62 or older), $4.50/children (5-12), $25 maxi- mum for families (parents and their children under 16). Learn about the history of the Grove in this small, historic log Children under 5 ride free. cabin. Opens for the season May 11, daily 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch). FREE MARIPOSA GROVE/WAWONA SHUTTLE BUS Beginning weekends only on April 21, the free shuttle bus stops PHOTO WALK at the Wawona Store, South Entrance, and Mariposa Grove from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. (weather permitting). Daily serv- Join a photographer from ice is scheduled to begin May 5. Due to narrow roads and very Yosemite Concession limited parking, visitors are strongly encouraged to use this free Services for a Mariposa Big bus service to help alleviate congestion and lengthy parking Trees Photo Walk (begins delays. Visitors may park at the Wawona Store to board the May 25). This 2-hour walk shuttle bus. meets 2:00 p.m. daily at the front of the Mariposa Grove Gift Shop. Etching by Jane Gyer Giant Sequoia Sequoiadendron giganteum

WAWONA

WAWONA INFORMATION STATION AT HILL’S STUDIO

Opens for the season May 12, daily 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch). Offers information about park activities, wilderness permits, trail information, books, and maps. Located on the grounds of the Wawona Hotel, Hill’s Studio was the gallery and art studio of famous 19th century landscape painter, Thomas Hill. Walk from the hotel or park at the Wawona Store parking area and follow the path up the hill. Phone 209/375-9501 

EVENING PROGRAM

Tom Bopp, pianist/singer at the Wawona Hotel since 1983, performs Tuesday through Saturday nights from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the lobby, often including songs and stories from Yosemite’s past. Tom also offers presentations with slides, historic Yosemite music, or Wawona history on some Thursday and Saturday nights. Schedule subject to change; inquire at hotel front desk.

PIONEER YOSEMITE HISTORY CENTER

Take this 30-minute self-guiding tour and learn about the people, events, and issues of Yosemite’s early years. From April 26 through May 24, Monday through Thursday, come see school groups participating in an environmental living program, bringing the past to life. You are welcome to ask questions of these costumed participants. Watch the stage-

coach, walk across a covered bridge, and visit historic buildings out of Yosemite’s past. Photo by John Hawksworth The Center is always open, and explanatory signs and brochures are available. The Pioneer Yosemite History Center in Wawona brings the past to life!

12 HELPHELP YOURYOUR PARKPARK

YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION THE YOSEMITE FUND JOIN THE YOSEMITE ASSOCIATION PROVIDING FOR YOSEMITE’S FUTURE

