News Release

Ray McPadden Assumes Role as Superintendent of Yosemite National Park

Date: May 5, 2026

National Park Service officials formally welcomed Ray McPadden as superintendent of Yosemite National Park during an assumption of responsibility ceremony held in Yosemite Valley Thursday April 23. 

McPadden began serving as superintendent in spring 2025 and now leads park operations during one of the busiest periods in Yosemite’s history. In this role, he oversees resource protection, visitor services, infrastructure and partnerships across the park. 

“Yosemite is one of the most iconic places in the world, and it is an honor to serve as superintendent,” McPadden said. “I look forward to working with our dedicated staff, tribes, partners, and surrounding communities to protect this extraordinary landscape and ensure visitors can enjoy it today and for generations to come.” 

McPadden brings extensive experience with the National Park Service, where he has served in a variety of roles including backcountry and climbing ranger, project manager, resource manager, planner and superintendent at several large park units. He is known for building high-performing teams, managing complex operations and fostering strong partnerships across agencies and communities. 

Before joining the National Park Service, McPadden served in the U.S. Army as a Ranger with the 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, and the 10th Mountain Division.  

“Ray is a proven leader with a strong record of operational excellence and collaboration,” said Randy Lavasseur, acting regional director for National Park Service Pacific West Region. “His experience and leadership will help guide Yosemite through both opportunities and challenges in the years ahead.” 

McPadden is an alumnus of the Senior Executive Fellows Program at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government and holds an executive certificate in public leadership from Harvard. He earned a master’s degree in community and regional planning from the University of Oregon and a bachelor’s degree in science from Texas A&M University. 

Yosemite National Park welcomes millions of visitors each year and is recognized worldwide for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, giant sequoias and diverse ecosystems.