P.O. Box 577
Yosemite, CA 95389
www.nps.gov/yose/news

October 26, 2005
For Immediate Release

Rockslide in Yosemite National Park
No injuries or damages reported in approximately 20 ton rockfall

A rockfall occurred in Yosemite National Park at approximately 3:45pm on October 25, 2005 near Curry Village in eastern Yosemite Valley. No damage or injuries were reported from falling rocks.

Park officials estimate the rock release to be approximately 20 tons, which fell from about 800 feet above the floor of Yosemite Valley.

The majority of the rock fell into the existing talus slope behind the construction site for the new Curry Village Employee Dormitories. The construction site was designed to allow for rockfall while maintaining the safety of visitors and staff. The "fly rock," or falling debris from the initial release, fell primarily into a parking area under construction.

Approximately 200 park visitors were moved to alternative accommodations in Yosemite Valley or El Portal. Facilities were reopened today after an assessment was conducted by a park geologist this morning.

-NPS-