The Yosemite Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the support Just how vast and extraordinary is Yosemite? Many visitors leave before getting a of Yosemite National Park through a program of visitor services, publications, and chance to find out. Now you can obtain a sense of the whole Yosemite—from the membership activities. For over 70 years, the association has provided important upper reaches of a giant sequoia tree to the beautiful backcountry to dramatic aerial financial support to the National Park Service, and has made possible the funding of views of the park—through a new visitor orientation film, Spirit of Yosemite. many projects and purchases otherwise not affordable through normal government This stunning 35mm Surround Sound film was directed by Oscar-nominated David appropriations. Vassar, a former Yosemite ranger. The film replaces The Yosemite Association: an outdated slide show and includes magnificent scenery, outstanding sound, and information about Provides over $300,000 annually to the National Yosemite’s formation and natural/cultural history. Park Service for its use in visitor information, educa- Visit the newly remodeled Valley Visitor Center tional, and interpretive programs theatre this spring to experience Spirit of Yosemite. Publishes popular and award-winning books on The new visitor film and much of the remodeled Yosemite and operates bookstores in the park theatre are just two of many projects supported by Provides member-volunteers to work on meadows, The Yosemite Fund, a non-profit organization that trails, and other much-needed park restoration raises money from Yosemite enthusiasts to protect projects and restore the Park and enhance the visitor’s experi- Organizes over 60 outdoor classes and field semi- ence. Now in its 13th year, the Fund has distributed nars on natural history, Native American lifeways, over $13 million for more than 150 projects. Thanks art, and photography to gifts from dedicated “Friends of Yosemite,” the Fund has helped: Sponsors the Ostrander Ski Hut, Yosemite Theater, Art Activity Center, and other valuable programs Install 2,000 bear-proof food lockers throughout Anyone who loves Yosemite and wishes to become Yosemite more closely involved and affiliated with the park Rehabilitate Cook’s Meadow in the heart of is encouraged to become a member of the Yosemite Yosemite Valley Association. Sign up for a membership through this Yosemite Guide and receive as a free gift (The Complete Rebuild numerous sections of Yosemite’s 800+ miles of trail Guidebook to Yosemite National Park). This book is informative and useful, lively and humorous, and This year, we hope to sponsor many more proj- earned the “Best National Park Guidebook” award from ects, including wilderness restoration, additional the National Park Service. trail reconstruction, and educating school children As a member, you will: about Yosemite and natural resource protection. You can help by becoming a Friend of Yosemite Enjoy a 15% discount at Yosemite Association shops through a donation to the Fund. All donors of $25 on all books, maps, and publications, as well as or more receive: qualify for a discount on most field seminars Receive a 10% discount on purchases at The Ansel The 15-page full-color Yosemite Postcard Book, Adams Gallery in Yosemite Valley or other gift described below Have an opportunity to volunteer in Yosemite and The Fund’s biannual full-color journal, Approach, featuring articles on the park and information

attend special members’ events Photo by Steven D. Smith/Greystone Films about how your donation is helping Yosemite Receive the quarterly journal, Yosemite, which Cinematographers capture footage for the new visitor orientation features informative articles on both the natural film, Spirit of Yosemite, made possible through donations to The Acknowledgement at the Friends of Yosemite Yosemite Fund. Honor Wall at the Valley Visitor Center and human history of the park Have the satisfaction of knowing that you are supporting significant projects Please fill out the coupon below and become a Friend of Yosemite today. in Yosemite National Park

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

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

City State Zip Card # Exp. date Daytime Phone Number Friends of Yosemite receive the full-color Yosemite Postcard Book (with a $25 gift), Enclosed is my check or money order for $ or charge to beautiful 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 E-mail address to 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 800/4MY-PARK www.yosemite.org www.yosemitefund.org

