Teacher Resources: Visiting the Park

Yosemite's resources make it unique. Please remember that these resources require special care in order to remain intact for future generations. Be sure your students understand some of the basic guidelines described below.

Visiting the Park
Not Visiting the Park

Before You Arrive | When You Arrive | Helpful Resources | Maps | Teaching Recommendations

Before You Arrive: Please Be Resource-wise

It is against federal law to remove any natural object from a national park:
flowers, rocks, leaves, pine cones — anything natural!

Dispose of trash and recyclables properly. Brown cans are for garbage and green cans are for recyclable items.

Store food properly, keeping it away from bears and other animals. See Special Resource Message.

Animals in Yosemite are wild. Though they may act tame and approach humans, animals in the park are unpredictable and can be dangerous. Do not approach or feed any wildlife.

Keep growing things “growing.” A picked flower is a dead flower.

Stay on the trails. Trails have been established to provide the safest route of least impact. Many areas, such as meadows, are fragile and easily damaged by foot traffic.

Use the restrooms. Maps indicating restroom locations have been provided. Do not “go” within 100 yards of any natural water source. Human waste pollutes the water.

Useful links to help plan your visit:

Resource Education Fee Waivers | Permit Application | Educational Visits