Anticipating A Packed Park For Memorial Day Weekend

Yosemite, CA — All reservation campgrounds in Yosemite National Park are sold out for the Memorial Day Weekend and the key is – the early bird gets the worm.

Foreseeing an extremely busy weekend, park officials advise the park’s first-come, first-served campgrounds will fill-up early and fast. However, they recommend that travelers also take advantage of a large number of campground and lodging options in the gateway communities.  Park officials also encourage day visitors to arrive early and expect traffic delays. During the extended holiday from Friday through Monday visitors will avoid long lines and parking hassles by arriving before 9 a.m. or after 4 p.m. Tourists are also being directed to park at the Yosemite Village, Yosemite Falls, or Half Dome parking as Yosemite Valley parking is limited. Additionally, there is the free shuttle bus service, bike paths and hiking trails to enjoy Yosemite Valley.

Park officials also provide these general tips:

• Hiking is a great way to explore the wonders of Yosemite National Park. All day hikers and backpackers should be aware that spring weather can be unpredictable and change without warming. Visitors are encouraged to plan and bring the necessary gear to have a safe and enjoyable trip.
• Backpacking is a great way to experience the Yosemite wilderness. Overnight use permits are available through the Yosemite National Park Wilderness Center. For more information, visit http://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/wildpermits.htm.
• A high snow pack has led to cold water and swift-moving rivers in all of the rivers, lakes, and streams inside Yosemite and in the surrounding areas. Visitors are reminded to take special precautions around water, especially around stream-crossings. Even the best swimmers can find themselves in a difficult situation under the current water conditions.
• The Half Dome Cables are still down due to snow and other hazardous conditions on the trail. Visitors will not be able to ascend Half Dome for at least another week or two. As soon as condition permit, the Half Dome Cables will be installed for the summer season.
• Tioga Road remains closed due to weather and snow conditions. The El Portal Road, the Wawona Road, and Big Oak Flat Road are open to all vehicular traffic to Yosemite Valley. Glacier Point Road is open for the season. Trails near Glacier Point remain snow-covered. Visitors are encouraged to be prepared for winter hiking conditions. The 4 Mile Trail is closed from Glacier Point to Union Point.
• When driving in the park, motorists are e when in the park visitors are urged to drive slowly as animals are active and may be present on the roadway.
• For updated 24-hour road and weather conditions for Yosemite National Park, please call 209-372-0200 and press 1