13 FACILITIESFACILITIES && SERVICESSERVICES

MARCH 13 – JUNE 18, 2001 ALL SERVICES AND HOURS OF OPERATION ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE THE VILLAGE GRILL White Wolf Lodge ART ACTIVITY CENTER EMERGENCY 911 (Opens May 18) (Opens June 22, weather permitting) (Opens April 16) Hamburgers, chicken strips, shakes, A cozy dining room and porch with simple, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in Yosemite Fire – Police – Medical and soft drinks $ tasty fare Village, south of Village Store. Free art class- Emergency: Dial 911, es daily. Books, art supplies, and fine local 24 hours a day THE LOFT Breakfast – 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. $-$$ art (Opens late spring) Dinner – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $$-$$$ Pizza, salad, appetizers $ (from hotel room 9-911) Dinner reservations advised, WILDERNESS CENTER call 209/372-8416 Beginning April 13, open Friday, Saturday, MEDICAL Yosemite Lodge Sunday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; opens daily Breakfast – 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. beginning May 18. Guidebooks, maps, Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Wawona Hotel wilderness permits, bear canisters, and Yosemite Medical Clinic Dinner – 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (Opens March 15) trip-planning displays Emergency care: 24 hours daily Meals served daily in one or more of Victorian architecture and warm sunset views Drop-in and Urgent Care: the locations below: Nature Center Daily 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Breakfast – 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. $-$$ at Happy Isles FOOD COURT Sunday Brunch – 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Scheduled appointments: (Grand opening in April) (Opens May 18) Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pizza, pasta, burgers, salads, daily specials, $-$$ 10:00 a.m. to noon, 12:30 to 4:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m. to Noon bakery, desserts, wine and beer service $-$$ Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. $-$$ Family-oriented bookstore Located on Ahwahnee Drive in Yosemite Dinner – 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. $$-$$$ GARDEN TERRACE SALAD BUFFET Dinner reservations advised for 10 or Valley, the clinic provides routine and emer- Buffet-style breakfast, lunch, dinner fea- Yosemite Lodge gency medical care for park employees, resi- turing soups, pasta, and dinner carvery more, 209/375-1425 dents, and visitors. Experienced nursing Beverage Service – 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. GIFT/APPAREL SHOP service (lunch service available during 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Features Yosemite staff, emergency physicians, nurse practi- Food Court remodel) $-$$ Saturday BBQ on – 5:00 p.m. to Falls apparel and gifts, books, souvenirs, tioner, and support staff on duty. Services 7:00 p.m. (begins May 19) $-$$ include a limited pharmacy, lab, x-ray, and THE MOUNTAIN ROOM and convenience items physical therapy. 209/372-4637 Spectacular views of Yosemite Falls featur- ing fresh salmon, pasta, and steak $$-$$$$ Glacier Point NATURE SHOP Paramedic/Ambulance Service: 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Unique sculptures of 24 hours daily SNACK STAND the natural world, distinctive apparel, music, THE MOUNTAIN ROOM BAR & LOUNGE (Opens with Glacier Point Road, conditions and videos Dental Services A la carte continental breakfast, and lunch, permitting) Adjacent to Medical Clinic. For hours, call featuring gourmet coffee, sandwiches, sal- Comfortable facility serves snacks to ease 209/372-4200. If no answer, call 209/372-4637. ads, cold appetizer plates, yogurt $-$$ hunger after a hike or drive to the Point. The Ahwahnee Hours through April 23: 6:30 a.m. to Spectacular sunset views $ GIFT SHOP 10:00 p.m. weekdays, 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Features signature ACCOMMODATIONS 10:00 p.m. weekends Hours April 24 to June 18: 4:00 p.m. Ahwahnee apparel, china, jewelry, and For advanced reservations or infor- to 10:00 