Wilderness Conditions

May 6, 2013

General Conditions

After another variable winter and quick onset of warm weather Yosemite's wilderness is exhibiting an array of conditions depending on elevation, terrain, and slope aspect. Above 7,000 feet, conditions can range from completely snow free in sunny areas to a more solid ground cover in shaded, north-facing areas. Hiking trails leaving Yosemite Valley are free of snow. However, hikers traveling beyond these locations into higher elevations, north-facing slopes and forested areas should expect to encounter snow. Water is available in accessible streams and lakes. Hikers/backpackers should also be aware and cautious of stream crossings during the spring as snow melt can greatly increase water levels. This information is provided to you as a guide to trip planning, but ultimately it is up to you to be prepared for conditions you may encounter.

• South Rim of Yosemite Valley may have some patchy snow in the trees.
  
• North Rim of Yosemite Valley is still holding fair amounts of snow in shaded areas and north facing slopes above 7,000 feet.
  
• In the Hetch Hetchy area, the Lake Vernon/Rancheria Falls loop is free of snow.

Current Trail Closures

Current trail closures are listed on the current conditions page. Additionally, you can view a map showing trails forestry crews have cleared.

Trails in Yosemite may be closed when there are hidden hazards or are impassable due to rock fall, snow, ice, or fire. Open trails are not necessarily free of hazards. By entering the wilderness, you are assuming responsibility for your safety and must use good judgment.

Wilderness Permits

Free wilderness permits are required for overnight stays in the Yosemite Wilderness. Permits can be obtained at the following locations.

Yosemite Valley Wilderness Center

Open 7 days/week from 8 am to 5 pm. The wilderness center offers permits, bear canister rentals, maps, and books.

Tuolumne Meadows Wilderness Center

Open 7 days/week 8:30 am to 4 pm. The wilderness center offers permits, bear canister rentals, maps, and books.

Big Oak Flat Information Station

The bookstore (only) is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm (may close for lunch). Open 8 am to 5 pm beginning May 10th. The information station offers visitor information, wilderness permits, bear canister rentals, and a variety of books and maps. Until May 10, wilderness permits can be obtained by self-registration on the porch of the Big Oak Flat Information Station. Please come prepared with your own allowed bear canister.

Wawona Visitor Center at Hill's Studio

The bookstore (only) is open daily from 9 am to 4 pm, may close for lunch. Open 8:30 am to 5 pm beginning May 10th. The visitor center offers general information, wilderness permits, bear canister rentals, and a variety of books and maps. Until May 10, wilderness permits can be obtained by self-registration on the porch of Hill's Studio and bear canisters are available for rent at the bookstore.

Hetch Hetchy Entrance Station

Currently open from 7 am to 9 pm. Wilderness permits are available at the entrance station along with bear canister rentals.

Food Storage

Bear resistant food canisters are required in the Yosemite Wilderness. Use a canister to store all food or scented items when left unattended. Remember that anything used in, on, or around the body is considered a food item. Whenever food or scented items are out, please keep them within arm's reach, even while day hiking.

If a bear approaches your camp, act immediately to scare it away. Maintain a safe distance while making as much noise as possible. Throw small stones or pines cones toward the bear, being careful not to strike the bear on the head. If the bear returns, repeat. Do not attempt to retrieve food or gear from a bear until it abandons the items.