|
November 1, 2008
Tioga and Glacier Point Roads
As of October 31, the Tioga Road is closed.
From October 15 until the roads open in the spring, it is illegal to leave vehicles parked overnight along the Tioga Road between Crane Flat and Tioga Pass, or along the Glacier Point road east of Badger Pass, or at trailheads or any other area accessible from these roads.
If you are planning a hike from these roads after October 15, please arrange for drop-off or pick-up transportation. In addition, be prepared for the possibility that the Tioga or Glacier Point Roads may be closed due to snow and you will have to hike to another road or developed area that is open.
Trail Conditions
A series of late-October, early-November winter storms is expected to bring up to two feet of snow to the high country above 8,000ft, with some snow possible down to around 7,000 feet. This is around the usual time when the first major winter storm arrives in the Sierra, covering much of the higher elevations in snow until spring or summer. Weather can change rapidly during the fall and early winter. Be prepared for all weather conditions and sudden snow. Weather forecasts may not be reliable for the duration of your trip, especially if you are out for three days or more. If you are camping at higher elevations, be prepared for freezing or cooler temperatures. Please check current weather forecasts before your trip.
Bear Activity
Wilderness Center Hours
Bears are still active; be sure to store your food properly. Bear canisters are only available at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center and Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station.
Yosemite Valley
Closed until spring 2009. Self registration is available at Valley Visitor center throughout the winter months during open hours, 9 AM to 5 PM.
Bear canisters are available for rent, as well as a wide selection of maps and books, at the visitor center.
Tuolumne Meadows
Closed until spring/summer 2009. Self registration is available at the Tuolumne Meadows Ranger Station. Canisters are available to rent at Mono Basin Visitor Center until December 2. For their updated hours, please call 760/647-3044.
Big Oak Flat & Wawona
Closed until spring/summer 2009. Self registration is available in front of the building.
Hetch Hetchy
The Hetch Hetchy road is currently open from 8 am to 5 pm. These hours may be shortened and/or the road can be closed at any time due to extenuating circumstances. For information about the area and road hours call 209/379-1922. Overnight hikers entering through this gate are able to obtain their Wilderness permit and bear canister at the Hetch Hetchy entrance station.
Wilderness Permit Reservation Line
The reservation line is closed for the season. It will reopen on January 5th, 2009. Permit reservations can be made 24 weeks (168 days) to two days in advance of your starting date. Beginning January 5, the phone line is open Monday thru Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm at 209/372-0740. For trip planning, general information and online permit reservations please visit our website http://www.nps.gov/yose/wilderness/ or the interagency website http://www.sierranevadawild.gov/.
Water Quality
Please help us protect Yosemite’s water quality. Sierra Nevada snow pack is the main source of drink water for many of California state residents, which may include you. Please follow all wilderness guidelines like disposing of human waste properly at least 100 feet away from water, camping away from water sources, and doing all cleaning away from water sources.
Food Storage
Bear resistant food canisters are required in all parts of the Yosemite Wilderness. Use a bear resistant food canister to store all food or scented items when left unattended. Whenever food or scented items are out, please keep them within arm's reach, even while day hiking.
| 