p.m. weekdays, Noon to 10:00 Badger Pass Native American crafts mation (rooms or activities), p.m. weekends (Closes April 8) SWEET SHOP call 559/252-4848 FOOD SERVICE AREA (www.yosemitepark.com) POOL REFRESHMENT STAND 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Magazines, newspa- (Opens Memorial Day weekend, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. $ pers, distinctive candies, cookies, and sundry weather permitting) $ items 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. SNOWFLAKE ROOM ATM 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Cocktails available $ Curry Village The Ahwahnee Yosemite Village MOUNTAIN SHOP BANK OF AMERICA ATM An elegant dining experience in one of America’s premier dining rooms 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through May 27; (south of Village Store) GAS STATIONS 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. beginning May 28 A full range of hiking gear, tents, shoes, HERITAGE OAKS BANK ATM DINING ROOM CRANE FLAT (inside Village Store) Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. $-$$ bear canisters, sunglasses, apparel, and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Diesel available. Pay climbing supplies Sunday Brunch – 7:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the pump 24 hours with credit or debit $$$ card. Yosemite Lodge Lunch – 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. $$-$$$ GIFT/GROCERY HERITAGE OAKS BANK ATM Dinner – 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. $$$$ TUOLUMNE MEADOWS 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Snacks, souvenirs, (inside main registration area) Dinner reservations suggested, (Opens with Tioga Road) film, and limited groceries call 209/372-1489 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Propane available. Curry Village Pay at the pump 24 hours with credit or Tuolumne Meadows AHWAHNEE BAR debit card. HERITAGE OAKS BANK ATM Light dining and classic cocktails $-$$$ (Facilities open with Tioga Road) (inside gift shop) Noon to 10:00 p.m. WAWONA 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Diesel & propane, GROCERY STORE Curry Village minor repairs available. Pay at the pump 24 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Tuolumne-specific El Portal hours with credit or debit card. apparel, last-minute food supplies for back- COUNTY BANK ATM Over 100 years of family dining experiences. Meals served daily in one or more of the packing and high country picnics (on Hwy. 140 at Yosemite View Lodge) locations below: Auto Service, Towing, MOUNTAIN SCHOOL SPORT SHOP COFFEE CORNER and Repair (AAA) 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Maps, bear canisters, Wawona Freshly ground coffees, espressos, lattes, HERITAGE OAKS BANK ATM dehydrated food, and backpacking supplies cappuccinos, fruit, baked goods, boxed VILLAGE GARAGE (inside Wawona Store) 209/372-8435 lunches $ 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in Yosemite BUFFET Village at the garage. Full-service vehicle TUOLUMNE MEADOWS BOOKSTORE ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION (Opens April 13) maintenance. Towing 24 hours. 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in the Breakfast: yogurt, cereal, fruit, Emergency gasoline & propane available Tuolumne Meadows Visitor Center baked goods, and hot entrees 209/372-8390 Yosemite Association 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Outdoor seminars, some for college credit. Dinner: soup, salad, pasta, hot entrees, Wawona P.O. Box 230, El Portal, CA 95318 stir-fry, taco bar, dessert $-$$ GIFTS,BOOKS,& APPAREL WAWONA HOTEL GOLF SHOP 209/379-2321 yosemite.org 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Opens in early April, weather and conditions permitting) HAMBURGER STAND Yosemite Village Yosemite Institute 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Signature Wawona (Opens May 12) THE ANSEL ADAMS GALLERY apparel, snacks, and golf supplies Non-profit environmental education Hamburgers and chicken, fish sandwiches, Open daily 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through organization. Week-long, field-based chicken nuggets, salad, soft drinks $ April 8; 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. beginning PIONEER GIFT AND GROCERY STORE sessions for school groups, teachers, and April 9. Books, original photographs, (Opens March 21) other groups. P.O. Box 487, Yosemite, CA PIZZA & BAR Enjoy pizza and salad under the stars $-$$ cards, Native American crafts, photography 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Assortment of 95389. 209/379-9511 www.yni.org/yi 4:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. weekdays supplies, camera rentals, and more. exclusive Wawona gifts, essential supplies, Noon to 10:00 p.m. weekends 209/372-4413 www.anseladams.com ice cream, snacks, books, cards, and bear canisters NPS Education Branch ICE CREAM Ranger-guided programs, resource (Opens April 13) YOSEMITE BOOKSTORE information, teacher workshops. Wawona Cool off with a refreshing treat (located Open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. through PIONEER YOSEMITE HISTORY CENTER Ranger Station, P.O. Box 2027, Wawona, CA inside Pavilion at the Coffee Corner) $ May 31; 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. beginning BOOKSTORE 95389 209/375-9505. For entrance waivers June 1. Located at the Valley Visitor Center. 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed for lunch) Books, maps, and information for educational groups, call 209/372-0206 Happy Isles Books, maps, posters, and information www.nps.gov/yose/teach.htm SNACK STAND YOSEMITE MUSEUM STORE (Opens May 19) (Opens March 30) Crane Flat FOOD AND BEVERAGE SERVICE Rewarding refreshments after a long hike. Open daily 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. until GROCERY STORE Soda, ice cream, bottled water $ May 26; 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. after May 27 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Camping supplies, Hours of operation are approximate. 11:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Books, traditional Indian arts and crafts snacks, and bear canisters Current dining hours are posted at each 209/372-0295 front desk or facility. Tuolumne Meadows VILLAGE STORE Mariposa Grove Food Service Price Key: GRILL 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. until May 27; $ = entrees under $7 (Opens June 9, weather permitting) 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. beginning May 28 GIFT SHOP $$ = $7-$14 entrees A quick breakfast, lunch, and dinner Features signature Yosemite apparel, books, (Opens with Mariposa Grove Road) $$$ = $15-$20 entrees before or after exploring $ glassware, and postcards 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Cards, bottled water, $$$$ = more than $20 entrees 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. snacks, and memorabilia from the Big Trees HABITAT YOSEMITE TUOLUMNE MEADOWS LODGE (Weekends only April 14 to May 27) MUSEUM SHOP Yosemite Village (Opens at dinner June 15, weather permitting) (Opens May 11) Rustic dining adjacent to the Tuolumne 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Located in Degnan’s Breakfast – 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. building. Interpretive gifts and souvenirs 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed for lunch) Lunch/Dinner – 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. River. A la carte breakfast menu. Dinner entrees include steak, seafood, pasta, and inspired by nature Meals served daily in one or more of chicken Glacier Point the locations below: SPORT SHOP Breakfast – 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. $-$$ 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Fishing rods, tackle GIFT SHOP DEGNAN’S Dinner – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $$-$$$ and gear, camping supplies, bear canisters, (Opens with Glacier Point Road) DEGNAN’S DELICATESSEN Meals are served family style and and fishing licenses 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sandwiches, snacks, soups, and salads $ dinner reservations advised, Star charts, apparel, books, and souvenirs call 209/372-8413 DEGNAN’S FAST FOOD & ICE CREAM $ 14 FACILITIESFACILITIES && SERVICESSERVICES

MARCH 13 – JUNE 18, 2001 ALL SERVICES AND HOURS OF OPERATION ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE Yosemite Lodge Post Office Yosemite Christian Ministries** GROCERIES Monday – Friday 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; RECYCLING Pastor Steve Hughes 209/379-2428 beginning April 16 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For information on weddings, call number VILLAGE STORE (closed for lunch) Village Store Recycling above. Full service grocery store 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. until May 27; Center Worship Service (begins May 30) 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. beginning May 28 Curry Village Post Office Open Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday 7:00 p.m., Yosemite Chapel (Opens May 31) Sunday Noon to 4:00 p.m. Worship Walk (begins May 30) DEGNAN’S DELICATESSEN Monday – Friday 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Bottles and cans may also be returned to Convenience items available Sunday 9:00 a.m., Happy Isles, starts at place of purchase or park gas stations. shuttle bus #17 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Wawona Post Office Solid Rock/Climbers for Christ HOUSEKEEPING CAMP Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. RELIGIOUS SERVICES Call Pastor for location, times, and (Opens April 13) additional information. 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. until May 27; 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. beginning May 28 Church of Christ Tuolumne Meadows Inquiries, directions, other services, contact El Portal Community Church** CURRY VILLAGE STORE Post Office Ron Skelton. 209/379-2307 Pastor Russ Marsh 209/379-2255 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Opens after Tioga Road; check locally for hours) Assoc. Pastor Steve Hughes 209/379-2428 EL PORTAL CHAPEL Worship Service: Saturday 7:30 p.m., YOSEMITE LODGE GIFT SHOP El Portal Post Office Worship Service: Sunday 9:00 a.m. El Portal Chapel (first and third weekends) 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Sunday 10:30 a.m., El Portal Chapel 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. WAWONA STORE Yosemite Community Church (second, fourth, fifth weekends) (Protestant Nondenominational) 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. For information on Bible studies, weddings, ECREATION Pastor Brent Moore 209/372-4831 children’s and youth activities, call number CRANE FLAT STORE R above or email [email protected] 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Recreational activities are weather Rev. John K. Paris available for weddings sensitive and will be available as and counseling. Call number above. TUOLUMNE MEADOWS STORE weather and/or road conditions Wawona Christian Fellowship (Opens with Tioga Road) permit. (year-round) Pastor David Adamcik 209/966-3039 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Worship Service YOSEMITE LODGE TOUR DESK Sunday 9:15 a.m., Thursday 7:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 209/372-1240 WAWONA COMMUNITY CENTER EL PORTAL MARKET Sunday 11:00 a.m. (begins May 27) Worship Service: Sunday 9:00 a.m. 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. SIGHTSEEING TOURS Children’s Church Women’s Bible Study: Wednesday 1:00 p.m. Two-hour open-air tram or bus tours depart Sunday 9:15 a.m. LOST AND FOUND daily from lodging facilities in Yosemite Other Worship Service ** Associated with the California Southern Valley. Inquire at tour/information desks. Sunday 9:00 a.m. at Lower Pines Baptist Convention To inquire about items lost or found at one Campground Amphitheater* (begins May 27) of Yosemite’s restaurants, hotels, lounges, BINOCULAR RENTAL shuttle buses, or tour services, call Yosemite Available for $3 per day ($2 at Glacier Point) Special Holiday Services SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS Concession Services at 209/372-4357, or with a deposit at Yosemite Valley retail out- April 12, 7:00 p.m. Maundy-Thursday write YCS Lost & Found, P.O. Box 578, lets, Glacier Point Gift Shop, and transporta- Communion Service at Chapel Yosemite National Park, CA 95389. tion kiosks. Alanon April 13, 12:15-1:00 p.m. Good Friday YOSEMITE VALLEY: Wednesday 7:00 p.m., Service at Chapel For items lost or found in other areas of the BEAR CANISTER RENTAL YCS General Office Building (Employee park, call the National Park Service at Available for $3 per trip at the Wilderness April 15, 7:30 a.m. Easter Sunrise Service at Training Center) Yosemite Village 209/379-1001, or write to NPS Warehouse, Center, Yosemite Valley Sports Shop, Lower Pines Campground Amphitheater 5083 Foresta Road, B-759, El Portal, Curry Village Mountain Shop, Big Oak Flat April 15, 9:15 & 11:00 a.m. Easter Services Alcoholics Anonymous CA 95318. Information Station, Crane Flat Store, at Chapel YOSEMITE VALLEY: Sunday, Tuesday, and Wawona Store, Wawona Information Thursday 7:30 p.m., YCS General Office MISCELLANEOUS Station, Tuolumne Meadows Sport Shop, May 6, 9:15 & 11:00 a.m. Marriage Renewal Building (Employee Training Center), Tuolumne Meadows Store, and Hetch Services at Chapel Yosemite Village Hetchy Entrance Station. Canisters may be Babysitting rented or returned at any rental location in Bible Studies Limited babysitting available for registered the park. Call for location Narcotics Anonymous guests at Yosemite Lodge and the Ahwahnee. Thursday 7:00 a.m. (Prayer Group) YOSEMITE VALLEY: Saturday 7:30 p.m., Call front desk or concierge for additional MOUNTAINEERING SCHOOL YCS General Office Building (Employee information. Yosemite Mountaineering School offers les- *Affiliated with “A Christian Ministry in the Training Center), Yosemite Village sons and guided climbing at all levels, National Parks” Kennel overnight backpacking, skiing adventures, Lions Club (Opens early spring, weather permitting) and guided day hikes to spectacular areas of Church of Jesus Christ of Meets first and third Thursday of each Located at the stable in Yosemite Valley. Yosemite. Latter Day Saints month at noon, The Ahwahnee. Dogs must be gentle, over 10 pounds, CURRY VILLAGE Doug Warcup 209/722-7623 Call 209/372-4475 for information. with proof of shots and license required. (Opens late spring) Jerry Calister 209/723-4736 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 209/372-8348 8:30 a.m. to noon, 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Yosemite Valley Sacrament Service Rotary International 209/372-8344 1:00 p.m. daily from Memorial Day through Meets Thursdays for lunch at noon in the Employment Opportunities Located in the Mountain Shop Labor Day at Yosemite Chapel Ahwahnee Mural Room. Visiting Rotarian Would you like to be part of Yosemite’s TUOLUMNE MEADOWS families and guests welcome. For reservation future? Employment opportunities exist at (Opens early summer) or information, call 209/372-1016. Yosemite National Park with the National 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Roman Catholic Rev. Dennis Alvernaz, Resident Pastor Park Service, Volunteers in Parks, and 209/372-8435 209/372-4729 Yosemite Concession Services Corporation. Located at the gas station SERVICES FOR DISABLED Mass in Yosemite Valley (until May 20) YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK BIKE RENTALS Sunday 10:00 a.m., An accessibility brochure is available at park For vacancy information on the web: Bike stands are typically open daily with Visitor Center Auditorium entrance stations and visitor centers. www.usajobs.opm.gov hourly and all-day rates. Baby-joggers, Mass in Yosemite Valley (after May 20) Wheelchair rental available at Yosemite Employment hotline: wheelchairs, and six-speed bikes with trailers Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 10:00 a.m., Medical Clinic, 209/372-4637, and the 209/372-0200-6-1-1 for towing small children are available. Visitor Center Auditorium Yosemite Lodge bike stand, 209/372-1208. (for permanent positions) 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 Thursday, Friday 4:00 p.m., Yosemite Chapel 209/372-0200-6-1-2 p.m. beginning April 28 (for seasonal positions) Mass in Wawona (after May 20) YOSEMITE LODGE SHOWERS & LAUNDROMAT Saturday 4:00 p.m., Old School House To contact the Yosemite National Park 209/372-1208 Human Resource Office, call 209/379-1805 SHOWERS CURRY VILLAGE (Opens late spring) Special Events in Yosemite Valley or write: Yosemite National Park, Human CURRY VILLAGE 209/372-8319 Mass: Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Resource Office, P.O. Box 700, El Portal, Vigil, 7:30 p.m., Visitor Center Auditorium 24 hours CA 95318 STABLES HOUSEKEEPING CAMP (opens April 13) Two-hour, half-day, and all-day rides depart 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. VOLUNTEERS IN PARKS daily. Private pack trips into Yosemite’s spec- Seventh-day Adventist Individuals and groups interested in com- tacular backcountry may also be arranged. Director Don Crisp 559/658-8361 LAUNDROMAT munity service projects in Yosemite can call Book rides at tour desks or stables. Yosemite Valley (Memorial Day through Labor HOUSEKEEPING CAMP the Volunteer Program Manager at 209/379- 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. 1850. Free camping is provided and Day) at Lower Pines Campground entrance fees are waived during your work YOSEMITE VALLEY (Opens April 21) Amphitheater (near shuttle bus stop #20) project. 209/372-8348 Sabbath School: Saturday 10:00 a.m. TUOLUMNE MEADOWS (Opens June 16) Worship Service: Saturday 11:00 a.m. YOSEMITE CONCESSION SERVICES 209/372-8427 Contact Yosemite Concession Services Corporation at the General Offices in WAWONA (Opens April 21) Yosemite Village or call 209/372-1236. 209/375-6502 SWIMMING POOLS AT YOSEMITE LODGE POST OFFICES AND CURRY VILLAGE (Open Memorial Day weekend, see front desk Main Post Office for hours) SOME THINGS JUST DON’T (Yosemite Village) RAFTING BELONG IN A DRAIN Monday – Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Rafting may be available in spring at Curry Saturday 10:00 a.m. to Noon Village Raft Stand, located at the ice rink Help keep the strain off the park’s sensi- (shuttle bus stops #14 & 22). tive sewer system. For more information, contact NPS utilities at 209/379-1077.

15 Half Dome Vernal Fall Upper Pines Campground Happy Isles* Mirror Lake* Stable* Pines Campgrounds Curry Village Ice Rink/Bike & Raft Rental

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o S HUTTLE Shuttle Bus Route Shuttle Bus Stop Shuttle Picnic Area Campground Information Information Restroom All buses follow the same route, serving IDE THE S 8 i R Schedules and routes may vary. OSEMITE El Capitan Shuttle buses operate daily at 15 to 20 minute intervals. stops in numerical order. Y

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